Overview of Acousto-optic Tunable Filter (AOTF)
The AOTF module is designed for selecting up to 8 independent laser wavelengths simultaneously from a supercontinuum laser source and setting the individual intensity of each wavelength. It is controlled by computer through USB connection. The blanking function is provided for the on/off RF modulation of the laser intensity by an external TTL clock up to 1 MHz; this utility enables many applications such as PLIM (Phosphorescence Lifetime Imaging), FRAP (Fluorescence Recovery After Photobleaching) and ALEX (Alternating-Laser Excitation). By default, the supercontinuum laser is split inside the AOTF unit into two beams-VIS and NIR-and only the VIS beam goes through the AO. The AOTF module features two outputs for VIS and NIR respectively-both can be configured as free space or fiber coupled. A filter (25 mm diameter circular) slot is available for each beam path to further clean up the VIS laser wavelength after the AO or to select a particular NIR laser wavelength.
Compatible with Q2, and PL1.
Product Specifications for Acousto-optic Tunable Filter (AOTF)
Input port
- 1
Output ports
- 2 - VIS (through the AO) and NIR
Output beam
- Free space or fiber coupled
Optical Wavelength Range
- 450 - 700 nm (400 - 650 nm, optional)
Number of lines
- Up to 8 independently or simultaneously
Optical Transmission
- > 95%
Input/Output Polarization
- Linear ⊥ - Linear //
Active Aperture
- 3 x 3 mm²
Optical Extinction Ratio
- > 50 dB
Spectral Resolution (FWHM)
- < 1.5 nm
Operating Temperature
- +10°C to +40°C (non-condensing)
Rise/Fall time
- 1 µs/mm
RF Modulation
- TTL up to 1MHz, SMA
Communication
- USB
Dimensions (mm)
- 308 (L) x 184 (W) x 62 (H)
