An interferometric modulator array device with backlighting is disclosed.
The interferometric modulator array device comprises a plurality of
interferometric modulator elements, wherein each of the interferometric
modulator elements comprises an optical cavity. The interferometric
modulator array includes an optical aperture region, and at least one
reflecting element is positioned so as to receive light passing through
the optical aperture region and reflect at least a portion of the
received light to the cavities of the interferometric modulator elements.
In some embodiments, the interferometric modulator elements may be
separated from each other such that an optical aperture region is formed
between adjacent interferometric modulator elements.