TREK, INC., a designer and manufacturer of high-voltage power amplifiers and high-performance electrostatic instrumentation, has introduced a new High Voltage Power Amplifier - Trek Model PZD350A - which offers wide bandwidth and additional features important in piezoelectrics, electro-optics, MEMS and other applications. Compared to other linear amplifiers in the marketplace this new model from Trek offers a unique combination of capabilities which enhance its versatility and utility.

The wide bandwidth of Model PZD350A, for both large signal and small signal levels, in combination with Trek’s industry-leading technology for precise control of output voltages, enable the PZD350A HV amplifier to address the specific need for high speed and fast settling when driving capacitive loads in piezoelectric driving/control, electro-optics, MEMS and other demanding applications such as laser modulation and ion beam control.

The PZD350A provides a large signal bandwidth of 250 kHz (-3dB) and a small signal bandwidth greater than 350 kHz (-3dB). This bandwidth capability is especially important in new piezo and piezo-stack applications, which require the high current levels as provided by this new amplifier from Trek. The fully protected output of Model PZD350A enhances the utility of this unit in piezo and other reactive load applications by assuring that the amplifier is safe-guarded from incidental short circuits, arcing or energy return from the load device.

The PZD350A design offers outstanding DC stability, high speed and precise control of output voltages (DC or peak AC) in the programmable ranges of 0 to +/-350 V with an output current range of 0 to +/-200 mA (bipolar model); 0 to +700 V with +/-100 mA (unipolar model); 0 to -700 V with +/-100 mA (unipolar model). An alternative PZD350A “M/S” design offers twice the current capability of the standard PZD350A models.

The industries and commercial applications that will benefit from the advancements enabled by Model PZD350A are diverse and include: aerospace, biotechnology, defense, military, power, energy, laboratory, instrumentation, semiconductors, electronics, and others.

Like all Trek amplifiers, this High Voltage Amplifier Model PZD350A offers: DC stability, wide bandwidth, well-regulated and controlled AC output signals, and full four-quadrant, class AB, all-solid state output stages. The four-quadrant, active output stage sinks or sources current into reactive or resistive loads throughout the output voltage range. This is essential for achieving the accurate output response and high slew rates demanded by reactive loads.

Other technical parameters for the Model PZD350A include DC accuracy better than 0.1% of full scale and slew rate greater than 500 V/μs (+/-350 V range) or 350 V/μs (700 V range). The unit has precision voltage and current monitors. It is also CE marked.

BFi OPTiLAS, thanks to its collaboration with Precision Photonics, is is able to fabricate high performance optical devices in a variety of geometries in form factors from 1 mm to greater than 100 mm using our proprietary CADB® epoxy free bonding process and high energy ion beam sputtered coatings. Our IBS coatings can withstand damage thresholds above 40 J/cm² at 1064 nm, with less than 2 ppm bulk absorption in coatings at either the internal or external interfaces. The CADB® process is extremely robust and offers negligible scatter and absorptive losses at the interface, making them ideal for high-power solid-state laser applications in both defense/aerospace and materials processing.

BFi OPTiLAS also provides custom multiple-order, true zero-order and compound zero-order waveplates from 266 nm to 3.5 µm in sizes from 1x1 mm² to 4 inches in diameter.

UV-IR waveplates are available in a variety of shapes and sizes using laser grade crystal quartz or sapphire materials and as stand-alone components, or as part of a more complex optical assembly. High-energy anti-reflection coatings are provided using ion beam sputtering process with reflectivities as low as 0.05% at 1064nm.

Photonic Products, is introducing its latest range of high performance fibre pigtailed and receptacle packaged laser diodes suitable for OEM applications. These include scientific equipment and optical instruments requiring a high quality laser diode light source; visual fibre optic fault locators for communications networks, telecoms systems and telecoms instrumentation and free space optical communications.

The fibre pigtailed laser packages, with wavelengths from 635nm to telecoms wavelengths of 1310-1550 nm and fibre output powers from 0.8mW to 15mW, are typically supplied with a 1 meter, 9/125 microns fibre. Coupling to singlemode 4/125 microns fibre is available on request for wavelengths from 635 - 850nm and a range of termination options is available. The telecoms wavelength pigtailed lasers offer uncooled operation at -40 degrees C to +85 degrees C.

