The Exfo WA-1500 is a high-precision laser wavelength meter that measures absolute wavelength using a scanning Michelson interferometer referenced to a stabilized HeNe laser standard. It delivers ± 0.2 ppm accuracy (± 0.0002 nm at 1000 nm) for lasers with spectral bandwidth below 1 GHz FWHM, with automatic resolution adjustment for broader linewidths. Three interchangeable optical modules cover visible through infrared: VIS (400–1100 nm), NIR (600–1800 nm), and IR (1.5–4.0 µm). Wavelength, wavenumber, frequency, and air/vacuum values are all displayable.
Technical Specifications
Measurement Performance
• Scanning Michelson interferometer with HeNe reference laser (0.025 ppm wavelength stability)
• Absolute accuracy: ± 0.2 ppm for spectral bandwidth < 1 GHz FWHM
• IR accuracy: ± 3 × 10⁻⁷ (1.8–3.0 µm), ± 1 × 10⁻⁷ (3.0–4.0 µm)
• Display resolution: 0.0001 nm at 1000 nm
• Measurement update rate: 1.0 Hz (VIS/NIR), 0.75 Hz (IR)
• Units: nm, cm⁻¹, GHz (air or vacuum)
• Dynamic intensity range: 400:1 with automatic 0–2 OD attenuator
Wavelength Ranges
• Visible (VIS): 400–1100 nm
• Near Infrared (NIR): 600–1800 nm
• Infrared (IR): 1.5–4.0 µm
• Photodetector and beamsplitter are field-interchangeable
Optical Input
• Fiber-optic: FC/PC connector (FC/APC optional) for VIS/NIR
• Free-space: 2 mm aperture, 7.0" ± 0.3" adjustable beam height
• Dual-input flip mirror for seamless method switching
• Sensitivity: 20 µW (VIS/NIR), 1.0 mW (IR)
– Key Features
• Absolute wavelength measurement independent of laser power fluctuations
• Temperature and pressure-compensated for dispersion between reference and test laser
• Automatic input attenuation protects against overdriven photodetectors
• Optional BC-1 beam coupler and PC-F-1300 patchcord for non-fiber-coupled lasers
– Typical Applications
• Laser line verification and frequency stabilization
• Narrow-linewidth CW laser characterization
• Optical system alignment and troubleshooting
• Spectroscopic and metrology applications across visible to mid-infrared bands
– Compatibility & Integration
Fiber-optic and free-space inputs allow integration into laboratory benches and optical test setups. Optional coupling accessories extend measurement capability to collimated beam sources.
