MKS Ophir BeamSquared® Upgrade: Practical Insights and Technological Shifts

Stepping into 2024, MKS Ophir BeamSquared®  analyzer is set to undergo a notable upgrade. The upcoming change revolves around the integration of the SP204S backside illuminated CMOS camera, signaling a shift in the gears of optical analysis.
In this blog post, we’ll take a pragmatic look at what the SP204S brings to the table, exploring its features and functionalities, and understanding how it may impact the user experience and analytical capabilities of the MKS Ophir BeamSquared system. Let’s unpack the details and implications of this camera upgrade. 

Compact, fully automated M² propagation analyzer

The BeamSquared® SP204S is a compact, fully automated M² propagation analyzer designed for measuring the propagation characteristics of CW and pulsed laser systems ranging from 266 to 1100 nm with new CMOS SP204S camera. Moving on from the trusty SP920 CCD to the new CMOS model, no need to worry about smearing issues anymore, and the blooming effect has been notably reduced, thanks to the advanced CMOS sensors at play. Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty.

The new camera introduces backside illuminated CMOS sensors, flipping and thinning the silicon. This tweak significantly improves how the photodiode collects light, resulting in heightened sensitivity. When paired with our BeamSquared system, the combination not only boosts sensitivity but also enhances M² measurements in the NIR region. 

Measures smaller focal spots

Furthermore, the reduced pixel size in our latest CMOS camera allows to measure smaller focal spots. This ability permits the use of shorter focal length lenses for a given input beam size or allows the measurement of larger beams for a given focusing lens. 

In the recent upgrade to the BeamSquared® software, a couple of changes have been introduced to enhance its functionality. The new BeamSquared Motion Utility application now allows users to control the BeamSquared motion system directly from a standalone computer. Additionally, the latest version has tweaked the aperture, adopting the same enhanced Auto Aperture algorithm found in BeamGage. 

The BeamSquared® SP204S continues to be a reliable choice for laser manufacturers, ensuring that measurements of beam propagation characteristics are not only accurate but also repeatable. This reliability is a key factor for those in the industry seeking a straightforward solution for laser quality assessment.