Abstract
A polarization-selective holographic optical element with compact dimensions of 2.4 mm×1 mm×1 mm (width × length × thickness) is proposed. The element includes three modules: a holographic polarizing beamsplitter, a holographic input coupler, and a dove-prism coupler so that a simple and dense optical pickup head can be achieved. Polarization properties of holographic volume gratings are briefly discussed. Based on the results obtained, the fabrication of the element is implemented and described. The performance of the element in magnetooptical pickup heads is demonstrated using a differential detector.