THORLABS VEG110 User Manual
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THORLABS VEG110 User Manual

THORLABS VEG110 User Manual

Swept source oct base unit
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SS-OCT Base Unit
Swept Source OCT Systems:
VEGA series
User Manual

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Summary of Contents for THORLABS VEG110

  • Page 1 SS-OCT Base Unit Swept Source OCT Systems: VEGA series User Manual...
  • Page 2 Original User Manual – not translated...

  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    Description ......................15 Chapter 3 3.1. Tutorial ........................ 15 Theory ........................16 Thorlabs SS-OCT System Technology ..............17 Nomenclature in OCT imaging .................. 19 3.2. SS-OCT Base Unit Components ................ 21 Base Unit ........................21 PC with Graphical User Interface ................21 SDK ...........................
  • Page 4 8.3. Warranty Exclusions ..................51 Specifications ......................52 Chapter 9 Mechanical Drawings ..................... 53 Chapter 10 Regulatory ....................... 54 Chapter 11 11.1. Waste Treatment is Your Own Responsibility ..........54 11.2. Ecological Background ..................54 Chapter 12 Thorlabs Worldwide Contacts ................55...

  • Page 5: Chapter 1 Introduction

    Opening the device will void your warranty. Any modification or servicing of this system by unqualified personnel renders Thorlabs free of any liability. This device can only be returned when packed into the complete original packaging, including all foam packing inserts.

  • Page 6: Safety

    Make sure that the line voltage rating agrees with your local supply and that the appropriate fuses are installed. Fuses should only be changed by qualified service personnel. Contact Thorlabs for assistance. Do not operate without cover installed. Refer servicing to qualified personnel.

  • Page 7: Care And Maintenance

    If the system is mishandled during shipment, the optical components may become misaligned, which could lead to a decrease in image quality. If this occurs, the system will need to be realigned by qualified personnel. Please contact Thorlabs technical support for more information. ...

  • Page 8: Optical Cleaning

    Good performance and image quality of the OCT imaging system relies on clean optical connections. Whenever using the Thorlabs OCT system, the following guidelines for optical fiber connection should be followed: 1) Always make sure that the light source is switched off when you clean the fiber.

  • Page 9: Service

    Thorlabs provides. Any modification or maintenance by unqualified personnel will render the warranty null and void, leaving Thorlabs free of liability. Please contact Thorlabs technical support for questions on customization.

  • Page 10: Chapter 2 Setup

    SD-OCT Base Unit Chapter 2: Setup Setup Chapter 2 2.1. Unpacking Carefully unpack the components from the transport boxes. Make sure that all components are delivered according to the packing list included in the transport box. After unpacking, store the packing cartons and inserts.

  • Page 11: Internal Electrical Connections

    Electrical Interfaces to Probe For the connection to a scanner application there are two different interfaces available:  The probe connection port is intended to be used together with dedicated Thorlabs imaging scanners OCTG and OCTP.  The auxiliary connection port is intended to be used together with dedicated Thorlabs imaging scanner OCTH and furthermore allows the use of a custom scanner.

  • Page 12: System Installation

    SD-OCT Base Unit Chapter 2: Setup 2.4. System Installation ATTENTION Make sure the included power cords for the base unit, computer and monitor are connected to a properly grounded outlet (100 – 240 VAC; 50 – 60 Hz). Transportation and delivery may cause the SD-OCT system to be warm or cool upon receipt. Please wait for the system to reach room temperature before attempting to operate.
  • Page 13 SD-OCT Base Unit Chapter 2: Setup 7) Attach the electric connection cable to the imaging scanner.  Align the red dot of the plug to the alignment mark of the electric connection port of the scanner (e.g.: OCTG). Figure 7 Plugging the Electric Connector into the Scanner ...
  • Page 14 SD-OCT Base Unit Chapter 2: Setup 8) Fiber connection to the imaging scanner ATTENTION When installing the fiber, make sure that the fiber tip does not get contaminated by dust. Do not touch the fiber tip! Remove the dust caps from one fiber end and from the FC/APC fiber connection at the imaging scanner.
  • Page 15 SD-OCT Base Unit Chapter 2: Setup 9) Attach the electric connection cable to the base unit Align the red dot upwards, facing the alignment mark in the base unit. Figure 10 Installing the Electric Connection Cable at the Base Unit Push the connector into the plug until a “click”...
  • Page 16 SD-OCT Base Unit Chapter 2: Setup 11) USB, Signal and Trigger connections at the Imaging Module (see Figure 12):  Attach the SMA cable labeled “OCT SIGNAL” to the respective SMA port at the Imaging Module and make sure the connection is tight. ...
  • Page 17 SD-OCT Base Unit Chapter 2: Setup 13) Connections at the DAQ cards (see Figure 14):  Identify both the Alazar ATS9350 DAQ card and the NI PCIe-6351 DAQ card at the back of the PC (see Figure 14).  Connect the VHDCI cable to the NI PCIe-6351 DAQ card. Make sure both fastening screws which are attached to the connector are bolted tightly.
  • Page 18 SD-OCT Base Unit Chapter 2: Setup 14) Fiber connection between the Laser and Imaging Module: Connect one end of the 1m long fiber to the Laser Module at the fiber port labeled “LASER APERTURE” and the other end to the Imaging Module at the fiber port labeled “LASER IN” as indicated in Figure 15.

