Development Of A Non-Contact Diagnostic Tool For High Power Lasers

By Ophir Photonics

As the high power laser market continues to grow, demands for effective high power laser measurement tools have also increased. In response to the various needs of each segment of the high power laser market, Ophir has developed the BeamWatch tool that covers as many of these requirements as possible. Since high power lasers in excess of 1 kW generate enough Raleigh scatter to be detected by silicon based sensor arrays, a lens and camera system in an off-axis position can be used as a non-contact diagnostic tool. This article discusses the technical challenges and solutions encountered in the development of the BeamWatch measuring instrument. Download the full paper for information on the challenges of reducing background radiation, achieving high signal-to-noise ratio, reducing saturation events, and more.