초록 ▼

In order to tune the frequencies of radiation sources, a frequency locker is provided having equally spaced periodic frequencies with a spectral range substantially equal to the frequency spacing of a plurality of radiation sources with equally spaced apart frequencies. The periodic frequencies of t

In order to tune the frequencies of radiation sources, a frequency locker is provided having equally spaced periodic frequencies with a spectral range substantially equal to the frequency spacing of a plurality of radiation sources with equally spaced apart frequencies. The periodic frequencies of the locker are slightly offset from those of the radiation sources. Radiation from each of the sources is passed through the locker and the radiation passed by the locker is detected and used to adjust the frequencies of the sources in order to tune the sources. The frequency locker includes an etalon with dimensions accurate to 0.5 microns or better. The dimension of the etalon may be controlled by controlling the thickness of spacers for maintaining vacuum or air gaps where the dimensions may be altered by thin film deposition and etching techniques. The optical path length of the etalon may also be changed by altering the angle of incidence of an incoming beam with the reflective surfaces of the etalon.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A method for locking the frequencies of a plurality of radiation sources substantially to predetermined equally spaced frequencies spaced apart by a predetermined frequency spacing, comprising:providing one or more frequency lockers having equally spaced periodic frequenc

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A method for locking the frequencies of a plurality of radiation sources substantially to predetermined equally spaced frequencies spaced apart by a predetermined frequency spacing, comprising:providing one or more frequency lockers having equally spaced periodic frequencies with a free spectral range (FSR) substantially equal to the predetermined frequency spacing, wherein said periodic frequencies are close to the predetermined frequencies;passing radiation from each of the sources through the locker or one of the lockers;detecting radiation passed by the locker or one of the lockers and providing first outputs; andadjusting the frequency of each of the sources in response to one of said first outputs.