Optical Filter Changer Sutter Lambda 10-B

For imaging applications that only need a single filter wheel, the Lambda 10-B is a highly efficient, microprocessor-controlled filter wheel. The Lambda 10-B, the most recent model in Sutter's line of optical filter changers, utilizes recent developments in motor technology to enable switching times of 40 msec between neighboring filters. The Lambda 10-B offers switching times of less than 31 msec when coupled with high-speed 4 position wheels. Keypad control and serial and USB port interfaces are included. A less expensive option compared to the Lambda 10-2, the Lambda 10-B is perfect for imaging applications that only need one filter wheel.

Using both regular 25 mm filter wheel and 32 mm wheel, the Lambda 10-B can function with switching times as fast as 4 msec. The user can choose from seven speeds, and the speed can be changed based on the load on the wheel. Sutter  filter wheels all use a direct drive mechanism, with the exception of the 4-position compact wheel, which eliminates belt slippage and backlash. Also available is an optional shutter installation.

Selecting filters can be done manually from the keypad or via a computer using the serial or USB connector. A wheel movement's vibrations are kept to a minimum via an acceleration/deceleration algorithm and the Lambda 10-B controller, which finds the quickest path to the chosen filter. The front panel shows the filter position as it is right now. To ensure that the right filter is in place, internal sensors track the position of the filter wheel. As opposed to the Lambda 10-2's linear supply, the system utilizes switching mode current regulation, which is more cost-effective. Although most imaging applications do not have this issue, the Lambda 10-2 might be a better choice for systems that do electrophysiology.

To provide comprehensive and simple control from a distant computer, there are both serial and USB input connections available. A DB-9 connector connected to the serial port accepts RS232 level signals. The standard connector used for USB input allows for direct connection to a USB port. The USB port interface on the Lambda 10-B supports several USB devices at once, enabling a user to run as many devices concurrently as there are USB ports. Automatic switching will occur on the universal power supply to match local line voltage.

Options:

The base setup for the Lambda 10-B comprises classic 10 position 25 mm filter wheel. The Lambda 10-B controller's ability to support a range of Sutter filter wheels to meet your specific needs is a big advantage. The controller will automatically identify the wheel model that is fitted, as well as make adjustments for the number of locations and filter size.

The 32 mm wheel, which can reach the same 40 ms switching times as 25 mm wheel, was created to address the issue of vignetting that may be present with a 25 mm filter format in some microscope systems. There is a 5 position 50mm filter wheel available for situations needing a wider aperture opening. We provide a high-speed, four-position 25 mm wheel that can provide 31 ms switching times between neighboring filters if more speed is needed. For applications requiring complete vibration isolation and/or spatial uniformity irrespective of wavelength, a liquid light guide is an alternative option. The SmartShutter® or Uniblitz® shutter can both be controlled by the Lambda 10-B.

IMPROVING FILTER SWITCHING TIMES WITH A LARGE NUMBER OF FILTERS

Fast changeover of a lightly laden wheel has long been a priority for the Sutter filter wheel systems. When more thick filters are placed, the extra bulk necessitates a longer transition time between filters. With filters manufactured on a thin substrate that don't need a thick layer of extra glass to achieve the appropriate blocking, switching times are greatly reduced. Semrock® possesses the necessary coating technology to provide filters with substrates as thin as 2 mm.

Sutter went one step further and created a unique threaded ring that Semrock may use in place of their customary plain filter cells. When the conventional filter cups have been removed, filters placed in these rings can be threaded straight into the body of filter wheels. The filter cup and retaining ring typically used to place filters in Sutter wheels weigh more than Semrock filters, which are actually lighter. So, even a fully charged wheel will be capable of operating at speeds that were previously only possible with just 2 filters fitted. To do this, just remove the filter cups and put the new threaded filters directly in the wheel.

The STR Semrock filters can be purchased directly from Semrock and come in both 25 mm and 32 mm sizes. It is necessary to remove the filter cup from the location where the threaded filter will be mounted if you are mounting these filters in a Sutter wheel that has filter cups. Use the new wrench made specifically for this job while installing the new threaded filters. Ask Sutter for further information.

FEATURES

• as quick as 40 msec between neighboring filters (10 position wheel)
• as quickly as 30 msec between neighboring filters (4 position wheel)
• as quickly as 28 msec with Semrock® STR filters and a fully filled wheel
• USB and serial interfaces
• Controls a wide range of 25 mm, 32 mm, and 50 mm wheels.
• The ability to operate two SmartShutter® devices or one wheel and an optional shutter.
• Can accomodate SmartShutter® and Uniblitz® shutter
• Chopper drivers
• Universal power source