An Ultra-High Definition Spatial Light Modulation Device Driven by Spin-Polarized Electrons

We propose a new type of magneto-optical (MO) spatial light-modulation device, driven by spin-polarized current flow, i.e. spin transfer switching (STS-SLM). Its basic operation and characteristics were experimentally confirmed. The proposed SLM device has a spatial resolution as small as several hundred nanometers, and an ultra-high drive speed of several tens of nanoseconds, and its basic operation is possible without active devices. Unlike, existing SLM devices, this device meets both the size and speed requirements of SLMs for use in displaying holographic three-dimensional (3D) moving pictures. To improve SLM device light modulation functionality, we carried out studies on magnetic films with perpendicular magnetic anisotropy to obtain large MO signals, which enabled us to perform improved light modulation performance. In addition, we obtained an MO signal that was thirty times larger than that possible with in-plane anisotropy. We conclude that this type of MO-SLM device is appropriate for displaying future super-high definition, holographic 3-dimensional moving images.