Superlum BS-XXX-1/2-HP Swept-Wavelength Tunable Laser
| Brand | Superlum |
|---|---|
| Origin | Russia |
| Model | BS-XXX-1/2-HP |
| Tuning Range | 765–815 nm / 805–880 nm / 900–980 nm / 1020–1090 nm |
| Output Power | up to 10,000 mW (HP variants) |
| Sweep Speed | up to 100,000 nm/s |
| Linewidth | 0.06–0.15 nm |
| Wavelength Resolution | 0.05 nm |
| Scan Linearity | >99.9% |
| Repeatability | ±0.01 nm |
| SMSR | >50 dB |
| Control Interface | RS-232 |
| Fiber Output | SMF or PMF, FC/APC |
| Operating Temperature | +15 °C to +30 °C |
| Dimensions (W×H×D) | 257×170×325 mm (standard) / 362×160×326 mm (HP) |
| Weight | 9 kg / 12 kg (HP) |
Overview
The Superlum BS-XXX-1/2-HP Swept-Wavelength Tunable Laser is an externally cavity-stabilized semiconductor laser system engineered for high-speed, precision wavelength scanning in demanding optical metrology and biomedical imaging applications. Unlike mechanically tuned lasers, this series employs an acousto-optic tunable filter (AOTF) with active thermal stabilization as the core wavelength selection element—eliminating moving parts and enabling microsecond-scale spectral agility. The AOTF-based architecture delivers continuous, linear, and repeatable sweeps across user-defined spectral windows—including 765–815 nm, 805–880 nm, 900–980 nm, and 1020–1090 nm—with a native wavelength resolution of 0.05 nm and exceptional spectral purity (SMSR >50 dB). Its fully fiber-coupled design ensures compatibility with interferometric and coherence-sensitive systems, while the integrated closed-loop power control maintains output stability (<±0.5% RMS) even during ultrafast sweeps at rates up to 100,000 nm/s. This makes it particularly suitable for Fourier-domain optical coherence tomography (FD-OCT), dynamic interferometry, swept-source spectroscopy, and distributed fiber-optic sensing where scan fidelity, repeatability, and long-term wavelength accuracy are critical.
Key Features
- Fully solid-state, no mechanical tuning elements — enhanced reliability and lifetime
- AOTF-based wavelength selection with programmable RF drive profiles for custom scan timing and dwell behavior
- Active thermal stabilization of AOTF ensures <±0.01 nm wavelength repeatability over extended operation
- High-power HP variants deliver up to 10 W average output in single-mode fiber (SMF) or polarization-maintaining fiber (PMF)
- Narrow instantaneous linewidth (0.06–0.15 nm depending on model and sweep speed)
- Linear sweep linearity exceeding 99.9% across full tuning range
- RS-232 interface for remote configuration, real-time sweep triggering, and status monitoring
- Compact benchtop form factor with dual housing options (standard and high-power configurations)
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The BS-XXX series is designed for integration into ISO/IEC 17025-compliant optical test benches and regulated R&D environments. Its stable spectral output and deterministic scan behavior support traceable calibration protocols per ASTM E275, ISO 13694, and IEC 61228. While not certified for clinical use out-of-the-box, the system’s deterministic sweep timing, audit-ready parameter logging (via RS-232), and stable power delivery align with foundational requirements for GLP and pre-clinical OCT system validation. All units comply with CE marking directives (EMC 2014/30/EU, LVD 2014/35/EU) and RoHS 2011/65/EU. Input power flexibility (110/220 VAC, 50/60 Hz) enables global deployment without external transformers.
Software & Data Management
Superlum provides a vendor-agnostic SCPI-compatible command set via RS-232, enabling seamless integration with LabVIEW, MATLAB, Python (PySerial), and custom C/C++ control platforms. Users can define arbitrary start/stop wavelengths, sweep velocity, dwell time per point, and bidirectional scan patterns. Firmware supports non-volatile storage of up to 16 pre-programmed scan profiles. While no proprietary GUI is bundled, third-party OCT acquisition software (e.g., Thorlabs OCTVista, Imalux Acquire) includes native driver support for BS-series lasers. All operational parameters—including temperature telemetry, output power feedback, and AOTF drive status—are queryable in real time, facilitating automated calibration routines and 21 CFR Part 11–compliant audit trails when paired with validated data acquisition software.
Applications
- Fourier-domain optical coherence tomography (FD-OCT) in ophthalmology, dermatology, and endoscopic imaging
- Dynamic fiber Bragg grating (FBG) sensor interrogation and multiplexed strain/temperature mapping
- High-resolution swept-source spectroscopy for gas-phase absorption analysis
- Phase-resolved interferometry in MEMS characterization and surface topography
- Calibration source for wavelength-division multiplexing (WDM) component testing
- Time-of-flight dispersion measurement in photonic integrated circuits
FAQ
What is the maximum achievable sweep speed, and how is it maintained across the full tuning range?
The BS-XXX-2-HP models achieve up to 100,000 nm/s sweep speed. This is enabled by high-bandwidth AOTF drive electronics and optimized thermal management—no interpolation or step-and-settle delays are introduced.
Can the laser be operated in fixed-wavelength mode, and what is the typical power stability in that mode?
Yes—any discrete wavelength within the tuning range can be selected and held indefinitely. Power stability is <±0.3% RMS over 8 hours at constant ambient temperature.
Is polarization-maintaining (PM) fiber output available, and what is the PER specification?
PMF output is optionally available with PER >20 dB across the entire tuning band.
Does the system support external trigger synchronization for gated acquisition?
Yes—TTL-compatible sync outputs (scan start, zero-crossing, end-of-sweep) are provided alongside an external trigger input for master-slave timing.
What maintenance is required, and what is the expected operational lifetime under continuous use?
No routine maintenance is required. The AOTF and laser diode are rated for >20,000 hours MTBF under nominal operating conditions (+20–25 °C ambient).
