THORLABS RSB1 User manual

Raman Spectroscopy
Bundle
RSB1(/M,) RSBR1(/M),
RSBC1(/M), RSBA1
Operation Manual

Version:
Date: 1.0 17-Sep-2021
Copyright © 2021 Thorlabs

Foreword Table of Contents
1 General Information 1
21.1 Ordering Codes and Accessories 41.2 Requirements
2 Getting Started 5
52.1 Parts List
3 Operating Elements 7
73.1 RSB1(/M) Base Unit 83.2 RSBR1(/M) Front End for Reflective Measurements 93.3 RSBC1(/M) Front End for Cuvette Measurements 103.4 RSBA1 Mounting Brackets for Cage System
4 System Setup 11
114.1 Mounting RSB1(/M) 134.2 Mounting the Front End 134.2.1 Mounting RSBR1(/M) 174.2.2 Mounting RSBC1(/M) 194.2.3 Mounting Cage Systems 204.2.4 Mounting on the SM1.5 External Thread of RSB1(/M) 204.3 Laser and Laser Driver 214.3.1 Laser 214.3.1.1 Alternative Excitation Wavelength 214.3.2 Optical Fiber 214.3.3 Laser Driver 224.3.4 Mounting the Laser 234.4 Connecting the RSB1(/M) to the PC
5 Operating Instructions 24
245.1 Laser Driver Settings 255.2 Software and Installation 275.3 Raman Measurements with the OSA Raman Software 275.3.1 Software Startup Screen 285.3.2 Software Configuration Procedure 295.3.3 Settings 315.3.3.1 Info Panel 325.3.3.2 Main Panel 375.3.3.3 Dark Image 375.3.4 System Calibration 445.3.5 Export Data 455.4 Experimental Measurements

455.4.1 Polystyrene System Test 465.4.2 Sample Measurement 475.4.3 Compatible Cuvettes for RSBC1(/M)
6 Operating Principle 48
496.1 Analysis of Raman Spectra 506.2 Acquisition of Raman Spectra 526.3 Coded-Aperture Raman Spectroscopy 546.4 Parameters Affecting Spectra
7 Maintenance and Service 58
597.1 Troubleshooting
8 Appendix 62
628.1 Technical Data 638.1.1 RSB1/M and RSB1 Technical Data 648.1.1.1 RSB1/M and RSB1 Dimensions 668.1.2 RSBR1/M and RSBR1 Technical Data 678.1.2.1 RSBR1/M and RSBR1 Dimensions 698.1.3 RSBC1/M and RSBC1 Technical Data 708.1.3.1 RSBC1/M and RSBC1 Dimensions 728.1.4 RSBA1 Technical Data 728.1.4.1 RSBA1 Dimensions 738.1.5 Thorlabs Raman Bundle Technical Data 738.1.6 Laser Requirements 748.1.7 Technical Data Explained 748.1.7.1 Signal-to-Noise Characterization 758.1.7.2 Spectral Accuracy and Spectral Resolution 788.1.7.3 Amplitude Correction 808.2 List of Acronyms 818.3 References 828.4 Application Note Polarization Dependent Raman Spectroscopy 848.4.1 Optimizing Raman Signal via Collimator Rotation 858.4.2 Including Polarization Optics in the Excitation Path 878.4.3 Including Polarization Optics in the Excitation and Raman Scattering Path 888.4.4 References 898.5 OSA Raman Software: General Instructions 898.5.1 Interface Overview 908.5.2 Customizing the Display 908.5.2.1 Zooming and Scrolling the Horizontal Axis 918.5.2.2 Zooming and Scrolling the Vertical Axis 918.5.2.3 Setting the Unit of the Horizontal Axis 918.5.2.4 Setting the Unit of the Vertical Axis 928.5.2.5 Displaying the Secondary Vertical Axis