  • Page 19: Chapter 3 Description

    SD-OCT Base Unit Chapter 3: Description Description Chapter 3 3.1. Tutorial Fourier Domain Optical Coherence Tomography (FD-OCT) is based on low-coherence interferometry, which utilizes the coherent properties of a light source to measure optical path length delays in a sample. To obtain cross-sectional images with micron-level resolution using OCT, an interferometer is set up to measure optical path length differences between light reflected from the sample and reference arms.

  • Page 20: Theory

    SD-OCT Base Unit Chapter 3: Description Theory The interference equation for the cross correlated interference term is �� ~2 ∙ √ �� ∙ �� ∙ cos⁡ ( Δ��) ������������������������ ������������ ������������������ With the phase difference Δ�� being a function of the optical path length difference and the wavenumber Δ��...

  • Page 21: Thorlabs Ss-Oct System Technology

    The VEG110 Swept Source OCT Base Unit combined with a Thorlabs Scanner provides simultaneous multiple imaging channels for microscopic viewing of the sample. The en-face images, similar to those obtained from a conventional microscope, can be acquired from the video camera channel while the cross-sectional images that show the sample's internal structure are acquired from the OCT channel.
  • Page 22 SD-OCT Base Unit Chapter 3: Description Figure 18 Schematic Diagram of a SS-OCT System Page 18 MTN008437-D02...

  • Page 23: Nomenclature In Oct Imaging

    SD-OCT Base Unit Chapter 3: Description Nomenclature in OCT imaging Figure 19 A-Scan Data Set As described before, the FD-OCT engine creates a depth profile from the interference of photons sent into the sample and received back with photons reflected in the reference arm. This depth profile is referred to as A- scan.
  • Page 24 SD-OCT Base Unit Chapter 3: Description When scanning both galvanometer mirrors, a volume can be acquired. This can be imaged by movable sections through the volume or by 3D rendering. Please refer to the SD-OCT Software Manual for all features available. Figure 21 Rendered Volumetric Data Set Figure 22...

  • Page 25: Ss-Oct Base Unit Components

    A scanner as well as the OCT-Stand are not included in the base unit and must be ordered separately. When ordered together with a scanner, the System will be pre-assembled at Thorlabs and the PC settings will already be calibrated and optimized for the usage of the delivered OCT-scanner.
  • Page 26 Hardware control through the SDK ranges from low level functions such as setting the galvo scanners to a desired position, to very powerful functions such as initiating full 3D measurements. The programmer can: • define either a standard scanner provided by Thorlabs or create a software representation of a custom- built device. •...

  • Page 27: Imaging Scanner (Accessory)

    Chapter 3: Description Imaging Scanner (Accessory) Thorlabs SS-OCT systems use a dual path OCT setup in which the interferometer and the reference path are located in the Imaging Module. The imaging scanners presented below are “no-reference” (NR) versions. Various Lens Kits are available for these scanners.
  • Page 28 SD-OCT Base Unit Chapter 3: Description Figure 26 OCTH-NR Handheld Scanner Page 24 MTN008437-D02...

  • Page 29: Oct-Stand (Accessory)

    SD-OCT Base Unit Chapter 3: Description OCT-Stand (Accessory) The Thorlab´s OCTG and OCTP scanners could be adapted to an OCT-STAND. For this OCT-STAND the rotation- and translation stage OCT-XYR1 is available. Figure 27 OCT-STAND with OCT-XYR1 Figure 28 OCT-STAND Adjuster Rev A, March 3, 2017 Page 25...
  • Page 30 SD-OCT Base Unit Chapter 3: Description Figure 29 OCT-XYR1 Sample Rotation Stage For further details on the OCT-STAND and the OCT-XYR1 please refer to their manual. Page 26 MTN008437-D02...

