Fiber Coupler and Fiber Collimator 60FC

Description

The fiber collimators series 60FC are designed for collimating radiation exiting optical fiber cables with high pointing stability. They can also be used in reverse-mode as fiber incouplers. They are suitable for single-mode and polarization-maintaining fiber cables leading to collimated beams with a Gaussian intensity profile. Please note that for multimode collimation the intensity profile is not Gaussian and depends on specific fiber and radiation properties.

An optics for each application
A large variety of collimating optics allows that the optimum focal length and the best lens type for a single wavelength (asphere, monochromat) or a wavelength range (achromat or apochromat) can be selected for each application. All lenses are AR-coated. For an ideal Gaussian beam and standard fibers you can reach coupling efficiencies up to 80%.

Adjustment of focus
The distance between fiber end-face and collimating optics is adjusted by means of an eccentric key. The lens does not rotate when adjusting the focus. The final focus setting is locked by means of two radially arranged clamping screws. Additionally attachment optics can be mounted to the front of the collimator.

Optimum lens performance
The angled polish of connectors of type APC is considered by a pre-angled mechanical coupling axis that compensates the beam deflection and you can use the lens centrically. This minimizes aberrations simply resulting from a non-ideal beam path through the lens.

Connector Type
The fiber collimator can be equipped with FC PC (wide key*), FC APC (wide key*), ST, LSA (compatible with fiber connectors type DIN, AVIO and AVIM) or mini AVIM® (compatible with mini AVIM® and midi AVIM®) receptacles. SMA-905 (F-SMA) type receptacles are available for 0°-polish e.g. for SMA-905 High Power connectors. In case of FC or LSA with a spring loaded ferrule the fiber coupler has an additional grub screw to increase pointing stability.*Even though the fiber collimator has a wide key receptacle it still can be used with both narrow key and wide key fibers. More information can be found here.

Material
The fiber collimators are available in nickel silver (standard) or in amagnetic titanium. In case of titanium, the relative permeability is near 1 (µr=1.00005) making it almost transparent to magnetic fields. The linear coefficient of thermal expansion is close to that of the optics so that a thermal stability over a larger temperature range can be expected.

Mounting
The collimator can be placed into a standard mirror mount using the corresponding adapters. A list with mounting options can be found here.

Technotes

FAQ

Order Code
- How do I read the Order Code?
  The Order Code of standard Fiber Couplers is fairly easy ro read.
  Example: 60FC-xxx-4-M5-33
  60FC denotes the series of the Fiber Coupler, in this case series 60FC. You can find an overview of available series here.
  xxx stands for the receptacle type. Standard is FC and the xxx is left out. SMA stands for receptacle type F-SMA, LSA stands for a receptacle type LSA compatible with fiber connectors type DIN, AVIO and AVIM
  4 stands for the collimator coupling axis. It is either 4 (standard) for 8°-polished fibers or 0 for 0°-polished fibers. For SMA couplers there is als 23 which is for 5°-polished fibers.
  M5 denotes the otics type and the focal length. M stands for monochromat or achromat, A for asphere and S for singlet lens. The focal length is given in mm, in this case 5mm
  33 describes the AR-Coating of the lens. Specifics on the coatings can be downloaded on the individual product pages of the fiber couplers.
Adjustment
- How much can I change the focus setting?
  For couplers and collimators with a focal length < 12 mm you can change the focus setting ± 0.5 mm. For couplers and collimators with a focal length ≥ 12 mm you can change the focus setting ± 1.0 mm.
- What is the difference between the eccentric keys type 60EX-4 and 60EX-5?
  Both eccentric keys are used for the fiber collimators series 60FC and the laser beam couplers series 60SMF/60SMS.The difference between the two eccentric keys is their stroke:
  The eccentric key type 60EX-5 has a larger stroke compared to the key type 60EX-4. The 60EX-5 is used for couplers with focal length ≥ 12 mm. The 60EX-4 is used for focal lenghts < 12 mm.
  In some (very, rare) cases it might be necessary to use the eccentric key type 60EX-5 even for couplers with focal lengths shorter than 12 mm:
  - When the coupler is used with a fiber connector that has an end cap,
  - the coupler is collimated for an extremely long wavelength,
  - the coupler is collimated for an extremely short wavelength,
  - or the coupler is focussed to a finite distance in order to generate a small spot .
- How do I collimate a coupler with an end cap fiber cable?
  Collimating with an end cap fiber cable is no different than with a standard fiber cable. However, the focus position might vary a little (<200 µm) when swapping a standard fiber cable for a fiber cable with end cap.
  The eccentric key 60EX-4 is used to adjust the focus position. In some cases the stroke is not large enough. Please use the eccentric key 60EX-5 with a larger stroke instead.
- I do not have a collimating telescope to collimate. Can you give me practical advice?
  Of coarse, a collimating telescope is the best way to collimate. But there are other methods depending on the type of fiber (single-mode and PM vs. multimode) you can use. Please refer to our practical collimating tips here.
- My collimator is shipped "prealigned". What does this mean?
  Schäfter+ Kirchhoff ships all collimators prealigned and collimated for either a specific wavelength defined by the customer or a typical wavelength. The collimation is performed using professional collimating telescopes.
  
