PentaPod® Multi-Axis Positioner

The ProView Theta LD / XD from NorthLab is an advanced interferometric inspection and alignment system designed to fundamentally enhance polarization‑maintaining (PM) and specialty fiber splicing. Acting as a powerful extension to standard fusion splicers, the ProView Theta adds detailed end‑face topography analysis and geometry‑based alignment control—capabilities that are increasingly essential as fiber designs grow more complex and demanding.Modern photonics applications rely on fibers with non‑circular structures, intricate internal features, and large cladding diameters. In these cases, even minute cleave angle errors or rotational misalignment can seriously degrade splice quality, optical performance, or long‑term reliability. The ProView Theta addresses this challenge by functioning as a “third eye” for PM splicers. Connected to the fusion splicer via an external PC, it analyzes the fiber end faces in 2D and 3D, generates precise digital templates, and enables exact theta alignment prior to splicing.Specifically designed to minimize the cleave angle gap for large‑diameter fibers, the ProView Theta ensures that complex end‑face structures are correctly matched and aligned before fusion. By combining fast interferometric inspection with intelligent software‑guided alignment, the system transforms manual, experience‑based splicing into a controlled and repeatable process—helping users achieve flawless splices even with the most challenging fiber geometries.Key featuresFor fiber cladding diameters: LD model: 125 to 800 μm, XD model: 250 to 1200 μm2D and 3D topographyFringe & Inspection mode from PC Controller GUI§Very fast inspection time with automatic angle estimation§Optional use of PASS/FAIL cleave angle indicationInspection of end face properties such as flatness, perpendicularity, hackles and contaminationGrab and save 2D and 3D images and cleave dataUser software calibration utility for extreme accuracyApplicationsThe ProView Theta is ideally suited for polarization‑maintaining (PM) fiber splicing, where precise angular alignment is critical to preserving polarization extinction ratio (PER). Its ability to minimize cleave angle mismatch and optimize theta alignment results in lower splice loss and improved optical performance.It is equally valuable for Photonic Crystal Fibers (PCF), air‑clad fibers, and multi‑core fibers, where internal structures must be carefully matched to maintain optical functionality. Traditional splicers often lack the visibility required for these fibers, but the ProView Theta enables confident, geometry‑aware alignment.The system excels with non‑cylindrical and complex fiber geometries, including hexagonal, octagonal, and D‑shaped fibers commonly used in high‑power laser delivery, sensing, and specialty photonics. In large‑diameter fiber splicing, where small angular errors have amplified consequences, the ProView Theta delivers a decisive process advantage.Typical application environments include advanced photonics R&D, pilot manufacturing, and high‑end production lines, where flexibility, repeatability, and future readiness are essential.What’s next?The ProView Theta LD/XD positions NorthLab users for the next generation of fiber technology. As fiber architectures continue to evolve—becoming larger, more complex, and more application‑specific—the need for advanced inspection and alignment tools will only grow.By transforming end‑face inspection and angular alignment into a controlled, data‑driven process, the ProView Theta ensures that today’s fusion splicing equipment remains effective tomorrow. Whether supporting cutting‑edge research, transferring new fiber designs into production, or improving yield and consistency in existing processes, the ProView Theta delivers a flexible, future‑proof solution—bringing confidence, precision, and clarity to even the most challenging fiber splicing applications.

The PentaPod® Fusion Splicer (PFS) from Solid 3SAE represents a new benchmark in precision fiber optic splicing for high‑power and specialty photonics applications. Designed specifically to overcome the limitations of conventional fusion splicers, the PFS is the world’s first table‑top fusion splicer engineered for angle‑critical, high‑precision processes such as end‑cap splicing and dissimilar fiber joining. By combining patented multi‑axis alignment technology with an advanced plasma heat source, the PFS delivers unmatched control, repeatability, and splice quality for both R&D and production environments.Built around 3SAE’s proven heritage in high‑performance fiber processing, the PentaPod Fusion Splicer integrates mechanical stability, intelligent machine vision, and semi‑automated operation into a compact, user‑friendly platform. It is purpose‑built for manufacturers and research teams working at the forefront of fiber laser development, where micron‑level accuracy and thermal stability are essential to achieving reliable, scalable results.Key featuresUses unique, patented, 5-degree of freedom joints that facilitate sub-micron precision motion in 5 or 6 axes.Offers a simple system integration with a single USB connection and no external controller required.Parallel Kinematic design providing exceptional positioning accuracy and stiffness.Software adjustable point of rotation.Small size and low profile without compromising on strake, precision, or crosstalk.A fraction of the cost and complexity of a comparable Hexapod.ApplicationsThe PentaPod Fusion Splicer is specifically designed for precision end‑cap splicing, a critical process in high‑power fiber laser fabrication where alignment accuracy and thermal uniformity directly impact performance and lifetime. Its extended positional range and angular control make it ideally suited for both R&D prototyping and repeatable production workflows.Beyond end‑caps, the PFS excels in bundle‑to‑fiber splicing and the joining of dissimilar fiber sizes and structures, including specialty and large‑diameter fibers. These capabilities are essential for advanced photonics manufacturing tasks such as pump combiners, fiber laser delivery systems, and complex optical assemblies where conventional splicers lack sufficient degrees of freedom.The system is widely applicable in fiber laser manufacturing, photonics research laboratories, aerospace and defense programs, and specialty optical component production. Any environment that demands high splice quality, process repeatability, and detailed quality assessment will benefit from the precision‑driven design of the PentaPod Fusion Splicer. [3sae.com]What’s next?With the PentaPod® Fusion Splicer, Solid 3SAE offers a platform that not only addresses today’s most demanding fiber splicing challenges but also provides a foundation for future innovation. Organizations adopting the PFS can scale seamlessly from laboratory development to full production while maintaining identical alignment accuracy and splice quality.To take the next step, users can explore application‑specific carriage configurations, process optimization support, and training options to fully leverage the system’s capabilities. Whether your goal is to improve yield, expand into new fiber technologies, or push the limits of high‑power laser performance, the PentaPod Fusion Splicer is designed to evolve with your needs and help future‑proof your fiber processing workflow.

