Ion Optics' reflectIR Infrared Light Sources
6 January 2000
Ion Optics' reflectIR Infrared Light Sources
WALTHAM, Mass.--Jan. 6, 2000--Ion Optics is proud to announce the new reflectIR(R) line of broadband infrared light sources for use in non-dispersive infrared (NDIR) gas and chemical sensor systems. The reflectIR(R) provides stable, efficient in-band IR emissions for the ranges of 2-5 um, 2-12 um, and 2-20 um. The half-inch parabolic reflector package provides increased on-axis power thus improving the signal level reaching the detector. A variety of designs are available.The reflectIR(R) has a unique design using a tightly wound spiral filament mounted along the axis of the parabolic reflector for increased optical coupling, along with a light radiation pattern that is independent of the reflector rotation. The filament is fabricated using a patented process that supplies more IR power output above 4 um than traditional competing technologies. Thus the reflectIR(R) products can provide greater IR output while operating much cooler (less than 850 C.) This lower temperature operation reduces the chance of igniting combustible gases, improves power efficiency, and reduces the parasitic heating of the optics and detectors.
Although, the reflectIR(R) products can be used for DC operation, they are typically pulsed at rates from 0.5 to 10 Hz allowing the design of smaller and simpler systems that do not require the added complexity of a mechanical chopper. Our low-thermal-mass design allows for quick warm-up and several hundred degrees of temperature modulation with each pulse of energy.
The reflectIR(R) products are ideal for use in many applications including air quality monitoring, refrigerant monitoring, combustion emissions monitoring, toxic and combustible gas detection, respiration monitoring, anesthesia monitoring, and breath-alcohol testing. Our infrared sources have been used in gas and chemical analysis of CO, CO2, Methane, N2O, NOX, CFCs, Halogens, Hydrocarbons, PFCs, and many others.
Ion Optics offers an Evaluation Kit (for $245) that makes it easy for you to try the pulsIR(R) and reflectIR(R) products in your current NDIR gas monitor design. A microprocessor-controlled drive board connects to your PC's serial port enabling you to adjust pulse rate, pulse height (filament temperature), and duty cycle in a simple Windows application while the pulsIR(R) or reflectIR(R) device is installed in your existing gas monitoring system.