A high-speed optical shutter controls the transmission of low-power imaging light in optical systems. These devices are valuable for applications requiring accurate timing and exposure control.
They deliver continuous high-speed modulation and guarantee low-power safety by selectively allowing or blocking light. These features make them indispensable in spectroscopy, microscopy, and advanced imaging systems.
What is a High-Speed Optical Shutter?
A high-speed optical shutter is a precision device that controls how and when light passes through an optical path. It operates within milliseconds to manage exposure, intensity, and timing in optical and laser systems.
We design our shutters to control low-power imaging light accurately. It’s important for experiments or systems where timing precision defines performance.
How They Work
High-speed optical shutters use a lightweight mechanical assembly driven by electromagnetic or flexure-actuated motion to block or transmit light.
Their design focuses on fast switching speed, high repeatability, and precise light blocking for consistent optical control. Our technology allows the shutter to perform billions of cycles while maintaining accuracy and stability, even under high-use conditions.
Key Applications
Our high-speed optical shutters are used in a wide range of fields, including:
Selection Guide
Choosing the right optical shutter depends on your system’s requirements.
When selecting, consider:
We help customers match these specifications to the best model for their application.
NM Laser Products, Inc. offers a range of high-speed optical shutters for different applications. Our products handle significant optical power levels and deliver high performance in demanding environments.

The LST-5VDC delivers reliable performance for low-power optical applications.
⦁ Optical Power Handling: 2 W
⦁ Aperture: 3 mm
⦁ Switching Speed: 2 ms
⦁ Direct Drive: 5V DC
⦁ Additional Features: No controller PCB is needed

The LST200SLP is ideal for rapid imaging in compact systems.
⦁ Optical Power Handling: 2 W
⦁ Aperture: 2.3 mm
⦁ Switching Speed: 1 ms
⦁ Repetition Rate: 100 Hz
⦁ Lifetime: Billions of cycles

The LST200-F40 offers broadband compatibility and enhanced power handling.
⦁ Optical Power Handling: 6 W
⦁ Aperture: 4 mm
⦁ Switching Speed: 8 ms
⦁ Features: Position sensors, broadband optics

The LST4WBK2 delivers 50 W performance with a 4 mm aperture and 10 ms switching speed. Ideal for laboratory or small-scale industrial setups where timing and accuracy matter.
⦁ Optical Power Handling: 50 W
⦁ Aperture: 4 mm
⦁ Switching Speed: 10 ms
⦁ Features: Logic position sensors, metal or dielectric optics
High-quality high-speed optical shutters offer several key benefits that enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of your optical systems:
Deliver accurate timing for light transmission and blocking.
Suitable for various applications, including research labs, medical devices, and industrial systems.
Made for billions of cycles and long-term reliability.
Our patented flexure technology enhances shutter performance by reducing moving parts to a single cantilever beam movement. This innovation offers extended durability and reliability, even in high-stress environments.
Contact us to learn more about how our products can enhance your optical systems.