Optical Switches
Fiber optical switches can also be used in optical measurement systems.
Optical Switches
Optical switches are typically used for multiple light sources sharing one detector or for one light source with multiple detectors.
Switches for different needs are available. Configurations from 1x2 to 1xn can be produced as can SM and MM versions.
Single Mode Switches for Short Wavelengths
LASER COMPONENTS offers optical single mode switches for standard and short wavelengths suitable for high precision measurement systems and sensor applications. Switches are available for wavelengths from 400 to 1630 nm. Other wavelengths are available upon request.
The maximum insertion loss is 1.4 dB and the return loss is >55 dB. The switches feature a good reproducibility of ± 0.005 dB and short switching times of 2 ms. The cross talk between individual channels is less than -55 dB.
Standard configurations of the switches are 1x2, 1x4, 1x8, 1x12, 1x16, 2x2, 2x4, and 2x8. They are delivered with FC/APC connectors on all fiber ends. Other connectors are available upon request.
All switches are also available with polarization-maintaining fibers. Maintenance of the polarization depends on the fiber type used, which is usually 25 dB.
Optical Switches for Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy
Fiber switches that are used as accessories in laser microscopes serve two major functions here:
- Switching the laser beam between the microscope and additional probes (e.g. TIRF).
- Switching between individual laser sources
Optical Shutters
As an addition to optical switches, optical shutters (on/off switches) are also available for use in testing equipment in telecommunications applications. They can be equipped with up to 16 channels in the following wavelength ranges: IR (1260-1650 nm), NIR (700-1100 nm), or Vis (400-690 nm).
