36
HA0165T Rev 4K Sept 2017
Chapter 5
5.3.6
Using Two NanoTraks in the Same System
The NanoTrak scanning process uses a single frequency (and a highly selective
discriminator similar to a rad io receiver) and it is possi ble to u se more than one
NanoTrak T-Cube in a single optical path (and with a single detector). For example,
with two control units set to different scanning frequencies (e.g.30 Hz and 40 Hz) it is
possible to couple fibers both into and out of an integrated optical device such as a
waveguide – see Fig. 5.8. The scan frequency and input source can be set directly
via the Settings panel – see Section 6.2.
The application in Fig. 5.8 features a single channel fiber block, mounted on a 6-axis
flexure stage. The laser is routed through the fiber block and into the splitter which
splits the light into 4 channels, which must then be aligned with the 4-channel fiber
block. The platforms of the input and output stages are continually positioned by two
of the NanoTraks to attain maximum throughput for each separate channel.
To set up a two NanoTrak system:
1) Make connections as shown in Fig. 5.8.
2) Power up the NanoTrak units.
3) Run Kinesis software.
4) In the input NanoTrak GUI, select ‘Settings’.
5) Select the ‘Tracking’ tab, then set the Circle User Frequency, e.g. 40 Hz.
6) Select the ‘Input/Output’ tab, then set the Input Signal Source to ‘PIN (TIA)’.
7) In the output NanoTrak GUI, select ‘Settings’.
8) Select the ‘Tracking’ tab, then set the Circle User Frequency, e.g. 30 Hz.
9) Select the ‘Input/Output’ tab, then set the Input Signal Source to ‘PIN (TIA)’.
10)Set both NanoTraks to ‘Track’.
11)Once alignment is achieved, tracking can be verified. Move the axes o f the
stage(s) by a small amount. The circle of the NanoTrak associated with the stage
should move accordingly to follow the signal.
If using the internal power meter of the NanoTrak unit, the detector output is
connected, via an optical splitter, to the OPTICAL/PIN IN connector on both NanoTrak
units. If using an external power meter, a T-splitter must be used unless the power
meter has a dual output connection.
Note
A difference of at least 10Hz is recommended between this frequency and
that set at item (5). This is to ensure adequate frequency separation
between the bandpass filters of the two NanoTraks.
