THORLABS FSLOPAX1 User manual

FSLOPAX1
Ytterbium-Based Femtosecond
Optical Parametric Amplifier (OPA)
User Guide

FSLOPAX1 Femtosecond Optical Parametric Amplifier
Table of Contents
Chapter 1 Safety .........................................................................................................................1
1.4.1 Operation ............................................................................................................................................................ 5
1.4.2 Safety During Operation...................................................................................................................................... 5
Chapter 2 Description .................................................................................................................6
Chapter 3 Setup........................................................................................................................ 11
Chapter 4 Software Overview ................................................................................................... 15
4.3.1 Laser Amplifier – Bypass Mode ......................................................................................................................... 17
4.3.2 Laser Amplifier – OPA Mode ............................................................................................................................. 18
Chapter 5 System Operation ..................................................................................................... 19
Chapter 6 Specifications ........................................................................................................... 25
Chapter 7 Mechanical Drawing ................................................................................................. 27

FSLOPAX1 Femtosecond Optical Parametric Amplifier
Chapter 8 Trouble Shooting ...................................................................................................... 29
Chapter 9 Configure Network Adapter ...................................................................................... 30
Chapter 10 Certifications and Compliance................................................................................... 33
Chapter 11 Regulatory................................................................................................................ 34
Chapter 12 Thorlabs Worldwide Contacts ................................................................................... 35

FSLOPAX1 Femtosecond Optical Parametric Amplifier Chapter 1: Safety
Rev. B, May 1, 2023 Page 1
Chapter 1 Safety
All statements regarding safety of operation and technical data in this instruction manual will only apply when the
unit is operated correctly in accordance with this user manual.
Warning: Risk of Electrical Shock
High voltage inside. To avoid electrical shock, before powering the unit on, make sure that the
protective conductor of the 3-conductor power cord is correctly connected to the protective
earth contact of the socket outlet. Improper grounding can cause electric shock resulting in
severe injury or even death. Do not operate without cover installed.
Explosion Warning
This instrument must not be operated in an explosion endangered environment.
Laser Warning
The FSLOPAX1 laser is a Class IV laser. Avoid Eye or Skin Exposure to Direct or Scattered
Radiation.
Laser Warning
Always wear appropriate laser safety eyewear during laser setup and operation.
Laser Warning
Disabling or removing interlocks may result in severe injury.
Caution
This instrument should be kept clear of environments where liquid spills or condensing
moisture are likely. It is not water resistant. To avoid damage to the instrument, do not expose
it to spray, liquids, or solvents.

FSLOPAX1 Femtosecond Optical Parametric Amplifier Chapter 1: Safety
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Caution
Do not operate the laser unless the chiller is connected and running within nominal
parameters. Failure to follow these instructions can cause severe and permenant damage to
the laser.
Laser Classification
Per 21 C.F.R. §1040.10 and IEC 60825-1:2014, the FSLOPAX1 laser is classified as a Class IV or Class 4 laser. In
compliance with this standard, certain performance features and laser safety labels are provided on the product.
Class 4 lasers such as the FSLOPAX1 laser may cause damage to the skin, and also to the eye, even from the viewing
of diffuse reflections. These hazards may also apply to indirect or non-specular reflections of the beam, even from
apparently matte surfaces. Great care must be taken when handling these lasers. They also represent a fire risk,
because they may ignite combustible material.
Safe practices and proper usage of safety equipment should be taken into consideration when operating lasers.
The eye is susceptible to injury, even from very low levels of laser light. Laser emission in the visible and near
infrared spectral ranges has the greatest potential for retinal injury, as the cornea and lens are transparent to
those wavelengths, and the lens can focus the laser energy onto the retina.
1. Follow all safety precautions in the operator’s manual.
2. Never aim the laser at a person’s eye, skin, or clothes.
3. Always use proper laser safety eyewear.
4. Avoid wearing watches, jewelry, or other objects that may reflect or scatter the laser beam.
5. Keep the laser beam paths above or below eye level for both sitting and standing positions.
6. Ensure that individuals do not look directly into a laser beam.
7. Eliminate all unnecessary reflective surfaces from the vicinity of the laser beam path.
8. Ensure that all individuals who operate Class 4 lasers are trained in laser safety and authorized to operate
a laser. Do not leave a running laser unattended if there is a chance that an unauthorized user may
attempt to operate the laser. A key switch should be used if untrained persons may gain access to the
laser. A warning light or buzzer should be used to indicate when the laser is operating.
9. Use low power settings, beam shutters, and laser output filters to reduce the beam power to less
hazardous levels when the full output power is not required.
10. Make sure that spectators are not exposed to hazardous conditions.
11. Operate the laser only in a well-controlled area (for example, within a closed room with covered or filtered
windows and controlled access).
12. Label the laser and the room with appropriate Class 4 laser warning signs.
13. Mount the laser on a firm support to ensure that the beam travels along the intended path.
14. Because of its weight (see specifications), the FSLOPAX1 Laser Head should always be lifted by two people
using proper lifting technique. Refer to appropriate regulations, standards, and/or workplace resources
for instructions on proper technique.

