Reflective optical chopper used in NIST high-power laser measurements

Published

November 1, 2008

Author(s)

Xiaoyu X. Li, Thomas Scott, Christopher L. Cromer, Joshua A. Hadler

Abstract

For the past ten years, NIST has used high-reflectivity, optical choppers as beamsplitters and attenuators when calibrating the absolute responsivity and response linearity of detectors used with high-power CW lasers. The chopper-based technique has several advantages over the use of wedged-shaped transparent materials (usually crystals) often used as beamsplitters in this type of measurement system. We describe the design, operation and calibration of these choppers. A comparison between choppers and transparent wedge beamsplitters is also discussed.

Citation

Journal of Research (NIST JRES) -

Volume

113

Issue

6

NIST Pub Series

Journal of Research (NIST JRES)

Pub Type

NIST Pubs

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Keywords

attenuator, high-power laser, infrared (IR), K-series calorimeter, laser beamsplitter, laser detector calibration, laser power meter, monitor detector, optical crystal, reflective optical chopper (ROC), ZnSe.

Citation

Li, X. , Scott, T. , Cromer, C. and Hadler, J. (2008), Reflective optical chopper used in NIST high-power laser measurements, Journal of Research (NIST JRES), National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD, [online], https://tsapps.nist.gov/publication/get_pdf.cfm?pub_id=33004 (Accessed October 7, 2025)