Vega

Vega
Laser Power/Energy Meter
User Manual

Ophir Optronics Solutions Ltd.

www.ophiropt.com/photonics
 Table of Contents
Chapter 1. Introduction: How to Use This Manual 4

Chapter 2. Qruick Reference .............................. 5

2.1 Getting Started .............................................................. 5

2.2 Functions with no Sensor Connected ....................... 6
2.3 Thermal Sensors........................................................... 9
2.4 Photodiode Sensors ................................................... 14
2.5 Pyroelectric Sensors ................................................. 16

Chapter 3. The Vega Display Unit ...................... 21

3.1 General Description ................................................... 21

3.2 Smart Connectors ...................................................... 22
3.3 Soft Keys ...................................................................... 22
3.4 Power Up and Shut Down ......................................... 24
3.5 Vega Functions, which are Independent of
Sensor Type ................................................................... 25
3.6 Hardware Functions .................................................. 28
3.7 GUI and Keypad Settings .......................................... 32

Chapter 4. Operation with Thermopile Absorber

Sensors ......................................................... 36

4.1 Thermopile Absorber Sensors .................................. 36

4.2 Selecting Settings from the Vega Screen ............... 37
4.3 Startup and Configuration of Defaults .................... 38
4.4 Power Measurement ................................................. 40
4.5 Energy Measurement................................................. 49
4.6 Advanced Display Screens ....................................... 54

1
Chapter 5. Operation with Photodiode Type Sensors59

5.1 Photodiode Sensors ................................................... 59

5.2 Setting up the PD300 to display the user's
chosen wavelengths .................................................... 60
5.3 Startup Defaults.......................................................... 61
5.4 Selecting Settings from the Vega Screen ............... 62

Chapter 6. Operation with Pyroelectric Sensors . 68

6.1 Pyroelectric & Photodiode Energy Sensors ........... 68

6.2 Selecting Settings from the Vega Screen ............... 69
6.3 Startup and Configuration of Defaults .................... 73
6.4 Energy, Power or Exposure Measurement ............. 75
6.5 Measuring Repeating Pulses of High Energy ......... 81
6.6 Energy Log ................................................................... 81
6.7 Pyro Scope Adapter ................................................... 83
6.8 PE-DIF Diffuser Sensors ............................................ 84

Chapter 7. BeamTrack Features ....................... 85

7.1 Track Screen ............................................................... 85

7.2 Menu Screen............................................................... 86
7.3 Stability Screen .......................................................... 86
7.4 Statistics Screen ........................................................ 87
7.5 Optimizing Measurements ........................................ 87

Chapter 8. Circuit Description .......................... 89

2
Chapter 9. Calibration, Maintenance and
Troubleshooting ............................................. 91

9.1 Calibration of Thermopile or RP Sensors ................ 91

9.2 Calibration of Photodiode type Sensors ................. 96
9.3 Calibration of Pyroelectric type Sensors ................ 98
9.4 Error Messages ........................................................ 101
9.5 Troubleshooting........................................................ 102
9.6 Maintenance ............................................................. 104

Chapter 10. Vega Specifications ..................... 105

10.1 System/Meter Specifications ............................... 105

10.2 Sensor Specifications ............................................ 106

3
 Chapter 1.
Introduction: How to Use This Manual

The Ophir Vega is a microprocessor-based Laser

Power/Energy Meter providing a broad range of
measurements, displays, and data handling options. It
operates with thermopile, pyroelectric and photodiode
sensors, and uses smart connector technology. Just
connecting the sensor configures and calibrates the
instrument.

This manual tells you what you need to know to make full
use of the Vega for all your laser measurement needs. It
includes a "Quick Reference", (Chapter 2) to allow you to
perform basic measurements immediately, without
reading the whole manual.

The main measurement sections, Chapters 4, 5 and 6

include a general description and a section detailing
operating options.

4
 Chapter 2.
Quick Reference

2.1 Getting Started

The Vega is equipped with "soft keys." That is, the

functions of the keys change as indicated by the legend
above each key. (See Figure 2.2).

To connect sensor to the Vega Display

Insert the 15 pin D type connector of the measuring

sensor cable into the socket marked "Head Input" on the
rear panel of the Vega display. (See Figure 2.1)

12VDC AN OUT HEAD INPUT USB/RS232 OUTPUT

Figure 2.1
Vega Rear Panel View

5
 Figure 2.2

2.2 Functions with no Sensor Connected

2.2.1. Turning on and off.

To switch the Vega on:

Briefly press the on/off switch. (Figure 2.2). The unit will
switch on, and the display will appear.

Note:
To work with a sensor, the sensor must be plugged in
before the unit is switched on.

6
To toggle the state of the backlights on and off:

The backlight for the Vega’s LCD can be configured to

toggle between full and partial illumination. Similarly, the
keypad lighting can be configured to toggle between on
and off. This toggling will be performed by briefly pressing
the on/off switch after the Vega has been switched on.

To switch the Vega off:

Press the on/off switch and hold it for about 3 seconds

until the display blanks.

If you wish to save the current Vega configuration, use

the "Configure" function. (See section 2.2.2).

2.2.2. Display Options

To zero instrument:

1. Disconnect the sensor, turn off then on again. "Head

Disconnected" will be displayed.
2. Make sure instrument is not in an electrically noisy
environment and is undisturbed.
3. Press zero and then start.

To set the Display Modes:

1. Disconnect the sensor and switch off then on again.

"Head Disconnected" will appear.
2. Select “Display Mode” and enter. Choose the
desired mode and press save. The Vega will now be
in this display mode for all sensors.
3. Select “Date” and press the enter button. Using the
navigation keys set to the correct date. Press Save.
4. Select “Time” and enter. Using the navigation keys,
set to the correct time. Press Save.
5. For adjusting RS232 baud rate and Analog Output
voltage see sections 3.5.2 and 3.5.3.

7
 Adjusting GUI and Keypad Settings:

1. Disconnect the sensor, turn off then on again. "Head

Disconnected" will be displayed.
2. With the navigation keys go to the icon and
press the Enter key. Settings that can be adjusted
are, LCD Lighting, Keypad Lighting, Color Scheme,
and Bargraph Style (and parameters).
3. Select the setting to adjust with the up/down
navigation keys and press Enter.
4. Select the value desired with the up/down
navigation keys and press Enter.
5. Repeat until all settings are adjusted. Press “Exit”
when finished.

Language Options:

Vega has two language options, English and Japanese. In

order to switch from English to Japanese:
1. "Language" is found either in "Head Disconnected"
screen (without a sensor connected) or in
"Instrument" screen (with sensor connected).
2. With the navigation keys go to "Language".
3. Press the Enter key and with the navigation keys
choose "Japanese" (written in Japanese letters).
4. Press the Enter key when finished.
5. Press the secont soft key from the right and Japanese
will now be saved as your startup language.

Warning:
In the event that you mistakably saved the Japanese
language as the Vega startup language, the way to
switch back to English is:
a. Disconnect the sensor from the Vega.
b. Turn the Vega off and on again. You will reach the
instrument setup screen (titled “head disconnected”
in Japanese).
c. Press the down navigation key 4 times.
d. Press the Enter. This will open a window to select
the instrument language.
e. Select "English" and press the Enter key.
f. Press the “save” soft key and English will now be
saved as your startup language.
8
2.2.3. Updating the firmware of the Vega.

1. Download the latest firmware version of the Vega

from the Ophir website: www.ophiropt.com/photonics
and copy to your target directory.
2. Turn on the Vega.
3. Connect the USB communication cable to the Vega
and the PC.
4. Using the StarLab software press "select device".
5. Select Vega. The device name will be highlighted in
blue.
6. Select "upgrade Vega".
7. Browse and select the file N2AXXX.BIN, where XXX is
the latest firmware version of the Vega.
8. Press "start".
9. The status will show "programming" for several
minutes.
10. The status will show a green V sign and state
"finished".
11. Press "Done".

2.3 Thermal Sensors

2.3.1. Use of Vega with thermal type sensors.

Most Thermopile sensors have somewhat different

absorption at different wavelengths. In order to
compensate for this, each sensor has been calibrated by
laser at several wavelengths. When you choose the
correct laser wavelength, the correction factor for that
wavelength is automatically introduced. Note that the
laser wavelength correction in use is displayed in the
upper left corner of the display.

Thermopile sensors with the LP1 absorber have large

variation of absorption at different wavelengths.
Therefore a continuous spectral curve is stored in the
sensor, enabling the user to choose the desired
wavelength from the range specified in the specification
sheet and the correction factor for that wavelength is
automatically introduced

9
To set type of laser being used:

With sensors with fixed wavelengths:

1. While the Vega is off, plug in the sensor then switch it

on again.
2. Press the navigation keys until "Laser" is highlighted.
Press the Enter key and select the appropriate laser
wavelength.
3. If you want to save this new wavelength as the
startup default, press "Save". To use this wavelength
for this session only, press the Enter key.

With continuous spectral curve:

1. While the Vega is off, plug in the sensor. Switch

on the Vega.
2. From the main measurement screen, press "Laser"
to select the correct laser wavelength. If you
want to save this new wavelength as the startup
default, press “Save” before exiting. If the
wavelength you want is not among the
wavelengths in the six wavelengths listed and you
want to change or add a wavelength, see step 3.
3. Changing Chosen Wavelengths:
3.1. From the power measurement screen select
“Laser” and enter. Move to the wavelength you
wish to change or add. Press the right navigation
key.
3.2. Using the up/down navigation keys to change
each number and the right/left navigation keys to
move to the next number, key in the desired
wavelength. Press the Enter key to exit. If you
wish to save this new wavelength as one of the 6
favorite wavelengths, press “Save”.

Note: Saving the new wavelength in the Modify screen

will not set this wavelength as the default startup
wavelength. To do so, you must follow the instructions in
Step 2 above.

10
To select a range for power measurement:

1. Select "Range" with the navigation keys. Press the

Enter key.
2. Select the appropriate manual range or AUTO to
select autoranging.
3. To save this new range as the startup default, press
"Save". Otherwise, press the Enter key to return to the
main measurement screen.

To choose power or energy measurement:

1. To go from the main power measurement screen to

the energy measurement screen, press the lower left
soft key "Energy".
2. To go from the energy measurement screen to power
measurement, press “Power”.

2.3.2. Setting and Saving the Startup Configuration

1. Turn on the Vega with the sensor connected, select

“Menu” and enter. Select “Configure” and enter.
2. With the navigation keys select “Startup mode”.
Press the Enter key and select “Power” or “Energy”
as the startup mode. Press the Enter key again to
exit. If you want this mode to be permanent, press
“Save” after pressing enter.
3. Select “Display Mode”. Press the Enter key and
select the type of screen you wish to start up with.
Press Save to set this as the default display mode. If
you do not want to save this as the startup mode but
only change for now, press the Enter key. (This
choice is saved in the instrument and not the sensor
so the Vega will start up from the screen selected
for all sensors).
4. Select “Power Range”. Press the Enter key and
choose the manual power range you wish to be the
default or choose auto range.
5. Select “Average” to select what period you wish to
average power over or select the default, "NONE".
See section 4.4.2.4 for details.

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6. Select “Energy Range” and choose the default
energy range.
7. Select “Threshold” if you wish to change the energy
threshold. See section 4.5.3 for details.
8. Select “Laser” and select the laser type you wish to
be the default.
9. Press "Save" to save all present settings then "Exit" to
get back to the main measurement screen.
Further details on configuration in section 4.3.

2.3.3. Power or Single Shot Energy Measurement

Warning:
Do not exceed maximum sensor limits for power,
energy, power density and energy density as listed in
Table 5. and Table 6. in Chapter 10. Otherwise, there
is a risk of damaging the absorber.

To simulate an analog needle display on the Vega:

1. Select “Menu” and enter. Select “Needle” and enter.

The display will now show a simulated analog needle
type display.
2. Press “Expand” to get a full screen display of the
needle. Minimum and Maximum readings will also be
tracked

To use the Vega to measure Laser power:

1. Verify that the display shows “Menu: Power” in the

upper right hand side of the display.
2. If the display shows "Menu: Energy" and units of J, (or
mJ etc) then press "Power" to switch to the power
measurement mode.

To expand the bargraph scale ±5x about the present

reading:

1. Press the "Zoom” button.

2. Press the "Zoom” button again to return to the
ordinary bargraph. See Section 4.4.2.1 for full details.

12
To subtract background and set current reading to zero:

1. From the main power measurement screen press

"Offset".
2. Press "Offset" again to cancel. See Section 4.4.2.2 for
full details.

To use the Vega to fine-tune Laser power:

1. From the main power measurement screen select

“Menu” and enter. Select “Tune" and enter.
2. Set the percentage range of the power scale to be
displayed by repeatedly pressing the ±50% key.
3. Now select the horizontal sweep time you desire by
selecting “Graph” and choosing the time scale.
4. You may now use the screen to tune the laser power.
See Section 4.4.2.3. for full details.
5. Press “Power” to exit to the main measurement
screen.

To use the Vega to measure Laser energy:

1. Verify that the display shows "Energy" in the upper

right hand side of the display.
2. If the display shows "Power" and units of W (or mW
etc) then press "Energy" to switch to the energy
measurement mode.
3. Energy measurement is performed in manual ranges
only. Select "Range" and hit the Enter key. Use the
navigation keys to select the proper range. To save
this range as the default startup, press “Save”. The
correct range to select is the lowest one that is larger
than the expected pulse energy to be measured. Note
that the range will be displayed in the lower right
corner of the main display.
4. When the Vega screen flashes "READY," on and off,
fire the laser. See Section 4.5 for full details.

To save configuration:

1. To save configuration, follow directions in Section

2.2.2 above.

13
2.4 Photodiode Sensors

2.4.1. Selecting Wavelengths

1. While the Vega is off, plug in the sensor then switch it

on again.
2. From the main measurement screen, press "Laser" to
select the correct laser wavelength. If you want to
save this new wavelength as the startup default,
press “Save” before exiting. If the wavelength you
want is not among the wavelengths in the six
wavelengths list and want to change or add a
wavelength, see section 2.4.2 below.
3. Follow the directions on configuration in section 2.4.4
below.

2.4.2. Changing Chosen Wavelengths

1. From the power measurement screen select “Laser”

and enter. Move to the wavelength you wish to
change or add. Press the right navigation key.
2. Using the up/down navigation keys to change each
number and the right/left navigation keys to move to
the next number, key in the desired wavelength. Press
the Enter key to exit. To save this new wavelength as
one of the 6 favorite wavelengths, press “Save”.

Note: Saving the new wavelength in the Modify screen

will not set this wavelength as the default startup
wavelength. To do so, you must follow the instructions in
Section 2.4.1 above.

2.4.3. To choose manual or automatic ranging or dBm in

power measurement

Select "Range" and enter. Using the navigation keys,

select the appropriate manual range, autorange, or
dBm (logarithmic scale).

14
2.4.4. Setting the Startup Configuration

1. Select menu and press enter. Select “Configure”

and enter.
2. Select “Filter” and enter. Choose filter in or out to be
the default. If you only want to change for now, exit
without saving.
3. Select “Display Mode”. Press the Enter key and
select the type of screen you wish to start up with.
Press Save to set this as the default display mode. If
you do not want to save this as the startup mode but
only change for now, press the Enter key. (This
choice is saved in the instrument and not the sensor
so the Vega will start up from the screen selected
for all sensors).
4. Select “Power Range” and choose the manual
power range you wish to be the default or choose
autorange or dBm.
5. Select “Average:” and set the average over period
over or leave the default “NONE”.
6. Select “Laser” to choose the startup laser
wavelength. See Section 2.4.2 above for details.
7. Press “Save” to save these settings as the default
startup. When finished, press “Exit”. For further
details on configuration see Section 5.3.

