Laser equipment: Raptelle optical spectrum analysers are optimized for DWDM control
Multichannel Instruments of Stockholm has announced a new line of products that have been optimized for the control of dense wavelength division multiplex (DWDM) components, especially tunable lasers. The heart of the product - the Raptelle - is a new type of optical spectrum analyser based on a patent pending optical design. So far, two models are available: the Raptelle 10000, which covers the 1000-1650 nm range, and the Raptelle 20000, which covers the 1500-1650 nm range at higher resolution.
Inside each Raptelle, division into segments is provided inherently by the optics in such a way that its more than 30 segments appear to be underneath one another on a two-dimensional InGaAs sensor. The camera, measuring 320 x 256 pixels, records all of the segments in parallel. Each segment represents a subspectrum of the spectral range. The software joins the segments together, resulting in more than 5000 simultaneously recorded channels covering the full spectral range. Consequently, there are no moving parts in the system.
The camera can operate at a frame rate of more that 100 per second. At a rate of 50 per second the system acquires, to a high level of precision, all of the data that is necessary for DWDM component calibration. This provides the manufacturer with the means to make an immediate increase in the rate of production of tunable lasers and other DWDM components, with assured quality control.
More information is available from Multichannel Instruments AB, Pilotgatan 2, S-12832 Skarpnäck (Stockholm), Sweden; tel. +46 8 605 70 90; fax +46 8 605 71 01; e-mail mailto:info@multichannel.se; Web http://www.multichannel.se/.
Compact photomultipliers: a faster and more reliable photomultiplier designed for large experiments
Major particle physics experiments, as well as gamma-ray telescopes, need fast photomultipliers that can operate for years and withstand considerable doses of radiation. Electron Tubes offers a new range of compact 25 and 30 mm photomultipliers that have a long lifetime and stable gain characteristics designed specifically for this environment.
The new photomultipliers have a gain capability that ranges from 104 to 107, to cover a variety of applications from those involving high light levels down to photon counting.
All are available with quartz- or ultraviolet-transmitting glass windows that can withstand high dose rates.
More information is available from Electron Tubes Ltd, Bury Street, Ruislip, Middlesex HA4 7TA; tel. 44 (0)1895 630771; fax 44 (0)1895 635953; Web http://www.electrontubes.com.
Apparently, when the picture was originally published 40 years ago the same error was made, which we regret.