Edmund Optics^®

Laser beam expanders are critical for reducing power density, minimizing beam diameter at a distance, and minimizing focused laser spot size.

Learn more about the advantages of using beam expanders in laser optics applications, with examples on spot size and beam size, at Edmund Optics.

Shack-Hartmann wavefront sensors are used to test the transmitted wavefront error of laser beam expanders, predicting the real-world performance of the beam expander.

Sliding focusing mechanisms for laser beam expanders cause less beam wander than rotating focusing mechanisms, but they use more complex mechanics and are typically more expensive.

Converting a Gaussian laser beam profile into a flat top beam profile can have numerous benefits including minimized wasted energy and increased feature accuracy.

The diameter of a laser highly affects an optic’s laser induced damage (LIDT) as beam diameter directly impacts the probability of laser damage.

Not sure which beam expander will work best in your application? Check out EO's Beam Expander Selection Guide to easily compare each type at Edmund Optics.

Beam expanders can be used in reverse to decrease a laser beam's diameter, but divergence will be increased.

Surprisingly, intentionally clipping a laser beam going through a higher magnification beam expander can be the optimal solution.

Are standard beam expanders not meeting your application requirements? Learn how to design your own beam expander using stock optics at Edmund Optics.

Many lasers are assumed to have a Gaussian profile, and understanding Gaussian beam propagation is crucial for predicting real-world performance of lasers.

Axicons can be used in a variety of different fields. Find out more about axicons and how to use them in applications at Edmund Optics.

There are several metrics used to describe the quality of a laser beam including the M2 factor, the beam parameter product, and power in the bucket

Learn how to navigate the many available options for shaping the irradiance profile and phase of laser beams to maximize your laser system's performance.

Learn how to assemble, align, and use a Mach-Zehnder Interferometer completely out of off-the-shelf products from Edmund Optics in this detailed guide.

Superpolished optics with ultra-low surface roughness minimize scatter in optical systems, which is critical in sensitive laser applications.

Learn how to assemble and align a Michelson Interferometer using standard lab components from Edmund Optics. This step-by-step guide covers required parts, setup instructions, and alignment tips for producing interference fringes to measure distance, wavelength, or refractive index changes in an accessible lab environment.

Learn about the different types of optical prisms, their applications, and how to select the right prism for your specific system.

Do you have a question about spatial filters? Learn more about how spatial filters are used with lasers and improve a beam at Edmund Optics.

Learn more about why manufacturing, assembly, testing and implementation are all equally important for a successful lens design.

Learn the key parameters that must be considered to ensure you laser application is successful. Common terminology will be established for these parameters.

Master the fundamentals of ultrafast lasers and how to choose optics that can withstand their high powers and short pulse durations.

Learn more about the advantages of telecentricity, including parallax error elimination, telecentric lenses, depth of field, and distortion, at Edmund Optics.

Surface roughness describes how a shape deviates from its ideal form. This is critical for controlling light scatter in laser devices and other optical systems.

Subsurface damage in optical components can lead to increased absorption and scatter, reducing system performance.

Metrology is critical for ensuring that optical components consistently meet their desired specifications, especially in laser applications.

How are ultra-thin filters different from standard optical filters? Discover the unique features and capabilties of ultra-thin filters at Edmund Optics.

Lasers can be used for a variety of applications. Learn how lasers work, different elements, and the differences between laser types at Edmund Optics.

Optical lenses require very precise tolerances. Learn more about tolerances for spherical lenses at Edmund Optics.