Invited Paper: Detailed optical characteristics of multi‐layer optical film polarization beam splitter

— 3M polarization beam splitter (PBS) technology has been shown to be the most light-efficient solution currently available for use in LCOS projection. It also provides short back focal length, very high contrast, and extremely uniform dark states without the use of lead-glass prisms. Recent improvements in contrast performance, increased understanding of the effects of pupil shape and size on contrast, effects of temperature on optical performance, and improved photostability are reported. New light-engine architectures employing the 3M PBSs with associated light budget analyses are suggested.