Scanning Autocorrelator for Microscopy AA-M 

    The AA-M provides two simultaneous measurement points: one at the focal plane of the microscope and the other being the point where the optical head of the device is placed, i.e. somewhere before the microscope input. The comparison of the pulse duration value obtained in these two measurements determines the pulse broadening introduced due the dispersion of the microscope’s optical elements. In most cases of application of ultra-short pulses in microscopy it is essential to characterize the temporal and spatial profile of the beam in the focal spot of the microscope. These measurements are vital for any experiment as the shorter is the pulse the higher is the efficiency of the nonlinear imaging process (2-photon excitation) and less excitation energy is needed for successful experiment. Such beam characterization is also necessary when determining exposition of the sample. It ensures image optimization and correct intensity level estimation, as incorrect values may even lead to sample damage.
    Different models of the autocorrelator cover several wavelength ranges, with the AA-MM model combining the ranges by using 3 interchangeable sets of photodetectors and optics. Two separate ranges can also be covered upon request. Input pulse duration ranges from 10 fs to 6 ps for easy monitoring of different laser systems.
    The device features USB interface and can be easily hooked up to a PC with Windows OS. The software is supplied with the device and comprises several useful tools. The acquired pulse duration data can be visualized, stored or exported to a .txt or .dat file. Autocorrelation function and final FWHM pulse duration in femtoseconds are calculated and displayed in real-time. Moreover, Gaussian or sech^2 fitting options are enabled, intensity function may also be observed. The statistical viewer feature allows the comparison of data acquired from several separate pulse measurements.

  

		AA-M
	Wavelength range, nm	450-700 (AA-MV) 700-1300 (AA-M) 1300-2000 (AA-MR) 450-2000* (AA-MM)
	Number of photodetectors	two (incl. one external)
	Pulse duration range, fs	10-6000
	Input repetition rate	>8 kHz
	Sensitivity	100 mW2
	Input polarization, linear	horizontal (vertical upon request)
	Scanning rate, Hz	0.1-20
	Linear distortion, %	<1%
	Collinear (interferometric and intensity) autocorrelation	yes
	PC connection	USB
	Necessary equipment	PC with Windows OS or oscilloscope
	Fiber input (optional)	FC/PC or FC/APC (other types available upon request)
	Signal source and detector	Two-photon conductivity in semiconductor
	Dimensions, mm	210x164x132 (opical head) 225x190x45 (electronic unit)
	* - model AA-MM may cover either all three ranges (450-2000 nm) or two separate ranges (i.e. 450-1300 or 700-2000) with interchangeable optics and photodetectors (3 or 2 sets included).