Jun 7 2013
Leading semiconductor test equipment supplier Advantest Corporation announced today that it has developed a terahertz wave spectroscopy and analysis platform, a new entry in the company's line-up of non-invasive analysis equipment utilizing terahertz waves.
By breaking out the terahertz source and detector into modules connected to the mainframe by optical fiber cables, the new product enables free layout of the area to be measured, greatly expanding the applications of the technology. As an instrument for terahertz research and development of new applications, it brings new possibilities for terahertz technology within reach.
The product is scheduled to ship in October 2013.
New Platform Expands the Frontiers of Terahertz Research
Terahertz technology is a pioneering approach to measurement and analysis that has drawn attention and investment across a range of fields. Because substances reflect or absorb terahertz radiation differently, according to their unique fingerprint spectra, it is ideal for spectroscopic analysis and non-invasive imaging applications. Advantest launched its first terahertz analysis system - the TAS7000 3D imaging analysis system - in April 2010, and now leads the industry in practical applications for terahertz technology, with a line-up of non-invasive analysis systems targeting various markets, such as pharmaceutical products.
Meanwhile, cutting-edge research employs terahertz analysis technology in combination with other lab equipment, such as cryostats and heaters, in the development of new materials and physical analysis. Laboratories require measurement equipment that is both highly accurate and easy to use. Advantest's new terahertz wave spectroscopy and imaging analysis platform meets these requirements, and is positioned to help researchers make gains in accuracy and R&D efficiency.
Featuring terahertz source and detector modules connected to the mainframe by optical fiber cables, the new platform enables free layout of the area to be measured. The platform may also be connected to other lab equipment, supporting a broad variety of R&D projects utilizing terahertz radiation.
With this new product, Advantest confirms its position at the forefront of applied terahertz technology and R&D.
(*): The terahertz frequency spans 0.1 - 10THz on the electromagnetic spectrum.
Configuration & Key Features
The new platform comprises a terahertz optical sampling system, three terahertz source modules, and a terahertz detector module.
- TAS7500TS Terahertz Optical Sampling System
A desktop-size tool with laser pulse generation and signal analysis functionality. The TAS7500TS's high-speed scanning function (1 millisecond per scan) relies on technology independently developed by Advantest. Additionally, its phase-modulated dual-laser-synchronized technology enables differential measurement.
(*): Basic configuration includes single-laser-pulse generation.
Dual-pulse functionality is available as an option.
- TAS1110, TAS1120, TAS1130 Terahertz Source Modules
- TAS1230 Terahertz Detector Module
Source modules convert laser pulses into terahertz waves. A separate module is available for each of three wavebands: the TAS1110 for 0.1 - 4THz (basic type), the TAS1120 for 0.03 - 2THz (low-frequency type), and the TAS1130 for 0.5 - 7THz (broadband type), with the TAS1130 possessing superior bandwidth coverage and spectral flatness.
The detector module samples the waves that are reflected by or pass through the sample under measurement. Each module is connected to the TAS7500TS by a 1.5 meter optical fiber cable, eliminating the need for complex adjustments, and enabling users to position the modules flexibly for best alignment with samples.