Ophir (MKS Instruments; Logan, UT) has introduced its BeamSquared M2 laser beam propagation system that automatically and accurately measures the propagation characteristics of continuous-wave (CW) and pulsed lasers with Rayleigh length up to 20 m—from UV to near-infrared—in less than one minute. It can optionally measure wavelengths above 1.8 µm, including CO2 and terahertz, in manual mode.
The BeamSquared M2 system comes equipped with conventional focusing lenses of 400–500 mm for use in rapid prototyping, fabrication, and machining. The newest version adds calibrated 75 0mm and 1000 mm lenses for use with long Rayleigh range lasers (20 m) that involve both a long-waist location and small focal spot size; the lenses can be used with new and existing BeamSquared systems.
“Material processing and micromachining applications increasingly require lasers with small focal spots and greater focal lengths, such as in remote laser welding,” said Reuven Silverman, General Manager at Ophir Photonics. “That means using laser systems that combine larger beams, lower M2, and longer focal length lenses. BeamSquared is the only M2 system that now provides long focal length lenses with high focal length accuracy.”
This system include the BeamSquared M2 software and a longer optical train. The software measures beam propagation characteristics. It displays 2D or 3D beam profiles for visual verification of beam behavior through focus. Functions include a 3D slice display and the ability to add 3D displays to reports. Reports can also incorporate a beam caustic chart, in addition to a variety of statistics.
BeamSquared’s camera-based system accurately captures and analyzes wavelengths from 190 to 1100 nm with wide dynamic range, unparalleled signal-to-noise ratio, and reduced blooming.