GLIDER Widely Tunable Mid-IR Laser System - Revolutionary Spectroscopy Solution

Transforming Mid-IR Spectroscopy with Advanced External Cavity Technology

The GLIDER widely tunable mid-infrared laser source represents a breakthrough in spectroscopic instrumentation, offering unprecedented wavelength flexibility for material science, system development, and advanced spectroscopy applications. This monolithic, all-in-one laser system eliminates the complexity of traditional external cavity setups while delivering exceptional performance.

What Makes the GLIDER Stand Out?

The GLIDER is built around quantum cascade laser (QCL) technology in an external cavity configuration, specifically designed for single-mode operation with wide spectral tunability. Unlike conventional mid-IR sources that require extensive assembly and alignment, the GLIDER arrives fully assembled in a closed housing, ready for immediate deployment.

Key Technical Specifications

  • Tuning Range: Up to 850 cm⁻¹ per module, with multi-module configurations covering even broader spectra
  • Spectral Linewidth: 1-2 cm⁻¹ for precise measurements
  • Peak Power: 40-400 mW depending on gain chip selection
  • Wavelength Accuracy: ±0.25 cm⁻¹ absolute accuracy between initializations
  • Fast Scanning: Sweep rates up to 4500 cm⁻¹/s with minimal settling time

Advanced Features for Modern Research

The GLIDER incorporates several innovative features that set it apart from competing mid-IR sources:

Modular Architecture: The multi-module configuration accommodates up to 4 different laser modules, enabling wavelength coverage across the entire mid-infrared spectrum from 3 to 13 microns.

Web-Based Control Interface: A sophisticated graphical user interface provides intuitive access to all system functionalities, with both local and remote operation via RJ45 connection.

Integrated Data Acquisition: Dual 16-bit analog acquisition channels enable synchronous measurements with laser pulses and wavelength, streamlining experimental workflows.

Flexible Output Options: Choose between free-space beam delivery or optional multimode fiber coupling, with the ability to switch between modes as needed.

Applications Driving Innovation

The GLIDER excels in applications requiring precise wavelength control and broad spectral coverage:

  • Material Science Research: Investigate molecular vibrations and chemical bonds with high spectral resolution
  • Environmental Monitoring: Detect and quantify greenhouse gases and pollutants
  • Pharmaceutical Analysis: Study drug formulations and understand pharmaceutical lifecycles
  • System Development: Rapidly prototype and test mid-IR optical systems

Why Choose External Cavity QCL Technology?

Traditional FTIR spectroscopy offers broad spectral coverage but suffers from limited sensitivity and slow acquisition times. The GLIDER's external cavity QCL approach delivers:

  • Superior Sensitivity: Excellent signal-to-noise ratio for trace detection
  • High Selectivity: Precise spectral line targeting for complex mixtures
  • Real-Time Monitoring: Fast response times suitable for in-situ measurements
  • Thick Sample Penetration: High optical power enables analysis of challenging samples

Technical Excellence from Switzerland

Manufactured by Alpes Lasers in Switzerland, the GLIDER embodies precision Swiss engineering. The system features:

  • Water cooling for optimal thermal management
  • Littrow configuration grating-tuned cavity
  • Standardized opto-mechanical interfaces for easy integration
  • Optional gaseous purge capability for humidity-sensitive applications
  • Laser Class 3B safety compliance

Investment in Your Research Future

While the GLIDER represents a significant investment, its combination of wide tunability, high performance, and turnkey operation delivers exceptional value. The 20-week delivery time reflects the careful customization and quality control that goes into each system.

For researchers and engineers requiring the ultimate in widely tunable mid-IR laser performance, the GLIDER offers capabilities previously available only in complex, custom-built systems. Its modular design ensures the system can grow with your research needs.

Contact us to discuss your specific wavelength requirements and discover how the GLIDER can accelerate your mid-infrared research and development.

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