The Agilent/Keysight 5517B is a helium-neon laser head engineered for precision metrology and measurement applications requiring nanometer-level accuracy. This gas laser operates at 633 nm (red, Class 2) with orthogonally polarized frequency components, delivering 180 µW to 1 mW of continuous-wave output power. Integrated control electronics and a compact form factor make it suitable for laser interferometer systems used in dimensional metrology, machine tool calibration, semiconductor alignment, and precision manufacturing workflows.
Technical Specifications
• Wavelength: 633 nm
• Output Power (CW): 180 µW to 1 mW; minimum 120 µW
• Wavelength Stability (1 hour): 2 ppb (vacuum)
• Wavelength Stability (Lifetime): 20 ppb
• Wavelength Accuracy: ±0.1 ppm (standard); ±0.02 ppm (with optional calibration)
• Reference Frequency: 1.9 to 2.4 MHz
• Maximum Linear Velocity: 500 mm/s (with linear optics)
• Beam Diameter: 6 mm
• Beam Height: 79.5 mm
• Warm-up Time: Typical 4 minutes; up to 10 minutes standard; 90 minutes with connected vent fan
• MTBF: > 50,000 hours
• Power Supply: +15 V ±0.3 V at 2.5 A max; −15 V ±0.3 V at 0.02 A max
• Heat Dissipation: 23 W (operating); 35 W (warm-up)
• Operating Temperature: 0 to 40 °C
• Weight: 3.4 kg (7.5 lb)
• Laser Class: Class 2
• Polarization: Orthogonally polarized frequency components (f1 horizontal, f2 vertical)
– Key Features
• Sub-nanometer wavelength stability over one-hour intervals (2 ppb vacuum)
• Integrated control unit simplifies system integration
• Multiple mounting options: three M8 × 1.25 tapped feet or six-hole base configuration (M6 or 1/4-20 UNC)
• Extended operating lifetime (> 50,000 hours MTBF)
• Compact packaging smaller than 5517A predecessor
– Typical Applications
• Coordinate measuring machine (CMM) calibration
• CNC machine tool alignment and verification
• Laser displacement and position measurement systems
• Precision length standards and dimensional calibration
• Semiconductor manufacturing alignment
• Scientific metrology and research
– Compatibility & Integration
The 5517B operates with compatible receiver electronics (e.g., E1709A) to achieve specified maximum linear velocity. Kinematic mounting recommended for rear foot placement when not using aluminum mounting surfaces.
