By Michael Scaggs and Gilbert Haas

The BWA-MON (Beam Waist Analyzer MONitor) system is a “smart” focus head that provides “real-time” laser beam measurement, analysis and monitoring of low to very high power lasers in accordance with international standards ISO11146 and ISO13694 related to lasers without disrupting the laser beam in use and with minimal loss.

Prior to the genus of the BWA-MON, any measurement of a focused laser beam required a complete disruption of the beam; regardless of the application.  Laser manufacturers that develop or research lasers have to align the laser based upon arbitrary conditions, take it to an M-square measurement setup; make a measurement and if not desirable, go back and realign.  This process can take months to fully develop a system.  The BWA-MON aids the laser manufacturer by allowing them to adjust the laser in real time; so there is no need to remove the laser and test in another location and thereby greatly reduce development, setup and alignment time.  Continue reading →