SuperK SELECT

The SuperK SELECT from NKT Photonics is a multi-channel tunable filter based on Acousto-Optic Tunable Filter (AOTF) technology. It provides access to up to eight simultaneous, freely tunable channels within the 400-2000 nm range. Designed for industrial use, it offers robust, maintenance-free 24/7 operation and easy integration with SuperK lasers.

SuperK SELECT – tunable multi-channel filter

The SuperK SELECT is a tunable wavelength filter based on Acousto-Optic Tunable Filters (AOTF). AOTFs tune over one octave of optical frequency, and the SuperK SELECT can integrate two AOTF crystals to provide wide spectral coverage, thereby giving easy-to-use and flexible access to any wavelength in the spectrum of our SuperK supercontinuum sources.

We have designed it for industrial use. Its robust and compact design gives you maintenance-free 24/7 operation.

Key Features

400-2000 nm tuning range

16 simultaneous, tunable channels

Dual VIS/nIR, nIR/IR port access

Robust and maintenance-free

Easy connection to SuperK lasers

Simple user interface via CONTROL

Filter configurations

AOTF1/AOTF2VIS-nIR
500-900 nm
nIR
640-1100 nm
IR
1100-2000 nm
VIS
400-650 nm
400-650 nm /
690-900 nm
400-650 nm /
690-1100 nm
400-650 nm /
1100-2000 nm
VIS-nIR
500-900 nm
500-900 nm /
1100-2000 nm
nIR
640-1100 nm
640-1100 nm /
1200-2000 nm

Want to know more?

Get in touch with one of our supercontinuum experts to learn more

For our PhotoVivo platform, we use the SuperK FIANIUM with SuperK accessories. We can now measure optical coefficients of ex vivo biological tissues, synthetic materials, i.e. optical phantoms in the 380-2000 nm range.

M. Amouroux and the CRAN team CRAN, Université de Lorraine – CNRS

Focus on Ease of Use

Built-in intelligence, RF switch, and external filter holders

When the SuperK SELECT is connected to the SuperK laser, the CONTROL software automatically recognizes and initializes it.

The SELECT includes a built-in RF switch that enables toggling between the two AOTFs without any physical cable changes.

It is also supplied with detachable external filter holders that can accommodate 1-inch optics, such as cleanup filters, providing maximum flexibility in optical system design.

Fast wavelength switching and scripting functionality

The SELECT enables rapid wavelength sweeps across the crystal bandwidth. This built-in functionality can be activated in the CONTROL software, providing high-speed control of wavelength output and power levels with trigger-based synchronization. For additional details, refer to the application notes.

The SELECT also includes an integrated scripting tool for creating custom routines for wavelength selection, sweeping, and related operations.

High-speed wavelength sweeping

Wavelength sweeping, also known as wavelength interrogation, is important for a wide range of applications. This can be easily achieved using a SuperK supercontinuum source combined with a SuperK SELECT multi-channel AOTF filter. A key feature of wavelength sweeping or interrogation is the ability to change wavelengths or amplitudes on timescales shorter than 50 µs.

Up to 8 channels can be enabled simultaneously within a single profile, enabling very rapid color interrogation or switching. If you need to scan through more than 8 wavelengths, you can activate multiple profiles – with up to 8 wavelengths per profile – using the CONTROL software, with a longer activation time between profiles.

In addition, the Fast Wavelength Switching functionality can be used to perform high-frequency amplitude modulation of the signal, effectively replacing, for example, a mechanical chopper. This approach allows much higher modulation frequencies while avoiding free-space beam handling, as required when using a beam chopper.

Fiber coupling of the filtered light

The SuperK SELECT can be combined with the high-performance SuperK LINK fiber delivery system, supplied with broadband fibers and termination options, such as FC/PC connectors and achromatic collimators for the visible or NIR range.

Fiber coupling is handled by the SuperK FDS and LINK coupling equipment, ensuring stable, efficient single-mode coupling that can be disconnected and reconnected without realignment.

Options – Up to 8 wavelengths

The SuperK SELECT offers a choice of AOTF crystals, which must be selected to cover the needed wavelength range. Seven different crystals are available covering the wavelength range from 400 nm to 2000 nm.

Specifications

Choose model:
SELECT
Number of tunable channels
1-8 per AOTF
Filter bandwidth (VIS)1)
1.8-8.5 nm
Filter bandwidth (VIS-nIR)1)
3.5-14 nm
Filter bandwidth (nIR)1)
1.8-5 nm
Filter bandwidth (IR)1)
6.4-19.8 nm
AOTF deflection efficiency
> 90% (1-8 channel operation)
Polarization2)
Linear
Output mode
Fiber or free-space collimated
Fast wavelength switching
<50 µs

1) Collimated free-space output, FWHM bandwidth.

2) Horizontal with respect to base.

SELECT
Operation temperature
15-30°C
Storage temperature
5-50°C
Humidity, non-condensing
20-80% RH
Weight
≈4 kg

All measurements in mm.

SuperK SELECT

RF Driver

SELECT
Mechanical shutter
Integrated for both ports
Laser safety interlock
Integrated