IO-K-1064 In Stock

The ThorLabs IO-K-1064 is a fiber isolator designed to safeguard light sources from signals that can cause intensity noise and optical damage in addition to back reflections that are unwanted. The IO-K-1064 is a magneto-optic component that is highly effective in transmitting light forward and absorbing or redirecting light travelling in the opposite direction. With its optimized performance for continuous wave (CW) applications and operating wavelength of 1064 nm, the IO-K-1064 is the ideal choice for ensuring reliable and high-quality optical performance in a setup.

Designed to be compatible with SM fibers, the IO-K-1064 features 0.8 m to 1.0 m of fiber built into each side of the isolator, with a clearly engraved arrow on the body indicating the transmission direction for easy setup. The IO-K-1064 consists of a half-wave retarder, at least two polarizers, and a Faraday rotator, as well as collimating lenses for precise and efficient light transmission. The outer aluminum sleeves of the isolator provide robust protection for the output and input ports that contain both a fiber ferrule and collimating lens. Installation of the IO-K-1064 is hassle-free, with the isolator mounted on a sturdy baseplate featuring two 4-40 (M3) counterbored slots for easy securing to an optical table or breadboard.

One of the key features of the IO-K-1064 is its ability to operate in both forward and reverse mode. The forward mode of operation requires the laser light to be guided into the isolator via an input single-mode fiber, where it is collimated and divided using a beam displacer polarizer that is birefringent. The light then passes through the Faraday rotator, which rotates its 45 degree plane of polarization, and further through another displacer polarizer and retarder. Finally, through another collimating lens, the light exist, which results in coupling into the optical fiber for reliable and efficient transmission.

When the IO-K-1064 is operated in reverse mode, any reflected beam returns and travels back through the fiber to its laser source. This feedback enters the IO-K-1064 and is split by the output beam displacer, with the two beams being rotated by 45° by the waveplate and another 45° by the Faraday rotator. The two beams have been rotated 90° relative to the original forward beams and they will diverge instead of merging back together. The IO-K-1064 housing blocks the reflected beams from entering back into the input fiber, providing enhanced isolation and safeguarding the laser from any downstream reflections.