LightSmyth is proud to introduce monolithic, single-substrate, silicon grating arrays (Figure 1) that uniquely provide continuous high-resolution access to optical bandwidths beyond that achievable with a single grating. No moving parts are required. LightSmyth’s monolithic grating arrays are consistent with single-shot data acquisition for many broadband applications (e.g. laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy and can help reduce system component numbers dramatically). Each array consists of multiple primary gratings all formed coherently on a single substrate. The primary gratings have contiguous, slightly overlapping active spectral ranges. Additionally, auxiliary gratings at the top and bottom of the substrate produce optical outputs used for the straightforward calibration of the output field using a single reference wavelength such as a HeNe laser.

Calibration/Alignment Features 校准对齐功能

The six small gratings at the top and bottom of the array (reference Figure 1) provide markers for calibrating the spectral output as well as assisting in system alignment. The calibration marks, here for HeNe illumination, are shown schematically in Figure 4. The calibration marks provide two principal functions:

1. They indicate the beginning and end points of the calibrated portion of the primary grating output. They thus allow the user to calibrate the wavelength as a function of position along each of the primary gratings dispersion lines.  Note that the wavelength range denoted by the calibration spots is independent of the grating input angle, making the LightSmyth grating array extraordinarily versatile with respect to possible device layouts.
2. The auxiliary gratings aid in system alignment. When the detector surface is properly positioned in the focal plane of the post-array focusing mirror, the two pairs of alignment marks are designed to coincide, indicating proper far-field operation. The two center marks enable correct horizontal alignment of array and detector surface. 

Monolithic Silicon Grating Array单片硅阵列光栅

Silicon substrate has a thickness of 0.73mm. Substrate height and width tolerances are 0.3 mm. Grating substrate: single crystal silicon. Grating coating: aluminum (other coating types are available at additional charge).

More technical details regarding the monolithic grating array can be found in Application Note: Monolithic Silicon Grating Arrays.