2.4.5. Power Measurement

Warning:
Do not exceed maximum sensor limits for power,
energy, power density and energy density as listed in
Table 5. and Table 6. in Chapter 10. Otherwise, there
is a risk of damaging the absorber.

To expand the bargraph scale ±5x about the present

reading:

1. Press the "Zoom” button.

2. Press the "Zoom” button again to return to the
ordinary bargraph.

To subtract background and set current reading to zero:

15
1. From the main power measurement screen press
"Offset".
2. Press "Offset" again to cancel. See Section 5.4.5 for
full details.

To use the Vega to fine-tune Laser power:

1. From the main power measurement screen select

“Menu” and enter. Select “Tune" and enter.
2. Set the percentage range of the power scale to be
displayed by repeatedly pressing the ±50% key.
3. Now select the horizontal sweep time you desire by
selecting “Graph” and choosing the time scale.
4. You may now use the screen to tune the laser power.
See Section 4.4.2.3. for full details.
5. Press “Power” to exit to the main measurement
screen.

2.5 Pyroelectric Sensors

2.5.1. Zeroing Instrument against Sensor

For the most accurate calibration, you must zero the

pyroelectric sensor against the Vega it is being used
with. Proceed as follows: Make sure the sensor is in a
quiet environment and not subject to pulsed
radiation. Plug sensor into Vega and turn on. Press
“Menu”, select “Zero” and enter. Press “Start”.
When “ZEROING COMPLETED” appears, press
“Save”. Press “Exit” and then choose the screen
from the menu that you wish to use. After you have
done zeroing, you do not have to do it again when
used with the same type of meter. If you have zeroed
it against a different type of meter, then a different
value has been saved and when used with a Vega
again you should zero it again.

16
2.5.2. Changing Chosen Wavelengths (metallic type
only)

1. Select "Laser" and enter.

2. Select the wavelength you wish to use and enter. If
you wish to save this wavelength as the startup
default, press “Save” before exiting.
3. If you wish to modify one of the wavelengths, select
the wavelength and press the right navigation key.
4. Using the up/down navigation keys to change the
numbers and the right/left navigation keys to move to
the next number, modify to the desired.
5. When finished, press “Save” and exit. To apply these
changes to this session only, exit without pressing
“Save”.

2.5.3. To set type of laser being used

From main measurement screen, select "Laser" and

enter. Choose the desired laser type or wavelength. If
you want this one to be the startup wavelength, press
“Save” before exiting.

2.5.4. Setting Startup Configuration

1. Turn on the Vega with the sensor connected, select

“Menu” and enter. Select “Configure”.
2. With the navigation keys select “Startup Mode”,
press the Enter key and select “Power” or “Energy”
as the startup mode. Press Enter again to exit. If you
want this mode to be permanent, press Save after
pressing the Enter key.
3. Select “Display Mode”. Press the Enter key and
select the type of screen you wish to start up with.
Press Save to set this as the default display mode. If
you do not want to save this as the startup mode but
only change for now, press the Enter key. (This
choice is saved in the instrument and not the sensor
so the Vega will start up from the screen selected
for all sensors).
4. Select “Energy Range” and press the Enter key.
Choose the energy range you wish to be the default.

17
5. Select “Average” to select the average over period
or select the default, "NONE".
6. If this sensor has a diffuser sensor, set Diffuser to IN
or OUT.
7. Now select “Max Pulse Len” and choose the
shortest pulse length setting longer than your laser’s
pulse length. Warning: Incorrect readings will result
if pulse length is not set up correctly.
8. Select “Laser” and select the laser type you wish to
be the default.
9. Press "Save" to save all present settings then "Exit" to
get back to the main measurement screen.

Note:
Some sensors have only the one pulse length setting
for all pulse lengths. In that case N/A appears. For
further details on configuration see Sections 6.2 and
6.3.

2.5.5. Energy or Average Power Measurement

Warning:
Do not exceed maximum sensor limits for power,
energy, power density and energy density as listed in
Table 5. and Table 6. in Chapter 10. Otherwise, there
is a risk of damaging the absorber.

With the pyroelectric sensor, you have been supplied a

test slide with the same coating as on your pyroelectric
detector. You can also obtain this slide from your dealer.
You should use this slide to test the damage threshold
with your laser pulses. If the slide shows damage,
then either enlarge your beam or lower the laser energy
until damage is no longer seen.

Note:
High sensitivity pyroelectric sensors (PE-9, PE-10) are
very sensitive to vibration, and therefore might read a
false trigger when operating in an acoustically non-
stable environment. Set the threshold to a high
enough value that false triggering does not occur.
Ophir also offers a shock absorbing mounting post

18
 (P/N 7Z08268) that helps reduce vibration on the
sensor.

2.5.5.1. To choose Energy or Average Power Measurement

1. To go from the main energy measurement screen to

power measurement, press "Power".
2. To go from the main power measurement screen to
energy measurement, press "Energy".

2.5.5.2. To use the Vega to measure Laser Energy and

Frequency

1. In measurement mode, verify that the units are mJ, µJ

etc. and “Energy” is displayed in the upper right
corner. If not, press the “Energy” key.
2. Select "Range" and press the Enter key. Use the
navigation keys to select the proper energy range.
The correct range is the lowest one that is larger than
the pulse energy measured. Press "Save" if you want
that range to be the startup default. Press "Exit".
3. If the sensor triggers from ambient vibration or noise
without a laser signal raise the threshold level as
follows: Select “Threshold”, enter then using the
up/down buttons, raise the threshold until the false
triggering stops. If the sensor does not read the
pulses at all on the lowest range, try to lower the
threshold to minimum.

Warning:
While measuring pulsing lasers, erroneous energy
reading will result if energy range is not set up
correctly. See Section 6.4 for details.

2.5.5.3. To measure Total Energy Exposure.

1. From the energy measurement screen select “Menu”,

enter and select “Exposure”.
2. Select the method of measurement with “Mode”,
“Timeout” and “Pulses” then press “Start”. Press
“Start” again. The Vega will start summing laser
energy exposure. To stop exposure measurement
before the chosen period, press” Stop”.
19
3. To reset the reading to zero before another reading,
press "Reset".
4. To return to the main screen and press “Energy”.

20
 Chapter 3.
The Vega Display Unit

3.1 General Description

The model Vega laser power/energy meter represents a

new level of sophistication, sensitivity, compactness and
accuracy, coupled with ease of operation. It can operate
with thermal, pyroelectric and photodiode sensors. It has
smart connector technology. Simply plugging in the
sensor configures and calibrates the Vega to operate
with that sensor.

The Vega’s 320x240 full color screen enhances

measurement readouts in ways that simple monochrome
displays cannot.

The Vega can graph power or energy vs. time. It displays

power measurements in both digital and analog form at
the same time and also has a needle type display. It will
also autorange, so you do not have to set scales; or it can
manual range if you wish. It will remember what mode
you were using before you turned it off and will return to
that mode when turned on. You can zoom in on the
present reading, or subtract background. Although the
calibration information is stored in the smart connector,
you can recalibrate from the screen and store the new
calibration in the sensor. You can also zero the Vega at
the touch of a button.

The main instructions as well as full help files are clearly

shown on the screen so you should not have to refer to
this manual very often. Above all, the Vega has advanced
circuitry and digital signal processing for excellent
sensitivity, signal to noise ratio, accuracy, and response
time. It also has special circuitry to reject
electromagnetic interference.

The Vega comes with built in connection to PC via either

USB or RS232 and comes with PC software to display and
process the information.

21
3.2 Smart Connectors

The Vega display, is versatile and can operate with either

thermal, pyroelectric or photodiode type laser measuring
sensors. The sensor configuration and calibration
information is stored in an EEROM in the sensor
connector plug. This means that when the sensor is
plugged in, the Vega automatically identifies the sensor
type, calibration and configuration. The user does not
have to adjust anything.

Note:
In ROM versions earlier than 1.96, the Vega does not
recognize when a sensor has been disconnected.
Therefore, when changing sensors, the display should
be turned off; the new sensor plugged in; and then the
Vega should be turned on again. From ROM version
1.96, this is no longer necessary, as the Vega will
recognize when a sensor has been disconnected and
will restart itself. See section 3.6.5 for details

When no sensor is plugged in and the Vega is turned on,

the display indicates "Head Disconnected" and gives the
user the opportunity to change the baud rate, re-zero the
instrument, and set the real time clock or other features.
See section 3.5.

3.3 Soft Keys

3.3.1. Soft Keys

The soft keys accessed by the menu button have

functions defined by the legend above the key. The
legend usually indicates what will happen when pressing
the key. For example, if "Energy" appears above a key,
pressing that key will change the Vega into energy mode.
Some functions operate when the key is pressed and are
canceled when the key is pressed again. Those keys
show reverse highlighting when operational. Pressing
the same key again cancels the operation and the
highlighting.

22
Key Functions

The Vega has certain conventions as to the meaning of

standard key strokes and these are as follows:

Highlighted item: The highlighted item is the item that is

presently active.

Navigation Keys:
These buttons move to the next active item
leftwards, rightwards. These are the
navigation keys. The right and left buttons
move to the next active item rightwards and
leftwards. The up and down buttons move to the next
active item upwards and downwards. The round button in
the center is an enter button to enter the screen of the
item selected or when finished, to leave that screen.

Go or Start:
This puts into operation the active item.

Exit:
This gets you to the previous screen and saves changes
made until instrument is turned off.

Save:
This saves changes permanently. The change is
implemented now and is also saved for future use of the
instrument.

23
3.4 Power Up and Shut Down

Figure 3.1

24
To turn the Vega on:

Briefly press the on/off switch. (See Figure 3.1)

The unit will switch on, and the display will appear. If no
sensor is connected, a display showing "Head
Disconnected" will appear. If a sensor is connected, the
appropriate default measurement screen will appear.

To toggle the state of the backlights on and off:

The backlight for the Vega’s LCD can be configured to

toggle between full and partial illumination. Similarly, the
keypad lighting can be configured to toggle between on
and off (see Section 3.6.1 for full details). This toggling
will be performed by briefly pressing the on/off switch
after the Vega has been switched on.

To switch the Vega off:

Press the on/off switch and hold it for ~ 3 seconds until

the display blanks.

If you wish to save the current Vega configuration, use the

"Configure" function before switching off. For
measurements of the same type, the Vega does not need
to be set up each time. See the appropriate section in the
chapter dealing with the sensor type you intend to use.

3.5 Vega Functions, which are Independent of Sensor

Type

When no sensor is connected to the Vega and it is turned

on, the message "Head Disconnected" appears. In this
mode, the user can adjust the startup screen, either the
standard power/energy screens or other specialized
screens. He can adjust the baud rate for optimum
communication with the PC; choose the appropriate
maximum analog output value, or the user can zero the
instrument to eliminate any offsets. He can adjust the real
time date and time setting.

25
3.5.1. Display Mode

The Vega can operate in the standard power/energy

measurement screen or needle type display or can
display the information in specialized forms: an
attenuation screen, a tune/exposure screen, a
power/energy density screen, a screen normalized to
some value or a screen with limits. Select “display
mode”, enter and set the screen to the type you want the
instrument to start up in and then exit by pressing the
enter button again. (For more details on the various
screen options, see section 4.6).

Figure 3.1.1
Needle Screen

3.5.2. RS232 Baud Rate

If you are using the Vega for RS232 communication with a

PC, the baud rate can be set by selecting "RS232 baud"
and selecting the appropriate rate then pressing enter
and save. Unless you need especially fast
communications, leave the default of 9600.

3.5.3. Analog Output

The Vega has a feature of adjustable analog output

where you can choose a full-scale output of 1, 2, 5 and 10
Volts full-scale output. To set the analog output voltage,
select “An. Output”, enter, select the voltage, enter again
and save.

26
For thermal and photodiode sensors in power mode, the
analog output is continually updated 15 times per second
with the latest power measurement. For thermal sensors
in single shot energy mode, the analog output can be
configured to be held fixed until the next pulse triggers or
to be released when ready to measure the next pulse. For
pyroelectric sensors, the analog output is updated at up
to 10 times per second with the latest pulse energy.

3.5.4. Clock Settings

The Vega is equipped with a real time clock which will

show the date and time. This clock will also allow the
Vega to query the sensor attached and notify you if the
sensor is due for calibration.
To set the clock, select “Date” and enter. First select the
month with the up/down navigation keys, then move to
the date with the right/left navigation keys and so on.
Save and enter. Do the same with the time.

3.5.5. Zero Adjustments

In the Vega, all adjustments, including zeroing internal

circuits, are done from the software. This ensures simple
and accurate realignment. It is recommended to re-zero
the Vega every 2 months for best performance. The
simple zeroing procedure follows.

1. If a sensor is connected, disconnect the sensor, turn

off the instrument then back on again so the Vega
can identify that no sensor is connected. "Head
Disconnected" will be displayed.
2. Let the Vega run for at least 30 seconds before
performing zero adjustment.
3. Press "Zero".
4. Make sure the instrument is not in an electrically
noisy environment and is undisturbed. Press "Start"
and wait for message, "ZEROING COMPLETED". Now
press "Save" and the new zero will be saved. Press
"Exit" to return to the main screen.

27
Note (for Thermal Sensors only)
For best results with thermal sensors, it may be
necessary to do the procedure once with the sensor
disconnected then afterwards again with the sensor
connected.

After completing steps 1 - 4 above, Connect the sensor

and make sure it is at room temperature and well
shielded from any stray thermal power. It may be best
advised to lay the sensor with the absorber face down on
the table.

5. Switch the instrument off then on again with the

sensor connected.
6. Select “Menu” and choose “Zero”. Press "Start" and
wait for message, "ZEROING COMPLETED". Now
press "Save" and the new zero will be saved. Press
"Exit" to return to the menu. Select the desired display
mode and press the Enter key.

Note: For Pyroelectric Sensors

In addition to zeroing the meter as described in section

3.5.5, it is important to zero the meter against the sensor
you are using the first time. Please see section 2.5.1 on
how to do this.

3.6 Hardware Functions

3.6.1. Backlights

3.6.1.1. LCD Backlight

The LCD backlight is actually a set of LED’s that illuminate

the display from behind. Because the Vega uses a color
display, the backlight must be constantly on. It can be
operated at full or half intensity (to conserve power
consumption). The Vega can also be configured to allow
toggling of the backlight level with the on/off switch.

The Vega backlight consumes considerably less power

than competing instruments and therefore it can operate
from the battery even when the charger is not plugged in.

28
Nevertheless, since it does shorten the time between
charges, it is recommended to operate the instrument
without the backlight when the instrument is operated
without the charger.

3.6.1.2. Keypad Backlight

A set of LED’s is arranged on the Vega’s keypad panel in

order to illuminate them when necessary. Additionally,
the Vega can be configured to toggle the keypad lighting
on/off. It can also be configured to a power save mode in
which the LED’s will self-extinguish 10 seconds after the
last key press.

Since it does shorten the time between charges, it is

recommended to operate the instrument without the
backlight when not necessary.

3.6.2. Charging

The Vega can be operated either by battery or from an AC

source with the charger plugged in all the time. Plug the
charger in the jack labeled "12VDC" on the back panel,
(Figure 3.2). The Vega’s 12v input has dual polarity. The
batteries will be charged at the same rate whether the
Vega is switched on or off, and whatever the backlight
level or keypad illumination state. The Vega will fully
recharge in around 5 hours.

