Efficient Bragg-like operation of intracavity low-efficiency plane gratings

The diffraction regime of a thin grating inserted in a Fabry–Perot cavity is investigated. Our calculations show that, at Bragg incidence, a single diffraction order can be selectively enhanced, giving rise to a very efficient Bragg-like diffraction regime. The optimization of the device is studied as a function of the resonator thickness and finesse and the grating position inside the Fabry–Perot cavity. The angular and wavelength selectivities are also investigated. The device could be easily integrated and would be very useful for optical signalprocessing applications. © 2005 Optical Society of America OCIS codes: 050.1970, 050.1950, 050.2230.