938.5.2.6 Hiding the Menus and Full Screen Mode 938.5.2.7 Displaying a Split View 948.5.2.8 Displaying a Legend in the Data Display Area 958.5.2.9 Dark Room Mode 968.5.3 Acquiring Data 968.5.3.1 Finding the Spectrometer 968.5.3.2 Selecting the Instrument to Use 978.5.3.3 Acquiring a Single Spectrum 988.5.3.4 Repeated Measurements 988.5.3.5 Averaging Spectra 988.5.4 Movable Markers 998.5.4.1 Moving Markers 998.5.4.2 Marker Values 998.5.4.3 Locking the Markers 1008.5.5 Fixed Markers 1008.5.5.1 Adding and Removing Fixed Markers 1018.5.5.2 Automatically Mark Peaks 1018.5.5.3 Value of Markers 1028.5.6 Working with Data in Traces 1028.5.6.1 Active Trace 1028.5.6.2 Trace Update Options 1048.5.6.3 User-Defined Update Options 1058.5.6.4 Viewing Properties of a Trace 1068.5.6.5 Reordering Traces 1068.5.6.6 Math Operations 1118.5.6.7 Functional Traces (Traces Defined by a Function) 1118.5.7 Saving and Loading Data 1128.5.7.1 Saving Spectral Data 1138.5.7.2 Loading Spectral Data 1138.5.8 Analyzing data 1148.5.8.1 Floating Windows 1148.5.8.2 Displayed Range and Threshold 1168.5.8.3 Peak Track 1188.5.8.4 Valley Track 1198.5.8.5 Statistics Analysis 1218.5.8.6 Curve Fit 1248.5.8.7 Baseline Correction 1258.5.9 Keyboard Shortcuts 1268.5.10 General OSA Raman Settings 1268.5.10.1 Basic Settings 1288.5.10.2 Saving and Loading Settings 1318.6 Safety

1328.7 Return of Devices 1328.8 Manufacturer Address 1328.9 Warranty 1328.10Copyright and Exclusion of Liability 1338.11Thorlabs Worldwide Contacts - WEEE Policy

© 2021 Thorlabs
We aim to develop and produce the best solutions for your
applications in the field of optical measurement techniques. To help
us to live up to your expectations and constantly improve our
products, we need your ideas and suggestions. We and our
international partners are looking forward to hearing from you.
Thorlabs GmbH
Warning
Sections marked by this symbol explain dangers that might result in
personal injury or death. Always read the associated information
carefully before performing the indicated procedure.
Please read this advice carefully!
This manual also contains "NOTES" and "HINTS" written in this form.
Attention
Paragraphs preceded by this symbol explain hazards that could
damage the instrument and the connected equipment or may cause
loss of data.
Note

