Newport Cornerstone 260B User manual

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MCS260B, Rev C
1/4m Monochromator Family
User's Manual
Cornerstone™ 260B

MCS260B
CORNERSTONE 260B MONOCHROMATORS
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
1GENERAL INFORMATION..................................................................................................................5
1.1 SYMBOLS AND DEFINITIONS .............................................................................................6
1.2 GENERAL WARNINGS .........................................................................................................7
1.3 ELECTRICAL HAZARDS.......................................................................................................7
1.4 MECHANICAL HANDLING....................................................................................................8
1.5 OPTICS CARE AND HANDLING...........................................................................................8
2INTRODUCTION..................................................................................................................................9
2.1 OPTICAL CONFIGURATION.................................................................................................9
2.2 STRAY LIGHT REJECTION ................................................................................................10
2.3 AVAILABLE MODELS..........................................................................................................11
2.4 TYPICAL APPLICATIONS...................................................................................................12
3INITIAL SETUP ..................................................................................................................................13
3.1 WHAT’S INCLUDED ............................................................................................................13
3.2 UNPACKING........................................................................................................................13
3.3 CHOOSING A LOCATION...................................................................................................13
3.4 MOUNTING OPTIONS.........................................................................................................14
3.5 ELECTRICAL AND COMPUTER CONNECTIONS.............................................................15
4SHUTTER...........................................................................................................................................17
4.1 REMOTE SHUTTER OPERATION......................................................................................17
5INPUT AND OUTPUT SLITS .............................................................................................................18
5.1 FIXED SLITS........................................................................................................................18
5.2 MICROMETER ADJUSTABLE SLITS .................................................................................19
6DIFFRACTION GRATINGS ...............................................................................................................21
6.1 GRATING TYPES ................................................................................................................22
6.2 GRATING EFFICIENCY AND BLAZING .............................................................................23
6.3 POLARIZATION EFFECTS..................................................................................................26
6.4 OPTIONAL DIFFRACTION GRATINGS.....................................................................26
7MONOCHROMATOR RESOLUTION ................................................................................................28
7.1 DETERMINING RESOLUTION............................................................................................28
8GETTING LIGHT INTO A MONOCHROMATOR...............................................................................29
8.1 ACCEPTANCE PYRAMID ...................................................................................................29
8.2 F NUMBER MATCHING ......................................................................................................30
9BLOCKING HIGHER ORDER RADIATION.......................................................................................31
9.1 ORDER SORTING FILTERS...............................................................................................31
9.2 FILTER WHEEL ...................................................................................................................32
10 COMMUNICATION METHODS .........................................................................................................33
10.1 UTILITY SOFTWARE...........................................................................................................33
10.2 HAND CONTROLLER..........................................................................................................34
10.3 TRACQ BASIC SOFTWARE ...............................................................................................34
10.4 LOW-LEVEL COMMANDS ..................................................................................................35
10.5 MONO TERM SOFTWARE..................................................................................................35
11 GRATING INSTALLATION AND CALIBRATION...............................................................................36
11.1 RECALIBRATION SERVICES.............................................................................................36
11.2 SETTING THE WAVELENGTH OFFSET............................................................................36
11.3 DETERMINING THE GRATING CALIBRATION FACTOR .................................................37
12 TROUBLESHOOTING .......................................................................................................................38
12.1 CORRUPTED MEMORY .....................................................................................................38
13 SPECIFICATIONS..............................................................................................................................39
14 DIMENSIONS.....................................................................................................................................41
15 APPENDIX I: REMOTE COMMANDS AND QUERIES .....................................................................43
15.1 OPENING RS-232 COMMUNICATION INTERFACE..........................................................43