The approximate time between charges is given below for

various configurations:

Thermal, Photodiode sensors; keypad

backlight off, LCD backlight low: 16hrs.
Same; keypad backlight on, LCD backlight
high: 11hrs.
Pyro sensors; keypad backlight off, LCD
backlight low: 11hrs.
Same; keypad backlight on, LCD backlight
high: 8hrs.

29
The battery charge is indicated by the
icon. The battery charge is shown
approximately by each segment of the icon, e.g. if 2
segments are shown the battery is ½ full. When the
battery is charging, the segments turn on in sequence.
When the battery is low, the charger should be plugged
in. While the unit will charge even while on and even with
the backlight on, it will charge fastest if the charger is left
in while the unit is off.

3.6.3. Analog Output

The instrument provides an analog voltage output via the

2.5mm mono jack socket on the rear panel marked “AN
OUT”. (See Figure 3.2). The Vega is supplied with the
mating adapter plug that connects to this socket. The
analog output is useful for driving chart recorders and
other analog devices. The voltage is proportional to the
reading on the display and scaled such that full scale
equals 1.00, 2.00, 5.00 or 10.00 volts as selected by the
user during setup. (See section 3.5.3). The analog output
is driven through an impedance of 100ohm. For best
accuracy, is recommended to limit the external load to
100K (or larger). A smaller load (down to 1K) is possible,
but may result in loss of accuracy.

12VDC AN OUT HEAD INPUT USB/RS232 OUTPUT

Figure 3.2
Vega Rear Panel View

3.6.4. RS232 and USB Outputs

The Vega is equipped for either RS232 or USB

communications with PC. The Unit is supplied with two
cables, each with a 7 pin DIN plug on one end mating
with the Vega and either a USB or 9 pin D RS232
connector on the other side. When you wish to operate
the Vega with either RS232 or USB, the cable should be

30
inserted before switching on the instrument and then the
instrument will automatically either be in RS232 or USB
mode depending on which cable is attached. See section
4.4.2.6.1 for details of communication with PC.

3.6.5. Head Disconnect / Connect Recognition

As of ROM version 1.96, the Vega display will recognize if

a sensor had been connected or disconnected while the
device is powered on. If such an event happens, a
warning screen will be displayed for 3 seconds, after
which the Vega will restart itself in its new configuration.
Thus if a user wants to change sensors during his
experiment he no longer needs to power down the Vega
to do so.

Figure 3.3
Head Disconnect / Connect Warnings

Note:
When working with Ophir’s StarLab application, the
Vega’s restarting itself will be recognized as a Device
Disconnect.

31
3.7 GUI and Keypad Settings

Figure 3.4
Vega GUI Setup Screen

The Vega allows customization of the display’s interface

in order to enhance the user experience. This section
describes the various extended GUI controls.

1. Disconnect the sensor, turn off then on again. "Head

Disconnected" will be displayed.
2. With the navigation keys go to the icon and
press the Enter key. Settings that can be adjusted
are, LCD Lighting, Keypad Lighting, Color Scheme,
and Bargraph Style (and parameters).
3. Select the setting to adjust with the up/down
navigation keys and press Enter.
4. Select the value desired with the up/down
navigation keys and press Enter.
5. Repeat until all settings are adjusted. Press Exit
when finished

3.7.1. Keypad Lighting

The Vega’s keypad lighting can be set to one of the

following settings:

 On: Keypad illumination constantly on.

 Off: Keypad illumination constantly off.

32
 Toggle: Set keypad lighting on and off with a short
press of the on/off key.
 Power Save: Light all of the keys whenever one is
pressed. If 10 seconds elapse since the last key
press, turn off the keypad lighting.

3.7.2. LCD Backlight

Because the Vega uses a color display, the backlight

must be constantly on. The LCD backlight can be set to
one of the following settings:

 Low: LCD backlight set to half power. This uses less

power and is the suggested setting.
 High: LCD backlight set to full power.
 Toggle: LCD backlight toggles between full and half
power with a short press of the on/off key.

Note: If both the LCD and Keypad backlights are in

toggle mode, then High LCD backlight will be coupled
with the keypad backlight being off and Low LCD
backlight will be coupled with the keypad backlight
being on.

3.7.3. Color Scheme

The user can configure the Vega for full color or

monochrome functionality. Choose full color to make use
of special color enhancements. Choose one of the
monochrome schemes for use with protective goggles
that filter out visible wavelengths.

Screen captures of the Vega in this manual are shown in

the various color schemes.

3.7.3.1. Full Color

The main measurement displays can be set to one of

 Black text on sky blue background
 Yellow text on dark blue background

For both of these schemes, warnings will be displayed in

red, selection windows (example range, average, laser)

33
will be pink, modification windows will be white, and help
screens will be yellow/gold. The keypad will take on the
color of the active window.

Figure 3.5
Display of different windows and their colors

3.7.3.2. Monochrome

These schemes are for use with lasers that demand

protective glasses that filter out colors in the visible part
of the wavelength spectrum. These color schemes apply
to all of the screens. All color-enhanced features of the
Vega will not be functional in any of the monochrome
screens

The schemes that can be selected are as follows:

 Black text on white background
 Sky blue text on black background
 Green text on black background
 Red text on black background

3.7.4. Bargraph Style

In addition to the large digital readout, on the main power

screen of the Vega there is a bargraph that graphically
displays what percentage the present reading is of full
scale. This bagraph can be given enhanced functionality
when in full color mode. When the bargraph style is set to

34
“Changing”, then the color of the bargraph and the digital
readout changes as a function of percentage of full scale.
For example, if the reading is less than 30% of full scale, it
will be displayed green. Between 30% and 60% it will be
displayed black or white. Between 60% and 90% it will be
displayed yellow and above 90% of full scale it will be
displayed red.

These are the default cutoff values. They are fully

configurable by the user, thereby allowing him to use the
colors of the bargarph display as a type of pass/fail
mechanism.

Figure 3.6
Bargraph Style set to Changing (full scale is 3.0µW)

35
 Chapter 4.
Operation with Thermopile Absorber Sensors

Warning:
Before using the sensor for power or energy
measurement, check that your laser power, energy
and energy density do not exceed the sensor ratings.
See Table 5. and Table 6. in Chapter 10.

If the sensor is a water-cooled type, ensure that the

cooling water is flowing at an adequate rate; see table
below. Also, note that the reflectance from the absorber
could be as much as 10% and with CO2 lasers, the
reflected beam can be quite specular, so it is advisable to
provide a beam stop for the reflected beam with the
highest power lasers.

Sensor Liters Min US Gallons

Type per Pressure per Minute
Minute At Full Bar
Power
10K-W 9 2 2.5
5000W 4.5 0.8 1.2
1500W 2.5 0.5 0.7
1000W 1.8 0.5 0.5

Table 1.
Minimum Flow Rates For Water-Cooled Sensors

4.1 Thermopile Absorber Sensors

When a radiant heat source, such as a laser, is directed

at the absorber sensor aperture, a temperature gradient
is created across the thermopile of the enclosed detector
disc. This generates a voltage proportional to the incident
power.

The display unit amplifies this signal and indicates the

power level received by the sensor. At the same time,
signal processing software causes the display unit to
respond faster than the thermal rise time of the detector
disc, thus reducing the response time of the Vega.

36
Energy of a single pulse is measured on the Vega by
digitally integrating the pulse power over time.

4.2 Selecting Settings from the Vega Screen

The Vega can be set to various chosen settings while

operating. In addition, it can be set so that it will be in the
desired configuration when turned on the next time.

4.2.1. To Set Type of Laser being Used

Thermopile sensors have somewhat different absorption

at different wavelengths. In order to compensate for
this, each sensor has been calibrated by laser at several
wavelengths. When you choose the correct laser
wavelength, the correction factor for that wavelength is
automatically introduced. Note that the laser wavelength
correction in use is displayed in the upper left corner of
the display.

Thermopile sensors with the LP1 absorber have large

variation of absorption at different wavelengths.
Therefore a continuous spectral curve is inserted into the
sensor, enabling the user to choose the desired
wavelength from the range specified in the specification
sheet and the correction factor for that wavelength is
automatically introduced.

4.2.2. To choose Manual or Automatic Ranging in Power

Measurement

Autorange - The Vega allows you to choose autorange or

manual ranging. In autorange mode, you do not have to
change scales. When the reading of the meter or bar is
more than 100% of full scale, the range goes to the next
higher one. The ranges are arranged in factors of 1, 10,
100, etc. When the reading falls below 9% of full scale,
the range changes to one range lower. This change only
occurs after a few seconds delay. This provides overlap
(hysteresis) to keep the Vega from flipping back and forth
when reading close to the end of the scale.

To choose auto range, select “Range”, enter, choose

“AUTO” then enter again. If you wish the Vega to be in

37
autoranging mode when switched on, save this
configuration before switching off (see Section 4.3).

Manual Range - There are certain disadvantages to

autorange since it changes scale even if you don't want it
to do so. If you want to measure in the same range all the
time, it is better to use manual range. To select manual
range, select "Range", press the Enter key, select the
desired range, and press the Enter key again to return to
the measurement screen.

The correct range to select is the lowest one that is

larger than the largest expected measurement. If you
wish the Vega to be in the selected manual range when
switched on, save this configuration before switching off
(see Section 4.3).

4.2.3. To choose Power or Energy Measurement

The Vega thermopile sensors can measure both power

and single shot energy. See Sections 4.4 and 4.5 for
details. To change from power to energy measurement or
vice versa do the following:

1. To go from the main power measurement screen

power to energy measurement, press "Energy".
2. To go from the energy measurement screen to power
measurement press the "Power" soft key.

4.3 Startup and Configuration of Defaults

If you are planning to do measurements of the same type

most of the time, you can set up the Vega so that it
automatically starts up in the measurement mode
desired. Since these settings are saved in the sensor’s
"smart connector", you can save different settings for
different sensors.

To set the Vega to start up in desired screen and to save

the chosen configuration:

With the sensor connected, switch on the Vega. Select

“Menu” with the navigation keys. Enter, select

38
“Configure” and enter again. Now choose the desired
startup parameters as follows:

1. Select “Startup mode” to choose "Power" or "Energy"

for the desired startup screen. Choose power or
energy and press enter and save. The Vega is now
configured to work in power or energy measurement
mode, respectively.
2. Select “Display Mode” and select the desired startup
screen. Press “Save”. (Note that this selection is
saved in the Vega and not the sensor so will be
operative for all sensors). For more details on the
screen types see section 4.6.
3. Select “Power Range:” and in the same way choose
the manual power range you wish to be the default or
autorange. The Vega will now be in the range selected
when switched on with the sensor in question.
4. Now select “Average” and select the period you wish
to average power readings over. This feature is
especially useful for lasers with unsteady output. See
section 4.4.2.4 for details.
5. Now select “Energy Range” and choose the energy
range you wish to be the default. The Vega will now
be in the range selected when switched on with the
sensor in question. Note that there are only manual
ranges in energy.
6. Now select “Threshold” if you want to change the
energy threshold. See section 4.5.3 for details.
7. Now select “Laser” and select the laser type you want
to be the default. The Vega will now be correctly
calibrated for the absorption of the detector at the
wavelength of the laser type selected and will startup
with the laser wavelength selected.
8. Now press “Save” and the defaults will be saved. If
you only want the changes saved for the present,
“Exit” without save and the changes will be saved
until the Vega is switched off only.
9. Switch the Vega off then on by means of the on/off
switch. (See Figure 3.1). The Vega will enter the mode
of operation last saved with the "Configure" operation.

39
4.4 Power Measurement

The next section describes the procedure for basic

power measurement as well as more advanced features
with thermal measuring sensors.

4.4.1. Power Measurement, Basic Operation

1. Switch the Vega on by means of the on/off switch

that is found beneath the navigation keypad (See
Figure 3.1). The Vega will enter the mode of operation
last saved with the "Configure" operation. For basic
operation, you need only set up the parameters for
the type of measurement you wish (Section 4.3
describes the procedure to store your configuration),
and the Vega will be ready to perform that type of
measurement each time it is switched on. The
normal default measurement mode is the bargraph
autoranging power measurement screen or the
needle display screen.
2. If the Vega is in "Energy" mode, pressing the "Power"
soft key will cause it to enter the power measurement
mode.
3. Center the laser beam carefully on the absorber
surface and read the power.

4.4.2. Additional Power Measurement Features

The following section describes additional Vega

functions in power mode in addition to the basic power
measurement mode described above.

4.4.2.1. Zoom

The Zoom function causes the scale to expand the

present scale fivefold. Thus, if the full scale of the
bargraph is 20 watts, and your reading is 15 watts,
pressing “zoom” will make the bargraph scale range
between approximately 13 and 17 watts. Variations in
power are more easily seen in this mode To access the
zoom function, simply press the “Zoom” button. It will be
highlighted to show that it is engaged. Note that the
fiducial marks of the bargraph are further apart,

40
indicating that zoom is engaged. Now press the “Zoom”
button again to return to the unexpanded bargraph
display.

4.4.2.2. Offset

The offset function subtracts background from the signal.

If the ambient environment has a thermal background, so
that the Vega shows a nonzero power reading even when
there is no laser, you can subtract the background using
the zero function. For example, the Vega display reads
0.1 Watts when the laser is blocked, and 20.5 Watts with
laser power applied. In this case, the true power is 20.5 -
0.1 = 20.4 Watts. To subtract the background, press the
“Offset” button while the laser is blocked. The Vega will
now read zero, and the 0.1 Watt background will be
subtracted from all subsequent readings. The laser power
reading will thus be 20.4 Watts.

When “Offset” is engaged, the legend is highlighted. To

cancel, press “Offset” again. If the “Offset” is engaged,
and you wish to subtract out a new value of the
background, press “Offset” twice. The first press will
cancel the old value, and the second will activate a new
value. If you suspect that the Vega has a permanent zero
offset, then disconnect the sensor while it is in the power
measurement mode. If the Vega still
shows a similar offset even when the sensor is not
connected, the instrument’s internal zero should be
reset. See Section 3.5.5.

4.4.2.3. Tune (See Figure 4.1 )

The Tune function, an exclusive Ophir feature, makes

adjusting your laser to its maximum power easier than
ever before. Unlike a bargraph or needle display, this
display shows graphically what came before as well as
the current reading and the trend. This allows you to
determine if you have reached maximum power.

The screen is completely autoranging. Therefore, as

soon as the cursor goes over the top or under the bottom
edge of the display, it re-scales to put the cursor back to

41
the middle of the screen. This allows you to devote all
your attention to tuning the laser, without having to worry
about the Vega settings.

4.4.2.3.1. To use the Vega to fine tune laser power

1. From the main measurement screen, select “Menu”

and enter. Select “Tune” and press the Enter key.
2. Set the power expansion scale to ±50% ,±25%, ±10%,
±100% or ±75% as desired, pressing the “±50%” soft
key. The default value is 50%. If the laser power will
change a lot, use a large value; if a little, use a small
value.
3. Select “Graph” and enter to set the horizontal sweep
time to the rate desired. The default value is 1 minute.
Save before exiting if you want this to be the new
default. Note that saving the graph value will also
save the ±XX value as default.
4. If you press “Max” it will set the NOW value on the
screen to the present value. You can then compare
the MAX value to the NOW value.

4.4.2.3.2. Measuring with the Tune Screen

You can now use the tune screen to adjust and maximize
your laser power. (See Figure 4.1). Note that
you can not only see the trend, but also see if you have
already reached a higher value before the numbers on
the left side show you the present power reading as well
as the highest one reached till now. Press “Max”
to reset the maximum reading to the present time. Now
measure the power of the laser and adjust the laser until
you determine that the power has reached a maximum.

