Automated translating beam profiler for in-situ laser beam spot-size and focal position measurements

Keaveney, James

Abstract

We present a simple and convenient, high-resolution solution for automated laser-beam profiling with axial translation. The device is based on a Raspberry Pi computer, Pi Noir CMOS camera, stepper motor, and commercial translation stage. We also provide software to run the device. The CMOS sensor is sensitive over a large wavelength range between 300 and 1100 nm and can be translated over 25 mm along the beam axis. The sensor head can be reversed without changing its axial position, allowing for a quantitative estimate of beam overlap with counter-propagating laser beams. Although not limited to this application, the intended use for this device is the automated measurement of the focal position and spot-size of a Gaussian laser beam. We present example data of one such measurement to illustrate device performance.

Citation

Keaveney, J. (2018). Automated translating beam profiler for in-situ laser beam spot-size and focal position measurements. Review of Scientific Instruments, 89(3), Article 035114. https://doi.org/10.1063/1.5022973

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Mar 6, 2018
• Online Publication Date: Mar 26, 2018
• Publication Date: Mar 26, 2018
• Deposit Date: Jan 19, 2018
• Publicly Available Date: Apr 13, 2018
• Journal: Review of Scientific Instruments
• Print ISSN: 0034-6748
• Electronic ISSN: 1089-7623
• Publisher: American Institute of Physics
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 89
• Issue: 3
• Article Number: 035114
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1063/1.5022973
• Public URL: https://durham-repository.worktribe.com/output/1341168