The era of HeNe lasers seems to be over. In measurement technology, history’s first cw laser has been replaced by novel wavelength-stabilized laser systems.
Stabilized laser sources are required for different applications, for example in Raman spectroscopy, confocal spectroscopy, interferometry, lithography, and fluorescence measurements. In the past, HeNe lasers were used for these tasks, but alternatives are now taking over the market: wavelength-stabilized diode lasers are more compact and more efficient.
In just a short period of time, our partner PD-LD has introduced two new products: single-mode series SLM (647 nm to 785 nm) and GB530 (530 nm). They supplement the existing LML multi-mode source.
Stabilized to ± 0.5 nm. All models use the proven volume Bragg grating technology to stabilize the laser wavelength at an accuracy of a maximum of 0.5 nm and to stabilize the line width to a maximum of 0.08 nm.
Equipment. The laser sources are available in different models. In addition to the free-beam version, there are versions available with a single-mode or multi-mode fiber. The wavelengths on offer are diverse as well. Depending on the model, they range from 530 nm to 6xx nm to 785 nm.
The systems are equipped with an integrated driver, the operating voltage is only 5 V, and a modulation of up to 100 kHz can be achieved. Depending on the version, the optical output power varies between 50 mW and 500 mW.
Additional features of the laser sources include the integrated monitor diode, Peltier cooling elements, and a USB interface for direct control via a PC.
Good to Know!
VBG Lasers
Diode lasers are inexpensive and offer a high efficiency but at the expense of a large bandwidth. A Bragg grating forces the diode laser into a specific mode into which the entire power enters. This decreases the bandwidth of the laser to that of the Bragg grating. With the help of volume Bragg technology, inexpensive lasers with a high efficiency can be produced.