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CORNERSTONE 260B MONOCHROMATORS
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15.2 TROUBLESHOOTING RS-232............................................................................................44
15.3 COMMAND AND QUERY SYNTAX ....................................................................................45
15.4 STANDARD MODE..............................................................................................................45
15.5 HANDSHAKE MODE...........................................................................................................46
15.6 CS260B COMMAND QUICK REFERENCE SUMMARY.....................................................48
15.7 DETAILED COMMAND REFERENCE ................................................................................49
15.8 COMMAND SYNCHRONIZATION ......................................................................................61
15.9 ERROR CODES...................................................................................................................62
16 APPENDIX II: USING THE HAND CONTROLLER...........................................................................65
16.1 ACTIVATING THE HAND CONTROLLER...........................................................................65
16.2 USING THE KEYPAD ..........................................................................................................65
16.3 KEY REFERENCE...............................................................................................................66
17 APPENDIX III: USB Operation..........................................................................................................69
18 APPENDIX IV: GRATING PHYSICS TUTORIAL..............................................................................70
18.1 THE GRATING EQUATION.................................................................................................70
18.2 THE GRATING EQUATION IN PRACTICE.........................................................................71
18.3 GRATING ORDER...............................................................................................................72
18.4 GRATING DISPERSION......................................................................................................73
18.5 GRATING ILLUMINATION AND RESOLUTION..................................................................73
19 WARRANTY AND SERVICE .............................................................................................................74
19.1 CONTACTING NEWPORT CORPORATION ......................................................................74
19.2 REQUEST FOR ASSISTANCE / SERVICE.........................................................................75
19.3 REPAIR SERVICE ...............................................................................................................75
19.4 NON-WARRANTY REPAIR.................................................................................................75
19.5 WARRANTY REPAIR ..........................................................................................................76
19.6 LOANER / DEMO MATERIAL..............................................................................................77

MCS260B
CORNERSTONE 260B MONOCHROMATORS
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LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1: Optical Configurations of the Cornerstone 260B with Quad Grating Assembly. .........................10
Figure 2: Optical configuration of the Cornerstone 260B with Dual Grating Assembly..............................10
Figure 3: Model numbering system.............................................................................................................11
Figure 4: Application Example: Quantum Efficiency Measurements.........................................................12
Figure 5: Model 74104B Mounting Kit.........................................................................................................14
Figure 6: Monochromator Connections.......................................................................................................16
Figure 7: Remote Shutter Control BNC Connector.....................................................................................17
Figure 8: A Fixed Slit Installed into the Holder............................................................................................18
Figure 9: Available Fixed Slits.....................................................................................................................18
Figure 10: A Micrometer Adjustable Slit......................................................................................................19
Figure 11: A Fully Closed Micrometer Adjustable Slit.................................................................................19
Figure 12: Shortest Micrometer Adjustable Slit Height...............................................................................20
Figure 13: Tallest Micrometer Adjustable Slit Height..................................................................................20
Figure 14: Gratings installed on dual mount...............................................................................................21
Figure 15: Gratings Installed on quad mount..............................................................................................21
Figure 16: Grating Properties Table for CS260B Pre-Configured Models..................................................22
Figure 17: Grating Efficiency Curve, Cornerstone 260B Monochromator UV-NIR, High Resolution Quad
Configuration (CS260B-1 Models)..............................................................................................................24
Figure 18: Grating Efficiency Curve, Cornerstone 260B Monochromator UV-NIR, High Resolution Dual
Configuration (CS260B-2 Models)..............................................................................................................24
Figure 19: Grating Efficiency Curve, Cornerstone 260B Monochromator VIS-NIR, Extended Range
Configuration (CS260B-3 Models)..............................................................................................................25
Figure 20: Grating Efficiency Curve, Cornerstone 260B Monochromator UV-SWIR, Extended
Configuration (CS260B-Q Models). ............................................................................................................25
Figure 21: Available Diffraction Grating Options………………………………………………………………..27
Figure 22: Some of the Fixed Slit Sizes Available......................................................................................28
Figure 23: Acceptance Pyramid of Monochromator. ..................................................................................29
Figure 24: Grating Correctly “Filled” with Light. ..........................................................................................29
Figure 25: Mismatched F Numbers Resulting in Stray Light. .....................................................................30
Figure 26: F Number Matcher Used with Fiber Optic Cable.......................................................................30
Figure 27: Model USFW-100 Filter Wheel..................................................................................................32
Figure 28: Mono Utility Software Screens...................................................................................................33
Figure 29: Cornerstone 260B Monochromator with 74009 Hand Controller. .............................................34
Figure 30: TracQ Basic Screens.................................................................................................................35
Figure 31: Query Using MonoTerm Software. ............................................................................................35
Figure 32: Entering Calibration Values in Utility Software. ........................................................................38
Figure 33: Cornerstone 260B Dimensions.................................................................................................41
Figure 34: Micrometer Adjustable Slit Dimensions....................................................................................41
Figure 35: Model 74104B Mounting Kit......................................................................................................42
Figure 36: DB-9 connector..........................................................................................................................44
Figure 37: 74009 Hand Controller..............................................................................................................65
Figure 38: The Sawtooth Pattern of a Grating Section..............................................................................70
Figure 39: The Grating Equation Satisfied for a Parallel Beam of Monochromatic Light. .........................71
Figure 40: Polychromatic Light Diffracted from a Grating..........................................................................71
Figure 41: Sign Convention for the Angle of Incidence, Angle of Diffraction and Grating Angle...............72

