MKS Inc., a global provider of enabling technologies that transform our world, has announced the Ophir® SP301Q CQD Beam Profiler at SPIE Photonics West 2026. Engineered to address the limitations of high-cost, ITAR-controlled cameras, the Ophir SP301Q beam profiler uses a Colloidal Quantum Dot (CQD) sensor that provides a cost-effective alternative to expensive InGaAs sensors while delivering comparable accuracy and resolution. The new beam profiler offers high sensitivity, wide dynamic range, and fast shutter speeds for detailed analyses of laser shape, size, and power. It is designed for precision material processing, LiDAR for autonomous vehicles, remote sensing, optical communication, and military applications.
The Ophir SP403P SWIR Beam Profiler is designed to address the limitations of high-cost, ITAR-controlled options by offering a cost-effective SWIR solution with a large active measurement area. Image Credit: MKS Inc.
The Ophir SP301Q CDQ beam profiler is able to characterize laser profiles across a broad range of wavelengths, from 400 nm to 1700 nm. It is especially suited for SWIR (shortwave IR) lasers, particularly those operating at 1550 nm, which offer eye safety and good atmospheric transmission. The profiler provides a 9.6 mm × 7.7 mm active area and 640 x 512 pixel resolution (VGA).
"Based on nanoscale semiconductor crystals, Colloidal Quantum Dot technology is compact, efficient, and cost-effective" said Reuven Silverman, General Manager, Ophir Photonics Products. "The Ophir SP301Q CQD beam profiler can achieve InGaAs-comparable performance at lower cost. It also avoids the limitations of traditional SWIR beam characterization methods that are inaccurate or expensive, often restricted by dual-use export regulations."
The Ophir SP301Q CDQ beam profiler includes state-of-the-art Ophir BeamGage® Professional software, the industry's most advanced beam analysis software. It is based on Ultracal™, MKS' proprietary baseline correction algorithm that helped establish the ISO 11146-3 standard for beam measurement accuracy. Ophir BeamGage software includes all the calculations needed to make accurate, ISO approved laser beam measurements, including power density, spot position, spot diameter, and more. It also includes advanced image processing features, trend charting, data logging, pass/fail production testing, and multilingual support.
A powerful yet easy-to use system, the Ophir SP301Q CQD beam profiler also includes a GigE interface for high speed data transfer and easy integration into industrial networks.
Availability
The Ophir SP301Q CQD Beam Profiler is available now.