42
 Figure 4.1
Power Tune Screen

4.4.2.4. Average

When a laser output is fluctuating or unstable, it is useful

to measure the average power over a certain period. The
Vega gives you this exclusive feature, allowing averaging
over periods varying from 1 second to 1 hour.

The average mode works as follows:

As soon as the main power measurement screen (See

Figure 4.2) is entered and the instrument is set to average
mode, the instrument displays the average of readings
over the period since the screen was entered up to the
present. When the time period of the average is reached,
the average becomes a running average over the
average period backward in time. For instance, if the
average period is 1 minute, at 30 seconds, the average is
over 30 seconds, at 1 minute it is over 1 minute, at 5
minutes, it is over the period from 4 to 5 minutes (1 minute
back from the present).

To use the Vega to display average:

1. From the main power screen, select “Average” and

enter.

43
2. Select the average period you want or select “NONE"
if you do not want to average. Save this as the startup
default if you want by pressing “Save” otherwise just
exit the screen.
3. Note:
Average setting only affects the Numeric display.
Graphic readouts are not affected.

Figure 4.2.
Thermopile Power Screen with average set to 3 seconds

4.4.2.5. Normalize

When you wish to show the readings as compared to

some standard reading, the normalize function allows you
to do this. After setting “Normalize”, all subsequent
readings will appear as a ratio to the reference reading.
For instance, if you normalize the reading at a power of
1.5W, then subsequent readings will be with ratio to that,
i.e. if the power is then 2W, the reading (dimensionless)
on the screen will be 2/1.5 = 1.33. The screen will also
show in small digits the power at which the normalization
was done and the present power.

To use the Vega to normalize the power:

1. From the main power screen, select “Menu” and

enter. Select “Normalize” and enter.
2. When ready to normalize, press “Apply”. From then
on, the power will be proportional to the normalized
power value (See Figure 4.3).

44
3. If you wish to apply a new value, press “Reset” and
then “Apply” again.
4. If you wish to return to the the regular display, select
“Menu”, enter and go to the display you wish.

Figure 4.3
Thermopile Normalize Screen

4.4.2.6. Power vs. Time Graph and Data Logging

The Vega in datalog mode has the option of graphing the

laser power against time and storing the data in up to 10
permanent storage files with up to an average of 25,000
data points in each file. While measurements are being
taken, the Vega will record data until the screen is full or
until the reset button is pressed. With the RS232 or USB
adapter the data can be read out to PC in real time or
later after storage. Power logging has the following
characteristics:

To use the Vega to graph power vs. time:

1. From the main power measurement screen, select

“Menu” and enter. Select “Data-Log” and enter.
2. You are now in the setup screen. Under “Graph
Settings”, select “Min:” and enter. Select the value
you wish for the minimum of the graph and enter.
Select “Max:” and enter. Select the maximum value
you want for the graph and enter. Select “Time
Scale:” and enter. Select the time scale you want
and enter. Select “Sample Rate” and enter. Select

45
 the sampling rate to set the time interval and log size
and enter (Note: for log periods of 5 minutes or less,
this setting has no affect and every measurement will
be stored). To save these values as defaults, press
“Save” after entering them.
3. Now press “Log”.and you will be in the power graph
screen (See Figure 4.4). Press “Go” and the
measurement will begin immediately. The “Go”
button will now change to “Pause”. If you wish to
pause the measurements without losing data
gathered, press “Pause” . Press “Pause” again to
resume measurements. When the data register is full,
“FULL” will flash on the screen. If “Zoom” is pressed
at any time, the screen display will expand fivefold
around the present power value. Press “Zoom” again
to cancel the expansion. If you want to start a new
measurement and not save the present data, press
“Reset”. If you want to save the data before making
a new graph, see the next section.

Note:
For data logging, the instrument has to be in a manual
power range. If the sensor is configured for
autoranging the, Vega will re-configure it to be in the
manual range that is closest to the last set of
measurements that were taken.

Warning:
Pressing “Reset" will erase all previously stored data
and start recording new data. Pressing any of the
navigation Keys will end the log session and return to
the setup screen.

4. Along with a graph of the logged data, the

Vega provides a statistcal summary of the
log session as well. This summary is
updated once per second.

46
 Figure 4.4
Laser Power vs Time Graph

4.4.2.6.1. Data Storage and Transmission

When using thermal and photodiode sensors the data

logging period is anywhere from 20 seconds to 600 hours.
The number of points stored in the data register is up to
27000 points unless less data is available or a lower
Sample Rate has been selected.

The data can be stored to file as described below. To

store the data do the following:

1. When you have gathered enough points press

“Pause” or wait until the data register is full and
“FULL” flashes. Press “Exit” and you will be asked if
you want to enter the file control system. Press “Yes”.

Figure 4.5
Data Storage Screen

47
2. When the screen is entered, the data in the latest
power graph will be stored temporarily in register
“Temp”. With the navigation buttons select the
permanent register you wish to use for storing the
data and press “Save”. The data in the “Temp”
register will be transferred to the selected register.
This data storage is permanent and the data is not lost
when the instrument is turned off. If you try to save
into a file which already has data, a warning will
appear that the new save will erase previous data in
the file. If you want to delete the data from a file,
select the file and press “Delete”.
3. At the bottom of the screen is a summary of the data in
the selected file. If you press “Exit” and then select
“View Files” and enter, you will be able to show the
actual data points instead of a graph. Select the data
file you want and press the Enter Key (middle button
of the navigation keys). This will open a screen
showing all the data points collected in this file. Press
“XXX>” to get to the next page of data and “<XXX” to
get to a previous page. Pressing “Exit” will get you
back to the previous screen.

Note:
In version 1.96, the internal file system format has
been changed to enable logging of larger files. To
prevent possible corruption, logs made in versions
earlier than 1.96 should be uploaded to the PC before
upgrading the firmware version to 1.96 or higher.

Data Transmission to PC

The data stored in the Vega file system can be

transmitted to a PC via RS232 using the Starcom PC
package supplied with the Vega (or via USB using the
StarLab PC or application). The data can be transmitted
in real time as well according to the following table:

48
 Power Measurement RS232 USB
Power log period 20 sec to 600 hours for both
Max points stored onboard
27000 27000
per file (1)
Max points direct to PC file
unlimited unlimited
in real time
Energy measurement RS232 USB
Max real time data logging
>30Hz >2000Hz
rate(2)
Max onboard data logging
4000Hz 4000Hz
rate(2)
Data transfer from
~500 points/s ~500 points/s
instrument to PC
Max points stored onboard 250,000 250,000

(1): Can store up to 10 files for a total of 250,000 points.

(2): The above refers to the rate for logging every single point in turbo
mode. Above that rate the instrument will sample points but not log every
single point.

4.5 Energy Measurement

4.5.1. Setup

Switch the Vega on. If it is in power mode, press the left

soft key “Energy” to put it into energy mode.

The energy mode is manual ranging: enter “Range” and

then use the navigation keys to get to the proper range
then enter again. The correct range is the lowest one
which is larger than the pulse energy measured. If you
plan to use the same setting often, use the "Configure"
function as described in Section 4.3 before switching the
Vega off the first time. When the Vega is switched on
again, it will automatically go into the same range until a
different configuration is saved.

Note:
The present range is displayed on the upper left and
bottom right of the energy measurement screen as
shown in Figure 4.6.

49
 Figure 4.6
Thermopile Energy Screen

4.5.2. Measurement

To measure energy of a single pulse, set up as above and

fire the laser. The display will go blank while the energy
is being integrated. After 2-4 seconds, the correct energy
will be displayed. When the Vega is ready to measure a
new pulse, "READY" will appear on the screen and flash
on and off. (See
Figure 4.6). The next pulse will automatically blank the
screen, and the new value will be displayed. If you fire
another pulse before "READY" appears, the reading may
be inaccurate or may not be displayed.

4.5.3. Minimum Energy Threshold

If the Vega is used in a noisy environment or where there

is a high level of background thermal radiation, the
instrument may trigger spuriously on the noise or
background radiation. It would then fail to measure the
intended pulse. Since there is always some degree of
noise or background radiation, the instrument is designed
not to respond to pulses below some preset minimum
size. This "Minimum Energy Threshold" is typically set to
0.3% of full scale of the selected range. If this level is
found to be too sensitive for the user's particular
environment, it may be altered by the user. The threshold
should not, however, be raised higher than necessary.
This will cause a degradation in the accuracy of energy
50
measurements of pulses below about 4 times the
threshold level. The factory setting of energy threshold is
"Med" for medium. If the unit triggers on noise, set the
threshold to "High." If you are measuring small energies
and the unit does not trigger, set the threshold to "Low."

To set the energy threshold:

1. From the energy measurement screen, enter

"Threshold ".
2. Select "High," "Medium," or "Low" threshold. For some
3A-P models, "Optical" is also available and is the
default choice (See below).
3. Enter again to return to main measurement screen. If
you wish to save this value, press "Save” before
exiting. (See also section 4.3).

4.5.4. Measuring Pulses of Very Low Energy

When it is necessary to measure pulses of very low

energy, i.e., less than 0.5% of the maximum range of the
instrument, the following two alternative methods allow
greater accuracy to be obtained.

1. A continuous train of pulses may be fired, and the

average power measured using “Power” mode. The
energy per pulse can be calculated by:

Average Energy per pulse = Average power /

Pulse Repetition Rate

2. A train of a known number of pulses may be fired, and

the total energy measured in “Energy” mode. This
train should not exceed 5 seconds duration. The
energy per pulse can be calculated by:Average
Energy per pulse = Total Energy / Number of Pulses

In both of the above methods, the pulse repetition rate

must exceed 3Hz. Higher rates will generally give
improved accuracy, but care should be taken not to
exceed maximum power ratings.

51
4.5.5. Measuring Energy of Rapidly Repeating Pulses
The standard Vega will only measure individual pulses
every 5 seconds or so. You can also calculate the
average energy of rapidly repeating pulses by measuring
average power on the power setting and using the
formula:

Average Energy per Pulse = Average Power / Pulse

Repetition Rate

For rapidly repeating pulses, you can use one of the Ophir
pyroelectric sensors, as long as the pulse energies do not
exceed the ratings of the pyroelectric absorbers. The
pyroelectric sensors are compatible with the Vega and
just have to be plugged in to be used.

For higher pulse energies, you can use the Ophir model
RP to measure both average power and exact individual
pulse energy of the rapidly repeating pulses.

See your Ophir agent or sales representative for

details.

4.5.6. Energy Log and Data Storage (See Figure 4.7 )

The Vega has the option of displaying successive energy

points in a scrolling vertical bargraph form. While
measurements are being taken, the Vega will record data.
Up to 250,000 points are stored See section 4.4.2.6.1 for
more information on data storage and handling.

Note:
For Thermopile sensors logging energy, there are no
setup options.

52
4.5.6.1. To use the Vega for graphical display of energy
- regular mode

1. Make sure that the Vega is in the correct energy

measurement range. If not, enter “Range”, adjust and
enter again.
2. From the energy measurement screen enter “Menu”
and then select “Data-Log”. Now press “Log” and the
energy log screen will appear. Press “Go”. Now fire a
pulse when the "READY" legend flashes. The
measurement will immediately begin. When the
screen is full, the display will scroll and the latest
points will continue to be displayed. When the data
register is full, “FULL” will be displayed. If you wish to
see finer variations in the graph, press the “Zoom”
button.
3. When “Reset” is pressed, the Vega is ready to begin a
new measurement. If you want to store the data
before making a new measurement, see section
4.4.2.6.1 on data storage.

Warning:
Pressing "Reset" will erase all previously stored data.
Pressing any of the navigation keys will end the log
session and return to the setup screen.

A statistical summary of the data on the screen is

shown on the top. If you wish to permanently store the
data in a file, press “Enter” and then choose “Yes” to
enter the file system. See section 4.4.2.6.1 for further
information.

Note:
Zoom can only be pressed after at least one pulse has
been recorded.

53
 Figure 4.7
Energy Log Screen replace

4.6 Advanced Display Screens

4.6.1. Power and Energy Beam Splitter/Attenuator

Screens

If you have a measurement setup with a beam splitter or

attenuator and wish to display the laser power or energy
before the splitter or attenuator and not the actual value
impinging on the measurement sensor the beam splitter
function allows you to do this. For example, if you are
splitting off 20% of a laser beam into the meter and you
wish to display the full beam, do as follows:

1. From the main power or energy measurement screen,

enter “Menu”, select “Attenuate”and enter again.
2. Enter “Beam %” and then with the up down navigation
buttons, select the first number. With the right
navigation button go to the second number, and with
the up/down navigation keys select the second
number and so on. For example, in the screen shown
below, 20% has been selected. The large number
shows the full beam power / energy
impinging on the beam splitter and the small number
the power/energy actually measured by the meter.

54
Press “Save” if you wish to save this value and then
press enter to return to the standard measurement
screen.

If you want the instrument to start up in the Attenuation

screen, follow the instructions for instrument startup
defaults in section 3.5.

Figure 4.8
Attenuation Screen with Beam % set to 20%

Note 1:
The attenuation screen only affects the value
displayed on that screen and nothing else. The
power and energy scales remain the same, the
damage thresholds remain the same etc. The
attenuator screen is only an extra screen to show a
different calculated number introduced by the user.

Note 2:
The attenuation value is stored in the Vega and not
the sensor so if it is set, any sensor connected will
come up with the value chosen.

55
4.6.2. Power and Energy Density Screens

The Vega gives you the option to measure in units of

power and energy density instead of power and energy.
You input the beam size and the display then calculates
and displays the power or energy density in units of
W/cm² or J/cm². In order to activate this screen do as
follows:

1. From the main screen select “menu” , enter and

select “density”.The display will now be in units of
W/cm² or J/cm² depending if you were in the power
or energy measurement screen.
2. The default setteing is for round beams. If your beam
is round continue on to perform steps 3-5. If your
beam is rectangular perform steps 6-9.
3. Select “size” and you will see 4 default choices of
beam diameter.
4. Select the beam diameter you wish to adjust and
press the left navigation key.
5. Now modify by pressing the up/down navigation
keys to change each number and the right/left
navigation keys to move to the next number. After
you are finished, press “save” and enter.
6. Press "Rect" to switch to the rectangular mode.
7. Select "Height" and modify by pressing the up/down
navigation keys to change each number and the
right/left navigation keys to move to the next
number. After you are finished, press “save” and
enter.
8. Select "Width" and modify in the same way.
9. The beam size will appear in the box above the
"Height" box.

4.6.3. Power and Energy Limits Screens

The Vega gives you the option to set upper and lower
limits of power and energy. If these limits have been set
in the limit screen, then when the power or energy is
above the maximum limit, the message “OVER” will
appear on the screen and when under the minimum limit,
the message “UNDER” will appear on the screen. When

56
in one of the full color modes, the warning and the
reading will be shown in red.

To set up the limits screen do as follows:

1. From the main power or energy screen press

“Menu”, select “Limits” and enter.
2. Select “Low” and enter. Now enter the low limit
value by pressing the up/down navigation keys to
change each number and the right/left navigation
keys to move to the next number. After you are
finished, press “Save”.
3. Do the same for the “High” limit.
4. If you want the limits screen to be the startup default
of the Vega, follow the instructions in section 3.5.

When the power or energy is over or under the limits

chosen, the error message will be shown as in Figure
4.9. Note that the lower limit is shown on the upper left
and the upper limit on the upper right.

Figure 4.9 Limits Screens with limits set to 1W and 2W

4.6.4. Power and Energy Needle Screens

The Vega provides a simulation of an analog needle.

Similar to the bargraph display, this allows the user to
graphically view the measurement as a percentage of
the full scale. It is possible to expand this needle to cover
the full screen of the Vega by pressing the “Expand”
button.

