Compact, Low-Cost Optical Power Meters For Photonics Alignment Provide High Bandwidth

PI introduces two new optical power meters for automated photonics alignment applications.

July 2020, Auburn, MA – The F-712.IRP1 and its two channel sibling, the F-712.IRP2, convert optical signals in the 600nm to 1700nm range with optical power from 230 picowatts to 1.3 milliwatts into an analog output voltage of 0.1V - 1.6V. In order to be useful for fast optical alignment systems, the output signal conversion is logarithmic and optical power changes can be detected and converted with a bandwidth of 6kHz.

Features & Advantages

The logarithmic output scaling is very important for fast scans and gradient search algorithms, because the signal strength can fluctuate by several orders of magnitude within a few milliseconds, considering the minute dimensions of modern fiber optical components, such as waveguides and arrays.

The broad optical range from 600nm to 1700nm allows for usability in both the visible and infrared range without switching.

A clever design of the optical input connector / socket interface eliminates the influence of the position of the optical fiber in the connector on the optical signal.

Next to the affordability of the new power meters, the compact size of the single channel version (roughly only 4x3x2 inches) is another advantage.

Specifications, Datasheets, More Information»

Working with You

PI’s in-house engineered systems and components have enabled customers around the world to increase their productivity and technological advantage for 5 decades. With a large basis of standard precision motion products and proven methodologies, PI is in the position to quickly modify existing designs or provide a fully customized OEM solution to fit the exact requirements of your application from the whole motion range from finger-tip sized nano-positioners to large scale stages with long travel ranges, through a plethora of different drives and guiding systems.

About PI

PI is a privately held company that designs and manufactures world-class precision motion and automation systems including air bearings, hexapods and piezo drives at locations in North America, Europe, and Asia. The company was founded 5 decades ago and today employs more than 1300 people worldwide. PI’s customers are leaders in high-tech industries and research institutes in fields such as photonics, life-sciences, semiconductors, and aerospace.