The Optical Choppers offered by Hinds Instruments are resonant devices designed to work at one frequency. We offer several ways to chop light: a High Speed Optical Chopper (HSOC), a Chopping System, and a Photoelastic Modulator (or PEM).
High Speed Optical Chopper
The HSOC is calibrated for one wavelength, from 180nm 1 µm. However, it can be used within a +/- 10% range from the center wavelength without a change in calibration. The frequencies to choose from are 40, 50, and 60 kHz. The HSOC comes in a small, single enclosure package. All optics and drive electronics are included.
Photoelastic Modulator
The PEM is the most versatile choice. The wavelength range can be from 130nm – 18µm depending on the model of optical head chosen and the PEM can be used for non-chopping applications in separate set ups. Its operation as a chopper over large wavelength ranges requires additional optics (one linear and one circular polarizer) to convert the PEM into a chopper system. These can be obtained from Hinds Instruments or purchased separately by the user. The basic PEM comes in three modules: the optical head, the drive electronics and the control electronics. Frequencies range from 20-84 kHz.
All Hinds chopper options offer:
•Wide acceptance angle
•No moving parts
•Minimal heat generation
•No safety concerns
•Small footprint and lightweight
•Quiet operation
•Low power consumption
•Meets CE and RoHS compliance regulations