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790nm, 1/4λ, 24×24×2mm, True Zero Order Waveplate（QWPZ790）
790nm\True Zero Order\1/4λ / Unmounted / 24×24×2mm
$160.00
Sale price
$160.00
Regular price
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790nm, 1/4λ, 24×24×2mm, True Zero Order Waveplate（QWPZ790）
SO4010021
$160.00
Sale price
$160.00
Regular price
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This 790 nm quarter-wave plate is designed to introduce quarter-wave retardance at a 790 nm design wavelength, typically used to convert linear polarization to circular polarization or vice versa.
It is suitable for laser diode systems, NIR sensing, and optical measurement setups using 790 nm illumination or signal detection. It helps control the polarization state and support polarization-sensitive measurement or beam control. The true zero-order construction provides maximum stability against temperature variations and wavelength shifts, making it ideal for high-precision industrial and scientific applications.
Key specifications:
- Wavelength / main spec: 790 nm design wavelength
- Retardance / type: 1/4λ (quarter-wave) retardance; True Zero Order
- Transmission / blocking: See specification table for coating and transmission details
- Format / custom option: 24 x 24 x 2 mm square format; custom sizes and mounting options available on request
Similar 1/4λ Waveplate @ 790nm
Product Faqs
What is the difference between a half-wave plate and a quarter-wave plate?
Half-wave plate:
- Rotates linear polarization
- Common in laser power control with a polarizer
- Used to adjust polarization direction
Quarter-wave plate:
- Converts linear polarization to circular or elliptical polarization
- Can also convert circular polarization back to linear
- Used in polarization control, imaging, interferometry, and laser systems
Does the waveplate need to match my laser wavelength?
Yes. Waveplates are wavelength-specific because retardance depends on wavelength.
Zero-order vs multiple-order
Zero-order:
- Better retardance stability
- Less sensitive to wavelength shift, temperature, and angle
- Preferred for precision laser and measurement systems
Multiple-order:
- Usually lower cost
- More sensitive to wavelength, temperature, and angle
- Suitable for less demanding setups
example:
- Zero-order: λ/2 = 180°
- Multi-order: 10λ + λ/2 = 3780°
Same effect, more phase cycles
What is a cemented waveplate?
A cemented waveplate uses adhesive or epoxy to bond two optical plates into one assembly. This makes the component easier to handle and keeps the two plates fixed relative to each other.
Cemented construction is common in many compact waveplate assemblies, but it may not be ideal for high-power laser systems because the adhesive layer can become a limiting factor. For high-power use, optically contacted or air-spaced designs are often considered instead.
What is an achromatic waveplate?
An achromatic waveplate is usually made from two or more birefringent plates, often using different materials.
The purpose is to keep the retardance more stable over a wider wavelength range.
What is a zero-order waveplate?
A zero-order waveplate is designed so the final retardance is only the required phase delay, such as λ/2 or λ/4, without relying on extra full-wave retardance orders.
Zero-order waveplates are commonly made by combining two birefringent plates with crossed optical axes. The final retardance is the difference between the two plates.
The two plates can be assembled in different ways:
- Cemented zero-order waveplate: two plates bonded with optical adhesive; compact and mechanically stable, but less suitable for high-power laser use.
- Optically contacted zero-order waveplate: two plates joined without adhesive; better when adhesive should be avoided.
- Air-spaced zero-order waveplate: two plates separated by a small air gap; often preferred for higher-power laser systems.
What is a True zero-order waveplate?
A true zero-order waveplate provides the required λ/2 or λ/4 retardance using a single very thin birefringent plate.
Because it does not rely on extra full-wave retardance orders, it offers very stable retardance performance. However, crystalline true zero-order plates are usually thin and fragile, so they require careful handling or protective mounting.
Zero-order vs true zero-order waveplate
A zero-order waveplate is usually a two-plate construction. A true zero-order waveplate is a single-plate construction.
Practical difference:
True zero-order waveplates can offer very stable retardance, but they are thinner and more fragile. Compound zero-order waveplates are usually stronger and easier to handle.
What is an air-gap waveplate?
An air-gap waveplate is a two-plate waveplate where the plates are held together mechanically, with a small air space between them.
Because there is no cement layer between the optical plates, air-gap waveplates are often preferred for higher-power laser systems or applications where adhesive should be avoided.
What is an optically contacted waveplate?
An optically contacted waveplate is a two-plate waveplate where the plates are joined by direct optical contact, without adhesive.
The surfaces are polished very flat and clean, allowing the plates to bond through surface contact. This avoids cement in the optical path and gives a compact, stable assembly.
Can I change the size of a waveplate?
Usually, no. A finished waveplate should normally be used in its original size and mount.
Many waveplates are made from thin or compounded optical plates. Resizing after manufacturing can damage the plate, disturb the alignment, or affect optical performance.
If the waveplate is smaller than your existing optical system, it is usually better to use a mechanical adapter. For example, an SM05-mounted waveplate can be adapted into an SM1 system with an SM05-to-SM1 adapter.
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