871 Series Laser Wavelength Meter

The 871 Series Laser Wavelength Meter is designed to provide maximum confidence in experimental results through a combination of proven interferometric technology, automatic calibration, and exceptional measurement speed. It uses a Fizeau etalon-based optical design to directly measure the wavelength of both pulsed and continuous-wave (CW) lasers operating across a broad spectral range from 375 nm to 2.5 μm.

More Confidence in Your Experimental Results

At the core of the 871 Series is its highly stable Fizeau etalon system, which enables accurate and repeatable wavelength measurements without frequent user intervention. Two performance variants are available to match experimental requirements:

• Model 871A – The highest-precision option, delivering wavelength accuracy of ± 0.2 parts per million (equivalent to ± 0.0001 nm at 500 nm). This makes it ideal for the most demanding research applications, including precision spectroscopy, laser stabilization, and quantum optics.
• Model 871B – A cost-effective alternative for less exacting applications, offering accuracy of ± 0.75 parts per million (approximately ± 0.001 nm at 1500 nm), while retaining the same robust measurement architecture.

To guarantee this performance over time, the 871 Series features automatic calibration using a built-in wavelength standard, ensuring reliable, traceable measurements and the most meaningful experimental data.

Fastest Sustained Measurement Rate

The 871 Series is engineered for speed as well as accuracy. Its Fizeau etalons generate a spatial interferogram, which is detected by a fast photodetector array. An on-board digital signal processor (DSP) rapidly converts the interferometric data directly into wavelength values—without relying on external computation.

Because all processing is performed inside the instrument, the 871 Series achieves a sustained measurement rate of up to 1 kHz. This allows:

• Measurement of every pulse from lasers operating at repetition rates of ≤ 1 kHz
• Integrated measurement of all pulses arriving within the measurement window at higher repetition rates
• A time resolution of 1 ms, providing detailed wavelength characterization of tunable lasers and rapid feedback for active wavelength stabilization

This performance makes the 871 Series particularly well suited for real-time laser tuning, swept-source analysis, and fast feedback control systems.

Straightforward Operation and Integration

The 871 Laser Wavelength Meter is designed for seamless integration into both laboratory and industrial environments. It can be operated using a PC connected via USB or over a local area network using Ethernet. Supplied software allows users to easily configure measurement parameters and log wavelength data.

For advanced users and system integrators, wavelength calculation on the internal DSP enables direct instrument control without a dedicated PC. A comprehensive command library supports custom software development and LabVIEW integration, allowing the 871 Series to be embedded directly into automated experiments or production systems while remaining compatible with any operating system.

‍Specifications

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