High-power yellow lasers for imaging, cytometry
Yellow (561 nm) lasers in the Sapphire 561 claim higher power and greater efficiency than anything previously available at this wavelength. The optically pumped semiconductor lasers (OPSLs) offer a choice of output power (50, 75, 100, or 150 mW) in a high-quality (TEM00, M2 < 1.1) beam with rms noise less than 0.25% (from 20 Hz to 2 MHz). The systems promise four times better electrical efficiency and lower heat dissipation than products based on legacy Nd:YAG technology, and are packaged in compact form factor (125 × 70 × 34 mm or 4.9 × 2.8 × 1.3 in.).
Coherent, Santa Clara, CA, USA, bioopticsworld.com/articles/352403
Long-lasting fiber for deep-UV
The “world’s first” ultraviolet nonsolarizing (UVNS) optical fiber, the all-silica Optran UVNS promises excellent throughput over a wide range of wavelengths (190 to 1200 nm), and offers high laser-damage resistance, a broad temperature range, and a high core-to-cladding ratio. With the PowerLightGuide bundle, it offers 40,000 continuous, unfiltered hours of level, steady transmission at 95% of the original output. The fiber offers NAs of 0.12, 0.22, 0.28 or 0.30, and core diameters up to 2000 mm. Applications include medical diagnostics, laser delivery, photodynamic therapy, and psoriasis treatment.
CeramOptec, Longmeadow, MA, USA, bioopticsworld.com/articles/350883
High-speed slide loader for microscopy
The PL-200 high-speed automated slide loading system is compatible with a wide range of microscopes. It uses a space-saving rotating arm and a multiple sensory based gripper system, and interfaces with Prior’s ProScan II motorized stages to ensure a safe and reliable slide-transfer routine. The PL-200 has a 200 slide capacity with four removable 50-slide racks. Sensors enable intelligent response when racks are removed and replaced. To ensure that data is correctly associated with slide reference details, an optional scanner can read 1-D or 2-D barcodes.
Prior Scientific, Rockland, MA, USA, bioopticsworld.com/articles/350883
Microscope with LED source
The DM IL LED is an inverted routine microscope that combine Leica HC optics with state-of-the-art LED illumination. The low-maintenance, non-heat-generating light source, long free-working distances, generous space for operation, and high stability enables live-sample microscopy. The microscope and its fluorescence variant, DM IL FLUO, can be configured with a wide range of optics and accessories. Transmitted light illumination, optimized condensers, and contrasting techniques are specially geared to cytobiological applications.
Leica, Wetzlar, Germany, bioopticsworld.com/articles/350915