Focus on lasers, imaging, microscopy, and photonics

Bristol Instruments has announced its MLC series proportional-integral-derivative (PID) controller that can electronically regulate the frequency output of multiple lasers. When combined with a laser-wavelength meter, such as the company’s new 872 series high-resolution meter, and a fiber-optic switch, the system provides a complete laser-frequency stabilization system. With a frequency resolution as high as 200 kHz, it’s capable of detecting and stabilizing minute frequency deviations of up to eight lasers. The PID controller is suitable for use by scientists and engineers involved in experiments that require regulation of laser frequency, such as laser cooling and trapping. Bristol Instruments Inc, 770 Canning Pkwy, Victor, NY 14564, www.bristol-inst.com

Hübner Photonics has brought to market a range of lasers for quantum technology applications. The Cobolt Qu‑T series offers tunable and lockable single-frequency CW emission in the 650–950 nm range with a high level of flexibility in the center wavelength and a perfect TEM₀₀ beam. The compact lasers operate at wavelengths of 707, 780, and 813 nm. Each emission wavelength can be coarsely tuned gap-free over several nanometers and locked to an external reference by using a fast piezo control. Along with its low-intensity noise, the coarse tunability of greater than 4 nm, narrow mode-hop-free tuning of greater than 5 GHz, narrow linewidth of less than 100 kHz, and output powers of 500 mW make the Cobolt Qu‑T series suitable for quantum experiments based on atomic transitions and generation of entangled photon pairs through spontaneous parametric down-conversion. Hübner Photonics Inc, 2635 N First St, Ste 202, San Jose, CA 95134, https://hubner-photonics.com

DRS Daylight Solutions, part of Leonardo DRS, has unveiled a new member of its PureLight family: the Stretto high-precision, tunable, external-cavity diode laser. Because it covers wavelengths from the UV to the near-IR, the Stretto is suitable for users who need to scale quantum experiments or integrate systems without redesigning them. It offers a wavelength range from 369 to 1800 nm, with ultranarrow linewidth and options for free space and fiber-coupled outputs. It features mode-hop-free tuning greater than 50 GHz, and it achieves a free-running linewidth of less than 500 kHz (typically 100 kHz) and closed-loop linewidths of less than 1 kHz. The compact laser’s hermetically sealed design and resistance to temperature, pressure, shock, and vibration fluctuations make it suitable for use in extreme conditions, including humid, dusty, and vacuum-compatible environments. The Stretto can be used in quantum sensors, clocks, and computing systems; optical ion and atomic traps; and ionic spectroscopy. DRS Daylight Solutions Inc, 16465 Via Esprillo, San Diego, CA 92127, www.daylightsolutions.com

Toptica has launched its FemtoFiber ultra series of femtosecond fiber lasers designed for multiphoton microscopy, two-photon lithography, and semiconductor inspection. The series delivers high average power, precision and consistency, and temporal and spatial beam quality, along with femtosecond pulses in a compact, rugged package designed to withstand the demands of advanced imaging and microfabrication. Available with 780, 920, and 1050 nm wavelengths, the series offers watt-level power with integrated dispersion precompensation, acousto-optic modulator power control, plug-and-play installation, and OEM integrability via remote control. Robust fiber-laser technology ensures longevity; consistent, high-quality output; low power consumption; and minimal maintenance. Toptica Photonics Inc, 1120 Pittsford Victor Rd, Pittsford, NY 14534, www.toptica.com

PicoQuant has introduced the PDA‑23 Detection Module, which offers confocal time-resolved monitoring with a single-photon avalanche diode array. It is an addition to its Luminosa, a single-photon counting microscope that is used to study dynamic structural biology, cellular mechanisms and environments, and plant development and structure. The PDA‑23 Detection Module enhances the spatial resolution, contrast, and functional imaging capabilities of time-resolved confocal fluorescence microscopy. It can combine the increased resolution and contrast of image scanning microscopy with the functional information of fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy. The PDA‑23 Detection Module is customizable and can be seamlessly integrated. PicoQuant, Rudower Chaussee 29, 12489 Berlin, Germany, www.picoquant.com

Park Systems tailored its Park FX200 AFM to offer precision and reliability in atomic force microscopy on 200 mm samples. Its advanced mechanical structure ensures a lower noise floor, minimal thermal drift, and high stability. Faster Z‑servo performance and an improved high-power sample view enhance operational efficiency and imaging capabilities. Features such as automatic probe recognition and probe exchange, laser-beam alignment, and macro-optics for full sample view simplify the user experience and maximize productivity. With optical autofocus, navigation, and sequential measurements at multiple coordinates, combined with automated AFM-scan parameter settings and data analysis, the FX200 streamlines complex operations, making it suitable for both research and industrial applications. Park Systems Inc, 3040 Olcott St, Santa Clara, CA 95054, https://parksystems.com