The Newport 68945 is a microprocessor-based digital exposure control unit designed to deliver precise, repeatable timed exposures for light source applications. Operating via RS-232 computer control, it functions as a dedicated timer and shutter controller—offering exposure timing without light intensity or dose-based control features. The unit employs a crystal oscillator to ensure accurate exposure intervals ranging from 10 ms to 9999 hours, with mechanical shutter limitations typically restricting minimum intervals to 80 ms and shortest exposure times to 100 ms. It generates TTL output for shutter system drivers and accepts remote trigger inputs via BNC connector, making it suitable for scientific and industrial exposure systems requiring deterministic timing control.
Technical Specifications
• Exposure Timing Range: 10 ms to 9999 hours
• Timing Accuracy: Crystal oscillator-based
• Mechanical Shutter Constraints: Minimum interval 80 ms; shortest exposure 100 ms
• Input Voltage: 90–264 VAC
• Input Frequency: 50/60 Hz
• Output Signal: TTL (shutter system driver)
• Control Interface: RS-232 via DB9 connector
• Remote Trigger: BNC connector (switch closure or TTL input)
• Detector Input: BNC connector
• Thermoelectric Cooler Connector: J1
• Power Supply Output Control: HD15 cable (J6)
– Key Features
• Microprocessor-controlled timing with crystal oscillator precision
• PC-based operation via RS-232 interface
• Configurable shutter control sense (HI or LOW via S1 slider switch)
• TTL trigger input for external synchronization
• Adjustable idle state configuration
• Audio alarm indication for lamp aging or out-of-range conditions
• Universal AC input voltage acceptance (90–264 VAC, 50/60 Hz)
• System reset via power cycling and cable disconnection
– Typical Applications
• Photolithography and exposure mask imaging
• Solar simulator test systems
• Flood exposure and large-area illumination control
• Research and development requiring repeatable timed light exposure
– Compatibility & Integration
The 68945 integrates with Newport’s Large Area Illuminators, Solar Simulators, and Flood Exposure Sources. Current Oriel Solar Simulators are supported; pre-2003 models may require verification due to power supply differences. The unit interfaces via rear-panel BNC connectors (trigger and detector inputs), DB9 (RS-232), and HD15 (power supply I/O control). It does not provide intensity or dose control; those capabilities are available in the 68951 model.
