Capabilities · 05
Metrology & QA
Interferometry, spectrophotometry, and documentation — measured claims only.
Capability 05
If We Didn't Measure It, We Don't Claim It
Every optic that leaves the building is verified against its print — surface, spectrum, and dimensions — and every lot carries documentation traceable from raw substrate to your receiving dock.
| Measurement | Method | What It Verifies | Reported As |
|---|---|---|---|
| Surface irregularity | Phase-shifting interferometry @ 633 nm | Surface form vs. ideal (PV, RMS) | Fringe map + PV/RMS in waves |
| Transmitted wavefront | Interferometry, double-pass | Whole-optic imaging performance incl. homogeneity | TWE map, PV/RMS |
| Radius of curvature | Interferometer + test plates | Focal power accuracy | % deviation from nominal |
| Coating spectrum | Spectrophotometry, full band | %T / %R vs. wavelength against spec | Witness-sample curve with cert |
| Dimensions & centration | CMM, micrometry, autocollimation | Diameter, CT, wedge, bevels | Dimensional inspection report |
| Cosmetics | Trained inspection per MIL-PRF-13830B | Scratch-dig class | Pass/fail to drawing class |
Reading the Numbers
What λ/10 Actually Means
Surface specs only mean something with their test wavelength attached. λ/10 measured at 633 nm is a 63-nanometer height error budget — about 300 atoms of germanium. The same "λ/10" quoted at 10.6 µm is 17 times looser. When prints mix conventions, parts pass at one vendor and fail at another; ours state the test wavelength on every cert, always.
The spec that best predicts system performance is transmitted wavefront error, because it integrates both surfaces plus the material's index homogeneity. For imaging programs we recommend a TWE acceptance on the finished optic, with per-surface budgets left to us — you buy performance, not process.
| Irregularity Budget in Nanometers (PV) | |
|---|---|
| λ/2 @ 633 nm | 317 nm — commercial imaging |
| λ/4 @ 633 nm | 158 nm — precision imaging |
| λ/10 @ 633 nm | 63 nm — laser & reference optics |
| λ/4 @ 10.6 µm | 2650 nm — CO₂ power delivery |
| Same words, different atoms: always specify the test wavelength. | |
Ask for the Data, Not the Assurance
Sample inspection reports and coating certs available on request — see exactly what documentation ships with your parts.
Request Sample Docs