The TLS260B-300X series is capable of outputting white light or monochromatic light from 250-1800 nm. Photodetectors with NIST traceable calibrations (sold separately) are used to measure the output power from 300-1650 nm from each unit manufactured. The TLS260B-250Q series is capable of outputting light from 350-1800 nm with spectral output power measured from 350-1650nm. The results are part of the characterization report packaged with each system. These are ideal for researchers or other end users who need a versatile light source that is ready to use out of the box.

The TLS260B-250Q Tunable Light Source models use the 6334NS 250 W Quartz Tungsten Halogen (QTH) Lamp. The spectrum of a QTH lamp is typically smooth throughout the visible and NIR wavelength ranges, with minimal UV emission. Compared to Xenon arc lamps, QTH lamps have better output stability, do not output intense spectral emission lines, and do not produce toxic ozone. The 60043 socket adapter required to use the 6334NS in the Research Lamp Housing of the TLS is included with the system.

The TLS system comes mounted as a single unit to a mounting plate. Optics are pre-aligned. All the necessary interconnection cables are included and all of the hardware is mounted securely to the TLS baseplate.

The TLS260B includes the latest, most advanced version of Oriel’s TracQ Basic Instrument Control and Data Acquisition software. Using the 1/4 m Cornerstone 260B Monochromator's USB or RS232 port, TracQ switches the filter wheel position to the correct order sorting filter and the monochromator to the proper grating and position based on the TLS output wavelength chosen by the operator. When used with a compatible Newport Power Meter and Detector, TracQ is a complete radiometry system control software, capable of displaying real time data acquisition. No prior knowledge of software programming is necessary to install or operate TracQ. Some of the scans made possible with the TLS by TracQ include:

• Time Interval
• Lamp Radiometry
• Optical Power
• Absorbance
• Transmittance

TracQ Basic is compatible with Windows (32-bit or 64-bit) operating systems.

The included OPS power supply allows for simple ignition and operation of the lamp integrated into the TLS. This power supply features a large LCD display for easy setup and monitoring of lamp operation. Constant Power and Constant Current operation modes are possible through the OPS. 

When wavelength scanning over a wide spectral band, it is important to use order sorting filters in order to prevent higher order wavelength emission. This ensures true monochromatic light is output by the TLS and detected by the photodetector. The TLS incorporates a Motorized Filter Wheel. This filter wheel utilizes four 1.0 inch (25.4 mm) diameter order sorting filters to minimize second and higher orders of wavelengths from entering the monochromator and being falsely detected as signal light by the photodetector.

The Cornerstone 260B Monochromator integrated into the TLS offers faster scan speeds and the option of external PC control. Both USB 2.0 and RS232 ports have been built-in for ease of communication and both cables are provided with each unit. Simply choose the preferred method of communication and connect the cable to a PC.

Due to the increased optical path length monochromator design, the TLS260B series offers a higher output power compared to the TLS130B series alternatives, when both systems are set to the same wavelength resolution. A comparison power spectrum is shown here between the two models, with the QTH lamp configuration.

To further increase the light source's flexibility, a dual output port option is available for a separate, persistent experimental set up.  This option saves valuable time and reduces uncertainties during repeat measurements.  Pictured here is an integrating sphere with a calibrated detector (both sold separately) connected to the second output port.

The TLS260B system uses fixed slits which offer the highest repeatability and accuracy. We include 600 µm and 1240 µm slits standard in each system. Other slit sizes are available here. Choose the optional 50 µm 77219 slit for 0.5 nm resolution. Determining which slit width to use is based on the tradeoff between light throughput and the resolution required for measurement. A larger slit width allows for more light throughput. However, more light throughput results in poorer resolution. When choosing a slit width to operate the monochromator, both the input and output ports must be set to the same slit width.

The LT10-UADPT at the primary output of the TLS260B is the standard 1.5 inch flange designed to be compatible with Oriel Detectors and Detection Systems. This flange can be removed to change the size of the output flange to 1.0 inch, making the TLS compatible with Newport's 1.0 inch diameter accessories, such as the Lens Tubes shown here.  These universal flanges provide access to the wide range of accessories and complimentary optics within the Newport catalog.

For those who are not able to use a PC-based control scheme, such as in locations where security is pivotal (i.e. defense facilities, universities, government labs), Newport offers a for an intuitive way to manipulate the light output.  Simply plug the hand controller into the remote port on the CS260B monochromator, and a variety of parameters can be quickly adjusted, such as order sorting filters, shutter control, tuned wavelength, and output port selection.

The TLS260B system includes a manual iris, adjustable from 1-25 mm diameter, in the primary light output path. This iris is a convenient method for preventing detector saturation. By reducing the size of the output aperture to reduce output light intensity, a neutral density filter and mechanical coupling are not necessary.

Each TLS260B unit sold is tested prior to shipping to confirm that the unit meets factory standards. The customer receives this test report with the TLS unit for future reference. The final test data included with each unit includes:

• Spectral Output Irradiance with both 600 µm and 1240 µm slits installed from 300 to 1650 nm for Xe source or 350 to 1650 nm for QTH source
• Beam Spot Size and Beam Divergence Angle measured with both 600 µm and 1240 µm slits installed
• Temporal Stability measured over 1 minute and 10 minute operating periods
• Beam Uniformity measured with both 600 µm and 1240 µm slits installed at 450, 550, and 650 nm output
• Wavelength Accuracy measured with the TLS output set to 450, 500, 650, 750, 850, and 1064 nm

The TLS260B-300X Tunable Light Source models use the 6258 300 W Ozone Free Xe Arc Lamp. The spectrum of a xenon arc lamp is typically smooth throughout the ultraviolet and visible wavelength ranges, with sharp emission lines between 750-1000 nm. Their sun-like emission spectrum and high UV output intensity makes them a good choice for solar simulation. Compared to QTH lamps, Xenon arc lamps have higher monochromator throughput and a smaller divergence angle. Ultraviolet light below 242 nm produces toxic ozone. The Xe arc lamp used in our TLS is ozone free, making it suitable for applications that do not require wavelength emission below 260 nm. The 66160 socket adapter required to use the 6258 in the Research Lamp Housing of the TLS is included with the system.

Arc lamps may emit dangerous levels of UV radiation depending on their source type. Ensure that only authorized personnel are in the vicinity of the source, and wearing the necessary safety equipment such as UV protective eyewear, clothing, and gloves. Lighted UV warning signs, posted outside laboratory doors where UV sources are operating, can prevent accidental exposure. Newport also recommends using an electronic shutter to block the beam when the source is not in use but remains turned on. Alternatively, the beam can be safely contained by using beam tubes or fiber optic cables to deliver the light to a sample. It is recommended to vent the ozone that is produced by some lamp models to the outside or use the