Acousto-optic deflector configurations optimized for multiphoton scanning microscopy

This paper analyzes design considerations to realize acousto-optic deflectors in TeO2 single crystal to be used with ultrashort pulses, especially in multi-photon microscopy. These deflectors are primarily designed for 2D and 3D scanners, therefore it is an important aspect to optimize the combination of different deflection directions within a scanner. This criterion imposes the use of the so called “acoustically rotated” interaction geometry, of which we compare theoretically and experimentally two possible configurations, whose design aspects are also reviewed. We show that selection of the proper configuration for the desired application presents a tradeoff between deflection angle range and minimal chromatic dispersion. The paper gives detailed analysis of the suggested interaction configurations, including experimental validation of the theoretical conclusions. •TeO2 acousto-optic defelctors in acoustically rotated configurations intended for 2D and 3D laser scanning are analyzed.•In multi-photon laser microscopy ultrashort laser pulses are scanned, hence chromatic dispersion management is required.•Two practically realizable sound–light​ interaction configurations in TeO2 deflectors are compared regarding field of view and chromatic dispersion.•Both configurations are optimized for consecutive scanning along two perpendicular spatial directions, ensuring fast and high field of view scanning.