Optical linear processor

An optical signal processor for transforming a first vector into a second vector comprising: a plurality of linear light sources each of which provides light having an intensity responsive to a different component of the first vector, a spatial light modulator comprising a plurality of modulation zones each of which zones receives light from substantially only one of the light sources and transmits light in proportion to a transmittance that characterizes the modulation zone; and at least one light detector for each component of the second vector that receives light transmitted from a plurality of modulation zones, each of which is illuminated by light from a different light source, and generates a signal responsive to the received light that represents a component of the second vector.