Two laser-measurement-equipment makers become one: Ophir Optronics acquires Photon
Jerusalem, Israel--Ophir Optronics, which specializes in precision laser measurement, has acquired Photon Inc. (San Jose, CA), a developer of precision laser-beam-profiling optical-test equipment. The acquisition strengthens Ophir-Spiricon group's position as a large supplier of laser-measurement equipment for industrial, medical, military, and scientific/research applications.
Scanning-slit technology was key
Ophir-Spiricon provides beam-profiling equipment and software. Photon Inc.'s experience with laser and fiber beam characterization in the photonics industry supports solving complex optical problems and provides semi-customized measurement-system designs. Of special interest in the acquisition was Photon's scanning-slit technology. Their well known NanoScan profilers provide high accuracy and precision for the measurement of continuous-wave and kilohertz pulsed laser beams from UV to the far IR. The scanning-slit technology can h most high-power beams without the need for complicated attenuation schemes.
The NanoScan scanning-slit technology is capable of measuring the waist position of a collimated millimeter-diameter laser beam to within a centimeter. NanoScans are frequently used to directly measure tightly focused spots. Systems from Photon are used across a diverse range of applications, including automation, laser and laser system manufacturing, and design/test. Photon also produces line of high speed goniometric radiometers to spatially characterize lasers, LEDs, and optical fibers.
"I am delighted that we have been able to bring together two highly innovative businesses," stated Moty Gelbman, general manager of the laser measurement group at Ophir. "Photon Inc. and its products are a perfect complement to Ophir-Spiricon's beam profiling business. Photon's people and products are well respected, as are our own. And Photon's scanning-slit technology combines accuracy and ease of use for a wide range of applications, including real time operations."
John Wallace | Senior Technical Editor (1998-2022)
John Wallace was with Laser Focus World for nearly 25 years, retiring in late June 2022. He obtained a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering and physics at Rutgers University and a master's in optical engineering at the University of Rochester. Before becoming an editor, John worked as an engineer at RCA, Exxon, Eastman Kodak, and GCA Corporation.