Labsphere News - from Halma PR - visit www.labsphere.com

Complete simultaneous thermal, optical, and electrical characterization of light sources
North Sutton, New Hampshire (August 25, 2010) – To more easily meet new reporting specifications, Labsphere’s new Thermal/Optical/Electrical LED Measurement Systems (TOCS) enables measurement of optical properties as a function of temperature and operating current using a single instrument.  The TOCS complies with IESNA LM-79 standards, delivering accurate and reproducible LED measurements.

Labsphere’s TOCS system conforms to IESNA LM-79 and LM-80 recommendations for LED characterization.

Available in a range of integrating sphere sizes from 20 to 76 inches, the TOCS systems are designed for both 2pi and 4pi measurement geometries.  A lamp measurement integrating sphere, high resolution CCD array spectrometer, thermal plate with temperature controller, auxiliary lamp, calibration source, power supply and Labsphere’s powerful TOCS-SS software comprise the basic system.  Owners of current Labsphere and SphereOptics spectral lamp measurement systems may purchase an upgrade retrofit to the TOCS system to achieve LM-79 compliance.

Labsphere’s TOCS-SS is a powerful, accurate software which automates procedures for measuring spectral characteristics, and controlling current and temperature.  Users control LED temperature and operating current at specified ranges, measuring and characterizing the device under test over a wide temperature range. The simultaneously collected electrical, optical and thermal data is graphed for quick on-screen viewing and can be exported to Excel format for in-depth analysis. 

The TOCS can be customized with the integrating sphere size, calibration source and accessories to fit testing needs.

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Technical seminar with hands-on radiometry and photometry demonstrations
North Sutton, New Hampshire (July 19, 2010) – Labsphere will host an optical sensing workshop August 11, at Research Triangle Park in Durham, N.C.  Entitled “Radiometry and Photometry: The integrating sphere – a versatile solution to light measurement,” the one day course will cover design fundamentals and application methods, with workshops to discuss individual optical sensing issues, and equipment available for hands-on training.

Intended for researchers, scientists and engineers working in lighting, optical sensing and imager calibration, the technical program explores the fundamentals of radiometry and photometry, including theory and design; how to specify and use an integrating sphere for measuring light sources and electronic imaging sensors; and assessing measurement performance.

Labsphere will have a number of measurement instruments available for training, including lamp, LED and SSL measurement equipment; uniform light calibration sources; reflectance/transmittance devices; and general purpose integrating spheres. Participants will receive application specific advice for specifying systems and setting up integrating sphere measurement procedures.

For full program details and to register, visit www.labsphere.com/events.aspx, call 603-927-4266, or e-mail osw@labsphere.com.

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Labsphere ready to serve growing Chinese light measurement market
North Sutton, New Hampshire (July 14, 2010) – Labsphere, a global leader in light metrology, has expanded its presence in Asia with the opening of a new sales and service facility in Shanghai, China.  Operating under the name Shanghai Lanfei Optical Equipment Co. Ltd., the wholly owned foreign enterprise is now positioned to provide light measurement products and customer support at a local level. 

Labsphere’s executive management and Lanfei team celebrated the new Chinese facility with an open house in May.

Labsphere opened its first sales office in China in 2007 and has since expanded its team to include applications engineers, manufacturing staff and administrative personnel.  The company supplies LED, laser and traditional light source light measurement systems critical to China’s developing solid state lighting industry. 

The 450-square meter Lanfei facility is equipped with state-of-art spray coating equipment for on-site coating of integrating spheres. The Lanfei team will also provided off-site coating services for spheres and accessories requiring Labsphere’s proprietary near-Lambertian diffuse reflectance coatings.  The Lanfei sales and application engineers are available for ongoing systems support of all Labsphere’s products, enabling fast service and upgrades to meet evolving LED and solid state lighting market needs.

To contact Shanghai Lanfei Optical Equipment Co. Ltd., visit www.labsphere.com.cn, call + 86 10 8262 3723, or e-mail Roger Xiao, Asia Pacific Sales Director rxiao@labsphere.com.

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North Sutton, New Hampshire (July 09, 2010) – Labsphere will be showing its complete light metrology product line at the SPIE Optics and Photonics exhibition, booth 508, August 1-5 at the San Diego Convention Center (San Diego, Calif.).  Of particular interest will be the company’s CSLMS LED measurement systems for solid state lighting manufacture and its uniform source systems for calibration, remote sensing and solar simulation.

XTH Uniform Source Systems generate a uniform radiance field which approximates the spectral radiance of a 100 percent Albedo source.

Labsphere’s CSLMS Systems for the characterization of large light sources simplify complex measurements. With application specific software, a high-end CCD-based spectrometer, and large area light measurement sphere, the system delivers total spectral flux, luminous flux, radiometric flux and colorimetric results in milliseconds.

For UV radiance calibration and Lambertian solar simulation, the company’s XTH Uniform Source Systems generate a uniform radiance field which approximates the spectral radiance of a 100 percent Albedo source, or the spectral curve of the ASTM Standard D65.  Each system monitors radiance levels in cd/m2 and in Foot-Lamberts and all calibrations are traceable to the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).