MCS260B
CORNERSTONE 260B MONOCHROMATORS
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1 GENERAL INFORMATION
Thank you for your purchase of this Cornerstone™260B Monochromator from Newport Corporation.
Please carefully read the following important safety precautions prior to unpacking and operating this
equipment. In addition, please refer to the complete User’s Manual and all other documentation provided
for additional important notes and cautionary statements regarding the use and operation of the system.
Do not attempt to operate any system without reading all the information provided with each of the
components.
Please read all instructions that were provided prior to operation of the system. If
there are any questions, please contact Newport Corp. or the representative
through whom the system was purchased.

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CORNERSTONE 260B MONOCHROMATORS
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1.1 SYMBOLS AND DEFINITIONS
WARNING
Situation has the potential to cause bodily harm or death.
CAUTION
Situation has the potential to cause damage to property or equipment.
ELECTRICAL SHOCK
Hazard arising from dangerous voltage. Any mishandling could result
in irreparable damage to the equipment, and personal injury or death.
EUROPEAN UNION CE MARK
The presence of the CE Mark on Newport Corporation equipment
means that it has been designed, tested and certified as complying with
all applicable European Union (CE) regulations and recommendations.
WEEE
This symbol on the product or on its packaging indicates that this
product must not be disposed of with regular waste. Instead, it is the
user’s responsibility to dispose of waste equipment according to the
local laws. The separate collection and recycling of the waste
equipment at the time of disposal will help to conserve natural resources
and ensure that the materials are recycled in a manner that protects
human health and the environment.
ON
The ON symbol in the above figure indicates the ON position of the
power switch.
OFF
The OFF symbol in the above figure indicates the OFF position of the
power switch.

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CORNERSTONE 260B MONOCHROMATORS
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1.2 GENERAL WARNINGS
•Read all warnings and operating instructions for this system prior to setup and use.
•Do not use this equipment in or near water.
•To prevent damage to the equipment, read the instructions in the equipment manual for proper
input voltage and check the requirement on the power supply.
•This equipment is grounded through the grounding conductor of the power cord.
•Route power cords and other cables so they are not likely to be damaged.
•Disconnect power before cleaning the equipment
•Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners; use only a damp lint-free cloth.
•Lock out all electrical power sources before servicing the equipment.
•To avoid explosion, do not operate this equipment in an explosive atmosphere.
•Qualified service personnel should perform safety checks after any service.
•If this equipment is used in a manner not specified in this manual, the protection provided by this
equipment may be impaired.
•Do not position this product in such a manner that would make it difficult to disconnect the power
cords.
•Use only the specified replacement parts.
•Follow precautions for static sensitive devices when handling this equipment.
•This product should only be powered as described in the manual.
•Do not remove the cover for normal usage.
1.3 ELECTRICAL HAZARDS
Make all connections to or from the instrument with the power off.
The Cornerstone 260B requires DC voltage for operation, which is provided by an external power
supply. This power supply has no user serviceable parts. Do not attempt to open the external
power supply. Do not attempt to work in the Cornerstone compartment without first disconnecting
the power cord, since electrical hazards are present inside the compartment even with the power
switch in the “off” position.
The Cornerstone 260B monochromator contains a microprocessor and should be installed with
appropriate surge/EMI/RFI protection on the power line. A dedicated power line or line isolation
may be required for some extremely noisy sites. The electronic circuits within the monochromator
are extremely sensitive to static electricity and radiated electromagnetic fields. Operation of this
instrument close to intense pulsed sources (lasers, xenon strobes, arc lamps, etc.) may
compromise performance if shielding is inadequate, and may cause permanent damage to the
microprocessor.
Note: This instrument conforms to CE standards for both safety and EMC. During normal use, this
equipment will not pose any electrical hazards to the user. Read all warnings before installing or
operating this system. If there are any questions or concerns, contact Oriel Instruments or the
regional sales representative for Newport.

