MKS Instruments, Inc., a global provider of enabling technologies that transform our world, has announced the Ophir® Helios Pro industrial power meter. An expanded version of the Ophir Helios Plus laser power meter, the Helios Pro is a robust, compact device for measuring high-power lasers, including diode, fiber, and Nd: YAG, with power, ranges from 100 W to 12 kW, and wavelengths from 450-550 nm (blue/green) to 900-1100 nm (infrared).
Image Credit: MKS Instruments
An exceptional device, the Helios Pro industrial power meter can monitor pulse shape during measurement and compensate for the effects of slow pulse rise time; this means it delivers accurate measurements even when the laser does not have a sharp rise/fall time. In addition, a new shutter mechanism allows for mounting in any orientation while still protecting the sensor from dust and debris. A diffuser option supports power measurements of small beams in restricted spaces while close to the focal plane. The Helios Pro industrial power meter also provides a fast 3 s response time, a short 12 s wait between consecutive measurements at maximum energy, and has the ability to make multiple measurements before device cool-down. PROFINET, Ethernet/IP, EtherCat, and RS232 communication options make it easy to integrate into manufacturing networks. Ideal for Li-Ion battery welding and other high-power laser-based applications, once integrated into the production control system, fully automated measurements can be made.
“Increasingly, production processes occur in constrained spaces or are not conducive to water-cooled high power sensors, and fast readout of results is needed,” said Reuven Silverman, General Manager, Ophir Photonics. “The Helios Pro industrial power meter is designed for flexibility in challenging environments. It provides even more accurate average power measurements independent of the rise time and, with the diffuser option, allows measurement of smaller beams when space limitations require installation closer to the focal plane. Its shutter mechanism allows mounting in any orientation while still protecting the sensor from dust and debris contaminates.”
The Helios Pro industrial power meter operates by measuring the energy and exposure time of a short pulse (0.3 to several seconds) and then calculates the power. By keeping the pulse energy under 5 kJ, the system eliminates the need for water or fan cooling, resulting in a convenient and compact design. The Helios Pro meter also monitors the pulse shape during measurement and compensates for the effects of slow pulse rise time on the average power result.
The Helios Pro laser power meter is housed in a dust-resistant industrial enclosure and has a field replaceable anti-reflective window to keep the power meter clean and in good working order, even under harsh factory conditions. The sensor’s cover can be automatically controlled for remote opening and closing, protecting the optics and electronics when not in use. Communications options include: PROFINET, EtherNet/IP, EtherCat, and RS232. It can also be used in chain and ring topologies. The Helios Pro power meter comes with a PC application and command set for easy integration into the customer's system. Optional ordering options include a diffuser, which allows measurements in restricted spaces closer to the focal plane.