The Spectra‑RGB Precision Reference Sources from Labsphere deliver a new benchmark in RGB illumination accuracy, stability, and repeatability for advanced optical testing environments. Designed for both benchtop research and high‑throughput production lines, these sources provide high‑brightness, uniform RGB output with exceptional wavelength stability. Built on Labsphere’s decades‑long leadership in traceable reference technologies, Spectra‑RGB ensures that every measurement—whether for image sensors, waveguides, or colorimetric systems—is grounded in trusted, reproducible performance.At the core of the system is Labsphere’s proprietary Spectralon® diffuse reflectance material, paired with carefully screened and binned LEDs and thermally controlled source modules. This combination guarantees long‑term consistency and minimizes drift, enabling engineers and researchers to rely on the same precise output day after day. The platform is fully self‑contained and engineered for seamless integration into automated test environments, offering intuitive commissioning software, a universal command interface, and real‑time system health monitoring. Whether you are developing next‑generation imaging devices or calibrating production equipment, Spectra‑RGB provides the stability, speed, and control required for modern optical testing.Key featuresHigh‑brightness RGB uniformity — Delivers consistent, evenly distributed illumination across the field, ensuring accurate and repeatable measurements for imaging and optical systems.Exceptional wavelength stability — Thermally controlled modules and mechanical attenuators maintain peak wavelength performance within a tight 10 nm range, even during long‑duration or high‑frequency testing.Fast rise and settling times — Enables rapid transitions between RGB states, ideal for dynamic test sequences and high‑volume production workflows.High‑speed mechanical attenuators — Provide precise spectral control and fast switching, supporting complex test scripts and multi‑condition evaluations.Spectral radiance monitoring — Integrated monitoring ensures confidence in color accuracy and wavelength stability, with real‑time feedback on system performance.Production‑ready form factor — Compact, robust design integrates easily into automated testers and manufacturing lines without compromising performance.User‑programmable calibration and optimization — Built‑in software tools allow users to script set points, customize test sequences, and maintain calibration accuracy over the product’s lifetime.Self‑contained, reliable operation — Designed for both laboratory and production environments, with intuitive setup and universal command interface for streamlined integration.ApplicationsImage sensor research and development Spectra‑RGB provides the stable, uniform illumination required for evaluating sensor sensitivity, color accuracy, noise performance, and spectral response.Waveguide and optical component characterization High‑brightness, wavelength‑stable RGB output supports precise testing of AR/VR waveguides, optical combiners, and photonic components.Imaging colorimeter calibration Ensures accurate calibration of colorimeters used in display testing, automotive lighting, and industrial imaging systems.Production testing and quality assurance Fast transitions, stable output, and automated control make Spectra‑RGB ideal for high‑throughput manufacturing environments requiring consistent, traceable reference illumination.Optical system development Engineers can rely on repeatable RGB references when designing, validating, and optimizing optical assemblies and imaging pipelines.Calibration laboratories Traceable, reproducible performance supports long‑term calibration programs and metrology workflows.What’s next?As optical systems continue to evolve—driven by advancements in AR/VR, autonomous imaging, high‑resolution sensors, and precision metrology—the demand for stable, traceable, and programmable reference sources will only grow. Spectra‑RGB is engineered to meet today’s requirements while providing a platform that scales with future testing needs.Whether you are expanding your calibration capabilities, upgrading production test lines, or developing next‑generation imaging technologies, the next step is to explore how Spectra‑RGB can integrate into your workflow. You can deepen your understanding by exploring topics like RGB calibration workflows, optical test automation, or traceable reference standards—each of which connects directly to the strengths of this system.