Cambridge Technology, Lexington, MA, has rolled out another member of its 83xxK family of high-stability galvanometers. The 8320K joins the previously released 8330K as a high stability analog galvo. Suited for steering beam diameters ranging from 5mm through 10mm, the 8320K is a cost-effective alternative to digital encoder galvos.
Stability over temperature and positional stability (e.g. "dither") have always been among the strengths of CTI's 62xxH family of galvanometers. However, there are certain applications that require an even higher level of thermal and positional stability. In the past, the only way to reach the next level of stability was to switch to a digital encoder galvanometer such as the Lightning II Digital Platform.
In some applications, however, digital encoder galvanometers may deliver more performance than what is required, and can therefore be cost-prohibitive in that application. The 83XXK family is good for those demanding yet price-sensitive applications. With a 40% reduction in dither and one-third the thermal drift of the 62xxH galvos, the 83xxK is good for applications such as PV scribing, wafer marking, and precision machining. The 8320K is form and fit compatible with the popular 6220H galvanometer. Shipments will begin late 2Q10. Additional family members will be announced throughout 2010 to cover apertures from < 5 mm up through > 75 mm.