When in one of the full color modes, the expanded needle

will display the minimum and maximum readings. On the
needle graph, older readings will stay on the screen. This
allows a user to visually track the range of readings that
have been taken.

57
To enter the needle screen do as follows:

1. From the main power or energy screen press

“Menu”, select “Needle” and enter.
2. To use the expanded needle feature, press
“Expand”.
3. To reset the minimum, maximum, and needle
tracking, press “Reset”.
4. To change measurement settings, go back to the
reduced needle screen by pressing “Return”

Figure 4.10 Needle Screens with a photodiode sensor

Other Types of Sensors:

The functions described in the sections above can be

used with photodiode and pyrolectric detectors as well.

4.6.5. Position and Size

Some thermopile sensors are capable of Position and

Size measurement of laser beams. For a full description,
please see Chapter 7 BeamTrack Features

58
 Chapter 5.
Operation with Photodiode Type Sensors

Warning:
Before using the sensor for power measurement,
check that your laser power or energy and energy
density does not exceed the sensor ratings. See
Table 5. and Table 6. in Chapter 10.

5.1 Photodiode Sensors

When a photon source, such as laser, is directed at one

of the PD300 or 3A-IS series photodiode detectors, a
current is created proportional to the light intensity and
dependent on the wavelength.

The PD300 and PD300-3W sensors have a unique dual

detector sensor (patented) in which the two detectors are
identical and connected back to back. When a uniform
signal, such as room light background, falls on the
detector sensor the signal from the two detectors
cancels.

On the other hand, when a laser beam falls on the sensor,

it illuminates only the first detector and therefore is
detected. Thus the PD300 subtracts most of the
background while detecting the desired signal. The
subtraction is not perfect but usually 98% of the
background signal is eliminated so the detector can
usually be used in ordinary laboratory lighting conditions.

The Vega display unit amplifies this signal and indicates

the power level received by the sensor. Due to the
superior circuitry of the Vega, the noise level is very low,
and the PD300 /3A-IS series sensors with the Vega
display have a large dynamic range from nanowatts to
hundreds of milliwatts.

Since many low power lasers have powers on the order

of 5 to 30mW, and most photodiode detectors saturate at
about 2mw, most sensors of the PD300 series have been
constructed with a built in filter so the basic sensor can

59
measure to 30mW or more without saturation. When the
additional filter is installed, the maximum power is on the
order of 300mW (or 3W with model PD300-3W). The
PD300 saturates when the output current exceeds 1.3mA
so the exact maximum power depends on the sensitivity
of the detector at the wavelength used. When saturated,
the legend "OVER" will appear on the screen. Table 2
gives the actual maximum power as a function of
wavelength.

Filter Out
Wave PD300 PD300 PD300 PD300 3A-IS Wave- PD300 PD300
Length -TP -3W -UV Length -IR -IRG
250-350nm N.A. N.A. N.A. 3mW N.A. 800nm 12mW 0.8mW
400nm 30mW 3mW 100mW 3mW N.A. 1-1.3µm 30mW 0.8mW
633nm 20mW 2.5mW 100mW 3mW 1W 1.4µm 30mW 0.8mW
670nm 13mW 2mW 100mW 3mW 2W 1.5µm 25mW 0.8mW
800nm 10mW 1.5mW 100mW 2.5mW 3W 1.6µm 30mW 0.8mW
900mm 10mW 1.5mW 100mW 2.5mW 3W 1.8µm 30mW N.A.
1060nm 25mW 3mW 100mW 3mW 3W

Filter In
Wave PD300 PD300-TP PD300- PD300-UV 3A-IS Wave PD300-IR PD300-
Length 3W Length IRG
250-350nm N.A. N.A. N.A. 300mW N.A. 800nm 0.8mW 100mW
400nm 300mW 1W 3W 300mW N.A. 1-1.3µm 0.8mW 30mW
633nm 300mW 1W 3W 300mW 1W 1.4µm 0.8mW 150mW
670nm 200mW 500mW 2W 300mW 2W 1.5µm 0.8mW 150mW
800nm 100mW 300mW 1.2W 150mW 3W 1.6µm 0.8mW 150mW
900mm 150mW 300mW 1.2W 150mW 3W 1.8µm N.A. N.A.
1060nm 250mW 500mW 2.2W 300mW 3W

Table 2
Maximum Measurable Laser Power as a Function of Wavelength

5.2 Setting up the PD300 to display the user's chosen

wavelengths

The PD300 series has built in wavelength correction

curves for measurements either with the removable filter
installed (filter-in) or removed (filter-out). These curves
are stored in the sensor EEROM. The correction curves,
with a resolution of 1nm, ensure that the power reading is
correct at all laser wavelengths.

In order to simplify changing from one laser wavelength

to another, the user can program up to 6 different
wavelengths to be available from the screen menu.
Please use the following procedure to set the PD300 to
your laser wavelengths.

60
1. From the power measurement screen, select
“Laser” and enter.
2. With the up/down navigation keys, select the first
wavelength desired. Press the right navigation key
to enter the change wavelength screen.
3. Enter the wavelength value by pressing the
up/down navigation keys to change each number
and the right/left navigation keys to move to the
next number. After you are finished, press “Save”
and enter.
4. Repeat steps 2 and 3 for other wavelengths desired.
When finished, press Enter. Those values for which
“Save” was pressed will be default startup values,
the others will be saved until the instrument is
turned off.

5.3 Startup Defaults

If you are planning to do similar measurements most of

the time, you can set up the Vega so that it automatically
goes into the measurement mode you want upon startup.
Since these desired settings are saved in the sensor
"smart connector", you can save different settings for
different sensors. The following section describes how to
set up the Vega with the PD300 sensor so that it will start
up in the desired configuration.

Setting up the startup defaults: (See section 5.4 for

further details)

1. With the sensor connected, turn on the Vega. Select

“Menu” and enter. Select “Configure” and enter.
2. Select “Filter” and enter. Select IN or OUT as the
startup default and enter. For details of filter in/out
See Section 5.4.3.
3. Select “Display Mode” and select the desired
startup screen. Press “Save”. (Note that this
selection is saved in the Vega and not the sensor so
will be operative for all sensors). For more details on
the screen types see section 4.6.
4. Select “Power Range:” and in the same way choose
the manual power range you wish to be the default or
61
 autorange or dBm. The Vega will now be in the range
selected when switched on with the sensor in
question.
5. Select “Average” to choose the averaging period for
power measurement. If you do not want averaging,
choose the value “NONE” See section 4.4.2.4 for
details about averaging.
6. Now select “Laser” and use the value button to
select the default startup wavelength and save.
7. If you want to change the choice of wavelengths
select laser and press the right navigation key. Enter
the wavelength value by pressing the up/down
navigation keys to change each number and the
right/left navigation keys to move to the next number.
After you are finished, press “Save” and “Enter”.

5.4 Selecting Settings from the Vega Screen

The Vega can conveniently be set to various chosen

parameters from the screen. In addition these settings
can be saved as startup defaults so the sensor will be in
the desired configuration when turned on.

5.4.1. To Set to the Laser Wavelength Being Used

Photodiode sensors have a different sensitivity at

different wavelengths. Moreover, the filters used in the
sensor have a different transmission at different
wavelengths. In order to compensate, each sensor has a
built in calibration curve (with 1nm resolution) over the
entire measurement range.

When you choose the correct laser wavelength, the

correction factor for that wavelength is automatically
introduced. Note that the laser wavelength presently
corrected for is displayed in the upper left portion of the
display. In order to define the laser wavelengths to
choose from, See Section 5.2.

In order to choose the laser wavelength, simply select

“Laser” and enter. Select the chosen wavelength and
enter again. In order to set the default startup
wavelength, see section 5.3.
62
5.4.2. To choose Manual or Automatic Ranging or dBm

Autorange - The Vega allows you to choose autorange or

manual ranging. In both cases, the reading will be
displayed in watts. In autorange mode, you do not have
to change scales. When the reading of the meter or bar
is more than 100% of full scale, the range goes to the next
higher one. When the reading falls below 9% of full
scale, the range changes to one range lower. This
change occurs after a short delay. This provides overlap
(hysteresis) to keep the Vega from flipping back and forth
when reading close to the end of the scale.

Manual Range - There are certain disadvantages to

autorange since it changes scale even if you don't want it
to do so. If you want to measure the same range all the
time, it is better to use manual range. The correct range
to select is the lowest one that is larger than the largest
expected measurement. To configure the Vega to be in
manual mode when switched on, see Section 5.3.

dBm - The Vega allows the measurement to be made in

units of dBm that is a logarithmic scale. dBm units are
defined as:

10 x log (reading in mW)

At 1mW the reading will be 0 dBm, at 100mW it will be 20

dBm etc.

To choose auto, manual or dBm range, follow these

steps:

1. From the main measurement screen, select “Range”.

2. Select the correct manual, auto or dBm range with
the navigation keys. If you want the selected range to
be the startup value press “Save” or by pressing the
Enter key to return to the measurement screen.

63
5.4.3. Operation with Filter In or Out

The PD300 sensor is equipped with a built in filter so that

the photodiode can measure up to 30mW without
saturating the detector. In addition, the PD300 comes
with an additional removable filter for measuring up to
300mW. Other models of the PD300 series also have
built-in and removable filters. The exact maximum power
is reached when the reading reaches full scale or the
output current from the sensor reaches 1.3mA, whichever
comes first. See Table 2 for the exact maximum as a
function of wavelength.

Depending on what powers you wish to measure, choose

whether to work with the removable filter installed or not.
For this purpose, the Vega has a "filter" setting and uses
the proper correction curve depending on whether the
filter is installed or not.

Warning:
If the PD300 is used in the "Filter IN" setting and the
filter is not installed or vice versa the readings will
be completely incorrect.
If the power of your laser exceeds the maximum for
filter in, you can purchase a thermal or integrating
sphere sensor for that wavelength. Consult your
Ophir agent for details.

To choose the filter setting:

1. From the main measurement screen press “Filter”.

2. If you wish to work with filter installed, press "Change"
until display says "Filter is IN". Be sure to place the
removable filter on the detector sensor.
3. If you wish to work with the filter out, press "Change"
until display says "Filter is OUT”. Be sure to remove
the filter from the detector sensor.
4. When finished, press “OK” to return to the
measurement screen.

64
Note:
The filter status can be seen at a glance on the
screen: filter out will be shown by Filter
and filter in by Filter

5.4.4. Zoom

The Zoom function causes the scale to expand around

the present reading ±20%. Thus, if the full scale of the
bargraph is 20mW and your reading is 15mW, pressing
"Zoom" will make the bargraph scale range between
approximately 12 and 18 mW. Slight variations in power
are more easily seen in this mode. When zoom is
engaged, the legend is highlighted. To cancel the zoom
function, press “Zoom" again. The zoom function can be
useful for laser power tuning and peaking.

To activate the zoom function, press "Zoom". When it is

highlighted it is engaged. Note that the fiducial marks of
the bargraph are further apart, indicating that zoom is
engaged. Pressing "Zoom" again will cancel the function.

5.4.5. Offset

The PD300 and PD300-3W sensors have automatic

background subtraction as described in Section 5.2. In
addition, the offset function can be used to subtract the
residual background signal that remains if desired. If the
Vega shows a nonzero power reading even when there is
no laser, you can subtract the background using the zero
function. For example, the Vega display reads 0.1mW
when the laser is blocked and 20.5 mW with laser power
applied. In this case, the true power is 20.5 - 0.1 = 20.4
mW. To subtract the background, press "Offset" while
the laser is blocked. The Vega will now read zero (0.0),
and the 0.1 mW background will be subtracted from all
subsequent readings. The laser power reading will thus
be 20.4 mW.

When "Offset" is engaged, the legend is highlighted. To

cancel, press "Offset" again. If the "Offset" is engaged, and
you wish to subtract a new value of the background,
press "Offset" twice. The first press will cancel the old

65
value, and the second will activate a new value. If you
suspect that the Vega has a permanent zero offset, then
disconnect the sensor while it is in the power
measurement mode.

5.4.6. Measuring loss using the dB offset function

Since dBm is a logarithmic measurement, the ratio

between two measurements will be the difference
between the dBm measurements. For instance, if you
want to measure the loss in a fiber optic cable where the
measurement before the cable is 1mW = 0dBm and the
measurement after the cable is 0.1mW = -10dBm. The
ratio is then 1:10 = 0.1 and the dB loss is 0 – (-10) = 10dB.

The dB offset function allows you to easily measure this.

To do so do as follows:
1. When measuring the reference value press “dB-
O”. The value changes to 0 dB (note that now the
units are dB, a relative value instead of dBm, an
absolute value).
2. Now make your second measurement and the value
of the difference in dB = ratio in numerical units will
be shown.

Note:
If there is a zero offset in the reference value, you
cannot subtract this using the dB offset function.
Instead, before the start of the measurement, press
“Offset” and subtract the zero offset. Then follow
steps 1 and 2 above. The zero offset subtracted when
“Offset” was pressed will be saved in the dBm scale
and you can now use the dB-O setting to measure
true ratio without zero offset problems.

5.4.7. Average and Measuring Very Low Power

Measurement

If the laser power is fluctuating, the Vega can display the

average power readings with averaging periods varying
from 1s to 1 hour. When measuring very low powers,
such as picowatt measurements using the PD300-IRG or
PD300-UV, there will be a rather large zero offset coming
66
from the detector as well as a considerable noise
fluctuation. Nevertheless, you can measure these low
values by using the average function and pressing offset
to eliminate the detector zero offset. In order to measure
very low powers do as follows:
1. Select “Menu”, press the Enter key and select
“Configure”. Choose the appropriate value you want
to average over and save it and then exit.
2. Now block the power source you wish to measure,
wait for a few measurement periods and press
“Offset” to subtract the zero offset.
3. Now unblock the power source and measure.
4. For a detailed description of the average function,
see Section 4.4.2.4.

Note:
The average function does not work with autorange
or dBm scales.

5.4.8. Tune and Power log

The Tune function, an exclusive Ophir option, makes

adjusting your laser to its maximum power easier than
ever before. Unlike a bargraph or mechanical meter, this
display shows graphically what came before as well as
the current reading and the trend. This allows you to see
at a glance if you have reached maximum power.

The Vega also has the option of graphing the laser power
vs. time. While measurements are being taken, the Vega
will record data until the screen is full, or "Reset" or one
of the navigation keys is pressed.

If the laser power is fluctuating, the Vega can also

display the average power readings with averaging
periods varying from 1s to 1 hour.

These functions are the same for thermal type sensors

and for photodiode sensors. See Section 4.4.2.3 for
details.

The functions described in Section 4.6 Advanced

Display Screens apply to photodiode sensors as well.

67
 Chapter 6.
Operation with Pyroelectric Sensors

Warning:
Before using the sensor for power or energy
measurement, check that your laser power, energy
and energy density do not exceed the sensor ratings
as listed in the table with the sensor specifications.
Otherwise, there is a risk of damaging the absorber.

With the pyroelectric sensor, you have been supplied a

test slide with the same coating as on your pyroelectric
detector. You can also obtain this slide from your dealer.
You should use this slide to test the damage threshold
with your laser pulses. If the slide shows damage,
then either enlarge your beam or lower the laser energy
until damage is no longer seen.

6.1 Pyroelectric & Photodiode Energy Sensors

6.1.1. Pyroelectric sensors – method of operation

When a pulsed heat source, such as a laser, is directed

at the detector sensor, a temperature gradient is created
across the pyroelectric crystal mounted in the sensor.
An electric charge is produced which is proportional to
the energy absorbed. The detector sensor has
sophisticated circuitry unique to Ophir (patented) that
determines the baseline before the pulse is received,
measures the voltage after a pre-determined interval,
amplifies it and holds it for a pre-determined time.