Raman Spectroscopy Bundle Chapter 1: General Information
MTN022733-D02
Page 1
1 General Information
This manual describes the use of the Thorlabs components for Raman Spectroscopy, a spec-
trograph and different front ends, suitable for varying applications.
Raman spectroscopy is a technique that detects and analyzes inelastic photon scattering,
known as Raman scattering. Because Raman scattering is material specific and provides a mo-
lecular fingerprint, Raman spectroscopy can be used to identify specific chemicals or mo-
lecules.
One challenge in Raman spectroscopy has long been the low signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) due to
the very weak Raman scattering signal. The low SNR can be overcome with the use of Coded-
Aperture (CODA) technology: The CODA technology uses a two dimensional matrix with a
defined pattern of multiple slits instead of a single slit input aperture. This coded input aperture
with multiple slits allows data acquisition from a larger sampling volume than a single slit input
aperture. This in turn, enables higher sampling rates and an increased SNR. Please find more
general information on Raman spectroscopy and background on Coded-Aperture systems in
the chapter Operating Principle .
RSB1(/M) Raman Spectrograph
The Thorlabs RSB1(/M) Raman Spectroscopy Base Unit features such a highly optimized spec-
trograph based on the CODA technology with a pseudo Hadamard mask of order 64 and an at-
tached CMOS camera. The geometric size of the coded-aperture's active area is 3.159 mm x
2.304 mm. Due to the coded-aperture technology and the spatial averaging in the analysis, the
Thorlabs Raman spectrograph RSB1(/M) is superior in the analysis of complex mixtures.
Beyond the Coded-Aperture technology, the RSB1(/M) Raman Spectroscopy Base Unit is de-
signed for 785 nm excitation and a detection range of 500 cm-1 to 1800 cm-1. The RSB1(/M)
Base Unit can be purchased in an imperial (RSB1) or metric version (RSB1/M). For the purpose
of this manual, RSB1(/M) refers to both versions.
To assemble a full Raman spectroscopy system, the RSB1(/M) needs to be equipped with a
front end which collects the scattered Raman signal for detection and analysis, an excitation
light source at 785 nm, and a PC.
Front Ends RSBR1(/M) and RSBC1(/M)
Thorlabs offers different front ends for variable applications:
The RSBR1(/M) reflective front end is designed to examine powder and solid samples. It
carries the optical modules which guide the laser light to the sample and collect back-scattered
Raman signal from the sample and focus it onto the RSB1(/M) input aperture. For laser light in-
put, the RSBR1(/M) features an FC/PC connector. A sample table is provided to place a speci-
men at the optimal focal plane. The RSBR1(/M) even allows to analyze samples that are trans-
parently wrapped. The wrapping component can be eliminated from the output spectrum
provided that the focal volume is located within the sample.
The RSBC1(/M) cuvette front end for 10 mm cuvettes is designed to examine transparent,
translucent, or semi-transparent materials, since Raman scattered light is collected in a 90°
geometry with respect to excitation. Compared to the reflective front end, due to the 90° geo-
metry, this reduces the amount of scattered laser light or Rayleigh scattering that enters the
spectrograph. As for the RSBR1(/M), the laser is connected via a FC/PC connector.
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© 2021 ThorlabsRev: 1.0, 17-Sep-2021 Page 2
Raman Spectroscopy Bundle Chapter 1: General Information
Both front ends can be purchased as an imperial version (RSBR1, RSBC1) or a metric version
(RSBR1/M, RSBC1/M). For the purpose of this manual, RSBR1(/M) or RSBC1(/M) refers to
both versions, respectively.
For custom-made solutions, Thorlabs offers the RSBA1 adapter to connect the RSB1(/M) to
Thorlabs 60 mm cage system components. Other custom-made front ends can be connected
to the RSB1(/M) using the SM1.5 thread at the input aperture.
For data acquisition and analysis, Thorlabs provides the OSA Software, Raman Edition
(Thorlabs OSA Raman Software). The software is shipped with the RSB1(/M) on an USB flash
drive which also contains all required drivers. For software updates, please see the chapter
Software and Installation .
As an excitation light source, Thorlabs recommends the FPV785M laser with the CLD1015
laser driver. The modular design of the Thorlabs Raman bundle also allows use of alternative
lasers, fulfilling the laser requirements stated in this manual.
Attention
Please find all safety information and warnings concerning this product in the chapter Safety
in the Appendix.
Please note that safety of the assembled system is the responsibility of the assembler. This
refers in particular to laser safety for high-power lasers as used for Raman spectroscopy.
1.1 Ordering Codes and Accessories
RSB1
Base Unit for Raman Spectroscopy (Imperial Threads) with Coded Aperture
(CODA Technology) and CMOS-Camera Sensor. Included are a MB1824
Breadboard with BBH1 Lifting Handles, RS2.5P Mounting Posts, CF125C
Clamping Forks, and a USB Stick Carrying the OSA Raman Software and
the Camera Calibration Data for Spectra Reconstruction.
RSB1/M
Base Unit for Raman Spectroscopy (Metric Threads) with Coded Aperture
(CODA Technology) and CMOS-Camera Sensor. Included are a
MB4560/M Breadboard with BBH1 Lifting Handles, RS2.5P/M Mounting
Posts, CF125C/M Clamping Forks, and a USB Stick Carrying the OSA Ra-
man Software and the Camera Calibration Data for Spectra Reconstruction.
RSBR1
Front End for Reflective Measurements of Solid Samples with the RSB1
Base Unit (Imperial Type). Included are a Sample Table for Imperial Sys-
tems with a Stray Light Shield and a RPC Polystyrene Calibration Chip.
RSBR1/M
Front End for Reflective Measurements of Solid Samples with the RSB1/M
Base Unit (Metric Type). Included are a Sample Table for Metric Systems
with a Stray Light Shield and a RPC Polystyrene Calibration Chip.
RSBC1
Front End for Measurements of Liquid Samples in a Cuvette with the RSB1
Base Unit (Imperial Type). Included are a TR1.5 Mounting Post and PH2E
10
25
25
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Raman Spectroscopy Bundle Chapter 1: General Information
MTN022733-D02
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Post Holder, a CF125C Clamping Fork, 3500 ml Quartz Cuvette, and a RPB
Polystyrene Calibration Block.
RSBC1/M
Front End for Measurements of Liquid Samples in a Cuvette with the
RSB1/M Base Unit (Metric Type). Included are TR40/M Mounting Post and
PH50E/M Post Holder, a CF125C/M Clamping Fork, 3500 ml Quartz
Cuvette, and a RPB Polystyrene Calibration Block.
RSBA1
Adapter for Mounting of a 60 mm Cage System to the Input Aperture of
either RSB1 or RSB1/M.
Required Accessories:
Laser Driver CLD1015 is the Recommended Laser Driver
785 nm Laser We recommend the Thorlabs FPV785M laser. If using a different laser, please
see the recommended laser specifications Technical Data .
Replacement parts:
RPB Raman Spectroscopy Polystyrene Standard Block for Instrument Calibration
with the RSBC1(/M) Cuvette Measurement Front End.
RPC Raman Spectroscopy Polystyrene Standard Chip (Æ25 mm) for Instrument
Calibration with the RSBR1(/M) Reflective Measurement Front End.
CV10Q35F 3500 ml Macro Fluorescence Cuvette with Cap
To purchase the above replacement parts, please contact Thorlabs.
Recommended Accessories:
Safety Glasses
ADAFC1 Mating Sleeve: To connect the laser pigtail to the armored fiber patch
cable.
MR16L01 Armored Fiber Patch Cable: To connect the laser to the FC/PC port of the front
end.
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© 2021 ThorlabsRev: 1.0, 17-Sep-2021 Page 4
Raman Spectroscopy Bundle Chapter 1: General Information
1.2 Requirements
These are the requirements for the PC intended to be used for operation of the RSB1(/M) using
the Thorlabs OSA Raman Software. Please find the OSA Raman Software on the USB stick
provided with the RSB1(/M) main unit or for download from the Raman bundle website.
Hardware Requirements
·Processor (CPU): Intel Pentium 4 or AMD Athlon 64 3000+
·Memory (RAM): 2.0 GB
·Graphic Card Resolution: Min. 800 x 600 Pixels
·Hard Drive: Min. 2 GB of available disk space (64 bit)
·Interface: Free high-speed USB 3.0 port
The OSA Raman Software is compatible with the following operating systems:
·Windows®10 (64-bit)
For operation of the OSA Raman Software, the Microsoft .NET Framework version 4.5.2 or
higher is required. This software (version 4.7.2) is included with the Thorlabs OSA Raman Soft-
ware installation package.

