Item # HNL008R-EC was discontinued on October 26, 2017. For informational purposes, this is a copy of
the website content at that time and is valid only for the stated product.
HENE LASERS: RED
►
Operating Lifetimes up to 40,000 Hours
►
Output Powers from 0.8 mW to 22.5 mW
►
Low-Intensity Noise
Application Idea
HNL150R Mounted in C1512 Clamps on Ø1.5" Posts
HNL020LB
2 mW, Linearly Polarized
HNLS008R
0.8 mW, Randomly Polarized
OVERVIEW
Features
632.8 nm Central Wavelength
Linearly or Randomly Polarized
Output Beams
Includes External Power Supply
Packages Available with
Integrated Shutters and Remote
Interlock Connections
Applications
Polarization Experiments
DNA Sequencing
Metrology
Hematology
Semiconductor Inspection
Confocal Microscopy
Flow Cytometry
Mode Structure
Common Specifications
TEM
00
>95%
HNLS008: Approximately 1.75" from Base
Cylindrical Housings:
±0.01" (Center to Outer Cylinder)
±1 mrad (Parallel to Outer Cylinder)
<10,000 VDC
Indefinite (Hard-Sealed)
HNLS008: -40 to 60 °C
Cylindrical Housings: -40 to 70 °C
HNLS008: -40 to 100 °C
Cylindrical Housings: -40 to 150 °C
0 to 100%
0 to 10,000 ft
0 to 70,000 ft
Static Alignment
Starting Voltage
Storage Lifetime
Operating
Temperature
Storage
Temperature
Relative Humidity
(Non-Condensing)
Operating Altitude
Storage Altitude
Thorlabs offers an extensive selection of
CE compliant 632.8 nm (red) Helium-Neon (HeNe) Lasers with powers from 0.8
mW to 22.5 mW from stock. In addition to the applications listed to the right, HeNe
lasers are widely used in education and as alignment tools due to their excellent
beam quality and gas discharge laser characteristics. Depending upon the model,
the output beam is either linearly polarized or randomly polarized (unpolarized). The
polarization state of a randomly polarized HeNe changes on nanosecond
timescales; when averaged over time, the light emitted from these lasers appears
randomly polarized. However, any polarization optics in the path (intentional or
unintentional) can cause large variations in the output power. Only polarized lasers
should be used in applications that involve polarization optics. Due to the significant
ASE background, a bandpass filter should be used for precision measurements.
Specifications common to all of the lasers featured on this page are listed in the table to the right, and model-dependent information is given in the tables
below. All but the self-contained packages feature remote interlock connections and integrated shutters. Please see the
Interlock Disassembly
tab for
integrating the remote interlock connector into an interlock or lab safety system.
For specialized applications, Thorlabs offers a Stabilized Red HeNe Laser, which is capable of either ±2 MHz stabilization in frequency stabilization mode, or
±0.2% power stabilization in intensity stabilization mode.
LASER SAFETY
Laser Safety and Classification
Safe practices and proper usage of safety equipment should be taken into consideration when operating lasers. The eye is susceptible to injury, even from very
low levels of laser light. Thorlabs offers a range of laser safety accessories that can be used to reduce the risk of accidents or injuries. Laser emission in the
visible and near infrared spectral ranges has the greatest potential for retinal injury, as the cornea and lens are transparent to those wavelengths, and the lens
can focus the laser energy onto the retina.
Safe Practices and Light Safety
Accessories
Thorlabs recommends the use of safety
eyewear whenever working with laser beams
with non-negligible powers (i.e., > Class 1)
since metallic tools such as screwdrivers can
accidentally redirect a beam.
Laser goggles designed for specific
wavelengths should be clearly available near
laser setups to protect the wearer from
unintentional laser reflections.
Goggles are marked with the wavelength range
over which protection is afforded and the
minimum optical density within that range.
Laser Safety Curtains, Laser Barriers and
Blackout Materials can prevent direct or
reflected light from leaving the experimental
setup area.
Thorlabs' Enclosure Systems can be used to
contain optical setups to isolate or minimize
laser hazards.
A fiber-pigtailed laser should always be turned
off before connecting it to or disconnecting it
from another fiber, especially when the laser is at power levels above 10 mW.
All beams should be terminated at the edge of the table, and laboratory doors should be closed whenever a laser is in use.
Do not place laser beams at eye level.
Carry out experiments on an optical table such that all laser beams travel horizontally.
Remove unnecessary reflective items such as reflective jewelry (e.g., rings, watches, etc.) while working near the beam path.
Be aware that lenses and other optical devices may reflect a portion of the incident beam from the front or rear surface.
Operate a laser at the minimum power necessary for any operation.
If possible, reduce the output power of a laser during alignment procedures.
Use beam shutters and filters to reduce the beam power.
Post appropriate warning signs or labels near laser setups or rooms.
Use a laser sign with a lightbox if operating Class 3R or 4 lasers (i.e., lasers requiring the use of a safety interlock).
