ABSTRACT
The applications of microoptic lenses and arrays can be conveniently classified into three categories. The classification is somewhat arbitrary, but it provides a useful way to compare and contrast the advantages of lenses fabricated by one method over that of another. We could discuss the applications for each of the fabrication methods separately, but in doing so we would lose some of the comparative aspects, as well as have the same device discussed in more than one place. For example, for some of the application categories GRIN lenses dominate the other available methods. This means that some applications may be better suited to a particular fabrication method. Often, such factors as achievable lens diameter or ease of producing a given geometrical pattern or overall cost are as important in the choice as the optical performance. In the way we have chosen to deal with the applications, it will be easier to point out these advantages=disadvantages as they appear.