Raman Spectroscopy Bundle Chapter 2: Getting Started
MTN022733-D02
Page 5
2 Getting Started
2.1 Parts List
Please inspect the shipping container for damage. Please do not cut through the cardboard.
You might need the box for storage or for returns.
If the shipping container seems to be damaged, keep it until you have inspected the contents
for completeness and tested the Raman Spectroscopy Bundle mechanically and electrically.
Verify that you have received the following items within the package:
RSB1 Base Unit (Imperial)
1. RSB1 Main Unit for Raman Spectroscopy
2. USB 3.0 A to Micro B Cable to Connect the Camera to the PC
3. MB1824 Aluminum Breadboard
4. BBH1 Lifting Handles for the Breadboard
5. 2 x RS2.5P Imperial Mounting Posts
6. 2 x CF125C Clamping Forks
7. USB stick with OSA Raman Software and Coded Matrix Calibration Data
8. Quick Reference
RSB1/M Base Unit (Metric)
1. RSB1/M Main Unit for Raman Spectroscopy
9. USB 3.0 A to Micro B Cable to Connect the Camera to the PC
2. MB4560/M Aluminum Breadboard
3. BBH1 Lifting Handles for the Breadboard
4. 2 x RS2.5P/M Metric Mounting Posts
5. 2 x CF125C/M Clamping Forks
6. USB stick with OSA Raman Software and Coded Matrix Calibration Data
7. Quick Reference
RSBR1 Front End for Reflective Measurements (Imperial)
1. RSBR1 Front End
2. Sample Table for Imperial Systems with a BA2F Mounting Base
3. RPC Polystyrene Calibration Chip
4. Stray Light Shield
5. Quick Reference
RSBR1/M Front End for Reflective Measurements (Metric)
1. RSBR1/M Front End

