HCP FYC-3 High-Precision Optical Wavelength Meter
| Brand | HCP |
|---|---|
| Origin | Shanghai, China |
| Manufacturer Type | Authorized Distributor |
| Country of Origin | China |
| Model | FYC-3 |
| Price Range | USD 7,000 – 42,000 (FOB Shanghai) |
| Wavelength Range | 300–1750 nm |
| Primary Measurement Principle | Static Fizeau Interferometry & Michelson Interferometry |
| Wavelength Accuracy | ±0.2 ppm (±0.2 pm at 1000 nm) |
| Maximum Simultaneous Wavelengths | 1024 |
| Frequency Resolution | Up to 3 MHz |
| Display | Integrated TFT touchscreen |
| Interface | USB 2.0, RS-232, Ethernet |
| Software Compatibility | Windows 10/11, LabVIEW™ drivers available |
| Calibration Traceability | NIST-traceable reference lasers (optional) |
| Compliance | CE, RoHS, ISO 9001-certified manufacturing |
Overview
The HCP FYC-3 High-Precision Optical Wavelength Meter is a dual-mode interferometric instrument engineered for laboratory-grade and industrial laser characterization. It implements two complementary optical architectures: a static Fizeau interferometer for absolute wavelength measurement with sub-MHz frequency resolution, and a high-finesse Michelson-based spectral mode optimized for multi-line detection across broad spectral bands. Unlike scanning monochromators or grating-based spectrometers, the FYC-3 delivers direct traceable wavelength determination via interference fringe analysis—eliminating calibration drift and enabling long-term stability monitoring without periodic recalibration. Designed for integration into laser development labs, quantum optics testbenches, and fiber-optic component qualification workflows, the device meets the metrological requirements of ISO/IEC 17025-accredited facilities when operated with NIST-traceable reference sources.
Key Features
- Dual-interferometer architecture: Selectable operation between static Fizeau (for single-frequency lasers) and Michelson-based spectral mode (for multi-longitudinal-mode or broadband sources)
- Wavelength accuracy of ±0.2 ppm (e.g., ±0.2 pm at 1000 nm), verified against stabilized HeNe and iodine-stabilized lasers
- Real-time frequency resolution up to 3 MHz—enabling linewidth assessment and cavity mode spacing analysis
- Simultaneous acquisition of up to 1024 discrete wavelengths in spectral mode, with peak identification algorithm and SNR-weighted centroiding
- Integrated 7-inch capacitive touchscreen with embedded Linux OS; no external PC required for basic readout or stability logging
- Full remote control via USB 2.0, RS-232, or TCP/IP; native support for SCPI command set and LabVIEW™ .NET API
- Optional PID feedback output (0–10 V analog or digital TTL) for active laser frequency stabilization loops
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The FYC-3 accepts free-space collimated beams (Ø ≤ 8 mm) and fiber-coupled inputs (FC/PC, FC/APC, or SMA-905 connectors). It supports continuous-wave (CW) and quasi-CW lasers with power levels from 10 µW to 5 mW (optical density filters included). Pulsed lasers with repetition rates >1 kHz and pulse widths >10 ns are measurable in average-power mode. The instrument complies with IEC 61326-1 (EMC for laboratory equipment), EN 61000-6-3 (emission limits), and EN 61000-6-2 (immunity). Firmware supports audit trails and electronic signatures per FDA 21 CFR Part 11 when deployed in GLP/GMP environments using optional secure login and encrypted data export.
Software & Data Management
HCP Wavemaster™ v4.2 software provides real-time visualization of wavelength, frequency, and relative intensity across all detected lines. Data logging supports CSV, HDF5, and MATLAB® .mat formats with timestamping synchronized to internal TCXO (±0.1 ppm stability). The software includes built-in statistical analysis tools: Allan deviation plots for stability assessment, histogram-based repeatability reporting, and automated pass/fail evaluation against user-defined tolerances. All measurement sessions generate immutable metadata (instrument ID, firmware version, calibration date, operator ID), ensuring full traceability for ISO 17025 documentation packages.
Applications
- Stabilization and verification of external-cavity diode lasers (ECDLs), distributed feedback (DFB) lasers, and fiber lasers
- Characterization of optical frequency combs and cavity ring-down spectroscopy systems
- Wavelength certification of telecom DWDM components (ITU-T G.694.1 grid alignment)
- Calibration of optical spectrum analyzers (OSAs) and wavemeters used in photonics R&D
- Long-term drift monitoring of ultra-stable lasers in atomic clock and gravitational wave detection infrastructure
- Education and training in advanced optics laboratories requiring hands-on interferometric metrology
FAQ
What is the minimum input power required for reliable measurement?
For optimal signal-to-noise ratio, ≥50 µW is recommended for CW lasers at 1550 nm; lower powers (down to 10 µW) are supported with extended averaging.
Does the FYC-3 require external calibration during routine use?
No—static Fizeau operation is inherently self-referencing; only annual verification against a traceable standard is recommended for ISO 17025 compliance.
Can the instrument measure pulsed lasers?
Yes, provided pulse repetition rate exceeds 1 kHz and average power remains within specified range; single-shot measurement is not supported.
Is LabVIEW™ integration supported out of the box?
Yes—NI LabVIEW™ 2020 SP1 and later include native driver support with example VIs for acquisition, triggering, and PID loop integration.
What warranty and service options are available?
Standard 24-month parts-and-labor warranty; extended service contracts include on-site calibration, firmware updates, and priority technical support.
