QCL Laser Pointer - The Ultimate Mid-IR Alignment Tool

Simplify Optical Alignment with Visible and Mid-IR Co-Linear Beams

Aligning mid-infrared optical systems has traditionally been a challenging task requiring specialized equipment and expertise. The QCL Laser Pointer from Alpes Lasers transforms this process with an innovative plug-and-play solution that combines visible and mid-IR laser beams in a single, user-friendly device.

Revolutionary Alignment Technology

The QCL Laser Pointer is a cutting-edge, all-in-one alignment solution that integrates everything needed for precise optical positioning. This compact system combines a Quantum Cascade Laser (QCL) or Interband Cascade Laser (ICL) with a ruggedized opto-mechanical assembly, driver electronics, and temperature controller.

What sets this pointer apart?

Co-Linear Beam Design: The system projects both visible and mid-infrared beams along the same optical path, allowing operators to use the visible beam for alignment while ensuring the invisible mid-IR beam follows the exact same trajectory.

Class 1 Laser Safety: With output power carefully controlled to meet Class 1 criteria, the QCL Laser Pointer allows unprotected beam exposure, eliminating safety concerns during alignment operations.

Zero Warm-Up Time: Unlike traditional mid-IR sources, the pointer is ready for immediate use with simple on/off operation.

Technical Specifications

Parameter Specification Notes
Wavelength Range 3-12 microns Default: 8.0 ± 0.5 microns
Output Power Up to 9.6 mW Class 1 compliant
Beam Diameter 4 mm typical At internal window exit
Beam Divergence <6 mrad Measured at 1/e² intensity
Pulse Length 500 ns Pulsed operation
Repetition Rate 200 kHz High-frequency pulsing

Designed for Real-World Applications

The QCL Laser Pointer excels in three primary application areas:

Mid-IR Target Pointing: Precisely indicate targets or regions of interest in infrared optical systems, essential for military, security, and scientific applications.

Optical Alignment: Establish reference beams for aligning complex mid-infrared optical assemblies, dramatically reducing setup time and improving accuracy.

Blinking Beacon: Create visible infrared markers for system testing and diagnostic applications.

User-Friendly Operation

Simplicity drives the QCL Laser Pointer's design philosophy:

  • Push-Button Control: Manual operation couldn't be easier—just press to activate
  • Remote Operation: Integrate into automated systems with remote control capability
  • Active Air Cooling: Maintain optimal performance without external cooling infrastructure
  • Leveling Feet: Quick, precise positioning on optical tables
  • Universal Mounting: Compatible with both imperial and metric optical breadboards

Swiss Manufacturing Excellence

As with all Alpes Lasers products, the QCL Laser Pointer represents Swiss precision engineering. Every component is designed for reliability and longevity, from the ruggedized housing to the advanced thermal management system.

The pointer's modular design also makes it ideal for OEM integration, with advanced fixture solutions embedded directly into the product architecture.

Customization Options

While the standard QCL Laser Pointer ships with an 8-micron Fabry-Perot chip, Alpes Lasers can install alternative QCL or ICL chips to match your specific wavelength requirements. Whether you need coverage at 3 microns for hydrocarbon detection or 10 microns for thermal imaging applications, custom configurations are available.

Investment Benefits

The QCL Laser Pointer delivers value through:

  • Time Savings: Reduce alignment time from hours to minutes
  • Improved Accuracy: Eliminate parallax errors with co-linear visible/IR beams
  • Enhanced Safety: Class 1 operation protects personnel
  • Reduced Complexity: No external drivers or controllers needed
  • Long Service Life: Swiss engineering ensures years of reliable operation

Perfect for Multiple Industries

The versatility of the QCL Laser Pointer makes it valuable across numerous sectors:

  • Defense & Security: Align infrared countermeasure systems and sensors
  • Spectroscopy Labs: Set up complex optical paths for gas analysis
  • Manufacturing: Align production equipment using mid-IR lasers
  • Research Institutions: Speed up experimental system assembly
  • Medical Devices: Position mid-IR components in diagnostic equipment

Making Mid-IR Accessible

One of the biggest barriers to mid-infrared technology has been the specialized knowledge required for system setup and alignment. The QCL Laser Pointer democratizes mid-IR technology by making alignment as simple as pointing a laser pointer—because that's exactly what it is.

For optical engineers, researchers, and technicians working with mid-infrared systems, the QCL Laser Pointer represents an essential tool that pays for itself through improved productivity and reduced setup errors.

Discover how the QCL Laser Pointer can streamline your mid-IR optical alignment workflows by contacting us today.

Share