Low-cost Quadrature Optical Interferometer

TL;DR

This paper presents a low-cost, compact Mach-Zehnder optical interferometer using polarization control and readily available components, making quadrature interferometry accessible for educational and hobbyist use.

Contribution

It introduces a novel, affordable design for a quadrature optical interferometer using common materials and open-source electronics, suitable for educational purposes.

Findings

Constructed a functional low-cost interferometer within a 12x6 inch space.

Achieved quadrature signal detection through polarization control.

Device costs less than US$500 and is easy to assemble.

Abstract

We report on the construction and characterization of a low-cost Mach-Zehnder optical interferometer in which quadrature signal detection is achieved by means of polarization control. The device incorporates a generic green laser pointer, home-built photodetectors, 3D-printed optical mounts, a circular polarizer extracted from a pair of 3D movie glasses, and a Python-enabled microcontroller for analog-to-digital data acquisition. Components fit inside of a 12"x6" space and can be assembled on a budget of less than US\$500. The device has the potential to make quadrature interferometry accessible and affordable for instructors, students, and enthusiasts alike.