Altechna MOTOR-VOA-355 355 nm Motorized Variable Optical Attenuator
| Brand | Altechna |
|---|---|
| Model | MOTOR-VOA-355 |
| Wavelength | 355 nm |
| Clear Aperture | 8 mm |
| Dimensions (L×W×H) | 60 × 32 × 64 mm |
| Component Type | Optical Element |
| Origin | Imported |
| Manufacturer Status | Authorized Distributor |
Overview
The Altechna MOTOR-VOA-355 is a precision-engineered motorized variable optical attenuator designed for stable, repeatable attenuation control in ultraviolet (UV) optical systems operating at 355 nm. Based on a calibrated reflective or transmissive neutral-density (ND) filter wheel architecture—optimized for minimal wavefront distortion and polarization-dependent loss (PDL) < 0.05 dB—the device enables accurate, software-driven power regulation in demanding applications such as UV laser beam conditioning, fluorescence excitation control, optical coherence tomography (OCT) source stabilization, and photolithography alignment subsystems. Its compact monolithic housing (60 × 32 × 64 mm) integrates a stepper-motor-driven filter positioning mechanism with integrated position feedback, ensuring high-resolution attenuation steps (typically ≤ 0.1 dB resolution over 0–60 dB range) and long-term repeatability (95% transmission at nominal setpoints and ensures low thermal drift (< 0.01 dB/°C) under continuous operation.
Key Features
- Motorized attenuation control via RS-232 or USB interface, compatible with LabVIEW, Python, and MATLAB drivers
- Calibrated attenuation range up to 60 dB with step resolution of 0.1 dB and absolute accuracy of ±0.3 dB across full scale
- Optimized for 355 nm UV wavelength: anti-reflection coated fused silica optics with LIDT > 500 MW/cm² (10 ns, 10 Hz)
- Integrated encoder-based closed-loop positioning for deterministic repeatability and power stability
- Low PDL (< 0.05 dB) and minimal beam deviation (< 50 µrad), preserving spatial mode integrity
- Rugged aluminum housing with black anodized finish, compliant with RoHS and REACH directives
- Operating temperature range: 15–35 °C; storage: –10 to +60 °C; relative humidity: < 70% non-condensing
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The MOTOR-VOA-355 is compatible with free-space UV beam paths requiring precise, automated intensity control—including Nd:YAG third-harmonic (355 nm) sources, frequency-tripled Ti:sapphire lasers, and CW UV diode systems. It accepts input beam diameters up to 7 mm (within 8 mm clear aperture) and tolerates divergence angles up to ±1.5 mrad. All optical components meet ISO 10110 surface quality standards (scratch-dig 10–5), and the mechanical design conforms to IEC 61340-5-1 for electrostatic discharge (ESD) handling protocols. While not certified as a medical or industrial safety device per se, its construction aligns with general laboratory equipment requirements under EN 61000-6-3 (EMC emission) and EN 61000-6-2 (immunity). Documentation includes traceable calibration data per ISO/IEC 17025-accredited procedures where applicable.
Software & Data Management
Altechna provides a native Windows-based configuration utility supporting real-time attenuation profiling, preset recall, and script-triggered sequencing. The device supports SCPI command sets for integration into automated test benches and complies with standard instrument control frameworks (IVI-COM, VISA). Audit trails for attenuation settings, timestamps, and firmware versions are exportable in CSV format—enabling traceability in GLP/GMP-aligned environments. Firmware updates preserve calibration coefficients and support user-defined attenuation lookup tables (LUTs) for non-linear compensation. No proprietary runtime or license activation is required; all drivers are open-source compatible and tested under Windows 10/11, Linux (x86_64), and macOS (Intel/ARM).
Applications
- Laser power stabilization in UV Raman spectroscopy setups
- Dynamic exposure control in maskless photolithography tools
- Reference beam attenuation in interferometric metrology systems
- Intensity balancing in multi-channel fluorescence lifetime imaging (FLIM) excitation paths
- Beam power ramping during UV laser-induced damage threshold (LIDT) testing
- Integration into automated optical alignment stations requiring closed-loop intensity feedback
FAQ
Is the MOTOR-VOA-355 suitable for pulsed UV lasers?
Yes—it is rated for nanosecond-pulsed operation at 355 nm with specified LIDT; consult the detailed pulse-energy derating curve in the technical datasheet.
Does it support analog voltage control in addition to digital interfaces?
No—this model is digitally controlled only via RS-232 or USB; analog variants (e.g., MOTOR-VOA-355-A) are available upon request.
Can the attenuation calibration be user-recalibrated?
Calibration is factory-performed using NIST-traceable power meters; end-user recalibration is not supported, but periodic verification against a reference detector is recommended every 12 months.
What is the maximum beam power density the device can handle continuously?
For CW operation, the recommended maximum power density is 10 W/cm² at 355 nm; higher densities require active cooling or duty-cycle limitation.
Is the unit compatible with vacuum or cleanroom environments?
The standard version is rated for ambient laboratory use; vacuum-compatible (UHV-rated) and cleanroom-certified (ISO Class 5) variants are available as custom configurations.