Due to this innovative circuitry, Ophir pyroelectric

sensors can measure very long pulses as well as short
ones. They can measure low energies as well as high.
They can also measure at higher repetition rates than
was possible before.

The Vega meter amplifies this signal and indicates the

energy received by the sensor as well as the frequency at
which the laser is pulsing. Using the energy and

68
frequency information, the Vega is also able to display
average power.

The photodiode based PD10 & PD10-PJ sensors also use

the same circuitry but can measure much lower energies
due to the sensitivity of the photodiode.

6.1.2. Photodiode energy sensors – method of operation

The PD10 & PD10-PJ operates in a similar fashion to the

pyroelectric PE sensors except it has a photodiode
detector instead of pyroelectric. Because of its great
sensitivity, it can operate down to about 1nJ of energy. It
has complete wavelength correction over its entire
measurement range of 200 - 1100nm.

The PD10 & PD10-PJ operates in a similar fashion to the

PE sensor except that it has one extra function. When
measuring very low energies, the sensor will also be
sensitive to background light and therefore show a
spuriously high reading. Therefore we have added a
function to measure the background light. When
measuring low energies, block the laser and press
“Bkgrnd”.

You will see a reading of the background light. This

reading can be subtracted from your laser reading to
obtain a more accurate reading. Also, making the room
darker will reduce this background effect.

6.2 Selecting Settings from the Vega Screen

The Vega can conveniently be set to various chosen

parameters from the screen. In addition, it can be set to
startup defaults so it will be in the desired configuration
when turned on.

69
PE05 10235
Range: 20mJ Menu: Energy
Laser: 532 Average: 1 sec
Threshold: 3%

12.34 mJ
142.37Hz TRIG 20mJ
Power 50s Help

Figure 6.1
Pyroelectric Energy Screen
6.2.1. Setting up the sensor to display the user's chosen
wavelengths.

The absorption of the detector coating varies somewhat

with wavelength. The correction curve for the absorber
is stored in the sensor EEROM. This correction curve
ensures that the power reading is correct at all laser
wavelengths.

In order to simplify changing from one laser wavelength

to another, the user can program up to 6 different
wavelengths to be available from the screen menu.
Please use the following procedure to set the
pyroelectric or PD10 & PD10-PJ sensor to your laser
wavelengths.

1. From the main display, select “Laser” and enter.

2. Use the up/down navigation keys to select the first
wavelength desired. Press the right navigation key.
3. Change the wavelength value by pressing the
up/down navigation keys to change each number and
the right/left navigation keys to move to the next
number. After you are finished, press “Save” and then
the Enter key.
4. Repeat step 3 for other wavelengths desired. When
finished press the Enter key. Those values for which

70
 “Save” was pressed will be default startup values, the
others will be saved until the instrument is turned off.

Note:
The BB type sensors have less variation with
wavelength, and in those sensors, fixed wavelength
ranges are selected similar to thermal sensors. This
section is not relevant with those sensors.

6.2.2. Setup of Laser Pulse Width and Pulses/Sample

6.2.2.1. Laser Pulse Width

As was mentioned before, the Ophir pyroelectric sensors

can measure long as well as short pulses. In order to
operate properly, the Vega must be set to a maximum
pulse width setting longer than the actual laser pulse
width. Therefore the pulse width should be set to the
shortest pulse width longer than the actual laser pulse
width. (Some sensors only have one pulse width setting
and measure all pulse lengths on this setting In that case
“N/A” will appear).

Warning:
If the pulse width is incorrectly set to a pulse width
shorter than the actual pulse width of the laser, the
reading will be erroneously low. If it is set to a setting
longer than necessary, the reading will be correct but
noisier.

To set up for pulse width, please do the following:

From the main measurement screen, press the 3 fromrd

the left soft key. The choices of maximum pulse width

will appear. With the navigation keys, select the
smallest value larger than your actual laser pulse
width and press “save”.

6.2.2.2. Setup for the Time Period to Average Over

The Vega has the ability to measure a number of pulses

and display the average value of the energy of the pulses.
This function is useful if the laser energy is not stable.

71
Then the user can choose to measure a number of pulses
and display only the average.

To set up for averaging over a number of pulses:

1. From the main measurement screen, select “Menu”

and enter. Select “Configure” and enter.
2. Now select “Average” and enter. Select the time
period you wish to average over and enter. If you do
not want to average, but collect individual pulses
then select "NONE".
3. If you wish to save the new setting as the default,
press “Save” before enter.

Note:
The Pyroelectric sensor is capable of measuring
pulses up to very high repetition rates on the order of
kilohertz or higher. The Vega actually captures each
pulse up to 4000Hz and will sample pulses at up to
25,000 pulses depending on the sensor. The pulses
collected can be stored for later recovery and
transmission. (See section 4.4.2.6.1). However, the
display can only display at rates up to 10Hz. At higher
rates, if the user has chosen “NONE”, the Vega will
display individual pulses
sampled at a rate of 5Hz. If the user has chosen to
average over a time period, the instrument will
display the average of readings over the period from
the time the screen was entered up to the present. For
instance, if the average period is 30 seconds, at 15
seconds, the average is over 15 s., at 30 seconds it is
over 30 seconds, at 5 minutes, it is over the period
from 4.5 to 5 minutes (30 seconds back from the
present etc.).

6.2.2.3 Setting the Threshold (PE-C sensors)

Pyroelectric sensors are sensitive to noise and vibration

as well as the heat from the laser pulses. They can falsely
trigger on such disturbances, especially on the lowest
ranges. The PE-C series of sensors has a user settable
threshold to suppress such false triggering. The default

72
threshold setting is set to 3% of full scale. However, it can
be set to smaller or larger values. If you are measuring
very low energies, for highest accuracy, it is
recommended to set the threshold to the minimum value,
as long as this does not result in false triggering. For
noisy environments with false triggering, it is
recommended to set the threshold to the lowest value
that eliminates the false readings. You can change the
threshold as follows:

1. With the navigation buttonds select “threshold” on

the main measurement screen. Enter.
2. Now with the up/down navigation buttons select the
desired threshold.
3. If you want to change the threshold but not save the
new value permanently press enter, if you want to
save the new value as the default start up for this
sensor, press “save”.

6.3 Startup and Configuration of Defaults

If you are planning to do repetitive measurements most of

the time, you can set up the Vega so that it automatically
goes into the measurement mode you want upon startup.
Since these desired settings are saved in the sensor
"smart connector", you can save different settings for
different sensors.

To set the Vega startup mode and to save the chosen

Vega configuration:

With the sensor connected, switch on the Vega. Select

“Power” or “Energy” measurement screen. Select
“Menu” with the navigation keys. Enter, select
“Configure” and enter again. Now choose the desired
startup parameters as follows:
1. Select “Startup Mode” to choose "Power" or "Energy"
for the desired startup screen. Choose power or
energy and press enter and save. The Vega will now
start up in power or energy measurement mode,
respectively, when switched on.

73
2. Now select “Display Mode” and select the desired
startup screen. Press “Save”. (Note that this
selection is saved in the Vega and not the sensor, so
will be operative for all sensors). For more details on
the screen types see section 4.6.
3. Now select “Energy Range” and choose the energy
range you wish to be the default. The Vega will now
be in the range selected when switched on with the
sensor in question. Note that there are only manual
ranges in energy.
4. Now select “Average” and select the period you wish
to average readings over. This feature is especially
useful for lasers with unsteady output. See section
4.4.2.4 for details.
5. Now select “Diffuser” if your sensor has a removable
diffuser and select if you wish diffuser in (installed) or
out (not installed) to be the default.
6. Now select “Max Pulse len”, enter and select the
laser pulse width. Select the shortest value longer
than your laser pulse width and press save.
7. Now select “Laser” and select the laser type you want
to be the default. The Vega will now be correctly
calibrated for the absorption of the detector at the
wavelength of the laser type selected and will startup
with the laser wavelength selected.
8. Now press “Save” if you want this to be the startup
default and press “Exit”.
9. Switch the Vega off then on by means of the on/off
switch. (See Figure 3.1). The Vega will enter the mode
of operation last saved with the "Configure" operation.

74
6.4 Energy, Power or Exposure Measurement

Warning:
Before using the sensor for power or energy
measurement, check that your laser energy, energy
density and average power do not exceed the sensor
ratings as listed in the table with the sensor
specifications at the end of the manual, otherwise,
there is a risk of damaging the absorber. With the
pyroelectric sensor, you have been supplied a test
slide with the same coating as on your pyroelectric
detector. You can also obtain this slide from your
dealer. You should use this slide to test the damage
threshold with your laser pulses. If the slide shows
damage, then either enlarge your beam or lower the
laser energy until damage is no longer seen.

Note:
To measure pyroelectric energies properly, it is
important that the sensor is not grounded to the
optical bench. Make sure that the sensor is isolated
electrically from the ground. The PE sensor has been
supplied with an insulating mounting post for this
purpose.

6.4.1. Energy Average Power and Frequency

Measurement

Unlike most pyroelectric energy meters, the Vega

measures the pulse frequency to a high degree of
accuracy and is therefore able to display pulse frequency
and average power as well as pulse energy. The
following paragraph will describe how to set up and
measure these functions.

6.4.1.1. Zeroing Sensor against the Vega Meter

There is a slight variation of pyroelectric reading from

meter to meter. Therefore, for the most accuracy in
pyroelectric energy measurements, it is necessary to zero
the pyroelectric sensor against the Vega display it will be
used with. After this is done, the sensor is “conditioned”
to work with the particular Vega the zeroing was done

75
against. It is not necessary to do this procedure again
unless the Vega is used with a different sensor. If the
procedure is not done, errors of 2% or so can occur. To
zero the sensor against the Vega, proceed as follows:

Make sure the sensor is in a quiet environment and not

subject to pulsed radiation. Plug the sensor into the Vega
and turn on. Select “Menu” and enter. Select “Zero” and
enter. Press “Start”. When “ZEROING COMPLETED”
appears, press “Save”, and “Exit”.

6.4.1.2. Energy Measurement

1. Ordinarily, when the instrument is switched on, it is in

the main energy measurement mode. This can be
verified by the units of mJ, µJ etc. and the legend
“Energy” in the upper right corner of the display (see
Figure 6.1). If it is in power measurement mode with
units of mW, W etc., then press “Energy”.
2. Enter “Range” and select the proper range. The
correct range is the lowest one that is larger than the
pulse energy measured. If you want this to be the
default, press "Save" or return to main screen by
pressing the Enter key.
3. Press the menu button, select “Configure” and press
the Enter key. Select “Max Pulse Len” and “Diffuser”
if applicable and set to the correct value for your
laser. (See section 6.2.2.1 for further details on laser
pulse width).
4. If you wish to display the average of a number of
pulses, select “Menu”, enter and select “Configure”
and enter again. Select “Average” and set to the
value desired. The default value is “NONE” which
means that the pulses displayed are individual pulses
with no averaging. See section 6.2.2.2 for further
information on averaging.

The Vega is now ready to measure energy pulses. The

energy reading will operate in the following manner. If
"NONE" selected as the averaging period, following every
1/5th of a second period, the Vega will display on the
screen the next pulse which arrives. The Vega will hold
the display of the latest pulse until a new one arrives. If
76
an averaging period is selected, the Vega will collect
pulses at up to 180Hz and will then display the average of
those pulses. When a new pulse triggers the Vega,
“TRIG” will appear on the screen. At over 5Hz, the "TRIG"
stops flashing and appears all the time.

Note 1:

If the sensor is triggering false readings from

vibration or noise, with PE-C sensors you may set the
threshold to a higher value. If you are measuring very
low energies, you may set the threshold to a lower
value for more measurement accuracy. See section
6.2.2.3 for details.
Ophir also offers a shock absorbing mounting post
(P/N 7Z08268) that helps reduce vibration on the
sensor.

Note 2:

The Vega is able to record each pulse at up to 4000Hz

even though it is displaying at a much lower rate. This
data can be stored in a data file and recovered and
transmitted later.

Besides the usual range, laser, average information, the

Vega also displays the frequency of the laser as shown in
Figure 6.1.

6.4.1.3. Power Measurement

1. Make sure the instrument is in the power

measurement mode indicated by the units of mW, W,
etc. If it is in energy measurement mode with units of
mJ, µJ etc., then press the “Power” soft key. The
Vega can be configured to start up in power
measurement mode when turned on. See section 6.3.
2. Select “Range”, enter and then use the navigation
keys to select the proper range. The correct range is
the lowest one that is larger than the pulse energy
measured. Note that the proper range is related to the
pulse energy even though we are measuring average
power.

77
3. Press “Enter” to return to the measurement screen. If
you want this to be the default range, press “Save”
before pressing the Enter key.

6.4.2. Measuring Total Energy Exposure.

The Vega has the ability to sum the total energy of a

number of pulses over a given time period or number of
pulses. This gives the total energy "exposure" over that
time period. For example if the laser is pulsing at 30
times/sec at 1mJ per pulse and you measure the
exposure over 20 seconds then the total exposure is 30
x 1 x 20 = 600mJ

In order to measure exposure, do the following:

1. From the energy measurement screen, select “Menu”

and enter. Select “Exposure” and enter.
2. Setup the desired measurement parameters as
follows:
Timeout: Define the time period after which to stop
measuring exposure if the mode selected
is “After Timeout”
Pulses: Define the number of pulses after which
to stop measuring exposure if the mode
selected is “After Pulses”
Mode: Choose “AFTER TIMEOUT" if you want to
measure over a specific time period
Choose “AFTER PULSES” if you want to
measure a specified number of pulses.
Choose “MANUAL ONLY” if you want to
stop the measurement manually only.
(Note that you can also stop the
measurement manually in the other
modes as well).

78
 Figure 6.2.
Exposure Screen set to stop after summing 500 pulses

3. Press “Start”. The Vega will start summing laser

energy exposure. When you wish to stop measuring,
press "Stop" or wait for measurement to reach the
timeout or the pulses selected. The Vega will now
display the total energy emitted during that period,
the time elapsed and the number of pulses during the
period. If you wish to reset reading to zero before
another reading, press "Reset".
4. To return to the regular energy measurement screen,
press “Energy”.

Warning:
Pressing "Reset" will terminate the exposure
measurement session.

6.4.3. Normalize

When you wish to show the readings as compared to

some standard reading, the normalize function allows you
to do this. After setting “Normalize”, all subsequent
readings will be shown as a ratio to the reference
reading. For instance, if you normalize the reading at an
energy of 1.5mJ, then subsequent readings will be with
ratio to that, i.e. if the energy at that point is 2mJ, the

79
reading (dimensionless) on the screen will be 2/1.5 = 1.33.
The screen will also show in small digits the energy at
which the normalization was done and the present
energy reading.

To use the Vega to normalize the energy:

1. From the main measurement screen, enter “Menu”

and select “Normalize”.

2. When ready to normalize, press “Apply”. From then

on, the energy will be proportional to the normalized
energy value. (See Figure 6.3).
3. If you wish to return to the the regular display, press
“Energy”.
Note that in “Present” is shown the last power or
energy reading, in “Reference” is shown the
reference value we are normalizing to and in the large
number, the ratio.

Figure 6.3
Pyroelectric Normalize Screen

6.4.4. Other Display Modes

The functions described in Section 4.6 Advanced

Display Screens apply to pyroelectric sensors as well.