FSLOPAX1 Femtosecond Optical Parametric Amplifier Chapter 1: Safety
Rev. B, May 1, 2023 Page 3
15. The unit is supplied with a region-specific power cord. If using your own power cord, make sure it is IEC
320 compatible.
16. Make sure that the line voltage rating marked on the rear panel agrees with your local supply and that
the appropriate fuses are installed.
17. Do not operate in wet or damp conditions. Do not obstruct the air ventilation slots in the housing.
18. This device can only be returned when packed into the complete original packaging, including all foam
packing inserts.
19. All statements regarding operational safety and technical data in this manual will only apply when the unit
is operated correctly.
Laser Safety Labels
Figure 1 Laser Safety Label per IEC 60825-1:2014 §7
Figure 2 Laser Aperture Label per 21 C.F.R §1040.10(g)(5)(i) and (g)(8) and IEC 60825-1:2014 §7
The American National Standards Institute publishes a laser safety standard for users, entitled American National
Standard for the Safe Use of Lasers (ANSI Z136.1). Copies may be obtained from:
A.N.S.I. Washington, DC. Headquarters
1819 L Street, NW (between 18th and 19th Streets), 6th floor
Washington, DC 20036
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
www.ansi.org

FSLOPAX1 Femtosecond Optical Parametric Amplifier Chapter 1: Safety
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Laser Institute of America
13501 Ingenuity Drive, Suite 128
Orlando, FL 32826
Toll Free: [phone]
Telephone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
www.laserinstitute.org
System Power Requirements
The unit can operate from any single-phase AC power source that supplies 120, 230, or 100 VAC at a frequency
range of 50 to 60 Hz. It draws 10 A maximum. The maximum power consumption is dependent on the operating
parameters of the laser system, with a peak power draw of less than 400 W and a typical operational power draw
of 100 W. The FSLOPAX1 chiller requires 100/240 VAC, 50/60 Hz, 5 A max.
Laser Output Parameters
The output parameters for the laser system are outlined in the table below, followed by classification warning
labels, shown in Figure 3. For further information, please refer to the specification tables for laser classifications
specified by the Center for Devices and Radiological Health (CDRH), a division of the Food and Drug Administration
(FDA).
Output Parameter Main Output Bypass Output
Wavelength 1550 - 1750 nm 1020 - 1080 nm
Laser Classification Class IV Class IV
Max Output Power 2.5 W 25 W
Beam Diameter (1/e2) 1.75 - 2.25 mm (Typical) 2.0 - 2.5 mm (Typical)
Figure 3 Laser Safety Warning Labels

FSLOPAX1 Femtosecond Optical Parametric Amplifier Chapter 1: Safety
Rev. B, May 1, 2023 Page 5
1.4.1 Operation
Prior to initializing and operating your FSLOPAX1, please consult the following list to ensure that the unit can be
safely operated.
1. Read the user’s manual thoroughly.
2. Inspect the unit for any signs of damage.
3. Install the unit as described in Chapter 3.
4. Ensure that both the unit and any connected devices are properly grounded.
5. Install the laser in an enclosed area with access restricted to trained personnel. Clearly label the area and
mark the entrance with the class of laser (Class IV).
1.4.2 Safety During Operation
While operating your FSLOPAX1 laser, it is highly recommended that you follow the precautions listed below to
ensure safety for all personnel.
1. Regions of the laser output from this device are not possible to see with the unaided eye. Use optical aids
such as IR cards or IR viewers to view the laser output.
2. Eye and skin exposure to direct or scattered laser radiation is hazardous and is considered potentially
extremely harmful. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment such as laser safety glasses and lab
coats. OD 5+ at 950 - 2000 nm laser safety glasses are recommended.
3. Never leave the laser on without proper notification posted.
4. The laser has a key switch on the power supply front panel. The key must be inserted and turned to enable
the laser to operate. The key is captive in the operational position. Cycling the key On-Off-On is required
to initialize the laser on start-up and to recover after a Remote Interlock fault. Remove the key from the
laser when not in use or unattended. Store the key in a safe place.
5. Limit access to the laser to personnel who are familiar with the equipment. Ensure that the laser is not
assembled, operated, or repaired by inexperienced or untrained personnel.
6. Ensure that all mirrors and optics used to steer the laser beam are securely positioned and fixed to prevent
movement. Control all stray reflections or transmissions of the laser beam, as these may also be Class IV
beams.
7. Do not allow reflective objects to be placed in the laser beam. Laser light scattered from a reflective
surface can be as damaging as the original beam.
8. Terminate the laser beam path (or paths) with a suitable power meter or non-reflecting beam stop.
Enclose beam with beam blocks or beam tubes where possible. Consult a power meter or the beam stop
manufacturers’ operating manual for proper usage.
9. Suitable eye protection must be worn at all times when laser output is possible.
10. Connect the power cord only to a power outlet or extension cord equipped with a protective earth
contact.
11. Never remove covers or panels from the units.
12. Do not perform any operating or maintenance procedure that is not described in the user’s manual.

