Enhanced Spectral Imaging with Tunable Laser Systems

four different spectral imaging applications, showing illuminated biological samples

Enhanced Spectral Imaging with Tunable Laser Systems (TLS)

Spectral imaging unlocks the hidden composition of materials, from biological tissues to industrial components, by analyzing light across a range of wavelengths. Tunable supercontinuum lasers, like Spectrolight’s SL-Pico, TLS-Red, and TLS-Blue, revolutionize this field with their broad spectral range (410–2400 nm for SL-Pico, 410–1700 nm for TLS), eliminating the need for costly hyperspectral cameras and filters. This article explores how these lasers power spectral imaging applications and guides professionals in selecting the right system for fluorescence microscopy, semiconductor inspection, and more.

TLS-Red: Tunable Bandwidth & TLS-Blue: Fixed Bandwidth Benefits:

Cost-Effective: Minimizes the need for hyperspectral imaging components
Efficient: Reduces setup times, increasing operational efficiency
Versatile: One system covers a wide range of applications

Two modern, sleek, tunable laser systems, simple, short cube-like boxes, one red and black, one blue and black, perfect for spectral imaging applications

Powering Spectral Imaging with Tunable Supercontinuum Lasers

Supercontinuum lasers deliver a broadband “white light” output, tunable across a wide wavelength range, making them ideal for spectral imaging. By exciting specific fluorophores or chromophores in a sample, they reveal detailed material properties with high precision. The SL-Pico provides a 410–2400 nm range with up to 8 W average power, while the TLS-Red offers tunable bandwidth and the TLS-Blue provides fixed bandwidth for high-specificity tasks. These systems simplify imaging, reduce costs, and enhance efficiency across biomedical and industrial applications.

Applications Driving Spectral Imaging Innovation

Tunable supercontinuum lasers excel in diverse fields, each demanding specific laser capabilities. Below, we highlight key applications and their requirements.

spectral imaging application, medical & life science, microscopic image of excited fluorophores in a biological sample

Fluorescence Microscopy: Unveiling Biological Processes

In medical and life sciences, tunable lasers enable multi-fluorophore studies by exciting specific molecules, revealing real-time biological processes for diagnostics and research. The TLS-Red (410–1700 nm, tunable bandwidth) supports flexible excitation, while the SL-Pico (up to 8 W) powers high-intensity imaging.

spectral imaging application, forgery detection system, comparison of forged vs authentic document

Forgery Detection: Ensuring Authenticity

For forensics and product security, tunable lasers analyze spectral signatures to distinguish authentic materials from counterfeits. The TLS-Blue (fixed 10/20 nm bandwidth) ensures high specificity, while the SL-Pico covers a broad 410–2400 nm range for comprehensive analysis.

spectral imaging application, quantum & nano technology, tunable laser emitting in the infrared range, passing through a vial containing nanoparticles, which illuminate, showing the otherwise invisible beam

UCNP Imaging: Advancing Quantum Nanotechnology

In quantum and nanotechnology, tunable lasers excite quantum dots and upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs), unlocking applications in imaging and solar energy. The TLS-Red offers precise wavelength and bandwidth control, while the SL-Pico supports high-power excitation.

non-destructive testing, illuminated and backlit samples of materials with markings, grayscale

Non-Destructive Testing: Streamlining Industrial Quality

In industrial settings, tunable lasers detect defects and contaminants without invasive methods, ideal for food production and manufacturing. The TLS-Blue provides precision for defect detection, and the SL-Pico simplifies setups with its broadband output.

inspection, Micro view of laser various laser markings, greyscale

Semiconductor Inspection: Ensuring Device Quality

Semiconductor manufacturing relies on tunable lasers to identify microscopic defects, ensuring high-performance devices. The TLS-Red and TLS-Blue offer high-resolution imaging, with the SL-Pico providing versatile wavelength options.

How to Choose the Right Tunable Laser for Spectral Imaging

Selecting a tunable supercontinuum laser requires balancing application needs with system capabilities. For fluorescence microscopy, prioritize a broad wavelength range (410–2400 nm) and tunable bandwidth, as offered by the TLS-Red or SL-Pico (up to 8 W, <50–300 ps pulses). For high-specificity tasks like semiconductor inspection, the TLS-Blue (fixed 10/20 nm bandwidth) ensures precision. High repetition rates (up to 200 MHz) and power outputs (1–8 W) support fast, high-quality imaging, while plug-and-play designs simplify integration into lab or OEM systems. Customizable wavelength ranges (VIS, IR, SWIR) and upgradability to full tunability with a Flexible Wavelength Selector enhance versatility, replacing outdated lamp-based sources.

Spectrolight’s Tunable Lasers: A Game-Changer for Spectral Imaging

Spectrolight’s SL-Pico (410–2400 nm, up to 8 W, 5–200 MHz), TLS-Red (410–1700 nm, tunable bandwidth), and TLS-Blue (410–1700 nm, fixed bandwidth) deliver unmatched performance for spectral imaging. With configurations like SLM70 (7 W, 80 MHz) and TSL80V-RED (8 W, 0.01–200 MHz), these systems offer high power, precision, and ease of use. Awarded LFW Innovator’s Gold Awards (2018–2020) and highlighted in the 2024 Review of Spectroscopic Instrumentation, they excel in fluorescence microscopy, hyperspectral imaging, and semiconductor inspection. RPMC’s partnership with Spectrolight ensures reliable, tailored solutions for your imaging needs.

Ready to Transform Your Spectral Imaging?

Spectrolight’s tunable supercontinuum lasers streamline spectral imaging with precision and versatility. Explore the SL-Pico, TLS-Red, and TLS-Blue to find the perfect solution. Contact our team at info@rpmclasers.com or click below for expert guidance.

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