© 2021 ThorlabsRev: 1.0, 17-Sep-2021 Page 6
Raman Spectroscopy Bundle Chapter 2: Getting Started
2. Sample Table for Metric Systems with a BA2F/M Mounting Base
3. RPC Polystyrene Calibration Chip
4. Stray Light Shield
5. Quick Reference
RSBC1 Front End for Cuvette Measurements (Imperial)
1. RSBC1 Front End
2. TR1.5 Mounting Post
3. PH2E Post Holder
4. CF125C Clamping Fork
5. 3500 ml Quartz Cuvette
6. RPB Polystyrene Block for Calibration
7. Quick Reference
RSBC1/M Front End for Cuvette Measurements (Metric)
1. RSBC1 Front End
2. TR40/M Mounting Post
3. PH50E/M Post Holder
4. CF125C/M Clamping Fork
5. 3500 ml Quartz Cuvette
6. RPB Polystyrene Block for Calibration
7. Quick Reference
RSBA1 Adapter Plate for 60 mm Cage Systems
1. 2 RSBA1 Mounting Brackets with 4 Metric Screws (M4) and 4 Imperial Screws (8-32).
2. Quick Reference

Raman Spectroscopy Bundle Chapter 3: Operating Elements
MTN022733-D02
Page 7
3 Operating Elements
3.1 RSB1(/M) Base Unit
The RSB1(/M) Base Unit components are labelled in the image below, which shows the
RSB1/M model. Aside from the posts and mounting threads, RSB1 and RSB1/M are identical.
Attention
Do not remove covers! There are no user-serviceable parts inside!
RSB1(/M) Features
1
Input Aperture with Hadamard Mask
2
SM1 External Thread
3
SM1.5 External Thread
4
Outside: Taps for RSBA1 Cage Adapter Mounting*
Inside: Taps for Dowel Pins from RSBA1
5
Tap 3 for Post Mounting: M6 x 1 (imperial: 1/4-20)
6
Tap 1 for Post Mounting: M6 x 1 (imperial:1/4-20)
7
Tap 2 for Post Mounting: M6 x 1 (imperial:1/4-20)
8
CMOS Camera
9
Auxiliary Port
10
USB 3.0 Port
11
Mounting Posts:
Metric: 2 x RS2.5P/M; Imperial: 2 x RS2.5P
* Taps differ for metric (M4 x 0.7) and imperial (8-32) versions.

© 2021 ThorlabsRev: 1.0, 17-Sep-2021 Page 8
Raman Spectroscopy Bundle Chapter 3: Operating Elements
3.2 RSBR1(/M) Front End for Reflective Measurements
The RSBR1(/M) front end components are labelled in the image below, which shows the
RSBR1/M model.
RSBR1(/M) Features
1
RSB1(/M) Base Unit Input Aperture
2
Optical Baffle Assembly to the RBS1(/M)
3
SM1 Internal Thread
4
SM1 Locking Ring
5
RSBR1(/M) Main Body with Bandpass Filter and
Collecting Mirror for Raman Scattering
6
FC/PC Connector for Laser Input
7
Sample Table
8
Post of Sample Table
9
BA2F Mounting Plate with Set Screw
10
Stray Light Cover: Bottom
11
Stray Light Cover: Top
12
Taps (8-32) for Screws to Fasten the Light Cover or Post
Mounting
13
FC/PC Protection Cap

Raman Spectroscopy Bundle Chapter 3: Operating Elements
MTN022733-D02
Page 9
3.3 RSBC1(/M) Front End for Cuvette Measurements
The RSBC1(/M) front end components are labelled in the image below, which shows the
RSBC1/M model.
RSBC1(/M) Features
1
RSB1(/M) Base Unit Input Aperture
2
Baffle Assembly to the RBS1(/M)
3
SM1 Internal Thread
4
SM1 Locking Ring
5
SM1M05 Connecting Ring
6
RSBC1(/M) Main Body with
Collecting Mirror for Raman Scattering
7
Cuvette Slot
8
Excitation Bandpass Filter
9
F260FC-780 Collimator, SS3MN4 Setscrews
10
FC/PC connector for Laser Input
11
Mounting Post in Post Holder with Spring-Loaded Locking
Screw*
12
FC/PC Protection Cap
13
Light-Tight Cover
* Post and Holder differ for metric and imperial versions. Please see the packing list.