FSLOPAX1 Femtosecond Optical Parametric Amplifier Chapter 2: Description
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Chapter 2 Description
Introduction
Thorlabs’ FSLOPAX1 Femtosecond Optical Parametric Amplifier (OPA) is a femtosecond laser ideal for life science
applications, like three-photon microscopy, that require deep imaging depths, high signal-to-noise ratios, and
minimal phototoxicity. The FSLOPAX1 laser vertically integrates an optical parametric amplifier to the 1035 nm
Ytterbium femtosecond fiber laser amplifier system, while maintaining the same exterior footprint. The OPA is
coherently seeded from white-light continuum generated in bulk media by the 1035 nm laser pulse. The 1035 nm
laser pulse and the white-light seed are then brought to a common focus with a nonlinear crystal amplifying the
short-wave infrared signal (seeded by the white light). The power spectral bandwidth of the 1650 nm signal
supports 65 fs pulses and contains >400 nJ of energy at repetition rates of 1 - 4 MHz, which are all attainable by
the user through the user-friendly software GUI.
An enable key switch must be cycled from “lock” to “unlock” to put the laser into a Ready state on startup, where
the Ready state simply means the user can turn on the laser through the GUI. Keep in mind, this usually will mean
cycling the key from “unlock” to “lock” and back to “unlock” to access the Ready state, since the laser is often
powered down with the key in the “unlocked” position.
Once in the Ready state, the first step in turning the laser on is to toggle the “Seeder Power” radio toggle, which
energizes the oscillator. This is effectively a Simmer state, and the laser can remain in this condition safely for
prolonged periods of time. LED indicators display the current state of the unit. When the Seeder Power radio
toggle is engaged, there is a 3 second delay before the seeder turns on, and the user is warned by the blinking
LEDs. In the Simmer state the user can change the repetition rate of the pulse picker.
The FSLOPAX1 OPA can provide either a 1035 nm or 1650 nm output beam, which are referred to as “Bypass” and
“OPA” operation modes in the software GUI. Please note when operating in the Bypass mode the OPA output is
disabled, and vice versa. Before turning on the main amplifier, the user should determine and select what
operation mode they would like to be in. The GUI will default to the recommended current to achieve full
performance of the laser, where the current is set to this default when the repetition rate is changed. If the user
would like to use the laser in Bypass mode with lower (alignment) power, a diode current of 1 - 1.5 A is sufficient.
In OPA mode, since a set energy is required to generate white light, the amplifier can not simply be turned down
via the GUI. The user should attenuate the beam external to the laser enclosure. Before turning on the main
amplifier, the user should ensure the output beam path is safe or the shutter is closed. To turn on the main
amplifier, the user selects the “Laser Power” radio toggle to turn it to energize the pump diodes.
The laser pulse intensity is NOT invariant with pulse energy, i.e., Diode Current setting. The laser is designed for
optimal performance at the full power allowed at each repetition rate, and the pulse characteristics are only
qualified at the full power/energy. If an experiment requires less power, then they need to either ensure the
pulses at lower current and power/energy are suitable for their experiment through their own characterization
OR to use a waveplate polarizer to attenuate the laser while it runs at it’s specified Diode Current per the set
repetition rate.
Manual aperture shutters allows blocking the output beam even when the laser emission is on.
For added safety, there is a Remote interlock connector located on the laser controller front panel that must be
shorted in order for the output to be enabled. This can easily be configured to be triggered by doors or an
emergency push button to disable the fiber amplifier in unsafe conditions.