  Please note: The fibers used in the standard adjustment procedure are all equipped with an end cap when aligning for wavelengths ≤ 520 nm. The adjustment wavelength is given on the label for each collimator/coupler. If a fiber with end cap was used it is marked by "EC".
- I am unsure how to correctly adjust my coupler/collimator. Where do I find details about the adjustment procedure?
  Please refer to the manual in the Downloads section for a detailed adjustment procedure.
Mounting
- How do I mount the fiber coupler?
  There are various options to mount the fiber coupler. Please click here for more information.
Fiber Receptacle
- FC PC and FC APC
  - What type of receptacle does my collimator with receptacle type FC have? Narrow key or wide key?
    All our fiber collimators and couplers with a receptacle type FC have a so calles wide key receptacle (2.14 mm).
    
    These are suitable for connecting fibers with connector type FC (wide key) but also with thos of type narrow key! You can find the details in the FAQs below.
  - How do I attach a fiber cable?
    To prevent damage to the sensitive fiber end-face, always insert the fiber connector`s ferrule at an angle, with the connector key properly aligned to the receptacle notch.
    When the ferrule tip is safely located in the inner cylinder of the receptacle, align the connector to the receptacle axis and carefully introduce the connector into the fiber coupler.
    Then, orient the connector key in a way that it is pressed gently onto the right-hand side of the receptacle notch ("right-hand orientation rule").
    Gently screw on the connector cap nut onto the receptacle until it is finger-tight.
    Gently tighten the fiber grub screw to reduce the free play of the ferrule in the receptacle.
  - What is the "right-hand orientation rule"?
    When the ferrule tip is safely located in the inner cylinder of the receptacle, align the connector to the receptacle axis and carefully introduce the connector into the fiber coupler.
    Then, orient the connector key in a way that it is pressed gently onto the right-hand side of the receptacle notch.
    The tightened grub screw and the "right-hand orientation rule" for the connector, ensure a high reproducibility in mode field position and angle, which is especially important for attaching and reattaching polarization-maintaining fibers reproducibly.
  - Can I attach a narrow key fiber cable to a fiber coupler with a wide key receptacle?
    Yes, you can- without any problem. Simply adhere to the "right-hand orientation rule".
    Generally, with any FC PC or FC APC type connector there is a freeplay when inserting the fiber into the fiber coupler. The free play in between the connector ferrule and receptacle is only a few microns, but necessary for inserting the ferrule without force. There is a difference between the receptable and key width for wide key (2.14 mm) and narrow key (2.0 mm) fibers. If you follow the so-called "right-hand orientation rule" you can reproducibly attach and reattach even PM fibers with narrow key receptacle to fiber couplers with wide key receptacle without difficulty.
    "Right-hand orientation rule":
    When the ferrule tip is safely located in the inner cylinder of the receptacle, align the connector to the receptacle axis and carefully introduce the connector into the fiber coupler. Then, orient the connector key in a way that it is pressed gently onto the right-hand side of the receptacle notch. The tightened grub screw and the "right-hand orientation rule" for the connector, ensure a high reproducibility in mode field position and angle, which is especially important for attaching and reattaching polarization-maintaining fibers reproducibly.
Fiber Collimators with receptacle type SMA
- Why do we not offer fiber couplers without TILT alignment and a receptacle type F-SMA with an angled polish?
  The fiber connectors of type SMA do not have a spring-loaded ferrule (such as FC type connectors do).
  The receptacles do not have a limit stop.
  Since the length of the ferrule is not defined precisely, the emitting point in the fiber coupler is not properly defined.
  
