LM35HC-SW Short-Wave Infrared (SWIR) Lens, 1-inch Format, C-Mount, 800–2000 nm Spectral Range

Overview

The LM35HC-SW is a precision-engineered short-wave infrared (SWIR) imaging lens designed for high-fidelity spectral capture across the 800–2000 nm wavelength band. Based on a diffraction-limited, multi-element achromatic optical architecture, it corrects chromatic and spherical aberrations specifically for SWIR photonics applications—enabling consistent modulation transfer function (MTF) performance from visible-near-IR edge through the extended InGaAs-sensitive region. Its 1-inch image circle (16 mm diagonal) supports modern SWIR cameras with larger-format sensors—including those based on InGaAs focal plane arrays (FPAs) with 15 µm or 25 µm pixel pitches—while maintaining telecentricity within ±0.1° over the full field of view. The lens features a standard C-mount mechanical interface, ensuring compatibility with industrial inspection systems, hyperspectral line-scan platforms, and laboratory-grade SWIR microscopes.

Key Features

• Optimized broadband transmission: >92% average transmittance across 800–2000 nm, achieved via custom multilayer BBAR coating on all air-glass surfaces
• Ruggedized aluminum housing with integrated focus lock ring and threaded M42 × 0.75 filter mount (optional)
• Fixed focal length of 35 mm with f/2.0 maximum aperture; depth-of-field calibrated for 100 mm–∞ working distance range
• Low wavefront error (<λ/4 RMS @ 1550 nm) validated by interferometric testing per ISO 10110-5
• Thermally stable design: focus shift <15 µm over −10 °C to +60 °C, verified via environmental chamber cycling
• No internal moving parts—no motorized focus or zoom—ensuring long-term repeatability in fixed-mount OEM integrations

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The LM35HC-SW is compatible with all C-mount SWIR detectors meeting 1-inch optical format specifications, including but not limited to Sensors Unlimited (now Collins Aerospace) SU320, Hamamatsu G12183, and Xenics Bobcat-320 series. It satisfies key optical interface standards: ANSI/EIA-771-C for C-mount flange focal distance (17.526 mm ± 0.025 mm), and ISO 9022-3 for resistance to mechanical shock (50 g, 11 ms half-sine pulse). All optical substrates are fused silica and N-SF11 grade glasses selected for low fluorescence and minimal hydroxyl absorption in the 1400–1500 nm water vapor band. The lens complies with RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU and is manufactured under ISO 9001:2015 certified processes. It is not intended for use in life-critical medical imaging or aviation-certified avionics without additional system-level validation.

Software & Data Management

As a passive optical component, the LM35HC-SW requires no firmware, drivers, or embedded software. Its performance parameters—including MTF curves, spot diagrams, and spectral transmission data—are delivered in standardized Zemax .ZMX and CODE V .SEQ formats upon request, supporting integration into optical design workflows compliant with MIL-STD-1472G and ASTM E2720-10 (Standard Practice for Optical Design Verification). Calibration reports include traceable metrology data aligned to NIST-traceable reference standards (NIST SRM 2034 for transmission, NIST SRM 2036 for surface flatness). For GxP-regulated environments, lens serial numbers are logged in Microphotons’ quality management system (QMS) with full audit trail per ISO 13485:2016 requirements.

Applications

• Industrial sorting: Discrimination of polymer types, moisture content in agricultural grains, and counterfeit pharmaceutical tablet verification via SWIR reflectance spectroscopy
• Defense & surveillance: Covert imaging under night-sky radiance conditions (e.g., 1550 nm eye-safe laser illumination), camouflage detection, and thermal contrast enhancement
• Scientific research: Time-resolved pump-probe microscopy, quantum dot emission characterization, and free-space optical communications alignment at 1310/1550 nm wavelengths
• OEM machine vision: Integration into automated PCB inspection systems for solder-joint integrity analysis using 1064 nm laser-induced thermal imaging
• Environmental monitoring: Remote sensing of vegetation health indices (NDVI, PRI) using dual-band SWIR bandpass filtering

FAQ

Is this lens compatible with silicon-based CMOS sensors?
No—the LM35HC-SW is optimized exclusively for SWIR-responsive detectors (InGaAs, HgCdTe, PbS). Silicon sensors exhibit negligible quantum efficiency beyond 1100 nm and are unsuitable for use with this lens.
Can I mount this lens directly onto a USB3 Vision SWIR camera?
Yes—if the camera conforms to C-mount mechanical specifications and supports a 1-inch image circle. Verify sensor active area dimensions and back focal distance tolerance before integration.
Does the lens include focus calibration documentation?
Yes—each unit ships with a certificate of conformance including measured back focal distance, effective focal length deviation (±0.15%), and MTF data at three field points (0°, 50% FOV, full FOV) per ISO 9334.
What is the warranty coverage for this optical component?
Microphotons provides a 12-month limited warranty against material and workmanship defects. Exclusions include damage from improper handling, unapproved cleaning agents, or integration into non-compliant optical trains (e.g., exceeding specified irradiance thresholds per ISO 11551).
Is custom coating available for narrower SWIR bands (e.g., 1550 ± 25 nm)?
Yes—custom AR or bandpass coatings can be engineered upon request. Lead time and minimum order quantities apply; contact technical sales for feasibility assessment and quoting.