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CORNERSTONE 260B MONOCHROMATORS
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1.4 MECHANICAL HANDLING
Avoid dropping, sudden shocks, or rough handling of the monochromator since this may cause the
system to lose its calibration and may destroy the high precision drive components or optics.
1.5 OPTICS CARE AND HANDLING
Do not touch any optical surfaces since this is likely to cause irreparable damage. Always wear
powder-free gloves to cover the entire hand, not finger cots. Never touch the surface of a
diffraction grating, even when wearing gloves.
Dust or debris on the grating surface may negatively impact performance, so it should be
prevented from entering the instrument by keeping the protective grating covers in place when it is
not in use. If the gratings do require cleaning, do not attempt to clean any optical surface except
by blowing off dust or lint particles with a stream of dry clean air or nitrogen. Wiping the grating
surface will cause permanent damage.
Avoid getting any moisture or condensation onto the grating. Do not breathe on or talk directly in
front of a grating, as the moisture from one’s breath should never be allowed to condense on the
grating surface.
This instrument comes with gratings pre-installed, aligned and the calibration parameters set. An
experienced user may choose to install a different grating in the field, although it is strongly
encouraged to send the instrument back to the factory instead.
Hand tighten the grating mount screws. Do not use tools, since this may cause damage to the
drive assembly. Never touch the surface of the grating, even while wearing gloves. Handle the
grating assembly only by its mount.

MCS260B
CORNERSTONE 260B MONOCHROMATORS
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2 INTRODUCTION
The Oriel Cornerstone 260B is a high performance, economical and user-friendly monochromator –an
ideal instrument for research and OEM applications.
Each of these instruments includes up to four diffraction gratings, filter wheel control circuitry, and an
integrated electronic shutter. Communication may be established using USB, RS-232, or an optional
hand controller designed specifically for use with the Cornerstone family of monochromators.
The Cornerstone 260B includes a utility program designed to run on a computer using the Microsoft
Windows operating system. The simple, intuitive interface means that users can get up and running
within minutes of opening the box. Also included is a low-level terminal command interface to send direct
functional commands via RS-232. An optional hand controller may be used for quick access to all
common commands and queries, without requiring a computer. This is especially beneficial in
universities and secure facilities.
A wide selection of preconfigured grating models are available for the Cornerstone 260B, as well as
custom configure order options. Throughput and resolution can be adjusted by selecting the appropriate
slit size. Fixed slits are available for high accuracy and repeatability, and micrometer adjustable slits may
be used for maximum flexibility. Automatic bandpass control is available with the use of motorized slits.
2.1 OPTICAL CONFIGURATION
The optical design of the Cornerstone 260B is based upon an asymmetrical in-plane version of a
Czerny-Turner monochromator. The optical configuration is designed to ensure high resolution
and maximum throughput. This F/3.9 monochromator is optimized to provide excellent stray light
rejection while minimizing aberrations. A high precision motor is used to select the desired
wavelength and switch between diffraction gratings quickly, without sacrificing performance.
With the Cornerstone 260B monochromator, there is a choice between a dual (2) or quad (4)
grating assembly. Select which assembly works best for your application based on the spectral
range you desire to cover.
The Dual Grating Mount
Like its predecessor models, the dual grating mount allows up to two (2) diffraction gratings to be
installed back-to-back. Both gratings are pre-aligned on this mount which is then installed on the
precision rotation stage. The gratings rotate 3600on the stage (Figure 2).
The Quadruple Grating Turret
The quadruple grating turret allows up to four (4) diffraction gratings to be installed on a four-sided
assembly. All gratings are pre-aligned on the turret which is then installed on the precision rotation
stage. The turret will flip each grating independently as the stage rotates (Figure 1).

