The Newport 818-SL is a silicon photodetector engineered for precision optical power measurement across the visible and near-infrared spectrum. This post-mounted, free-space detector delivers stable responsivity exceeding 0.1 A/W from 400–1000 nm, with peak responsivity greater than 0.5 A/W at 920 nm. The detector integrates a patented, removable OD3 attenuator to extend dynamic range from 20 pW minimum measurable power to 2 W maximum with attenuation, or 4 mW without. Linearity is ±1% to ±0.5% across its operating range, with uniformity of ±2% across the 11.3 mm diameter clear aperture. NIST/NPL-traceable calibration data is stored in onboard EEPROM and provided in 10 nm spectral increments. EMI/RFI shielding and rise time of ≤2 µs enable reliable measurement in laboratory and industrial settings. The detector connects via BNC to compatible Newport power meters or external instrumentation, with a 1.5 m cable.
Technical Specifications
• Spectral Range: 400 nm to 1100 nm
• Responsivity: >0.1 A/W (400–1000 nm); >0.5 A/W at 920 nm peak
• Sensor Clear Aperture: Ø11.3 mm
• Maximum Measurable Power: 2 W (with attenuator); 4 mW (without)
• Minimum Measurable Power: 20 pW
• Maximum Power Density: 30 W/cm² (with attenuator); 3 W/cm² (without)
• Maximum Pulse Energy: 60 µJ (with attenuator); 60 nJ (without)
• Linearity: ±1%, ±0.5%
• Uniformity: ±2%
• Rise Time: ≤2 µs
• Shunt Resistance: ≥2 MΩ (typical)
• Saturation Current: 4.6 mA/cm²
• Maximum Reverse Bias: 10 V
• Calibration Uncertainty: 1.65% (400–430 nm); 1.1% (430–1000 nm); 4.3% (1035–1065 nm)
• Operating Temperature: 0 to +50°C
• Humidity Limit: <70%
– Key Features
• Patented matched OD3 attenuator (removable) extends measurement range by four orders of magnitude
• ±2% detector uniformity minimizes spatial response variation
• EEPROM-stored, NIST/NPL-traceable calibration with full-spectrum responsivity data
• EMI/RFI shielded construction for noise-sensitive environments
• DB15 calibration module interface; BNC connector for direct ammeter/oscilloscope integration
– Typical Applications
• Laser power characterization and stability monitoring
• Spectroscopic power measurements
• Coherent light power assessment
• Pulsed and continuous optical power analysis
– Compatibility & Integration
Direct compatibility with Newport 840-C, 1830-C, 1835-C, 2832-C, 2835-C, and 4832-C power meters. Models with /DB suffix indicate optimized integration with current Newport instrumentation. 841-PE and 842-PE meters also supported. Fiber optic versions (Ø10×10 mm, FC/PC connectors) and accessory mounting threads available on select configurations.















