Irvine, CA, May 20, 2004--Newport Corporation introduced several new products during the first quarter of 2004. "Aggressive product development is a critical part of our overall strategy for maintaining leadership in the strategic markets we serve," said Robert G. Deuster, chairman and chief executive officer. "We continue to leverage our expertise to produce a steady stream of leading-edge products and technologies for use in applications in fields such as research, semiconductor equipment, life and health sciences, aerospace and defense, and homeland security."
Newport outlined advances in three of its main product areas.
Spectrometers, Instruments and Optical Products
* The company announced the introduction of a series of turnkey spectrometers, light sources and fiber-based accessories for use in spectroscopy applications. "Spectroscopic instrumentation is an obvious and natural progression for Newport," said Deuster. "We have long been supporting this market at the component level with both optics and high-performance opto-mechanical assemblies, and we have all of the core competencies required for these instruments." Newport's spectrometers are targeted at demanding laboratory research and biomedical applications, process monitoring and quality control labs, and system integrators for original equipment manufacturers (OEMs).
* During the first quarter, Newport introduced advanced diagnostic tools for ultrafast laser pulses that deliver stable, long-term performance without the need for continuous adjustment or re-alignment. With no moving parts and no need for internal optical adjustments, these revolutionary compact instruments are much simpler to use than traditional autocorrelators. The Ultrafast Pulse Measurement System is designed to meet the demanding requirements of research laboratories and emerging industrial applications for ultrafast lasers including biophotonics, semiconductor metrology and precision materials processing.
* Newport has expanded its range of laser-grade windows with a new line of high-performance windows featuring low distortion and low scatter. These windows are intended mainly for use in research laboratories and R&D programs in both laser and non-laser applications. Typical laboratory uses include intracavity laser applications, holography and multiphoton imaging. The windows' low scatter is particularly advantageous in imaging applications where stray light can lower the signal-to-noise ratio of the final image.
Photonics Products
* Newport now supports the burgeoning demand for Photonic Crystal Fibers (PCF) with the introduction of a comprehensive line of pre-packaged products targeted at laboratory research. The initial products, which include all major types of PCFs, are fabricated by Crystal Fiber A/S under an agreement with Newport Corporation. "Applications for PCFs are at a very nascent and critical stage," said Deuster. "As with previous new photonics technologies, Newport's goal is to support and nurture these applications at the research level by offering researchers the convenience of 'off-the-shelf' products."
Motion Control and Vibration Control Products
* Newport has introduced a new series of positioning products to provide low-cost automation solutions to many laser and electro-optic experiments and processes. The first products from this family include an actuator that is designed as a direct replacement for manual micrometers, and a unique ergonomic controller that can be used for both manual and computer control. These products enable precise motorized control of a wide range of micro-positioning stages and adjustable optical mounts in both OEM and laboratory applications.
* The company has also received a United States patent (U.S. Patent No. 6,642,680) for its development of an innovative means of preventing stepper motor vibration, called "chatter," without having to resort to faster, more expensive microprocessors. This technology enables Newport to provide a smoother running motor at a lower cost point.