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CORNERSTONE 260B MONOCHROMATORS
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Figure 1: Optical Configurations of the Cornerstone 260B with Quad Grating Assembly.
Figure 2: Optical configuration of the Cornerstone 260B with Dual Grating Assembly.
2.2 STRAY LIGHT REJECTION
Stray light may have a variety of origins. Its presence may be caused by a wide variety of design
and manufacturing factors. The level of stray light due to the dispersed radiation inside the
monochromator is affected by the design of the instrument, its baffles, and interior finish. The

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CORNERSTONE 260B MONOCHROMATORS
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Cornerstone 260B incorporates a sophisticated design, proven materials, and a quality
manufacturing system to ensure high stray light rejection.
The amount of stray light measured on top of true signal will depend on many experimental factors
as well as the performance of the instrument. When comparing stray light specifications, it is
important to compare values that were measured under identical circumstances. The spectral
distribution of the source and the response of the detection system are often the dominant factors
when determining a stray light value.
2.3 AVAILABLE MODELS
The model number of each Cornerstone monochromator reflects its features. Refer to the part
number code to determine the features present in the instrument (Fig 3). If the model number
differs from the code, it is a custom configuration order. In that case, refer to the Sales Order for
the instrument for more information.
Figure 3: Model numbering system.

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CORNERSTONE 260B MONOCHROMATORS
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2.4 TYPICAL APPLICATIONS
The applications for the Cornerstone 260B monochromator are practically limitless. Here we
present one example. A quantum efficiency measurement system using an optically chopped light
source used with a lock-in digital amplifier to extract small signal levels from background radiation.
All components shown are available from Newport (Fig. 4).
Figure 4: Application Example: Quantum Efficiency Measurements.

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CORNERSTONE 260B MONOCHROMATORS
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3 INITIAL SETUP
3.1 WHAT’S INCLUDED
•Preselected diffraction gratings, installed and aligned.
•Electronic shutter at input port.
•A choice of single or dual output ports.
•A choice of micrometer adjustable slits, motorized, or fixed slit holders at the input port and
output port(s).
•Electronics interface for RS-232 or USB communication.
•LabVIEW™ based utility software.
•MonoTerm low-level command software.
•Certificate of Calibration.
•Monochromator Power Supply.
•Line cords based on geographic location.
•User’s manual.
3.2 UNPACKING
Remove all items from the shipping containers and verify each item is accounted for. The
instrument is carefully packaged to minimize the possibility of damage during shipment. Inspect
the shipping box for external signs of damage or mishandling. Inspect the contents for damage.
If any item is missing or damaged, immediately contact the Newport representative from whom the
system was purchased.
It is suggested to save the packaging material and shipping container, in case the equipment
needs to be relocated at a future date.
WARNING
Do not attempt to operate this equipment if there is evidence of shipping
damage or there is suspicion that the equipment will not operate correctly.
Damaged equipment may present hazards.
3.3 CHOOSING A LOCATION
Choose an installation location where the power requirements can be met for the monochromator,
as well as the rest of the optical system. Be sure power is not applied to the system until the setup
has been completed and all electrical connections made.
Ensure that there is easy access to the monochromator’s power switch and the electrical outlet.

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CORNERSTONE 260B MONOCHROMATORS
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3.4 MOUNTING OPTIONS
The ability to mount the monochromator simplifies setup and alignment of the optical system. The
mounting plate or kits also helps ensure consistent results over time, as the monochromator
cannot be accidentally moved out of position. The following options are available for securing the
Cornerstone 260B:
•Mounting plate
•Mounting kit to couple with Oriel’s Research Lamp Housings
•Optical rods
The 74105B Mounting Plate is used to secure a Cornerstone 260B Monochromator to an inch or
metric optical table. The plate adds 0.25 inch [6.35 mm] to the optical height. If the Cornerstone
260B will be used with Oriel’s research lamp housing, consider using the 74104B mounting kit.
The 74104B Mounting Kit connects the Cornerstone 260B monochromator to an arc lamp or
quartz tungsten halogen light source (Fig. 5). This kit is compatible with Oriel's Research Lamp
Housings, which hold 50 to 250-watt lamps. It includes a base plate, a flexible light shield, a 1.5-
inch diameter focusing lens, and lens holder. All the hardware required to mount the lamp housing
and monochromator to the base plate is provided. The mounting kit's base plate uses four
adjustable leveling feet. The feet may be removed to secure the base plate to an inch or metric
optical table.
The most economical option is to use optical rods and rod holders to mount the Cornerstone 260B
to an optical table or breadboard. On the monochromator’s mounting surface, four #1/4-20
threaded holes may be used to install standard optical rods. Care should be taken to ensure the
instrument is level and secured well enough that its location remains consistent over time, even if
the instrument is bumped or components are coupled to the ports.
Figure 5:Model 74104B Mounting Kit.