FSLOPAX1 Femtosecond Optical Parametric Amplifier Chapter 2: Description
Rev. B, May 1, 2023 Page 7
Figure 4 FSLOPAX1 Laser Head

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Laser Head Front and Rear Panels
Figure 5 Laser Head Front Panel
Callout Description
1 Aperture Shutter Position Inidicator for Bypass Output
2 Manual Aperture Wheel to Open/Close Shutter for Bypass Output
3 Bypass Output Aperture
4 Emission Indicator
5 Main Output Aperture
6 Aperture Shutter Position Indicator for Main Output
7 Manual Aperture Wheel to Open/Close Shutter for Main Output
8 Mounting Location for Removable Handles (4 Places)
9 Included CL5A Clamp Location (2 Places)
3
1
2
4
5
6
8
9
7

FSLOPAX1 Femtosecond Optical Parametric Amplifier Chapter 2: Description
Rev. B, May 1, 2023 Page 9
Figure 6 Laser Head Back Panel
Callout Description
1 Water In
2 Water Out
3 Fixed Optical Umbilical
4 Mounting Location for Removable Handles (4 Places)
5 USB 2.0 Type-B Connector
6 Sub-D 25 Pin Umbilical to Controller
7 Included CL5A Clamp Location
Controller Front and Back Panels
Figure 7 Laser Controller Front Panel
Callout Description
1 Emission Indicator
2 Laser Enable Switch
3 Laser Synchronization Signal (BNC Female, TTL)
4 Remote Interlock (BNC Female, Open/Closed)
3
4
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
1
2

FSLOPAX1 Femtosecond Optical Parametric Amplifier Chapter 1:
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Figure 8 Laser Controller Back Panel
Callout Description
1 AC Power On/Off Switch
2 Fuse Tray
3 AC Power Cord Connector
4 USB 2.0 Type-A Connector to Laser
5 Ethernet Port to Computer
6 Oscillator Pulse Train Monitor (BNC Female, 50 Ω, <1 V)
7 Sub-D 25 Umbilical to Laser
8 Fixed Optical Umbilical to Laser
9 Fixed Water Lines (2 Places)
2
3
1
8
9
7
6
5
4

FSLOPAX1 Femtosecond Optical Parametric Amplifier Chapter 3: Setup
Rev. B, May 1, 2023 Page 11
Chapter 3 Setup
The FSLOPAX1 laser system is designed for ease of use. Installation is straightforward, but all steps should be
followed carefully to ensure the best FSLOPAX1 laser performance.
Unpacking
Please exercise caution when unpacking the FSLOPAX1 laser crate as it contains sensitive electronic and optical
components. A simple shipping inventory should be performed when unpacking in order to ensure all parts are
present and accounted for before beginning the installation process.
The FSLOPAX1 laser system includes:
1. Laser Head and Electronics Unit (Connected via Non-Detachable Umbilical, 2.5 m)
2. Air-to-Water Chiller and Water Lines, with Valved Quick-Disconnect Fittings, 2.5 m in length
3. Pre-Mixed Anti-Corrosion Fluid for the Chiller, Thorlabs Item # CDTX
4. 2x Electronic Power Cords, Region-Specific, 1.8 m
5. 1x 2.5 m Ethernet cable, 1x 2.5 m USB 2.0 cable, and 1x Ethernet to USB converter.
6. 3x CL5A Table Clamps for Mounting
7. USB Stick with Software and System Performance Data
Laser Head Mounting
Once you have verified that all components of your FSLOPAX1 system are present, transport the system into the
installation location.
1. Place the FSLOPAX1 laser head (Figure 9) in the desired position on the optical table.
Figure 9 FSLOPAX1 Laser Head, Front (Left) and Back (Right)
2. Secure the laser head on the optical table through the three mounting locations shown with blue circles
in Figure 9, using the included CL5A clamps.
Electronics Setup
Once the FSLOPAX1 laser head has been properly secured to the table, it is advised that you take time to route
the electric cables and components in order to ensure easy operation of the unit without introducing unnecessary

FSLOPAX1 Femtosecond Optical Parametric Amplifier Chapter 3: Setup
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hazards to the system. The stainless steel optical umbilical has a minimum bend radius of 150 mm and should be
routed carefully. This section will describe the proper installation of the additional system components.
1. Place the electronics box (Figure 10) and chiller (Figure 11) in their desired locations.
Figure 10 Electronics Unit
Figure 11 Chiller
2. Connect the water lines from the chiller unit to the optical head/electronics
box. The water lines will be labeled for the correct orientation.
3. Fill the chiller with the provided coolant and turn on the chiller. Once
circulating, verify there are no leaks from the water line connections. Refill the
chiller reservoir if necessary once the coolant has circulated for 2 minutes.
4. Connect all the appropriate cables from the Laser Head to the back of the
electronics unit (Figure 12 and Figure 13).