  In case of a 0°-polish this is not a problem since you can adjust for this by adjusting the axial lens position.
  
  However, in case of an SMA fiber connector with an angled polish, the emitting point additionally moves laterally with ferrule length.
  
  In order to compensate for this lateral displacement, a TILT alignment is absoluetely necessary.
Troubleshooting
- I can‘t collimate the radiation out of a coupler. Why?
  - Have you loosened the grub screws?
    The clamp screws have to be loosened before changing the focus setting, Please refer to the adjustment instructions of the individual couplers for more details.
  - Have you checked, if the fiber is correctly placed within the fiber receptacle of the coupler?
    The fiber connector might not be placed correctly within the receptacle of the coupler/collimator. In particular, please check the small grub screw holding the connector's ferrule (e.g. for FC PC and FC APC type couplers). It might be in the way. Please refer to the adjustment instructions of the individual couplers/collimators for more details.
  - Have you tried another eccentric key?
    Please check, if the eccentric key is damaged or broken.
    
    Please also check, if you are using the appropriate eccentric key. The eccentric key type 60EX-5 has a larger stroke compared to the key type 60EX-4. The 60EX-5 is used for couplers/collimators with focal length ≥ 12 mm. The 60EX-4 is used for focal lenghts < 12 mm.
    
    In some very rare cases (e.g.shorter wavelengths and end cap fibers) the stroke of the original eccentric key may be too small for the coupler in your applictation. (See FAQ "Difference between 60EX-4 and 60EX-5"). Try using the 60EX-5 in this case.
  - Have you checked the eccentric key for damage?
    The eccentric key might be damaged or broken. If that is the case, try another eccentric key of the same type and (or) contact Schäfter+Kirchhoff for replacement.
  - Are you using a fiber with an end cap?
    Collimating/coupling with an end cap fiber cable is no different than with a standard fiber cable. However, the focus position might vary a little (<200 µm) when swapping a standard fiber cable for a fiber cable with end cap.
    
    The eccentric key 60EX-4 is used to adjust the focus position. In some cases the stroke is not large enough.
    
    This includes working with very small wavelegths or very large wavelengths. Please try using the eccentric key 60EX-5 with a larger stroke instead.
- It says my coupler/collimator was "precollimated" but the collimation setting seems to not be alright. What might be the problem?
  - Are you using the same wavelength as the adjustment wavelength?
    Schäfter+ Kirchhoff ships all collimators/couplers prealigned and collimated/preadjusted for either a specific wavelength defined by the customer or a typical wavelength. The prealigned is performed using professional collimating telescopes.
    
    The adjustment wavelength is given on the label for each collimator/coupler. If you are using another wavelength you need to change the focus setting. Please refer to the manual for more details.
  - Are you using the same fiber type as in the adjustment procedure?
    The fibers used in the standard adjustment procedure are all equipped with an end cap when aligning for wavelengths ≤ 520 nm. The adjustment wavelength is given on the label for each collimator/coupler. If a fiber with end cap was used it is marked by "EC".
    
    If you are not using a fiber with an end cap but the preadjustment at Schäfter+Kirchhoff was done using an end cap ("EC") or you are using a fiber with an end cap and the preadjustment at Schäfter+Kirchhoff was done without, you might need to change the focus setting. Please refer to the manual for more details.

Downloads

Adjustment_60FC.pdf (Manual)

Article_FibercouplingNAe2.pdf (Technote)

This downloads section only includes general downloads for the complete series.
Please access the individual product pages (using the product configurator, the product list, order options or the search button if you have a complete order code). Here you will find specific downloads including technical drawings or stepfiles.

Accessories

Adjustment Tools Fiber Optics

Attachment optics series 5

to attach in the front of collimators with system mount Ø 8 mm

Micro Focus Optics series 5M

for transforming a collimated beam into a micro focus spot

Iris Diaphragms 5BL

for collimators with Ø 12 mm

Polarization Filters 5PF

for attaching to 60FC Fiber Collimators

Retardation Optics 5WP

Retardation optics for fiber collimators with Ø 12 mm

Related Products

Adapters for 60FC

for Ø 12 mm to diameter Ø 25 mm, Ø 1'' or with system mount Ø 19.5 mm

Laser Beam Couplers Series 60SMS

for coupling into single-mode and polarization-maintaining fiber cables

Fiber Collimator series 60FC-SF

Fiber Collimator/Fiber Coupler with super-fine thread

Fiber Collimator Series 60FC-T

for collimating large beam diameters and with additional TILT adjustment

Fiber Collimator Series 60FC-LSA

with LSA type receptacle for collimating radiation exiting an optical fiber or as an incoupler

