Optics and photonics research aims to measure the fundamental characteristics of light and light-matter interaction on different spatial and temporal scales. With novel light sources being developed, ranging from continuous wave (CW) to pulsed ultrafast laser systems, the number of phenomena that can be studied is constantly increasing, and ever smaller effects and faster processes are being investigated.

Zurich instruments’ lock-in amplifiers are ideal instruments for measuring the amplitude and phase of periodic signals from a large variety of optical experiments, covering the range from elementary to cutting-edge experimental designs. Thanks to their low input noise and large dynamic reserve, they can detect minute signals and achieve large signal-to-noise ratios (SNRs) quickly and reliably.

Each instrument is equipped with a set of advanced measurement tools, such as an oscilloscope, a parametric sweeper, a spectrum analyzer, and more, allowing you to characterize your optical signals more comprehensively.  Additionally, if an analog interface to other instruments is needed — for example, a control voltage for laser cavities or delay lines — internal measurement results or other customizable signals can easily be routed out from the instruments via the auxiliary output connectors. This toolset, together with several field upgradeable options, expand the functionality of the instruments well beyond lock-in amplification, making them a perfect fit for the demanding requirements of many applications.