Real-time holographic interferometer with phase compensation using a class IIIa diode laser

To make holography accessible to high schools and technical institutions, cost, safety, simplicity, scientific content, and usefulness are primary requirements. Herein we introduce the design and function of a real-time holographic interferometer which is capable of obtaining quantitative results with phase subjects. By introducing a phase compensator in the form of an ordinary plate glass, zeroth order interference is routinely attainable.© (2000) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.