
( Brand: Thorlabs ), ( Type: Collimator ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: TC12APC-780 ), ( Intended Use/discipline: Physical Laboratory )
The Thorlabs TC12APC-780 and TC18APC-780 triplet collimators are high-performance optical components designed for use with 780 nm laser sources. These collimators feature a triplet design, which provides excellent collimation and beam quality.
The TC12APC-780 collimator is a 12 mm diameter model, making it suitable for use with smaller lasers or applications where a compact collimator is required. It is constructed from high-quality fused silica substrates and features an antireflection (AR) coating on all surfaces to minimize unwanted reflections and maximize the transmission of the incident light. The TC12APC-780 collimator has an average power handling capacity of 18.09 W and a maximum power handling capacity of 28 W per fiber.
The TC18APC-780 collimator is a larger 18 mm diameter model, which is well-suited for use with larger lasers or applications where a larger collimator is required. It also features the same triplet design, AR coatings, and high-quality fused silica substrates as the TC12APC-780 collimator. The TC18APC-780 collimator has an average power handling capacity of 18.09 W and a maximum power handling capacity of 28 W per fiber.
Both collimators have a 780 nm center wavelength and are designed for use with single-mode fibers. The collimated beam diameter at the output of the collimator is approximately 12 mm for the TC12APC-780 and 18 mm for the TC18APC-780. The numerical aperture of each collimator is 0.28.
The triplet design of these collimators provides several advantages over simpler collimator designs. The triplet design provides excellent collimation, which is essential for achieving good beam quality and maximizing the utility of the incident laser beam. The triplet design also helps to minimize distortions, such as spherical and chromatic aberrations, which can degrade the quality of the collimated beam.
In summary, the Thorlabs TC12APC-780 and TC18APC-780 triplet collimators are high-performance optical components designed for use with 780 nm laser sources. They feature a triplet design, which provides excellent collimation and beam quality, as well as high power handling capacity and AR coatings on all surfaces to minimize reflections. These collimators are available in 12 mm and 18 mm diameters, making them suitable for a wide range of applications.
The Thorlabs TC12APC-780 and TC18APC-780 triplet collimators are high-quality optics designed for use with 780nm lasers. These collimators offer excellent performance in terms of collimation and beam homogenization. In this analysis, we will discuss the key advantages and disadvantages of purchasing these collimators, followed by a concluding recommendation.
Pros of Buying Thorlabs TC12APC-780 and TC18APC-780 Triplet Collimators:1. High Beam Quality: The triplet design of these collimators results in excellent beam quality, providing low astigmatism and coma. This is crucial for applications where precise beam shaping is required.
2. Wide Field of View: Both collimators offer a large field of view, which makes them suitable for use in experiments or applications where a large detection area is necessary.
3. High Transmission Efficiency: These collimators have high transmission efficiency, which can be beneficial when working with low-power lasers or trying to maximize the output power of your laser system.
4. Durable Construction: Thorlabs collimators are built to last, featuring a robust and rugged design. This makes them suitable for use in demanding laboratory environments.
5. Excellent Collimation: The triplet design ensures excellent collimation, reducing the need for additional optics to achieve a well-collimated beam.
Cons of Buying Thorlabs TC12APC-780 and TC18APC-780 Triplet Collimators:1. Cost: These collimators come with a higher price tag compared to simpler single lens collimators. While the superior performance may justify the investment for some applications, it may not be necessary for others.
2. Size and Weight: The triplet design makes these collimators larger and heavier than single lens collimators. This may not be a concern for benchtop experiments, but it can be an issue for portable or space-constrained applications.
Conclusion:The Thorlabs TC12APC-780 and TC18APC-780 triplet collimators are high-quality optics designed for use with 780nm lasers. They offer excellent beam quality, wide field of view, high transmission efficiency, and a durable construction. However, their larger size, higher cost, and increased weight may not be suitable for all applications.
Based on the pros and cons discussed above, these collimators are recommended for applications where precise beam shaping, excellent collimation, and high transmission efficiency are essential. For example, they would be suitable for use in scientific research, laser material processing, or medical applications. If you are working in a space-constrained environment or have a limited budget, a simpler single lens collimator may be a more cost-effective solution.
In summary, the Thorlabs TC12APC-780 and TC18APC-780 triplet collimators offer superior performance for applications requiring precise beam shaping, excellent collimation, and high transmission efficiency. However, their cost, size, and weight may not be suitable for all applications. Carefully consider your specific requirements before making a purchase.
With an AR coating for 650 - 1050 nm, its ideal precision light beam shaping and fiber coupling applications. TC18APC-780 - 780 nm, f 18.09mm, NA 0.28, FC/APC Triplet Collimator, Them Collimator by Thorlabs has a focal length of operates in the spectral range 762 808 and features 2.2 Wide Key connector.