A 380-1100nm spectrum matching light source with high spectral resolution, throughput, speed, and stability

Abstract

A broadband spectrum matching light source with a visible to near-infrared (NIR) wavelength range is a valuable tool for broad applications. Based on Energetiq's early version of spectrum matching light source covering the visible wavelength range (380 to 800nm), we extended the range of spectral matching to 1100nm. The new source has two input beam channels for the visible and NIR light from a single Energetiq LDLS light source. The two beams share the same grating, the digital mirror device (DMD), and the optical path. This innovative design extends the wavelength range with a smooth spectral transition. The new system has a compact system size with a 6.5mm diameter liquid light guide output.The light source has a 5.3nm full-width-half-maximum (FWHM) linewidth from 380 to 800nm and about 11nm FWHM between 680 and 1100nm, based on the input fiber size selection. With its high resolution, the source can be a valuable tool for sensor calibration, hyperspectral imaging, spectroscopy, and biomedical-related applications, which also need to consider the ambient light or NIR light effects and simulate the detailed spectral profiles of arbitrary light sources with more extended wavelength range and high fidelity. The source throughput, switching speed, and output stability will also be discussed.