What Does Spatial Light Modulator (SLM) Mean?

A spatial light modulator (SLM) is a special device that can manipulate light by modulating the amplitude, phase or polarization of the light waves in the two dimensions of space and time. This means that light is manipulated in order to obtain a desired output, and SLM is commonly used in overhead projectors such as those used in schools and office conference rooms.

Techopedia Explains Spatial Light Modulator (SLM)

A spatial light modulator is an electronically programmable device that can modulate light output based on a specific fixed spatial pattern (pixel), essentially projecting light that is controlled in either amplitude only, phase only or both (phase-amplitude). This device makes use of liquid crystals to modulate the light, which is why overhead projectors are called LCD projectors.