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Low noise optical position sensor

Patent ·
OSTI ID:335502
A novel optical position sensor is described that uses two component photodiodes electrically connected in parallel, with opposing polarities. A lens provides optical gain and restricts the acceptance angle of the detector. The response of the device to displacements of an optical spot is similar to that of a conventional bi-cell type position sensitive detector. However, the component photodiode design enables simpler electronic amplification with inherently less electrical noise than the bi-cell. Measurements by the sensor of the pointing noise of a focused helium-neon laser as a function of frequency demonstrate high sensitivity and suitability for optical probe beam deflection experiments. 14 figs.
Research Organization:
University of California
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE, Washington, DC (United States)
DOE Contract Number:
AC03-76SF00098
Assignee:
Univ. of California, Oakland, CA (United States)
Patent Number(s):
US 5,880,461/A/
Application Number:
PAN: 8-755,076
OSTI ID:
335502
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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