© 2021 ThorlabsRev: 1.0, 17-Sep-2021 Page 10
Raman Spectroscopy Bundle Chapter 3: Operating Elements
3.4 RSBA1 Mounting Brackets for Cage System

Raman Spectroscopy Bundle Chapter 4: System Setup
MTN022733-D02
Page 11
4 System Setup
The following chapter describes how to mount the base unit, the front ends, and the FPV785M
laser. Guidance for custom-made system mounting is also provided.
4.1 Mounting RSB1(/M)
Mounting RSB1(/M) on the Breadboard
Please mount the RSB1(/M) Base Unit on the provided breadboard using the enclosed posts
and clamping forks. Position the RSB1(/M) such that there is enough space on the breadboard
to mount the front end, the light source, and any optional accessories such as polarizers or a
beam profiler.
Please use mounting holes 1 and 2 on the bottom of the RSB1(/M) for stability.
Height of Input Aperture
The input aperture of the RSB1(/M) may differ between the metric and imperial system due to
the mounting posts.
When the included posts are used, the difference in height is as follows.
RSB1/M
RSB1
Height of Input Aperture above Optical Table
84.1 mm (3.31 in)
3.25 in (82.6 mm)
Mounting of a Cage System
When a cage system is mounted to the RSB1(/M) Base Unit, mounting tap 1 next to the in-
put aperture can not be used as it will be covered by the RSBA1 mounting adapter. In that
case, please use the two more distal mounting taps 2 and 3 .
Attention
Be aware that the mounting is less stable when using taps 2 and 3 are used. The RSB1(/M)
may fall over.
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Raman Spectroscopy Bundle Chapter 4: System Setup
RSB1 Bottom View
Mounted RSB1
Mounting RSB1(/M) in an Overhead Position
The RSB1(/M) can also be mounted in an up side down position since the assembly is isomet-
ric with mounting taps on both sides. Use the mounting taps on the upper side indicated
above .
Attention
Please do not put pressure on the camera or input aperture end as it can only accommodate
low-load mounting.
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Raman Spectroscopy Bundle Chapter 4: System Setup
MTN022733-D02
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Attention
The base unit is designed to detect low intensity Raman signal, and, for best performance, the
coded aperture should be illuminated homogeneously. To prevent damage, never aim the laser
directly to the input aperture of the base unit.
4.2 Mounting the Front End
The RSB1(/M) Raman Spectroscopy Base Unit provides an SM1 external thread adapter for
mounting the RSBR1(/M) and RSBC1(/M) front ends onto the input aperture. Please see the re-
spective chapters below for details on mounting RSBR1(/M) or RSBC1(/M) .
In addition, the Thorlabs RSB1(/M) base unit features two mounting options for customer-de-
signed front ends: A 1.5'' external threading for Æ1.5'' lens tubes and the RSBA1 adapter
to mount a 60 mm cage system.
Attention
The aperture end of the RSB1(/M) Raman spectroscopy Base Unit can only accommodate low-
load mounting. Weight (£0.5 kg) and leverage should not exceed that of RSBR1(/M).
Attention
Do not mix metric and imperial systems as the post heights vary slightly. Thorlabs does not re-
commend to do so as the beam path would need to be carefully adjusted.
4.2.1 Mounting RSBR1(/M)
1. Mount the RSB1(/M) base unit on a breadboard according to the instructions .
2. Remove the SM1 protective cap from the input aperture of the RSB1(/M) Base Unit.
3. Remove the stray light cover from the RSBR1(/M) front unit by unscrewing the two screws
(12 ) on either side.
4. Place the RSBR1(/M) sample table on the breadboard such that the optical baffle (2) of
the RSBR1(/M) passes through the U-shape of the light shield.
Remove the protective cap from the RSBR1(/M) output aperture.
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20 19
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