Multiple-Order Quartz Wave Plates

Our multiple-order wave plates are crystal quartz optics designed to differentially retard the phase of a polarized beam. With the proper phase shift, the half waveplate can rotate the direction of polarization, and the quarter waveplate can be used to convert linear polarized light into circular polarized light. For half waveplates, the amount of polarization rotation is twice the amount of waveplate rotation. We offer dual wavelength multiple-order wave plates in addition to our standard single wavelength versions. Either λ/4 (90°) or λ/2 (180°) retardation is offered at popular laser wavelengths from 248–1550 nm. All wave plates are antireflection coated to maximize transmission at the design wavelength.

When using multiple-order wave plates, several items should be considered. A wave plate of practical thickness produces a multiple of λ/4 or λ/2 retardation (i.e. 15 1/2 λ for ≈ 1 mm thickness). Higher orders cause retardation to vary dramatically with wavelength. Wave plates are sensitive to temperature changes. A typical multiple-order wave plate has a temperature coefficient of 0.0015λ/°C, compared to 0.0001λ/°C for a zero-order wave plate, so tighter temperature control will be required.

Precise adjustment of retardation is possible by tilting the wave plate. Tilting about the slow axis increases retardation, while tilting about the fast axis reduces retardation.

For a tutorial on wave plates, see Polarization.

Specifications

Ordering Information

To order, substitute the desired wavelength code from the tables below for "λ" in the part number. For example, model 05RP22-02 is a 12.7-mm diameter, λ/2 retardation, 488-nm and 632.8-nm dual wavelength wave plate.

Single Wavelength/ Dual Wavelength

Newport Resource e-Catalogs *

• Newport Resource e-Catalog, page 766 (English)
• Newport Resource e-Catalog, page 766 (French)
• Newport Resource e-Catalog, page 766 (German)