The receptacle packaged laser diodes, with wavelengths from 635nm to telecoms wavelengths of 1310-1550nm and optical output powers from 0.7mW to 60mW, are packaged in either SMA, FC, ST or SC receptacles or with a universal adaptor that will accept FC, ST, SC and most other 2.5mm diameter ferrule connectors for user-supplied fibre coupling, allowing for singlemode or multimode fibres to be used without additional power loss.

BFi OPTiLAS is proud to announce availability of a brand new range of Nd:YAG rods. The exclusive BFi OPTiLAS source has proven industry records and high volume production capabilities at very attractive prices.

Control of the full process (growth, cutting, polishing, coating and quality control) ensures optimum quality, consistency and reduced delivery time. These are ideal for all OEM customers and customized test process can be implemented on request for specific requirements. On top of Nd:YAG rods, BFi OPTiLAS and its partner can also provide various other laser materials such as Nd:GGG (Disk lasers), Yb:YAG, Er:YAG, Tm:YAG, undoped YAG, Nd:Ce:YAG, Ho:Cr:Tm:YAG, Cr4+:YAG and bonding crystals.

BFi OPTiLAS, exclusive European partner of Bristol Instruments, Inc. is excited to introduce a new laser wavelength meter for scientists and engineers who need to know the exact wavelength of their mid-infrared lasers. Now, researchers using sources such as tunable quantum cascade lasers for high-resolution spectroscopy, photochemistry, or optical sensing applications can achieve more meaningful experimental results with accurate laser wavelength information.

The new model 621B-MIR is designed to operate over the entire wavelength range of 4 to 11 μm. Proven 621 series Michelson interferometer technology is used to measure absolute laser wavelength to an accuracy of ‡ 1 part per million. As with all Bristol Instruments laser wavelength meters, the measurement accuracy of the 621B-MIR system is guaranteed with continuous calibration using a built-in wavelength standard. BFi OPTiLAS also offers Quantum Cascade lasers, optical components and other photonic equipments in the MIR range.

BFi OPTiLAS is very proud to announce the signature of a distribution agreement with Cascade Technologies. This agreement covers distribution of Cascade's scientific products in the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Luxemburg, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland, The Netherlands, UK and Ireland. This agreement was reached after a complete review of sales options in Europe.

Cascade Technologies offers a wide range of Mid IR Quantum Cascade Laser sources as well as Mid IR tunable laser systems and data acquisition solutions. Available wavelengths cover the 2 - 12 microns range.

The main applications include:

• Gas Sensing
• Mid IR Laser Spectroscopy
• Laser, Detector
• Fibre optics Characterisation

Cascade products address both the R&D and industrial / OEM environments.

About Cascade Technologies
Cascade Technologies uses its revolutionary, patented core technology - based around the application of Quantum Cascade Lasers - to design, develop and supply innovative solutions for a wide range of global markets. These include the monitoring of greenhouse and general industrial emissions, hazardous gases, and explosives and drugs. Based at Stirling University Innovation Park, Cascade Technologies currently has world-class scientists and engineers working under development and supply agreements on several revolutionary products for key blue chip clients, whilst further bespoke product development, manufacturing, marketing and distribution agreements are being sought with customers worldwide. The company's technology provides highly specific and sensitive measurement, whilst its portable size offers cost savings compared to competitive offerings. It is also immune to many outside influences that typically affect sensors of this type.

BFi OPTiLAS, thanks to its collaboration with Photonic Products, is proud to launch Powerfully Precise Blue-Violet Laser Modules. These new laser diode modules are powerful 35mW and 60mW versions of their bestselling 405nm (blue-violet) laser diode modules with TTL modulation.

The extra output power offered by these laser modules also provides higher energy density and greater accuracy and sensitivity for biomedical and biochemical analysis applications such as flow cytometry and laser-induced fluorescence sensing. TTL modulation input accepts signals from DC up to 1 kHz and can be used to enable, inhibit or modulate the laser.