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CORNERSTONE 260B MONOCHROMATORS
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3.5 ELECTRICAL AND COMPUTER CONNECTIONS
Before powering up the system for the first time, it is suggested to have a qualified electrician
verify that the wall socket to be used with the instrument meets the requirements for operation as
noted.
Before making any electrical connections, verify the front panel power switch is in the off position
for the monochromator.
WARNING
To avoid electric shock, connect the instrument to properly earth-grounded,
3-prong receptacles only. Failure to observe this precaution can result in
severe injury or death.
The line voltage requirement is as follows:
Monochromator Power Adapter: 100 to 240 VAC, 47-63 Hz.
The monochromator conforms to CE standards for both safety and EMC. During normal use, this
equipment will not pose any electrical hazards to the user. Read all warnings before installing or
operating this system. If there are any questions or concerns, contact Oriel Instruments or the
regional sales representative for Newport.
ELECTRICAL SHOCK
Never attempt to open the lamp power supply or monochromator power
adapter. These items do not contain any user serviceable parts. Failure
to follow this warning can result in severe injury or death.
The monochromator’s power adapter connects to an AC wall socket and supplies DC voltage to
the instrument. Do not open the monochromator cover and attempt to work inside without first
turning the instrument off and disconnecting the power cord from the AC mains.
The ribbon cable, CBL-CSMS-FW connecting the monochromator to the optional filter wheel is
installed before the system ships out. The monochromator provides power to the filter wheel and
allows the user to select which filter is placed in the optical path.
Ensure the monochromator power switch is in the off position (marked as O). Then connect the
power adapter to the monochromator, as shown. Insert the power cord provided into the power
adapter and connect to the AC mains.
Connect the USB or RS-232 cable between the computer and the monochromator (Fig. 6).

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CORNERSTONE 260B MONOCHROMATORS
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Figure 6: Monochromator Connections.
A USB cable (model 70044) and RS-232 and cable (model 70040) are included with each
Cornerstone 260B.
If using a commercially available USB-to-RS-232 converter cable, the driver for this cable must be
installed before communication to the monochromator can be established. The drivers are
frequently included with Windows operating systems.
Follow the instructions provided in the Quick Start Guide to install the utility software onto a
computer.
When powering on the instrument for the first time, it is recommended to perform a wavelength
offset as the grating turret assembly may have shifted during shipment. This procedure is detailed
in section 11.2. This is a good rule of thumb because it also compensates for optical system
alignment through the input slit, in the event that the light source isn’t perfectly centered on the
optical axis of the instrument.

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CORNERSTONE 260B MONOCHROMATORS
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4 SHUTTER
An electronic shutter is integrated into the Cornerstone 260B monochromator’s design. It is mounted
inside the housing at the input port. This shutter is normally closed.
The shutter is used to close the light path when light is not required. This allows the light source to
remain on, and therefore remain warmed up, so that it continues to provide stable performance.
Additionally, restarting a lamp results in wear of the filament (with quartz tungsten halogen lamps) or wear
of the anode/cathode (with arc lamps). When the light is not needed during short periods, closing the
shutter is suggested.
Diffraction gratings are mounted on a rotating turret inside the monochromator. When the
monochromator switches between diffraction gratings, the changing angle of the grating causes light to
be diffracted at various wavelengths. This includes white light, which is output at a higher power than
other individual wavelengths. In order to prevent saturation of a detection system, it is good practice to
close the shutter temporarily while changing gratings. It is especially important to prevent saturation and
possible damage when using a photomultiplier tube.
A scan may be completed while the shutter is closed to perform background subtraction calculations on
subsequent scans completed while the shutter is open.
Note that the shutter is not designed to block high power direct light. When using a 450W or greater light
source, heat mitigation strategies should be employed. For example, Oriel offers liquid filters to protect
the shutter, filters and other items to prevent potential heat damage.
4.1 REMOTE SHUTTER OPERATION
The BNC female connector located on the outside of the monochromator allows the shutter to be
controlled remotely, if desired (Fig. 7). A ‘low’ condition (0 volts) will open the shutter. The shutter
may also be opened by completing a connection between the BNC conductor and shield (i.e.
shorting the connector). Control can be overridden by the shutter commands issued from a
computer or the optional hand controller. Leave the BNC connector open to use the hand
controller or computer exclusively.
Figure 7: Remote Shutter Control BNC Connector.