FSLOPAX1 Femtosecond Optical Parametric Amplifier Chapter 3: Setup
Rev. B, May 1, 2023 Page 13
Figure 12 Laser Head (Back) – User Connections are a Sub-D 25 and a USB 2.0 Type B Connector
Figure 13 Electronics Unit (Back) – User Connections are Sub-D 25, USB 2.0 Type A, and Ethernet
5. Turn on the FSLOPAX1 Controller via the power switch next to the AC plug on the back of the electronics
box (Figure 13). Note it takes ~1.5 minutes for the system to initialize after receiving AC power.
Figure 14 Electronics Unit (Front)
6. Install the key switch and ensure the BNC shorting cap is installed on the Remote interlock (Figure 14).
Turn the key switch to the enabled location.

FSLOPAX1 Femtosecond Optical Parametric Amplifier Chapter 3: Setup
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7. Connect a laptop/desktop to the controller using the Ethernet cable. If the user’s computer does not have
an Ethernet port, they can use the Ethernet to USB adapter included with the laser. The instructions to
configure the network adapter to the static IP address necessary to communicate with the controller are
in Chapter 9.
8. Launch the Ytterbia software (downloaded from the Thorlabs website) on the computer and connect to
the device.
9. Connect the diagnostic signals (“Pulse Train Monitor” and “Laser Synchronization” in Figure 13 and Figure
14, respectively) as desired:
10. Pulse Train Monitor – This BNC output is a fast diagnostic output of the ~56 MHz oscillator pulse train.
Connect this output to an oscilloscope (50 Ω) to verify the oscillator pulse train is stable.
11. Laser Synchronization – The BNC output is a TTL signal synchronized with the output of the laser amplifier
(~50 Ω or ~1 MΩ). This signal can be used to trigger other equipment, if desired.

FSLOPAX1 Femtosecond Optical Parametric Amplifier Chapter 4: Software Overview
Rev. B, May 1, 2023 Page 15
Chapter 4 Software Overview
This section covers only the options and controls accessible through the Ytterbia software. Please consult Chapter
5 for actual system operation instruction.
Ytterbia Software
Figure 15 Ytterbia Software
The Ytterbia software gives the user control of the laser while providing system feedback on the system spectra,
power levels, and other diagnostics built into the laser system which will be described in detail below.
Seeder
Figure 16 Seeder ON
Seeder Power –This toggle button will turn the seeder on or off. The seeder must be turned on before the
amplifier. The seeder is on when the slide bar is set to the “ON” direction, also indicated with the button turning
yellow.

FSLOPAX1 Femtosecond Optical Parametric Amplifier Chapter 4: Software Overview
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Repetition Rate – In this section the user may select the desired repetition rate.
Reference Spectrum – The seeder reference spectrum will be displayed in red. When the seeder is on, the live
spectrum will be displayed in white. A reference spectrum can be saved through the section indicated by yellow
on the right side of the window in Figure 16.
Laser Operation Mode
The FSLOPAX1 allows the user to either route the 1035 nm light directly out of the box (Bypass mode) or through
the OPA (OPA mode). On start-up the user will need to choose what mode they would like to operate the laser in.
Figure 17 Laser Mode

FSLOPAX1 Femtosecond Optical Parametric Amplifier Chapter 4: Software Overview
Rev. B, May 1, 2023 Page 17
4.3.1 Laser Amplifier – Bypass Mode
This section allows the user to turn on the amplifier and provides information on the amplified 1035 nm power
and energy.
Figure 18 Laser Amplifier – Bypass Mode
Laser Power –This toggle button will turn the laser amplifier on or off. The amplifier is on when the slide bar is
set to the “ON” direction, also indicated with the button turning yellow.
Diode Current – This section sets the current applied to the amplifier diodes and changes the output power. The
value may be set to anything within the allowable range. By default, and when hovering over, the recommended
diode current will be displayed which is where the system is optimized and qualified.
Dispersion Offset –This section allows user to adjust the 1035 nm laser dispersion. The factory setting will be an
offset of zero.
1030 Energy –Displays the amplified 1035 nm output energy. Adjusting the diode current will change the output
energy.
1030 Power –Displays the amplified 1035 nm output power. Adjusting the diode current will change the output
power.
OPA Power –Will not display anything while in 1030 mode.
Repetition Rate –Displays the repetition rate of the amplified 1035 nm pulses.
Seeder Spectrometer –Enables the spectrometer which displays the spectrum of the pulse being sent to the 1035
nm amplifier.