80
6.5 Measuring Repeating Pulses of High Energy

Because of their construction, pyroelectric sensors are

restricted in the energy density they can withstand,
particularly for short pulses on the order of nanoseconds.
If the energy density of your laser exceeds the rating of
the pyroelectric absorber, there are several options
available:

1. You can enlarge your laser beam using a negative

lens until the energy density is below damage
threshold. You should test this using the test slide.
See section 4.6.
2. You can use a beam splitter, splitting off typically 8 -
10% of the light. If you use this method, note that
there may be polarization effects. You can calibrate
the beam splitter by running the laser at energy below
damage threshold and measuring the energy with and
without the beam splitter and you can then use the
attenuation feature (Section 4.6.1) to display the
actual laser power or energy.
3. Ophir has three sensors specifically designed for high
energy density pulses. They are the PE50HD sensors
with high damage threshold, the PE50-DIF model
pyroelectric sensors with a diffuser and the RP
thermal/photodiode sensors. Some of these sensors
can measure energy densities up to several
Joules/cm².
Contact your Ophir dealer for details.

6.6 Energy Log

This is the same as for thermal sensors, except you do

not have to wait for “READY”. See sections 4.5.6 and
4.4.2.6.1

Note:
For Pyroelectric sensors logging energy the only
setup option is ‘sample rate’. The user can choose the
number of pulses he wishes to log - from ‘every pulse’
to ‘1 out of 1000’ pulses - but not the time period.

81
Turbo mode

In regular data log mode above, you can only log every
point at up to 180 points per sec. Also you can not
transmit to PC at higher rates than 180 Hz in regular data
log mode.
In order to log data or transmit it to PC at rates >1000Hz,
you must be in turbo mode. This will put you into a
special mode where the Vega can handle data at high
speed while curtailing other functions. To log in turbo
mode, do as follows:

1. Make sure that the Vega is in the correct energy

measurement range. If not, press “Range”, adjust
and “Exit”.
2. From the energy measurement screen press
“Menu” and then select “Data-Log”.
3. With the up/down navigation key buttons, indicate
the appropriate laser, graph settings and frequency.
Then choose the log size, i.e. how many points you
want to log. Now press “Turbo” and “Go”. The
measurement will begin and the Vega will indicate
when the file is full.

Note1:
The Vega does not measure frequency in turbo
mode. Therefore you have to indicate the frequency
before starting the measurement. This means you
cannot measure pulses with frequencies which vary
during the measurement run.

Note2:
The Vega will not respond to any buttons until the
turbo logging session is over. This applies either for
data logging or data transmission in turbo mode.
See section 4.4.2.6.1 for further information.

82
6.7 Pyro Scope Adapter

A special adapter can be purchased which is plugged in

between the sensor connector and the Vega sensor
socket. This adapter has a cable and BNC connector to
attach to an oscilloscope. It enables the user to see on
the scope pulses proportional to energy up to the
maximum pulse rating of the sensor. Unlike the Vega
meter, which samples at the maximum rate, the scope
adapter shows every single pulse.

Activate the scope adapter as follows:

1. Plug the adapter into the Vega meter and then plug
the sensor plug into the adapter. Plug the BNC
connector into a standard 1M scope input.
2. Enter power or energy “Menu” and select “Scope”.
The display will now say “In Scope Mode”. Select the
appropriate measurement range and laser
wavelength in the usual way.
3. You can return to the ordinary measurement mode by
pressing “Energy” (or “Power”) from the scope mode
screen.

83
6.8 PE-DIF Diffuser Sensors

Setting up PE-DIF diffuser sensors to diffuser

IN or OUT setting:

1. In the “Configure” screen set “Diffuser” to be “IN” or

“OUT” according to the startup mode you prefer.
2. Go to the main power / energy screen.
3. “IN” (or “OUT”) appears at the bottom of the screen
(next to the second button from the left). Make sure
the diffuser is physically installed (or not installed) on
the sensor respectively.
4. To change from “IN” to “OUT” press “IN” (the
statement “Diffuser is IN” will appear). Press
“Change” (the statement “Diffuser is OUT, Ensure
that diffuser is removed from sensor” will appear)
5. Press “OK” and “OUT” will appear on the main power
/ energy screen. Make sure to remove the diffuser
from the sensor.
6. Press “Laser” and select the correct wavelength.
Note that only wavelengths compatible with the
diffuser setting are visible. (All wavelengths for
diffuser “IN” have a D suffix, e.g. 106D = 1.06m).
7. In addition make sure to change the pulse length
setting if necessary.

84
 Chapter 7.
BeamTrack Features

Some of our thermopile sensors are equipped with

circuitry enables them to measure the laser’s position as
well as the spot size in addition to standard power and
energy measurement.

This chapter describes the Vega’s position and size

measurement functionality. For a full description of
Thermopile functionality see Chapter 4 Operation with
Thermopile Absorber Sensors.

7.1 Track Screen

This screen shows the position of the laser beam as
measured by the sensor. If the beam is close enough to
the center and the sensor is capable of size
measurement, then the laser beam will be displayed as a
spot drawn to scale. Otherwise, the location will be
displayed as an X.

Figure 7.1
Main Track Screen

To get to this screen, press the “Track” softkey in the

Energy screen. This screen can also be set up as the
default startup mode in the Configuration Screen.

85
7.2 Menu Screen
To access the various other BeamTrack features, go to
the Menu screen from the main Track Screen.

Figure 7.2
BeamTrack Menu Screen

7.3 Stability Screen

This screen tracks the position of the laser beam over
time. This is useful for users that want to measure the
pointing stability of their laser.

Figure 7.3
Pointing Stability

86
A circle is drawn around the latest measurement to be
recorded.

Press the “Rate” softkey to change the sampling rate.

Press the “Reset” softkey to erase the graph and clear

the statistics.

7.4 Statistics Screen

This screen shows statistics for power, position, and size
measurement over time.

Figure 7.4
Statistics Screen

Press the “Rate” softkey to change the sampling rate.

Press the “Reset” softkey to clear the statistics.

7.5 Optimizing Measurements

7.5.1. Zeroing.

When a BeamTrack sensor is attached, the zeroing

function of the Vega will zero the BeamTrack’s
measurement circuitry as well.

87
7.5.2. Line Frequency.

In order to filter out noise that may be introduced to the

measurements from the local power supply, in the
Configuration Screen, set Line Frequency to 50Hz or 60Hz,
depending on the country you’re in.

Figure 7.5
Configuration Screen

88
 Chapter 8.
Circuit Description

The Vega has two circuit boards: the lower board with
analog circuit, digital processor and its support circuit,
and power supplies; and the upper board with LCD and its
driver.

Analog Circuit:

The signal from the detector sensor enters the analog

circuit and passes through EMI protection components to
a differential trans-impedance preamplifier. From there it
is further amplified by a programmable gain voltage
amplifier and passes to an Analog-to-Digital (A/D)
converter. All calibration data for the analog circuit is
stored in a memory chip on the main board. There are no
mechanical adjustable components (trimmers etc.) in the
Vega.

Fast Analog Input:

In addition to the above basic analog circuit, the Vega

contains a second fast analog input. This supports
certain Ophir sensors that read energy pulses at higher
rates than can be supported by the basic analog circuit,
but provides less overall accuracy than the above circuit.
The fast analog input consists of an EMI filtered voltage
input that is passed to a first stage of mild voltage
attenuation. This is then passed to a fast A/D converter.
Calibration data is stored on the same memory chip
mentioned above.

Digital Processor:

The digital processor is built around a Freescale MC68332

32-bit micro controller (MCU) with a 16-bit external bus.
The digital circuit includes an upgradeable FLASH chip
that can be programmed in-situ by Vega support
software. In addition there is a static battery-backed
RAM chip totaling 512Kbytes of RAM. The large amount
of RAM allows storage of large amounts of logged data

89
permanently, even when the instrument is turned off. (See
section 4.4.2.6.1 on data storage). The digital processor
receives data from the A/D converter and translates it
into a measurement of current in Amps. When used with
thermopile sensors, the data is then processed by a
sophisticated digital filter that speeds up the effective
response time of the sensor and rejects noise. In addition,
the MCU converts data from the fast A/D converter and
translates it into a measurement that can be processed
as necessary. The MCU is also responsible for reading
the keypad, driving the LCD display and communicating
via USB or RS232.

The MCU obtains calibration and capability data from a

memory chip in the plug of the detector sensor and
configures itself accordingly. Recalibration data and
saved settings are also stored in this memory chip.

A single DIN socket is used for communications via USB

or RS232. Only one or other of these communication
options is available at any one time.

Power Supply:

The power supply provides the internal DC supply

voltages for the analog and digital processors, and to the
external sensor detector. It also contains the battery
charging circuit and the AC supply for the backlight. The
power supply circuits consist of high efficiency switch-
mode designs.

EMI Protection:

The digital processor circuit and the whole Vega

instrument are protected by EMI protection component
on all signals that pass in and out of the box. In addition,
EMI protection is added internally to prevent
disturbances to the normal functioning of the instrument.
The instrument meets the requirements of the European
Community with respect to electromagnetic compatibility
and has the “CE” mark.

90
 Chapter 9.
Calibration, Maintenance and Troubleshooting
9.1 Calibration of Thermopile or RP Sensors

9.1.1. Absorber types and Method of Calibration of

Ophir Power Meters

9.1.1.1. Types of Ophir Laser Absorbers

Two types of absorber surface are used in Ophir thermal

measuring sensors.

1. Surface Absorbers:

BB (broadband) absorber

On standard, high power density, broadband Ophir power

monitor sensors, a special refractory coating is used to
provide high absorptivity from the UV through the IR. This
coating can withstand very high power densities, up to 28
kW/cm², without changing calibration. The absorption of
this coating is above 85% for most of its range, as shown
in graph 1 below.

EX (excimer) absorber

The EX absorber provides high absorption in the UV, and

it can withstand both the pulse energies and the average
power of excimer lasers. These discs also have excellent
absorption for 10.6 µm and other wavelengths. They can
therefore be used for other types of lasers as well. The
absorption of the various Ophir absorbers as a function of
wavelength is shown in graph 1 below.
LP1 (long pulse) absorber

This absorber has a very high damage threshold for long

pulse (ms) or continuous lasers and is therefore
offered for use with high power and energy lasers. It is
calibrated for the spectral range 250 – 2200nm with some
sensors also being calibrated for 2940nm.

91
2. Volume absorbers:

P (pulse) type absorber

The models with the P suffix, for use with pulsed lasers,
have a special absorbing glass with an absorbance of 95
±2% over the operating range. Since the surface is a
glass, its reflectivity does not change even if damaged or
melted locally.

HE (high energy) absorber

The HE type has a particularly high damage threshold for

pulsed and repetitively pulsed lasers of both the short
and long pulse variety and is useful where the highest
pulse energies and average powers are used.

PF (high energy high average power) absorber

The newest PF type absorber has a high damage

threshold for short pulses and can stand relatively high
average power density as well. In addition it is able to be
deposited on large areas so it is the absorber of choice
for many applications.

Graph 1
Absorption vs. Wavelength of Various Thermal Sensor Absorbers

92
Ophir power/energy meters with the Broadband, P or PF
type absorbers are individually calibrated by laser at
several wavelengths against a NIST calibrated standard
meter. The meter can be switched to give the exact
calibration at the various wavelengths (532nm, 1064nm
and, where applicable, CO2). Since the sensitivity
changes little with wavelength, the user can use the
settings closest to the calibration wavelength with little
error.

The EX type detector is calibrated in the UV at 248nm to

cover the entire UV range from 193 to 400nm.

9.1.2. Linearity and Accuracy of Ophir Thermal Sensors

9.1.2.1. Linearity

The linearity of most Ophir thermal detectors is specified

to be 1% over the specified power range of each
particular instrument and is tested by Ophir from time to
time. The linearity is generally tested against another
sensor that has been NIST tested for linearity. For those
models for which the linearity is not tested over their
entire range, randomly chosen sample models are tested
periodically over their entire range. The test is performed
with a high power laser that can cover the entire detector
range using a beam splitter and lower power sensor that
has previously been tested for linearity for comparison.
Thus, in all cases, the linearity of the detectors is
traceable to NIST measurements.

93
 Graph 2.
Absorption vs. Wavelength of Various Pyroelectric Sensor Absorbers

9.1.2.2. Method of Calibration

The absorption of the various Ophir thermal absorbers

can vary from disc to disc. Therefore, all Ophir absorbers
are individually calibrated against NIST traceable
standards.

9.1.2.3. Total Accuracy of Calibration

A detailed discussion of Ophir calibration accuracy is

available on the Ophir website at
http://www.ophiropt.com/laser-measurement-
instruments/laser-power-energy-
meters/tutorial/calibration-procedure

9.1.3. Recalibration from a Known Source of Laser

Power / Energy

1. From the main measurement screen select “Menu”

and select “Calibrate”. Select “Adj:" and select
“Specific: this laser only”.
2. Enter “Laser” and select the proper laser wavelength.
Enter “Average” and enter the desired averaging
period.
3. Apply the known laser power/energy.

94
4. Select “Factor” and enter the “Modify” screen.
Adjust the factor until the power/energy reading on
the screen equals the known power/energy. Press
“Save” and the power/energy calibration factor
under “Updated” will change accordingly. See Note
1.

Note 1:
For units which have different calibration factors, e.g.
CO2, YAG, or VIS, press "Laser" to select correct type
of laser before calibration. When recalibrating using
"Specific: this laser only“ function, only the
calibration of the chosen laser wavelength will
change. If you wish to change the calibration of all
wavelengths proportionately, then use the function
"Overall: all lasers ".

Note 2:
When changing power calibration, this will also
change energy calibration proportionately. However,
changing energy calibration will not change power
calibration.

95
9.2 Calibration of Photodiode type Sensors

Photodiode detectors are inherently very linear but also

have a large variation in sensitivity with wavelength. In
addition, most sensors from the Ophir PD300 series are
equipped with both a built in filter and removable filter to
allow measurement of higher powers without detector
saturation. These filters also have a transmission that
depends on wavelength. Therefore, when the PD300 is
being used with Vega, the Vega has a built in calibration
adjustment for wavelength which is described in the next
paragraph.

9.2.1. Method of Factory Calibration

The sensitivity of various Ophir photodiode sensors can

vary from one to another as well as with wavelengths.
Therefore, Ophir photodiode detectors are individually
calibrated against NIST traceable standards over the
entire operating range of wavelengths for both filter out
and filter in. The calibration curve is normalized to the
correct absolute calibration at 632.8 nm using a HeNe
laser against a reference meter traceable to NIST.

The spectral sensitivity curve of the detector as well as

the spectral transmission curve of the filters is fed into
the sensor EEROM and this information is used to set the
gain to the proper value at wavelengths other than the
wavelength the instrument was calibrated. When the
user selects his wavelength on the Vega, the correction
factor for that wavelength is applied.

9.2.2. Accuracy of Calibration

Since the instruments are calibrated against NIST

standards, the accuracy is generally ±2% at the
wavelength the calibration has been performed. The
maximum error in measurement will be less than the sum
of the calibration accuracy, linearity, inaccuracy due to
errors in the wavelength curve and variations in gain with
temperature. The linearity of the photodiode detector is
extremely high and errors due to this factor can be

96
ignored. The maximum error due to the above factors is
given in Table 3 below.

Wave Length Error, Filter Out*

PD300 PD300- PD300- PD300-UV PD300-IR PD300 -IRG 3A-IS
TP 3W
200 - 270nm ±6%
270 - 360nm - - ±3% -
360 - 400nm ±10% ±7% ±10% ±3% -
400 - 950nm ±3% ±3% ±3% ±3% 5%
950 - 1100nm ±5% ±5% ±5% ±5% ±4% 10%
1100 - 1650nm - - - ±4% ±3%
1650 - 1800nm - - - ±7% ±5%

* Add ±2% to error for filter in (±4% for PD300-UV from 220 to 400nm).

