Quasar^® Hybrid Fiber Lasers

Spectra-Physics’ Quasar^® is a breakthrough new hybrid fiber laser delivering industry-leading high power UV and green at high repetition rates. Quasar features novel TimeShift™ technology for programmable pulse profiles for the ultimate in process speed, flexibility, and control.

Breakthrough Technology

Quasar combines advanced fiber laser, power amplifier and patented harmonics technologies to achieve breakthrough results. This unique design exploits fiber laser flexibility and robustness to enable TimeShift technology. Adding Spectra-Physics’ exclusive power amplifier, Quasar enhances this flexibility at unprecedented high output power levels. Finally, with Spectra-Physics’ patented harmonics, known for exceptional stability, Quasar is an innovative synergy of power, flexibility and control in a reliable 24/7 OEM laser for the most demanding applications.

Breakthrough Performance

Quasar 355-45 produces >45 W (225 µJ) of UV and Quasar 532-75 produces >75 W (375 µJ) of green output power at >200 kHz pulse repetition frequency (PRF). Both models operate over a wide rep rate range, from 0–1 MHz for ultra-high speed micromachining and output excellent beam characteristics (M² <1.3) with low noise. With TimeShift technology, pulse widths can be varied at constant PRF or conversely, PRF can be varied at constant pulse width.

Quasar is designed, built, and tested to stringent quality standards for reliable continuous operation in demanding 24/7 manufacturing environments. The built-in ALPS (Active Laser Purification System) helps sustain that performance for long life. And finally, Quasar lasers’ automatic data logging software monitors all key laser performance parameters over the life of the laser, providing a powerful service feature and product reliability tool.

* Patent pending

TimeShift™ Technology

Quasar is the first laser of this class to offer TimeShift technology, which enables pulse energy programmability in the time domain. By controlling the laser pulse (width and shape) in time and repetition rate, material removal and/or modification in micromachining becomes more efficient, thereby increasing process speed and quality. Utilizing TimeShift in conjunction with high UV or green power at a higher repetition rate means Quasar can process more materials faster, and with greater quality. TimeShift enables pulse width variation, as well as pulse splitting and burst mode operation. Pulse widths from <5 ns to >100 ns can be created at a constant PRF or conversely, maintain constant pulse width with varying repetition rate from 0 to 1 MHz.

TimeShift Technology Flexibility and Benefits

TimeShift Constant Pulse Width vs PRF

Unlike conventional Q-switched lasers, Quasar’s TimeShift technology can maintain constant pulse width over a wide range of PRF. Constant pulse width means the peak power remains more constant allowing for more consistent process results at higher speeds.

Pulse Width vs Repetition Rate¹

Actual Pulse Traces of Constant Pulse Widths vs PRF¹

10 ns at 200 kHz1, 2	10 ns at 300 kHz1, 2	10 ns at 500 kHz1, 2

TimeShift Variable Pulse Width and Pulse Shaping

Varying the pulse width for a given PRF can be used to optimize the material interaction. By changing the energy and intensity within a pulse (pulse shaping), the heating or cooling of the material is further optimized.

30 ns at 200 kHz1, 2	50 ns at 200 kHz1, 2	100 ns at 200 kHz1, 2
10 ns, 2:1 height ratio1, 2	10 ns, 1:2 height ratio1, 2

TimeShift Pulse Splitting and Burst Mode

By splitting the pulses at a given PRF, the material is allowed to dissipate the heat or plasma such that more efficient material removal is possible. By altering the number, spacing, and relativity intensity of pulses within the burst, the spatial-temporal thermal profile in the work piece can be precisely tailored, increasing process speed and/or quality.

6 x 10 ns sub-pulses1, 2		10 x 5 ns sub-pulses (Burst Mode)1, 2

Specifications^{1, 2}

1. 1. Due to our continuous product improvement program, specifications may change without notice.
2. 2. All test specs are at 10 ns at 300 kHz with diode current set to achieve 42 W 355 nm. For 75 W 532 nm, all test specs are at 10 ns at 200 kHz.
3. 3. Applies at 10 ns over the repetition rate range of 250 kHz to 400 kHz, using the appropriate TimeShift setup at the same input current set to achieve 42 W 355 nm at 300 kHz. Applies at 10 ns at 200 kHz for 75 W 532 nm version.
4. 4. The nominal pulse width is 10 ns. Alternative/programmable pulse widths using TimeShift will change power and beam parameter performance. Contact Spectra-Physics for more information.
5. 5. Dimensions noted do not include the standard removable lifting hoist exoskeleton or the optional removable lift handles.

Quasar Laser Head Dimensions

Quasar Power Supply Dimensions

Application Notes

• Glass Cutting and Silicon Scribing with Quasar - App Focus 013 (1.6 MB)

Data Sheets

• Quasar Data Sheet (1.6 MB)