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Spectroscopy

Probe Faster and at Lower Concentrations

Absorption and fluorescence-based detection

Spectroscopy analyzes a spectrum of light that can be emitted by a fluorescence process, absorbed or scattered by a medium to deduce its composition or analyze its concentration. Using a detection device with a large aperture collection, such as optical fibers with a larger core size and numerical aperture, increases the intensity of the detected signal. This improves the system's efficiency by allowing a faster detection system or better sensitivity. To ensure a good signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), managing all sources of background noise is also critical.

Showed are results of fused fiber photometry recordings obtained in an optogenetic stimulation experiment using Castor's WMC optimized for fluorescence signal detection. Figure modified from original paper.

Enhanced Collection Efficiency

Castor's products enhance collection efficiency through innovative designs such as the double-clad fiber coupler (DCFC) and the wideband multimode circulator (WMC). The WMC is engineered to optimize light collection without sacrificing a multimode excitation, which is often the case when using standard couplers. This makes the WMC particularly suitable for diode-based implementations. Conversely, the DCFC excels in applications demanding high resolution, leveraging the single-mode core for Gaussian illumination. At the same time, the inner cladding can collect isotropic emission or scattered light. Together, these technologies provide robust solutions for improved collection efficiency in diverse settings.

Managing the Auto-fluorescence Background

To fully support spectroscopy applications, the Castor team has implemented several product optimizations to 1—reduce the fluorescence background from various constituents and 2—effectively manage back-reflections. These features are critical for minimizing noise levels in spectroscopic systems. By addressing these factors, Castor ensures an optimal SNR, enhancing its products’ overall performance and reliability in demanding environments.

Supporting a Range of Modalities

Castor products have been specifically designed to optimize performance across various operational wavelengths and detection modalities. See our collection of Case studies and Application notes, and drop us a line to learn more!

Related products

Double-Clad Fiber Couplers (DCFC)

Combining single-mode and multimode operations

Wideband Multimode Circulators (WMC)

Multimode combiner or circulator operation

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