The two aspheres of the Techspec series exemplify a wide range of new aspheres that Edmund Optics has added to its portfolio. They offer optics integrators even more possibilities to realize demanding applications and help with rapid prototyping and product development.

The double-sided aspheres have high numerical apertures, diameters ranging from 10 to 500 mm, and are the right choice for light collection or 1:1 scale imaging. The double- or biconvex shape reduces the number of optical elements needed in the system and reduces system size and weight for optimal performance.

The precision aspheres for the near-infrared spectrum eliminate spherical aberrations in the near-infrared spectrum. They are made of S-LAH64 or N-BK7 substrates and are polished via a CNC process. The uncoated substrate is optimized for 780 nm, while coated versions are available for 350 to 700 nm, 600 to 1,050 nm and 900 to 1,700 nm.

Technology in detail: Aspheres

Aspheres are optical lenses with at least one non-planar and non-spherical surface. The use of aspheres offers several advantages over spherical lenses, such as elimination of spherical aberration, better focusing to smaller spot sizes with less blur, and better focusing of light. Aspheres can be used as a lighter and smaller alternative to an assembly of spheres and still achieve the same result.