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CORNERSTONE 260B MONOCHROMATORS
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5 INPUT AND OUTPUT SLITS
To operate any monochromator, slits are required at the input and output port. The slit assemblies offered
with the Cornerstone 260B all have 1.5-inch male flanges, allowing them to be easily connected to the wide
variety of Oriel accessories and instruments.
Note: The slits need to be the same width and height at the input and output ports. A wider input slit when
compared to the output slit results in more stray light inside the instrument. A wider output slit with respect
to the input slit will not increase throughput.
5.1 FIXED SLITS
The fixed slits slide into the 77294B holders at the input and output ports (Fig. 8). The width and
height cannot be adjusted but may be individually replaced with other slit sizes. Fixed slits are a low-
cost alternative to micrometer adjustable or motorized slits and provide excellent repeatability. They
are a good choice when only a few slit sizes are required.
Fixed slits are sold separately to allow customized choices based on the needs of the application
(Fig. 9). When ordering, be sure to purchase two fixed slits of the same model for single output port
instruments –one for the input port, and the other for the output port. For dual output port
instruments , be sure to purchase three fixed slits of the same model –one for the input port, and
the others for the output ports. Insert the slit as shown, with the label facing outward. Be sure that
it is fully inserted into the holder’s slot to ensure the best performance and repeatability.
Figure 8: A Fixed Slit Installed into the Holder.
Fixed Slit Model
Width
Height
77222
10 µm
2 mm
77221
50 µm
3 mm
77220
25 µm
3 mm
77219
50 µm
6 mm
77218
120 µm
18 mm*
77217
280 µm
18 mm*
77216
600 µm
18 mm*
77215
760 µm
18 mm*
77214
1.24 mm
18 mm*
77213
1.56 mm
18 mm*
77212
3.16 mm
18 mm*
*Actual slit height is 18 mm, usable height is 12 mm.
Figure 9: Available Fixed Slits.

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CORNERSTONE 260B MONOCHROMATORS
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5.2 MICROMETER ADJUSTABLE SLITS
Micrometer adjustable slit assemblies are continuously variable from fully closed (4 µm)to 3 mm
width (Fig 10). A height adjustment slide allows variation in the height from 3 to 12 mm. Benefits of
the micrometer adjustable slits are flexibility and high throughput. This type of slit is designed
primarily for versatility and convenience in changing resolution and throughput, which are related
to the slit width.
Figure 10: A Micrometer Adjustable Slit.
The slit width setting is read on the micrometer. A set of numbers go around the turning dial.
Another set of numbers are located on the shaft. When the zeroes in both these locations line up,
the slit is fully closed (Fig 11). Turning the dial clockwise advances the dial position further down
on the shaft, closer to the body of the micrometer. This opens the slit.
Multiply the micrometer reading by 10 to determine the actual slit opening size. For example,
turning the dial one full revolution starting from the fully closed position will give a reading of 50 on
the micrometer. Using the multiplier, this indicates the micrometer width is set to 500 μm.If
unsure of the reading, begin at the fully closed position and add up each full revolution made.
Figure 11: A Fully Closed Micrometer Adjustable Slit.

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CORNERSTONE 260B MONOCHROMATORS
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The slit height is continuously adjustable. Pull the lever out for the shortest height (Fig 12). Push
the slide in for the tallest height setting (Fig 13).
Figure 12: Shortest Micrometer Adjustable Slit Height.
Figure 13: Tallest Micrometer Adjustable Slit Height.