Characterization of a laser-scanning mid-infrared microscope with digitally referenced per-pulse detection

Ruo-Jing Ho; Kevin L. Yeh; Yen-Ting Liu; Matthew P. Confer; Rohit Bhargava

doi:10.1117/12.2692392

13 March 2024 Characterization of a laser-scanning mid-infrared microscope with digitally referenced per-pulse detection

Ruo-Jing Ho, Kevin L. Yeh, Yen-Ting Liu, Matthew P. Confer, Rohit Bhargava

Author Affiliations +

Proceedings Volume PC12853, High-Speed Biomedical Imaging and Spectroscopy IX; PC128530T (2024) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2692392
Event: SPIE BiOS, 2024, San Francisco, California, United States

Conference Poster

Abstract

Quantum cascade lasers (QCLs) have presented a new chapter for the development of infrared spectroscopy for its high throughput and ability to tune to absorption bands of interest. However, compared to conventional thermal sources, the output stability of QCLs is a limiting factor. Specifically, the noise associated with pulse-to-pulse instability is of specific concern as we design faster and more sensitive spectrometers. Here, we demonstrate a dual-detector approach to reference measurements with the intensity illuminating the sample in real-time per individual laser pulse. We integrate this concept into our custom point-scanning confocal IR microscope. Results show double the SNR and a 10-fold shorter response time with the proposed method versus a single detector approach, all while being lock-in amplifier free. We characterize the controllable parameters and discuss the trade-offs required for a unified system capable of collecting high-quality point spectra as well as whole-slide spectral imaging.

Citation Download Citation

Ruo-Jing Ho, Kevin L. Yeh, Yen-Ting Liu, Matthew P. Confer, and Rohit Bhargava "Characterization of a laser-scanning mid-infrared microscope with digitally referenced per-pulse detection", Proc. SPIE PC12853, High-Speed Biomedical Imaging and Spectroscopy IX, PC128530T (13 March 2024); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2692392

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