A simple method to achieve space-variant pattern recognition is proposed with a typical VanderLugt arrangement, in which the input pattern is modulated by a random binary phase function. The output correlation location can be programmed into the filter function. With the introduction of random binary phase modulation, the impulse response of either phase-only or binary phase-only filter function is not edge enhanced, resulting in higher Horner efficiency. Computer simulations are conducted to verify the proposed method.