The glass AR coated aspherical lens may be adjusted to produce either a collimated beam or focused spot. The standard lens may be replaced by other optical systems such as line generators. The modules measure a compact 12 mm diameter x 43mm length.

Ideal for use in power hungry applications such as industrial and medical imaging and inspection, high resolution printing and emerging technologies where precision and sensitivity are vital, the laser modules are a complete laser solution for OEMs.

The new laser barrier system introduced by BFi OPTiLAS, in collaboration with Laservision LASERVISION offers for the first time a modular system, which fits the changing needs and requirements of laser users.

The patent pending protection material combines very low weight with highest protection against laser radiation in the UV-/VIS- and IR-range. The barrier secure for example from CO2- (10600nm) and Nd:YAG- lasers (1064nm) up to a power density of 10MW/m². The obtained protection level equals AL6 at 1064nm and AL4 at 10600 nm respectively at 100s direct illumination according to DIN EN 12254.

The special designed surface structure (free of dust, disinfection possible) makes the new laser barrier ideally suitable for all applications in the industry and research (even in clean room environments) as well as for all medical applications.

The optionally available aluminium frame is capable to contain different full or segmented protection modules, like the no transparent special protection material, cabin windows, filters or a combination of these. The modular concept makes a realisation of application specific laser protection fast and easy. By coupling different modules together a very flexible and versatile separation of a laser working space is possible.

Standard dimensions are 2000mm x 1350mm and 1000x1350 mm.

Thanks to its collaboration with Laser Diode Incorporated (LDI), BFi OPTiLAS is proud to offer its latest innovation, a multi-junction 1550nm pulsed laser diode.

The CVLM57 series is the first ever broad-area 1550nm laser diode that incorporates three epitaxially grown junctions in a single chip. LDI’s InGaAsP/InP based MOCVD grown laser structure utilizes a custom facet passivation process that results in a highly reliable, long lifetime device.

The CVLM57 laser is a high performance multi-mode laser that delivers 25W of peak pulsed power from a standard 350um x 10um emitter. Power can be increased by utilizing a stack of up to three devices. Other emitter sizes are available on special order.

The CVLM57 operates at a peak forward current of 20Amps. The spectral width is < 12 nm and beam divergence is typically <37 degrees by <12 degrees FWHM. The CVLM57 laser is ideal for use in rangefinder, surveying equipment and “friend or foe” identification applications.

The CVLM57 diode is available in 9mm, TO18T, TO18C packages and is also offered with a fiber-coupled configuration (TO5F package) with up to 30W output power from a single 400um 0.37 NA fiber. All packaging configurations are RoHS compliant.

BFi OPTiLAS, collaborating with LDI in Benelux, France, Italy, Nordics region, Spain and UK, offers high power 635nm laser diode.

The CWR 635 LDI laser is a high performance, visible (635nm), single emitter (100 um) multi-mode laser chip that can be offered in several packages. The laser is designed for CW operation and it offers High Output Power levels at a lower price than what is available on the market today.

LDI’s 635 nm device is RoHS compliant with operating current of 300mW and voltage of 2.25V. The Spectral width is <3 nm, FWHM, and beam divergence is <40 degrees by <10 degrees, FWHM.

The CWR 635 laser is appropriate for applications in Medical, Imaging, Illumination, Display, Entertainment, Laser Projector and Process Control market.

It offers a more cost effective alternative to equipment used for Photodynamic Therapy and Therapeutic devices. LDI's chip design results in a highly reliable, long lifetime device.

Date : 1 June 2009

BFi OPTiLAS is pleased to support Luminit's expansion plans.

Luminit announces a multi-million dollar expansion of its mass production capability.

Luminit LLC, a worldwide leader in technical innovation in shaping and diffusing light, has announced it has completed the expansion of its production facilities and the integration of a major new roll-to-roll system for production of its Light Shaping Diffuser product line. This expansion includes a 50% increase in floor space, and a multi-million dollar investment in facilities and equipment.

The new custom designed roll-to-roll system is now fully operational and expands Luminit's production capacity by an order of magnitude. It is enclosed in its own clean room to prevent particulate contamination and can operate at high speeds, imprinting holographically mastered structures on polycarbonate or polyester film at up to 200 feet per minute. In addition to this system, the new facility also enables Luminit to operate their previously existing production equipment in a cleaner, more productive environment.

