an optical tap / coupler consists essentially of a two graded index lenses having a holographic beam splitter in between . the hbs independent of polarization state and wavelength of an input light beam splits an incoming beam into at least two beams . the two beams are directed to two separate locations or ports at an end face of one of the graded index lenses thereby providing a main beam and a tap beam at an output of the device . the device is compact and can accommodate other optical components between the two graded index lenses .