Focusing properties of Gaussian beam by a nonspiral phase plate system

In this article, a nonspiral plate is investigated numerically by vector diffraction theory to observe the focusing properties of Gaussian beams. Both low- and high-numerical-aperture (NA) optical systems are considered in the investigation. It is found that the parameter of NA and the phase vary rate of the phase plate influence the focal intensity distribution considerably. When a nonspiral plate is used to provide linear phase variation on one half of the Gaussian beam, it may adjust the focal spot considerably and conveniently. Changing the vary rate of the phase plate or the parameter of NA can alter optical intensity distribution; some novel focal spots and focal switch may also occur.