Modulation, Exposure and Pulse Gating Shutters

The majority of packages are designed for common applications with commercially available lasers and high irradiance lamp sources.

Models are arranged in formats that indicate how the beam is intercepted by the moving flexure optic; the LS Models use near grazing incidence reflection principles and the LST Models use 45 degree incidence.

In general, the LS models move less mass, providing faster switching speeds. They also provide higher damage threshold since the beam is spread over a large elliptical area of the flexure optic.

Angles of incidence range from about 82 to 75 degrees, increasing the area of incidence and reducing the fluence by factors of 4-6.  If the laser source is polarized, the damage threshold and optical power handling is further increased by aligned the polarization vector to the label on the product input aperture. This takes advantage of higher reflectivity of S polarization for near grazing incidence.

The absorber can handle a great deal of power, and usually the optical power rating is limited by the flexure optic.

The standard coating is a broadband aluminum coating.  Gold is available for exclusive use in the IR by adding suffix –IR to the model number. At CO2 wavelengths, absorbers change as well, and the –C2 suffix is attached to the model number. Some models also have a suffix –P for high energy, low rep rates, typically YAG systems.

Some of the LST models, such as the LSTXY, are designed with dielectric optics and diffusers to handle high energy Q-Switched sources. Damage threshold ratings require dielectric optics. These models also have suffix designations for various dielectric mirror wavelengths.

Most models in this high speed family do not have position sensor options. Cable lengths on the shutters are nominally 8 feet. Extended cables can be ordered, with some limits due to voltage drop with distance.

These shutter models require more electrical power to provide fast switching speeds, and therefore dissipate more heat. Proper thermal mounting is mandatory to achieve stated performance and to avoid damage. See Thermal Mounting in the application notes section.

The fastest models require the CX2250 model controller. Larger aperture models can benefit from the dampened movement control provided by the CX4C controller. For some smaller aperture models, our CX2450B controller can provide lower speed operation, but check with factory sales engineers for a compatibility check.

Below are the standard models. Key features are shown. Select additional tabs for more detailed descriptions.