  • Page 31: Chapter 4 System Operation

    SD-OCT Base Unit Chapter 4: System Operation System Operation Chapter 4 4.1. Starting the System Follow the steps described in the next three subchapters for proper initialization of the system. Your PC system should already be running. Turning ON the Imaging Module Start the imaging module by placing the POWER switch to the “|”...

  • Page 32: Starting The Software

    3) Press the LASER ENABLE button. The LASER ON indicator will blink for about 15 seconds and then become steady and illuminated as shown in Figure 33. If the blinking time of the LASER ON indicator is longer than 25 seconds, please turn off the laser and call your local Thorlabs Technical Support for assistance.

  • Page 33: Adjusting The Reference Length

    SD-OCT Base Unit Chapter 4: System Operation Adjusting the Reference Length The VEGA Swept Source OCT System is preset so that the “zero-delay” line is set to a depth position of 0 mm, meaning that when the surface of the sample under test is placed in the focus of the objective in use, it will be shown at 0 mm.

  • Page 34: Adjusting The Polarization

    SD-OCT Base Unit Chapter 4: System Operation Figure 36 B-Scan of a Fingertip Out of Focus and In Focus In Figure 36 two images of a fingertip are shown, the left is out of focus and the right is in focus. The focus can usually be identified by one of more of the following features: ...

  • Page 35: Advanced Adjustments

    OCT B-Scans of scattering particles taken with LSM02, LSM03, and LSM Thorlabs offers three objective lenses for different purposes. Figure 39 shows the difference in lateral resolution and depth of focus for the LSM02 (high resolution imaging), LSM03 (general purpose), and LSM04 (high depth of focus).

  • Page 36: Imaging Through Refractive Media

    Thorlabs offers a special reference arm adapter to further increase the reference arm length, please contact Thorlabs for more information.

  • Page 37: Reflecting Surfaces And Interfaces

    (e.g. a glass slide) to reduce scattering. Thorlabs offers sample z-spacers that provide a glass plate at a fixed distance to reduce scattering effects and to keep the sample in focus, please contact Thorlabs for more information.

  • Page 38: Example Images

    SD-OCT Base Unit Chapter 4: System Operation 4.5. Example Images Spectral Domain OCT can be used for a wide range of real-time monitoring applications in biological and clinical fields as well as in manufacturing and materials science. This technology is ideal for in-line industrial imaging applications ranging from laminated packaging films to 3D visualization of mechanical parts.
  • Page 39 SD-OCT Base Unit Chapter 4: System Operation Material Imaging SS-OCT can also be used for non-biological material science applications. SS-OCT is ideal for monitoring surface topography and layered structures. Figure 44 B-Scan of a Semi-Transparent Molded Plastic Cap Figure 45 B-Scan of a Laminated IR Card Biological Imaging Figure 46...

  • Page 40: Chapter 5 Imaging Artifacts

    SD-OCT Base Unit Chapter 5: Imaging Artifacts Imaging Artifacts Chapter 5 5.1. Saturation and Non-Linearity The OCT A-scan data is created by frequency analysis of the spectral data generated by the spectrometer. Intense reflection from the sample can saturate the sensor of the spectrometer or illuminate very close to saturation.

  • Page 41: Multiple Scattering

    SD-OCT Base Unit Chapter 5: Imaging Artifacts Figure 48 Avoiding Strong Surface Reflection by Use of an Immersed Wedge When operating with a wedge, the image will be tilted in the direction of the wedge angle. When scanning in the orthogonal direction, no tilt occurs. 5.2.
  • Page 42 SD-OCT Base Unit Chapter 5: Imaging Artifacts Figure 50 OCT Image Showing Multiple Scattering In the OCT image (see Figure 50), one can clearly see that the paper appears to be very thick. This apparent thickness is induced by the relatively long travel of photons that are scattered multiple times before finding their way back into the detecting aperture.

  • Page 43: Phase Wrapping And Fringe Washout

    SD-OCT Base Unit Chapter 5: Imaging Artifacts 5.3. Phase Wrapping and Fringe Washout The A-scan data created by the SD-OCT system is produced from spectral information of an optical interference. Depending on the system setting, a certain integration time is applied for acquisition of each A- scan.

  • Page 44: Flipped Image

    SD-OCT Base Unit Chapter 5: Imaging Artifacts 5.4. Flipped Image Without the introduction of additional techniques not provided by the standard SD-OCT system, there is no distinguishing between photons that traveled a distance d shorter or longer from the beam splitter to the sample compared to the reference arm length.