Engin Arik, PhD, President & CEO of Luminit commented, "We are excited about our new expanded facilities and particularly about our new roll-to-roll web production system. We are now able to produce a much larger quantity of better quality products at lower cost."

Luminit is a privately held, high technology company specialising in custom and standard holographic diffusers based on multiple technology patents. Luminit's commercial experience covers applications including LED lighting, architectural lighting, bio-medical, semiconductor metrology, aerospace, automotive and display applications.

Luminit's Light Shaping Diffusers are available through BFi OPTiLAS Ltd who has seen the products used in an incredible array of applications, both scientific and creative, by industry innovators.

For information on the wide range of industrial uses for Luminit's line of light shaping diffuser, contact your local BFi office.

BFi OPTiLAS announces the publication of two new optics catalogs.

Acton Optics & Coatings, exclusive European partner of BFi OPTiLAS, has just released a 40-page products and services catalog including high laser damage threshold excimer and UV laser optics, new hybrid coatings, broadband mirrors and coatings, optical filters, in addition to Acton’s other standard coatings.

BFi OPTiLAS also releases the latest optics capabilities catalog from Precision Photonics. It features a number of unique products such as 45° and Brewster plate polarizers (requiring no angle tuning), High damage threshold Epoxy-free cubes and Nd:YAG laser mirrors (> 40J/cm²), AR coatings to < 0.05% reflectance and broadband high energy dielectric laser mirrors.

Applications include analytical instrumentation, laser beam delivery and cavity optics, medical lasers, space science instrumentation, and semiconductor wafer inspection and metrology, among others.

BFi OPTiLAS, thanks to its collaboration with Ophir Inc. is proud to launch Quasar, a Wireless Bluetooth Interface for Laser Measurement.

Quasar is the industry's first wireless Bluetooth interface that broadcasts laser meter data to any PC or laptop within 10 meters. Quasar enables operators to separate the placement of the remote laser energy meter and the operator's PC or laptop to provide optimal flexibility for complex laser meter applications. An optional antenna provides extended range up to 60 meters.

BFi OPTiLAS is also launching Ophir Vega. Vega is an advanced handheld laser meter with brilliant color display for laser beam measurement. Available with digital or analog needle display, Vega offers an illuminated display screen with backlit navigation buttons that are easy to use under all lighting conditions. The 320x240 color display assists operators with identifying trends or warning signals; colors can be optimized for use with laser protection glasses.

BFi OPTiLAS, is proud to announce the launch of several new lasers at the next Laser’09 exhibition. We will display various innovations such as:

• High performance 30 W pulsed Fiber laser
• High power 400 W Fiber laser
• Unique DPSS laser with very high peak power (2 MW, 500 ps – 3.5 ns pulse duration, up to 3 kHz)
• High brightness fiber coupled laser diodes
• A full range of compact DPSS laser modules from UV to IR
• A full range of laser diodes and pulsed laser diodes

Contact your local BFi OPTiLAS sales office for more information or come to see us on Booth # B1-419.

BFi OPTiLAS, is proud to announce the launch of several innovative products during the next Laser’09 exhibition. This will include:

• Wireless "Quasar" laser power & energy meters
• High resolution beam profilers and M2 measurement devices
• Field and modular "JAZ" spectrometer
• Fourier Transform Spectrometers based on MEMs technology
• High resolution wavemeters and wavelength analyzer
• Latest Spectroradiometers generation
• Laser diode life-test and burn-in stations

Contact your local BFi OPTiLAS sales office for more information or come to see us on Booth # B1-419.

BFi OPTiLAS, is proud to announce the launch of several new products during the next Laser’09 exhibition. We will display many components including:

• High damage threshold laser optics from 193 nm to 10.6 microns
• High quality Nd:YAG rods
• Full range of interference filters
• New range of galvanometers, scanners and scanheads
• Unique range of light shaping diffusers

Contact your local BFi OPTiLAS sales office for more information or come to see us on Booth # B1-419.