Table 3
Maximum Error as a Function of Wavelength and Filter

Note:
More exact specifications will be found in the latest
Ophir Laser Measurement Instruments Catalog.

9.2.3. Recalibration at a specific wavelength from a

Known Source of Laser Power

1. From the main measurement screen select “Menu”

and enter. Select “Calibrate” and enter.
2. Enter “Laser” and select the proper laser wavelength.
Enter “Average” and enter the desired averaging
period.
3. Apply the known laser power/energy.
4. Select “Factor” and enter the “Modify” screen.
Adjust the factor until the power reading on the
screen equals the known power. Press “Save” and
the power calibration factor under “Updated” will
change accordingly. See Note 1.

Note 1:
The relative readings at different wavelengths are
fixed by the wavelength calibration curve stored in
the sensor EEROM. When changing the calibration at
one wavelength, the calibration at all other
wavelengths will change proportionately.

97
9.3 Calibration of Pyroelectric type Sensors

9.3.1. Two main types of absorber surface are used in

Ophir pyroelectric measuring sensors

1. Metallic Type: The type with no suffix in the name

have a partially reflective multilayer metallic coating
which absorbs approximately 50% and whose
absorption graph is shown in Graph 3 below. The
metallic coating permits very high repetition rates, up
to 25,000Hz as well as relatively high damage
threshold.
2. BF Type: The type with the BF suffix has a broadband
absorbing coating to provide high absorptivity from
the UV through the IR. This coating can withstand
energy densities, up to 0.8J/cm² for short pulses and
2J/cm² for long pulses without changing calibration.
The absorption of this coating is above 90% for most
of its range, as shown in Graph 3 below. This coating
is available for the PE50, PE25, and PE10 sensors. For
even higher damage thresholds, there are the – DIF
diffuser series with a diffuser in front of the absorber.
3. PD10 Series: Unlike the other sensors, the PD10
series sensors have a silicon or germanium
photodiode with a neutral density filter mounted
permanently in front of it. The filter detector
combinations are calibrated over the entire
wavelength range similarly to the PD300 power
sensors and therefore the sensors have a high
accuracy at any wavelength in the range. This is an
exclusive feature with Ophir energy sensors.

98
 Absorption(%) vs. Wavelength (nm)

BB - Broadband

Metallic Coating

Graph 3.
Absorption of Ophir Pyroelectric Absorbers

9.3.2. Calibration

The sensitivity of the various Ophir pyroelectric sensors

can vary from one to another as well as with
wavelengths. Therefore, Ophir pyroelectric detectors are
individually calibrated against NIST traceable standards.
In addition, there is a wavelength sensitivity correction
curve in the Meter.

Ophir pyroelectric detectors are calibrated using a

1064nm repetitively pulsed laser referenced to a NIST
traceable thermal power meter. The average energy is
set to the average power of the standard power meter
divided by the laser frequency.

The spectral absorption of the detector coating is

measured spectroscopically and the absorption curve is
used to correct the calibration for other wavelengths.
When the user selects his wavelength on the Meter, the
correction factor for that wavelength is applied.

The PD10 & PD10-PJ sensors are calibrated in a two step

fashion. First the photodiode detector - filter combination
is calibrated against a NIST traceable master over the

99
wavelength range of the sensor in a similar fashion to the
PD300 sensors. Then the sensor is calibrated at one
wavelength using a 905nm repetitively pulsed laser
referenced to a NIST traceable photodiode meter. The
average energy is set to the average power of the
standard power meter divided by the laser frequency.

9.3.3. Accuracy of Calibration

Since the instruments are calibrated against NIST

standards, the accuracy is generally 3% at the energy
level and wavelength at which the calibration has been
performed. This accuracy has been verified by checking
the scatter of the results when several instruments are
calibrated against the same standard. The maximum
error in measurement will be less than the sum of the
specified accuracy, linearity and inaccuracy due to
errors in the wavelength curve.

The non-linearity is approximately 2%, and the error due

to wavelength is given in Table 3 above.

In addition to the above errors, the reading of

pyroelectric sensors changes with frequency. The
sensor has a built in correction for this error. For
frequencies above 50% of maximum frequency,
inaccuracies in this correction can increase the total
error by up to about 3%.

The maximum error in measurement will be less than the

sum of the above errors and in general will be
considerably less. The exact accuracy of each type of
sensor is specified in the latest edition of the Ophir
catalog. For more details on calibration accuracy, see the
Ophir website at http://www.ophiropt.com/laser-
measurement-instruments/laser-power-energy-
meters/tutorial/calibration-procedure and see the
specification sheet for the specific sensor you are using.

9.3.4. Recalibration from a Known Source of Laser

Energy

100
1. Set the instrument to “Energy”.
2. Set to the proper energy range.
3. (For broadband type sensors only. See note 1). From
the main screen enter “Menu” and select
“Calibrate”. Enter and select “Adj:” Select “Specific:
this laser only” if you only want to change the
calibration of this wavelength or “Overall: all lasers”
if you want to change all wavelengths together
proportionately.
4. Apply the known laser power/energy.
5. Select “Factor” and enter the “Modify” screen.
Adjust the factor until the energy reading on the
screen equals the known energy. Press “Save” and
the energy calibration factor under “Updated” will
change accordingly. See Note 1.

Note 1:
For metallic and PD10 & PD10-PJ type sensors, when
the calibration is changed at one laser wavelength,
the overall calibration of all other wavelengths
changes proportionately.

9.4 Error Messages

The Vega displays various error messages when

operated outside its normal range: If the color scheme
selected is full color, then the error messages will be
colored red.

Over range: When the power or energy being measured

exceeds the range of the measurement scale being used,
the “over” message is displayed, but the reading still
appears on the display. If the power or energy exceeds
the maximum by more than 10%, the reading on the
display is blanked.

Low Battery: When the battery is almost discharged, the

Battery icon will have only 1 segment left. This means the
battery is ¾ empty. At this stage, the Vega should be
connected to the charger. It will operate normally and
charge slowly while connected to the charger.

101
Sat: When the photodiode current exceeds 1mA, and the
detector starts to saturate, or the pyroelectric voltage
exceeds the maximum, the message "sat” (=saturated) is
displayed.

9.5 Troubleshooting

9.5.1. Vega Meter

Problem Cause/Remedy
Instrument will not operate after Check that charger provides
being completely discharged 200mA.
and connected to charger.
Instrument operates with Battery is low. Recharge
charger but not with battery overnight with the Vega turned
alone. off for 7-8 hours. If the Vega still
doesn't work with battery, then
the NiMH battery is probably
dead. Replace battery (see
section 9.6.1.4).

9.5.2. Thermal Sensors, Energy Measurements

Problem Cause/Remedy
Instrument triggers on Increase threshold level; See
background noise or Section 4.5.3
sometimes fails to catch large
pulse.
Instrument does not show Increase threshold level; See
ready for a long while after a Section 4.5.3
reading is made.
Non-reproducible results when Decrease threshold level: See
measuring very small energy Section 4.5.3
pulses; or no response to
pulses at low energy.

102
9.5.3. Thermal Sensors, Power

Problem Cause/Remedy
Instrument shows zero Check connections between the sensor
reading in both power and the instrument. (See section
and energy modes. 9.6.1.1). Check that the sensor disc is
operative. Resistance between the
pins 1 and 9 of the sensor connector
should be about 11k. If the sensor is
defective, there will be an open or
short circuit.
Instrument responds Replace sensor disc. See Section-
while sensor is cold, 9.6.1.2
but suddenly fails as it
heats up.
Instrument does not If sensor is very hot, allow it to cool.
return completely to Disconnect the sensor from the
zero on power instrument. If readout unit does not
measurement. zero, follow instructions in section
3.5.5. If the offset persists, try zeroing
with the sensor connected as well, as
described in the same section.

9.5.4. Pyroelectric Sensors

Problem Cause/Remedy
Instrument reads Possible electromagnetic
incorrectly or erratically, interference from pulsing laser is
especially on sensitive causing misreading and/or false
scale. triggering
Instrument triggers even Check the following:
without being exposed to Sensor is mounted to stand using
laser pulses. insulated plastic rod provided with
instrument, and not metal rod.
Instrument shows 1. Try keeping cable away from
frequency which is too bench.
high 2. Move sensor/display further away
from EMI.

103
9.6 Maintenance

9.6.1. Battery Replacement

If the Vega battery is defective and does not hold a

charge, a replacement can be ordered from your agent
(Ophir part number 7E14007). The new battery is installed
as follows:

1. Ensure the Vega is switched OFF. Turn the Vega meter

upside down and unscrew the 4 Phillips screws on
the bottom panel of the Vega.
2. Remove the bottom panel and disconnect the battery
connector (red and black leads) from the circuit, by
holding the two wires firmly and tugging them firmly in
a direction away from the circuit board.
3. Insert the new battery into the same location in place
of the old battery. Reconnect the battery connector
into its terminal on the circuit board. The RED and
BLK (black) symbols on the circuit board indicate the
correct direction to insert the connector into its
terminal. It can only be inserted in one direction.
4. Replace the bottom panel of the Vega and close the 4
screws.
5. Switch on the Vega with NO SENSOR DETECTOR
attached and set the date and time of the instrument
correctly. (See section 3.5.4)

104
 Chapter 10.
Vega Specifications

10.1 System/Meter Specifications

Input Specifications
Thermal, Photodiode
Input Ranges 15nA - 1.5mA full scale in 16 ranges
A to D Sampling rate 15Hz
A to D resolution and linearity Resolution: 23 bits plus sign. (0.00001%);
Linearity: better than 17 bits (0.0009%)
Electrical accuracy ±0.25% ± 20pA new; ±0.5% ±50pA after 1 year
Electrical input noise level 500nV or 1.5pA + 0.0015% of input range @3Hz.
Dynamic range 9
9 decades (1:10 )
Input Specifications
Pyroelectric Sensors
Input Range 0 - 6V full scale
A to D Sampling rate 4KHz
A to D resolution 12 bits no sign (0.025% resolution)
Electrical accuracy ±0.25% new; ±0.5% after 1 year
Electrical input noise 2mV
General Specifications
Detector Compatibility Thermopile, photodiode and pyroelectric
Analog output 4 scales, user-configurable: 1v, 2v, 5v, 10v full-scale;
0.03% resolution. 100 ohms impedance
Analog output accuracy ±0.2% (of reading) ±0.3% of full scale volts
Dimensions 110W x 40D x 210H
Mass 450g
Display 320x240 pixel Color TFT LCD; Active area 70x52mm approx
Display digit height 17mm
LCD and Keypad lighting LED’s. Operates from charger or battery
Bargraph segments 320
Battery 3 x AA size. 2.4Ah NiMH battery built in.
Charger input DC: 12 -25V, 5W; AC: 9 - 18V RMS, 5W.
Charge time 7-8 hours; automatically switches to trickle
charge when battery is full
Operation between charges With low backlight and keypad unlit: 16 Hrs, thermal and
photodiode, 11 Hrs, pyroelectric sensors;
With high backlight: and keypad lit: 11/8 Hrs respectively
Data Logging and Com.
Power Measurement RS232 USB
Power log period 20 sec to 600 hours for both
Max points stored onboard per file (1)
27,000 27,000
Max points direct to PC file in real unlimited unlimited
time
Energy measurement RS232 USB
Max real time data logging rate (2)
>30Hz >2000Hz
Max onboard data logging rate (2)
4000Hz 4000Hz

Data transfer of log file from ~500 points/s ~500 points/s

instrument to PC
Max points stored onboard 250,000 250,000
General Maximum communication rate 38400 baud (RS232)
Memory data storage 10 data files of an average of 25,000 points each.
Data is not lost when instrument is turned off.

Table 4.
Specifications of System/Meter

(1): Can store up to 10 files for a total of 250,000 points.

(2): The above refers to the rate for logging every single point in turbo
mode. Above that rate the instrument will sample points but not log every
single point.

105
10.2 Sensor Specifications

Sensor Max Max Avg. Absorber

Power Power Type
(WATTS) Density at
Max Power
PD300/UV/IR 300mW 50W/cm² PD
PD300-3W 3W 100W/cm² PD
3A-IS 3W 200W/cm² Int Sph PD
3A 3W 1000W/cm² BB
3A-P 3W 50W/cm² P
3A-FS 3W 200W/cm² FS
10A 10W 28KW/cm² BB
12A 12W 25KW/cm² BB
12A-P 12W 50W/cm² P
20C-SH 4(20)W 23KW/cm² BB
30A-BB-18 30W 20KW/cm² BB
30A-P-17 30W 50W/cm² P
L30A-10MM 30W 20KW/cm² BB
50A-PF-DIF-18 50W 0.5KW/cm² PF-DIF
30(150)A-BB-18 30(150)W 12KW/cm² BB
30(150)A-HE-17 30(150)W 500W/cm² HE
50(150)A-BB-26 50(150)W 12KW/cm² BB
L50(150)A-BB-35 50(150)W 12KW/cm² BB
L50(150)A-LP1-35 50(150)W 38KW/cm² LP1
L50(150)A-EX-35 50(150)W 2KW/cm² EX
L40(150)A 35(150)W 12KW/cm² BB
L40(150)A-LP1 35(150)W 38KW/cm² LP1
F150A-BB-26 150W 12KW/cm² BB
FL250A-BB-35 250W 10KW/cm² BB
L250W 250W 10KW/cm² BB
FL400A-BB-50 400W 8KW/cm² BB
FL500A 500W 7KW/cm² BB
1000W/1000W-LP 1000W 6/7KW/cm² BB/LP
L1500W/L1500W-LP 1500W 5/6KW/cm² BB/LP
5000W/5000W-LP 5000W 3/4KW/cm² BB/LP
10K-W 10000W 10KW/cm² BB
PD10 50mW 50W/cm² PD
PE9 2W 30W/cm² PE
PE10-BF-C 3W 50W/cm² PE-BF
PE25-C 25W 20W/cm² PE
PE25BF-C 25W 20W/cm² PE-BF
PE25BF-DIF-C 30W 120W/cm² PE-BF-DIF
PE50-C 25W 20W/cm² PE
PE50-DIF-C 30W 100W/cm² PE-DIF
PE50BF-C 25W 20W/cm² PE-BF
PE50BF-DIF-C 30W 200W/cm² PE-BF-DIF
PE100BF-DIF 40W 500W/cm² PE-BF-DIF

Table 5.
Max Power Specifications of Sensors

106
PD - Photodiode
P - P type volume absorber for short pulse lasers
PF - volume absorber for short pulses and high average powers
HE/HE1- volume absorber for high energy pulses
EX - Excimer type, volume absorber
PE - pyroelectric metallic or black absorber
BB - broadband surface absorber, high power density
LP1 - broadband surface absorber for highest power density
BF - very high damage threshold, long pulses
FS - Fused silica window close to detector for divergent beams

Note:
For more detailed and exact specifications, see the
latest Ophir Laser Measurement Instruments Catalog.

Absorber Max Energy Density J/cm²

Type Pulse Length
10ns 1µs 300µs
P 10 10 10
HE/HE1 3 5 15
BB 0.3 0.5 3
LP1 0.09 0.5 10
EX 0.8 0.9 7
PE, Metallic 0.2 0.5 4
PE, BB 0.5 0.5 1
PE-DIF 1 2 20
PE BB-DIF 3 3 10
Table 6.
Maximum Energy Densities for Various Absorbers
(Single pulse).

Graph 4.
Pulsed Laser Damage Threshold for Thermal Sensors

107
108