Do not use Laser Viewing Cards in place of a proper Laser Barrier or Beam Trap.
Laser Classification
Lasers are categorized into different classes according to their ability to cause eye and other damage. The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is a
global organization that prepares and publishes international standards for all electrical, electronic, and related technologies. The IEC document 60825-1
outlines the safety of laser products. A description of each class of laser is given below:
Warning
Class
Description
This class of laser is safe under all conditions of normal use, including use with optical instruments for intrabeam viewing. Lasers in
this class do not emit radiation at levels that may cause injury during normal operation, and therefore the maximum permissible
exposure (MPE) cannot be exceeded. Class 1 lasers can also include enclosed, high-power lasers where exposure to the radiation is
not possible without opening or shutting down the laser.
Class 1M lasers are safe except when used in conjunction with optical components such as telescopes and microscopes. Lasers
belonging to this class emit large-diameter or divergent beams, and the MPE cannot normally be exceeded unless focusing or
imaging optics are used to narrow the beam. However, if the beam is refocused, the hazard may be increased and the class may be
changed accordingly.
Class 2 lasers, which are limited to 1 mW of visible continuous-wave radiation, are safe because the blink reflex will limit the
exposure in the eye to 0.25 seconds. This category only applies to visible radiation (400 - 700 nm).
Because of the blink reflex, this class of laser is classified as safe as long as the beam is not viewed through optical instruments. This
laser class also applies to larger-diameter or diverging laser beams.
Lasers in this class are considered safe as long as they are handled with restricted beam viewing. The MPE can be exceeded with
this class of laser, however, this presents a low risk level to injury. Visible, continuous-wave lasers are limited to 5 mW of output
power in this class.
Class 3B lasers are hazardous to the eye if exposed directly. However, diffuse reflections are not harmful. Safe handling of devices in
this class includes wearing protective eyewear where direct viewing of the laser beam may occur. In addition, laser safety signs
lightboxes should be used with lasers that require a safety interlock so that the laser cannot be used without the safety light turning
on. Class-3B lasers must be equipped with a key switch and a safety interlock.
This class of laser may cause damage to the skin, and also to the eye, even from the viewing of diffuse reflections. These hazards
may also apply to indirect or non-specular reflections of the beam, even from apparently matte surfaces. Great care must be taken
when handling these lasers. They also represent a fire risk, because they may ignite combustible material. Class 4 lasers must be
equipped with a key switch and a safety interlock.
Label
1
1M
2
2M
3R
3B
4
All class 2 lasers (and higher) must display, in addition to the corresponding sign above, this triangular warning sign
HENE ACCESSORIES
FiberPort and Thread Adapters
FiberPort and Thread Adapters for Self-Contained HeNe
Lasers
FiberPort and Thread Adapters for Standard Cylindrical
HeNe Lasers
a
Click for Details
The SM1A32 Thread Adapter allows externally SM05-
threaded or internally SM1-threaded optomechanics to be
attached to the output aperture of the
HNLS008R(-EC)(-JP) or HNLS008L(-EC)(-JP) laser.
The HCL2 Adapter, which features external 5/8"-32
threading, allows a FiberPort coupler to be attached
directly to the threaded aperture of our self-contained
HeNe lasers or any other 5/8"-32 tapped hole. A slip-plate
design allows the position of the fiberport to be shifted and
locked to maximize coupling efficiency. FiberPort mounting
screws are included.
Click for Details
The SM05AHN Thread Adapter allows SM05-threaded
components to be attached directly to the front of a HeNe
laser and is ideal for enclosing a HeNe beam path using
SM05 Lens Tubes.
The HCL FiberPort Adapter allows a FiberPort coupler to
be attached directly to the front of a HeNe laser. Both
adapters can be attached to the laser via counterbored
slots that fit industry-standard M3 and 4-40 four-bolt
patterns. The HCL can also be mounted via the internal C-
Mount-Threaded (1.00"-32) central bore.
Note that these adapters are not compatible with
the HNL008 Series of Cylindrical HeNe Lasers.
Mounting Adapters
V-Clamp Post Mount
Drop-In Post Clamp
Click to Enlarge
[APPLIST]
[APPLIST]
The C1512(/M) and C1513(/M) are designed specifically for
fastening Ø0.56" (14 mm) to Ø2" (50 mm) cylindrical lasers to
Thorlabs' rigid Ø1.5" Posts. One PM4(/M) Clamping Arm is
included with each unit and additional clamping arms can be
purchased as needed here.
Click to Enlarge
[APPLIST]
[APPLIST]
The C174TC is designed specifically for mounting Ø1.74"
(44.2 mm) cylindrical lasers to Thorlabs optical posts with 8-32
(M4) taps. A captive screw with a 3/32" (2.5 mm) hex secures
the laser in place.
