TeraScan

Frequency-domain, terahertz spectroscopy system

The TeraScan is TOPTICA’s high-precision frequency-domain terahertz spectroscopy platform, designed for applications that require spectral accuracy and tunability down to the single-MHz level. The systems combine mature distributed feedback (DFB) diode lasers with state-of-the-art GaAs or InGaAs photomixers, and are powered by TOPTICA’s proprietary DLC smart control electronics. This architecture ensures stability, reliability, and ease of use, offering a performance unmatched in continuous-wave terahertz spectroscopy.

Two system versions address different application needs: the TeraScan 780 achieves an outstanding bandwidth, ideal for broad spectral studies, while the TeraScan 1550 sets new benchmarks in terahertz power and dynamic range. With a frequency step size down to 1 MHz and an absolute accuracy better than 2 GHz, the TeraScan enables the resolution of very narrow spectral features.

The TeraScan is thus the system of choice for applications such as low-pressure gas spectroscopy, high-Q resonator analysis, and metamaterial research. Users may also choose to operate the system at an arbitrary fixed frequency, a mode that has proven invaluable in terahertz communication studies. In short, the TeraScan combines bandwidth, power, and precision in cw-THz applications.

Your Benefits

Excellent signal quality for measuring solid and gaseous samples
  • Frequency tuning range up to 3 THz
  • Dynamic range > 100 dB
  • Rh:InGaAs receiver for enhanced dynamic range, improvement > 10 dB
Sensitivity and selectivity in spectroscopy
The TeraScan allows precise tuning of the THz frequency, achieving an excellent frequency resolution.
  • Single-megahertz frequency steps
  • Detection of spectrally narrow signatures

Applications

THz gas analysis
6G & communication research
Detector characterization in astrophysics
THz imaging with Rydberg atoms

Options

Tuning range extension
TOPTICA is able to push the frequency limits of frequency-domain spectrometers. Whilst one DFB laser at 1.5 µm offers a tuning range of approximately 600 GHz, a combination of three lasers covers the entire range from DC to 3 THz. TOPTICA’s “Tuning Range Extension” thus provides access to frequencies that used to be beyond reach with commercial frequency-domain spectrometers.
Phase modulation extension
Cw terahertz spectroscopy based on photomixing offers the attractive feature of detecting both amplitude and phase of the terahertz wave. Determining the phase requires a modulation of the optical path length, or the terahertz frequency. The Phase Modulation Package offers a particularly fast and accurate technique to scan the terahertz phase, by using a symmetric setup with two fiber stretchers wound around piezo actuators. Users can thus retrieve full information on phase and amplitude of the terahertz wave, with single-MHz resolution!
GaAs and InGaAs photomixers
Both top quality material systems offer an excellent bandwidth and dynamic range. The modules come equipped with a Silicon lens and SM/PM fiber pigtail.
Optomechanics
Different sets available for the most common beam-path configurations. Compatible with photoconductive antennas for both frequency-domain and time-domain applications.
Rh:InGaAs receiver
THz PCA / HF cw: Use of Rh:InGaAs receiver instead of the standard one, signal improvement > 10 dB. Available for TeraScan 1550.

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