Fiber Collimator series 60FC-MAV

with mini AVIM type receptacle for collimating radiation exiting an optical fiber or as an incoupler

Overview

Lens Code	A2	A2.7	A3.1	M3.1	A4	M4	A4.5	A4.5S	M5	A6.2	A6.2S	M6.2	A7.5	M7.5	A8	M8	A9.6	M10	A11	M11	RGBV11	M12	M12NIR	A15	M15	A15	A15	A18	M18	M20
Focal length f'	2.0	2.7	3.1	3.1	4.0	4.0	4.5	4.5	5.0	6.2	6.2	6.2	7.5	7.5	8.0	8.0	9.6	10.0	11.0	11.0	11.0	12.0	12.0	15.0	15.0	15.3	15.4	18.4	18.4	20.0
Numerical Apperture NA	0.5	0.65	0.68	0.27	0.58	0.21	0.5	0.41	0.25	0.4	0.3	0.2	0.3	0.3	0.31	0.23	0.3	0.21	0.25	0.23	0.18	0.23	0.23	0.16	0.19	0.16	0.16	0.15	0.18	0.17
Clear apert. max. [mm]	2.4	3.6	5	1.7	4.6	1.7	4.95	3.7	2.8	4.95	3.7	2.5	4.5	4.5	4.93	3.8	5.2	4.2	5.5	5.2	4	5.4	5.4	5	5.6	5	5	5.5	6.6	6.8
Correction - achrom.				X		X						X		X				X		X	X	X	X		X
350 - 650 nm																														48
350 - 700 nm	01	01	01		01			01			01	01	01				01		01							01		01
390 - 670 nm				51		33			33			33				33						33								33
400 - 700 nm														01				01			47				01
400 - 1000 nm						24																			24
420 - 700 nm																		26							26
450 - 700 nm																		04
520 - 830 nm																				18
600 - 1100 nm		02	02		02			02			02								02									02
600 - 1050 nm	02												02				02									02
630 - 1080 nm									10							10													10	10
630 - 980 nm																						10	10
650 - 1150 nm							07			07					07
650 - 1050 nm																		02							02
750 - 1550 nm																						37			37
980 - 1550 nm									08							08						08							08	08
1050 - 1650 nm											03								03
1050 - 1550 nm	03	03	03		03			03					03				03									03		03
1050 - 1620 nm																		03
1300 - 1700 nm		45	45					45			45		45						45								45	45
1500 - 1780 nm																												22
1750 - 3000 nm					64
1750 - 2150 nm								09			09		09
2500 - 6000 nm					63
uncoated			00		00			00																00
Lens Code	A2	A2.7	A3.1	M3.1	A4	M4	A4.5	A4.5S	M5	A6.2	A6.2S	M6.2	A7.5	M7.5	A8	M8	A9.6	M10	A11	M11	RGBV11	M12	M12NIR	A15	M15	A15	A15	A18	M18	M20
Focal length f'	2.0	2.7	3.1	3.1	4.0	4.0	4.5	4.5	5.0	6.2	6.2	6.2	7.5	7.5	8.0	8.0	9.6	10.0	11.0	11.0	11.0	12.0	12.0	15.0	15.0	15.3	15.4	18.4	18.4	20.0
Numerical Apperture NA	0.5	0.65	0.68	0.27	0.58	0.21	0.5	0.41	0.25	0.4	0.3	0.2	0.3	0.3	0.31	0.23	0.3	0.21	0.25	0.23	0.18	0.23	0.23	0.16	0.19	0.16	0.16	0.15	0.18	0.17
Clear apert. max. [mm]	2.4	3.6	5	1.7	4.6	1.7	4.95	3.7	2.8	4.95	3.7	2.5	4.5	4.5	4.93	3.8	5.2	4.2	5.5	5.2	4	5.4	5.4	5	5.6	5	5	5.5	6.6	6.8
Correction - achrom.				X		X						X		X				X		X	X	X	X		X

Fiber Collimator Series 60FC

Features