Zero order waveplate #4554

Product overview
Half-wave plates (λ/2) designed for quantum computing manipulate polarization states for trapped-ion, neutral-atom and linear-optical quantum systems, as well as quantum communication and cryptography. Available at application-specific wavelengths from the UV to the NIR, they cover common ion wavelengths (Yb, Sr, Ca) and provide a nominal retardance of λ/2 with an accuracy of λ/200.

Key features

• Optimized for trapped-ion and neutral-atom quantum experiments
• Application-specific wavelengths across UV–NIR, including common ion lines
• Offered in 12.7 mm (1/2") and 25.4 mm (1") diameters for easy integration

Design and performance
Depending on design wavelength, the plates use first-order or zero-order construction to minimize temperature sensitivity. Anti-reflection (AR) coatings are applied to maximize transmission at the design wavelength and preserve low-light signal performance. Components are supplied in a black anodized aluminum mount; compact 12.7 mm and standard 25.4 mm sizes support integration into space-constrained setups. Polarizing cube beamsplitters and custom wavelengths are available on request.

Available wavelengths and applications

• 366 nm — Trapped ion
• 392 nm — Trapped ion
• 435 nm — Trapped ion
• 495 nm — Trapped ion
• 679 nm — Neutral atom
• 689 nm — Neutral atom
• 795 nm — Neutral atom
• 813 nm — Neutral atom
• 815 nm — Neutral atom

Technical specifications

• Retardance: λ/2
• Retardance accuracy: λ/200
• Wavelength coverage: application-specific wavelengths from UV to NIR (covers common ion wavelengths such as Yb, Sr, Ca)
• Construction: first-order or zero-order depending on wavelength (low temperature sensitivity)
• AR coating: maximized transmission at design wavelength
• Mounting: black anodized aluminum housing
• Available diameters: 12.7 mm (1/2") and 25.4 mm (1")
• Typical applications: trapped-ion quantum computing, neutral-atom quantum computing, linear optical quantum computing, quantum cryptography and communication
• Accessories/options: polarizing cube beamsplitters; custom wavelengths available