The primoScan from Quantel by Lumibird is a fully integrated, computer-controlled optical parametric oscillator (OPO) designed for high-energy, wavelength-tunable laser excitation. Combining a 355 nm Nd:YAG pump laser with a sophisticated OPO architecture, primoScan provides broad wavelength coverage from the UV through to the near- and short-wave infrared, making it a versatile source for advanced spectroscopy and scientific research.
The system offers an exceptionally broad tuning range of 190 nm to 2.75 µm, depending on configuration. The broadband versions provide signal wavelengths from 405–690 nm and idler wavelengths from 730–2700 nm, while ultra-low-divergence (ULD) versions extend UV operation from 190–405 nm. This makes primoScan suitable for experiments requiring access to multiple spectral regions from a single laser platform.
PrimoScan is fully motorised and computer-controlled, with shot-to-shot wavelength switching in less than 100 ms. This enables rapid wavelength selection during automated measurements and reduces the need for manual optical adjustment. The OPO can also be configured for ultra-low beam divergence of <2 mrad, supporting applications where beam quality and efficient optical delivery are important.
Available configurations deliver pulse energies of up to 205 mJ at 450 nm at 10 Hz, while the ULD/500 configuration can provide up to 155 mJ at the same wavelength. OPO pulse duration is typically 0–3 ns shorter than the pump laser, with linewidths ranging from 3.5–6 cm⁻¹ for ULD configurations.
Typical applications include laser-induced fluorescence (LIF), material analysis, combustion studies, remote sensing, multiphoton interactions, biotechnology and medical research. With its wide tuning range, automated wavelength control and configurable beam characteristics, primoScan provides a flexible platform for demanding wavelength-selective experiments.