  • Page 45: Shadowing

    SD-OCT Base Unit Chapter 5: Imaging Artifacts 5.5. Shadowing Since the SS-OCT imaging uses light for detection of depth information, one can only see information from regions in the sample, where photons are transmitted to and allowed back into the sampling aperture. Reflections, strong scattering and absorption lead to shadows in the depth distribution of the data acquired.

  • Page 46: Image Distortion By Refractive Media

    SD-OCT Base Unit Chapter 5: Imaging Artifacts 5.6. Image Distortion by Refractive Media OCT images display path length differences in between reference arm length and sample arm length (distance from the beam splitter to the scattering or reflecting object). These path lengths are optical path lengths, calculated from the physical path length multiplied by the group refractive index of the sample.

  • Page 47: The Group Refraction Index

    SD-OCT Base Unit Chapter 5: Imaging Artifacts The Group Refraction Index The principle of optical coherence tomography is the detection of optical path length differences between the two arms of an interferometer. The optical paths within these arms are defined by the mechanical path lengths and the refractive indices of the materials.

  • Page 48: Measurement Depth In Oct Systems

    SD-OCT Base Unit Chapter 5: Imaging Artifacts Measurement Depth in OCT Systems The spectral resolution of a frequency domain OCT system defines its possible measurement depth. This depth is the maximum detectable optical path length difference limited by the Nyquist criteria. In real materials the measurement depth of OCT systems as well as the axial resolution is reduced.

  • Page 49: Distortions In The Image

    SD-OCT Base Unit Chapter 5: Imaging Artifacts Distortions in the Image In complex structures distortions occur in the OCT image which require a close look to be understood. Figure 58 Different Materials in One Measurement The loss of imaging depth depends on the amount of material through which the beam passes. As a result the measured depth in the sample changes throughout the scan.
  • Page 50 SD-OCT Base Unit Chapter 5: Imaging Artifacts As an example a material with wedge is analyzed: Figure 59 Complex Structure in Image The block shows “standard” behavior on the right side where the surface is perpendicular to the incoming beam. In the chamfered area there is diffraction and the beam travels under an angle through the block.

  • Page 51: Chapter 6 Troubleshooting

    OCT image Other reason Call Thorlabs Flipped Image Reference length set incorrectly Adjust reference length Table 3 Troubleshooting Please refer to Chapter 12 for Thorlabs contact information. Rev A, March 3, 2017 Page 47...

  • Page 52: Changing The Input Fuses

    SD-OCT Base Unit Chapter 6: Troubleshooting 6.1. Changing the Input Fuses If for some reason you need to replace an open fuse in the base unit, you must perform the following procedure:  Remove the AC input cable that may be connected to the unit. ...

  • Page 53: Chapter 7 Certifications And Compliance

    SD-OCT Base Unit Chapter 7: Certifications and Compliance Certifications and Compliance Chapter 7 7.1. Declaration of Conformity Vega Series Base Units Rev A, March 3, 2017 Page 49...
  • Page 54 SD-OCT Base Unit Chapter 7: Certifications and Compliance Page 50 MTN008437-D02...

  • Page 55: Chapter 8 Warranty

    Chapter 8 8.1. Lasers and Imaging Systems Thorlabs offers a one year warranty on all lasers and imaging systems, with the exceptions of laser diodes. 8.2. Non-Warranty Repairs Products returned for repair that are not covered under warranty will incur a standard repair charge in addition to all shipping expenses.

  • Page 56: Chapter 9 Specifications

    Airborne Noise Emission < 70 dB Table 4 General Specifications base (MEMS VCSEL Swept Source Laser + Imaging Module) has universal AC input Optical Performance Specifications – Vega Series Base Unit VEG110 Base Unit Central Wavelength 1300 nm Axial Scan Rate...

  • Page 57: Chapter 10 Mechanical Drawings

    SD-OCT Base Unit Chapter 10: Mechanical Drawings Mechanical Drawings Chapter 10 Figure 62 Base Unit Dimensions Rev A, March 3, 2017 Page 53...

  • Page 58: Chapter 11 Regulatory

    11.1. Waste Treatment is Your Own Responsibility If you do not return an “end of life” unit to Thorlabs, you must hand it to a company specialized in waste recovery. Do not dispose of the unit in a litter bin or at a public waste disposal site.

  • Page 59: Chapter 12 Thorlabs Worldwide Contacts

    Chapter 12: Thorlabs Worldwide Contacts SD-OCT Base Unit Chapter 10 Thorlabs Worldwide Contacts USA, Canada, and South America UK and Ireland Thorlabs, Inc. Thorlabs Ltd. 56 Sparta Avenue 1 Saint Thomas Place Newton, NJ 07860 Ely CB7 4EX Great Britain...
  • Page 60 M0009-510-531-A...

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