The New Focus 6000 Vortex is a precision tunable external-cavity diode laser (ECDL) system engineered for narrow-linewidth, low-noise output in demanding research and industrial settings. The instrument comprises a laser controller with dual operation modes and interchangeable laser heads based on Littman-Metcalf cavity architecture. Its monolithic design eliminates adjustable components within the cavity, delivering inherent stability and reduced recalibration requirements.
Technical Specifications
-# Laser Controller
Operation Modes
• Constant-Current Mode: Achieves narrower laser linewidth
• Constant-Power Mode: Minimizes intensity fluctuations
Control & Interfaces
• Front-panel adjustment of bias current, output power, and PZT actuator voltage
• RS-232 serial interface for remote operation
• IEEE-488 (GPIB) interface for instrument bus control
• Complete computer control via LabVIEW (Macintosh and PC)
Modulation Performance
• Frequency Modulation: High-rate capability above mechanical noise sources
• Amplitude Modulation via current input: 1 MHz bandwidth
• Direct AM to laser diode via laser head: >100 MHz bandwidth
Detector & Safety
• General-purpose detector input on rear panel for digital feedback and signal digitization
• Safety interlock connector (15-V DC) for external safety system integration
-# Laser Head (Vortex Series)
Cavity & Wavelength Tuning
• Monolithic design with no adjustable cavity components
• Tuning range: 100 GHz
• Wavelength control via piezoelectric actuator on tuning element
Performance Attributes
• Narrow-linewidth output characteristic of Vortex design
• Low-noise stable operation
• Interchangeable laser head architecture for wavelength flexibility
– Key Features
• Eliminates cavity drift through monolithic, non-adjustable architecture
• Dual modulation paths support both precision spectroscopy and high-bandwidth applications
• Flexible control: local front-panel operation or remote computer integration
• Detector input enables closed-loop wavelength stabilization and constant-power scans
– Typical Applications
• Spectroscopy and absorption measurements
• Optical trapping and manipulation
• Materials processing and industrial machining
• Wavelength-dependent research requiring frequency stability
– Compatibility & Integration
RS-232 and IEEE-488 interfaces enable integration into automated measurement systems. External safety interlocks connect via dedicated rear-panel connector. Factory-configured power supply accommodates specified line voltage and frequency requirements.