Post and Cage Mount
Click to Enlarge
[APPLIST]
[APPLIST]
The HCM2 Cage Mount enables integration of a cylindrical HeNe
laser with a diameter between 1.74" and 1.77" (44.2 mm and
45.0 mm) into a 60 mm cage system or SM2 (2.035"-40) lens
tube system. The HCM2 provides ±1.0 mm of coarse X and Y
adjustment, and is compatible with Ø1/2" and Ø1" posts.
INTERLOCK DISASSEMBLY
Interlock Disassembly
Each of Thorlabs' HeNe laser sources includes an external power supply with a remote interlock connector.
The interlock connector can be disassembled for integration into an interlock system. The interlock is at AC line
potential, so proper care must be taken to use the correct connectors and hardware. Be sure to confirm
compatibility between the AC line and the interlock system.
The 100 - 230 VAC external power supply that comes with select HeNe lasers uses a simplified interlock
connector that comprises a black, plastic cover that can be unscrewed. Once unscrewed, the shorting
conductor on the connector is removed prior to integration into the interlock system (see image to the right).
Click to Enlarge
Remote Interlock Connector for 100 - 230 VAC
Power Supplies
For our other HeNe lasers with a 100, 120, or 230 VAC power supply, the interlock connector can be disassembled using the following steps (shown in the
images below). First, the metal pin needs to be removed, the top of plug taken out, and the shorting conductor from the connector removed. The connector
may then be wired into the user’s interlock system. Be sure to reinstall the plastic safety cover over the interlock before use.
Step 3
Click to Enlarge
Remote Interlock Connector Shown
Assembled
Step 1
Click to Enlarge
First, remove the metal pin from the
interlock connector using a pair of
pliers.
Step 2
Click to Enlarge
Second, pull out the plug
section of the assembly.
Step 4
Click to Enlarge
Third, remove the protective cap to
expose the short wire, which can be
unsoldered.
0.8 mW Self-Contained (632.8 nm) HeNe Lasers
Self-Contained Laser with Internal High-Voltage Transformer
Available with Linearly or Randomly Polarized Output Beam
CE Compliant
CDRH (IEC 60825-1) Laser Class: IIIa (3R)
Thorlabs' Self-Contained Helium-Neon Lasers integrate a red (632.8 nm) HeNe laser tube
Note that the output polarization applies only to lasers linearly
with a built-in voltage transformer. The rectangular housing incorporates a hard-sealed
polarized.
internal mirror and plasma tube design that maximizes the lifetime of the laser. The power
Mounting Options
cord and on/off rocker switch are located on the back of the housing. Please note that these self-
contained lasers do not feature a remote interlock connector or an integrated shutter.
The HNLS008L lasers feature a linearly polarized output beam, which is vertically polarized with
respect to the rectangular housing, while the HNLS008R features a randomly polarized output
beam. These lasers are an ideal choice for applications that require low-power or ease of use,
such as alignment or the classroom. The lasers have an external 120 V, 230 V (-EC), or 100 V (-
JP) wall adapter that plugs into the back of the module. If you require a different adapter plug,
please contact Tech Support before ordering.
Click to Enlarge
Bottom Groove in
Laser Housing with
Two XE25T3 T-Nuts
Inserted
Mounting Options
The output aperture is internally 5/8"-32 threaded. Our SM1A32 adapter (not included) connects to
this aperture and accepts externally SM05-threaded (0.535"-40) or internally SM1-threaded (1.035"-40) optomechanics.
Alternatively, the HCL2 FiberPort Adapter allows a FiberPort coupler to be attached directly to the front of the laser, as shown to
the right.
In addition, as shown to the left, the bottom of the laser contains a groove that accepts our XE25T3 (XE25T3/M) Low-Profile T-
Nuts, providing an easy way to use standard optomechanical bases to mount the laser to a breadboard or optical table.
Click to Enlarge
Self-Contained HeNe Lasers
can be fiber-coupled using a
FiberPort Coupler and HCL2
FiberPort Adapter.
Click to Enlarge
Two BA1L Bases
Connected to Laser
Housing via T-Nuts
Item #
HNLS008L
HNLS008L-EC
HNLS008L-JP
HNLS008R
HNLS008R-EC
HNLS008R-JP
Power Supply
120 VAC
100 VAC
230 VAC
120 VAC
100 VAC
230 VAC
Polarization Ratio
Power
a
1/e
2
Beam Diameter
Divergence
LMS
b
Noise (RMS)
c
Laser Class
d
500:1
0.8 mW
Unpolarized
0.48 mm
1.7 mrad
1090 MHz
<1.0%
3R
Minimum Power Measured at 633 nm
Longitudinal Mode Spacing
30 Hz to 10 MHz
During normal operation, the cavity length, and hence the power, can vary. Thus, these class 3R lasers can exceed the specified minimum power.
Part Number
HNLS008L-EC
HNLS008R-EC
Description
Self-Contained HeNe Laser, 632.8 nm, 0.8 mW, Polarized, 230 VAC Power Supply
Self-Contained HeNe Laser, 632.8 nm, 0.8 mW, Random, 230 VAC Power Supply