Custom Optical Filters:Test Before Custom Design

Custom optical filters are often defined by system level performance, including light source, sensor response, and optical setup. Before finalizing a design, it is critical to validate that the filter will perform as expected in real conditions.

How We Help You Validate Before Custom Design

Start with recommended stock filters and validate performance in your actual system.

Refine your specifications with real data, then proceed to a custom optical filter.

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Why Validation Matters Before Custom Design

  • System conditions vary (light source, sensor, AOI)
  • Simulation ≠ real-world performance
  • Custom filters are costly to iterate
  • Wrong design leads to time and budget loss

Validating your design helps reduce risk and improves the accuracy of your final custom optical filter.

Find the Right Filter for Your Application

Not sure which filter type you need? Most custom optical filter projects start from an application goal rather than a fixed specification. Here are common use cases to help you identify the right direction.

How We Support Your Design

  • Recommend filters based on your application
  • Provide stock options for testing
  • Help refine specifications with real data
  • Deliver custom filters based on validated results
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Custom Optical Filter Capabilities

  • Bandpass Filter

    Center Wavelength (CWL): 193 – 1940 nm
    Bandwidth (FWHM): 1 – 200 nm
    Optical Density (Blocking): OD2 – OD6

  • Multi Bandpass Filter

    Number of Passbands: 2,3,4 bands
    Bandwidth (FWHM): 5 – 40 nm
    Optical Density (Blocking): OD3 – OD6

  • Longpass Filter

    Cut-on Wavelength: 360 – 1600 nm
    Optical Density (Blocking): OD2 – OD6

  • Shortpass Filter

    Cut-off Wavelength: 360 – 1600 nm
    Optical Density (Blocking): OD2 – OD6

  • Dichroic Mirror

    Angle of Incidence (AOI): 45°
    Reflectance: >99% in reflection band
    Transmission: >95% in transmission band
    Wavelength Range (Design-Dependent):
    Reflection: 200 – 2000 nm
    Transmission: 250 – 1900 nm


    *Spectral split and bandwidth are design-dependent; full range is not achievable in a single coating

  • Neutral Density Filter

    Transmission Range: 0.001% – 90%
    Filter Types:
    Absorptive ND Filters
    Reflective ND Filters
    Spectral Range:
    Standard: 200 – 1100 nm
    Extended: 200 – 2600 nm

Custom Optical Filters Work Flow

  • Design and Simulation

    Before production, we define your filter specifications based on your application and validation results. This includes wavelength range, bandwidth, transmission, and physical dimensions. Coating simulations are then performed to optimize performance before manufacturing.

  • Substrate Preparation

    The substrate material (e.g., glass, UV fused silica, or silicon) is selected and prepared based on your application. It is then cut, ground, and polished to achieve the required dimensions, thickness, and surface quality.

  • Optical Coatings

    Thin-film layers are deposited onto the substrate to achieve the required transmission, reflection, and blocking performance. The coating design is carefully controlled to ensure the filter meets the specified optical characteristics.

  • Quality Inspection

    Spectral performance is verified using spectrophotometers (e.g., Cary 5000) to ensure transmission and blocking meet design specifications.

    Measurement Range: 175 – 3300 nm

  • Dicing

    Coated substrates are precision-cut using diamond blades to achieve the required dimensions.

    Cut Size Range:

    Minimum: Ø5 mm or 3 × 3 mm
    Maximum: up to 60x60mm

  • Assembly

    Optional mounting solutions are available to support system integration. Filters can be supplied unmounted or assembled into various mechanical formats, including threaded or non-threaded mounts, filter cubes, and filter wheels.

Customization FAQs

What information is needed for a custom optical filter?

You can start with basic details such as your application, target wavelength or range, light source, and sensor type. Even if your specifications are not fully defined, we can recommend filters for testing.

Can I test filters before committing to a custom design?

Yes. Where applicable, we recommend in-stock filters with similar specifications so you can validate performance in your system before moving to custom coating.

What is the typical lead time?

Custom optical filter projects typically take 4–8 weeks, depending on design complexity and quantity.

What is the minimum order quantity (MOQ)?

The typical MOQ for custom filters is 20-100 pieces per design.

Can you guarantee the filter will work in my system?

We support design and specification refinement, but system performance depends on your setup. That’s why validation with test samples is strongly recommended before finalizing a custom design.

What wavelength range can you support?

We support designs from UV to infrared, typically within 200 – 2600 nm, depending on filter type and application.

What types of filters can you customize?

We offer customization for bandpass, longpass, shortpass, neutral density (ND) filters, dichroic mirrors, and multi-band filters.

Can filters be supplied with mounting or mechanical integration?

Yes. Filters can be provided unmounted or integrated into threaded mounts, filter cubes, or filter wheels upon request.

How do I get started?

Simply share your application or requirements with us—we’ll recommend suitable filters for testing and guide you toward a validated custom design.

Get Filter Recommendations for Your Application