Labsphere also offers uniform source systems for imager calibration and remote sensing. The USS 1200-V Low Level system includes a satellite sphere illuminator with an external halogen light source and a motorized variable attenuator for precise control over illumination levels.  It can be operated either directly, from front-panel controls, or through Labsphere’s standard USS software, which automatically corrects detector readings using programmable calibration factors, displaying corrected readings in graphic and numeric format.

Labsphere’s application engineers will be at the company’s booth, 508, to discuss custom solutions.

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Meets LM-79 and LM-80 standards for complete characterization of large light sources
North Sutton, New Hampshire (June 28, 2010) – With lighting technology advancing to include larger and more complex devices, Labsphere (www.labsphere.com) has introduced the LMS-3M three meter integrating sphere for complete optical characterization of these larger lamps and luminaries.  The sphere complies with IESNA LM-79 and LM-80 standards to deliver accurate and reproducible measurements of any lamp up to 2m linear lamps and 30cm luminaries.

Labsphere’s LMS-3M Three Meter Lamp Measurement Sphere.

The three meter lamp measurement integrating sphere accommodates light sources positioned base up, base down, or longitudinally, to easily and efficiently measure virtually any lamp type, including fluorescents up to 2m in length.  The design also allows for forward and partial flux measurements of test sources that are board mounted or heat-sinked.

The larger sphere better integrates light for more reliable testing of a device’s photometric and colorimetric performance with measurements of Total Spectral Flux, Luminous Flux, Correlated Color Temperature (CCT), Color Rendering Index (CRI), and Chromaticity.  Measurement data relies only on the test device’s true power, not on the size, shape, or spectral distribution. 

The near-Lambertian properties of the sphere’s Spectraflect® interior coating provides a uniform dispersion of light that integrates and reduces hotspots better than other available sphere coatings materials. Spectraflect exhibits reflectance values of 98% and is spectrally flat through the visible spectrum for higher optical efficiency on low lumen lamps. 

The LMS-3M is designed to measure a variety of lamps and luminaires on the same system with little adjustment. The standard sphere geometry accommodates 4pi measurement, and with optional aperture reducers, can easily be configured for 2pi measurement.  Baffled intake and output ports and an ambient air temperature controller maintain and monitor the temperature inside the measurement environment, complying with Energy Star requirements.  The new sphere size fully integrates with all Labsphere photometric and spectroradiometric systems and software so current system users may upgrade easily.

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$150m earmarked for acquisitions
Cincinnati, OH (June 22, 2010) – Halma p.l.c., the leading global safety, health and sensor technology group, has announced record results with profits up 9% to $125m and revenue rising by 1% to $665m.  The UK-based group, which includes photonics companies Ocean Optics, Ocean Thin Films, Labsphere, and Fiberguide, has posted strong financials to raise shareholder dividends by 7%, the thirty-first consecutive year of increases.  Halma’s 11 US subsidiaries generate about 30% of its revenue.  The company plans to augment its organic growth efforts through acquisition of complementary technology companies, as it has done for many years.

Halma’s subsidiaries operate in three main market sectors: Health and Analysis (which includes Halma’s photonics companies), Infrastructure Sensors, and Industrial Safety, creating shareholder value with consistent organic growth and sound acquisitions. Halma companies operate as independent entities under the day-to-day direction of their local management, while reaping the capital and network benefits of a larger multi-national parent.

The company is seeking successful and profitable companies that are closely allied to any of its current market sectors although photonics is a particular focus.  It has $150m earmarked for acquisitions.

Halma’s photonics companies are established brands with market-leading technologies and products, which range from spectrometers to complementary technologies such as chemical sensors, analytical instrumentation, optical fibers, thin films and optics. The scope of applications is vast, from cancer detection to specialized architectural and theater lighting filters.

“We are proud of the success our companies have attained and really excited about the continuing opportunities within the photonics industries,” explains Adam Meyers, Divisional Chief Executive of Halma’s Health Optics & Photonics Division.  “Halma is a terrific home for a growing company whose management desires a broader set of partners to collaborate with, readily available capital, and support to help drive their people, products and technologies to reach their fullest potential.”

To present potential acquisitions opportunities, please contact Adam Meyers, Divisional Chief Executive, (adam.meyers@halma.com), Tel: +1 973 263 9962.

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Lightweight, durable targets for equipment calibration and testing
North Sutton, New Hampshire (May 27, 2010) – Labsphere has expanded its range of diffuse reflectance targets with PTFE-based Alucore targets.  With a nearly ideal diffuse lambertian reflectance value, the lightweight and durable targets provide a means to calibrate spectrophotometers, densitometers, reflectometers, integrating sphere systems, optical and photographic equipment, and remote sensing instruments.

Alucore reflectance targets at the end of an airstrip calibrate the navigational equipment on incoming aircraft.

Available in five different reflectance values, Alucore targets provide constant high reflectivity over the wavelength range from 250 to 2500 nm. A thin sheet of proprietary PFTE material is laminated to an aluminum honeycombed structured plate, resulting in a rugged yet lower weight target.  Thermally stable over the range -50°C to 250°C, chemically inert, and resistant to water and most solvents, Alucore targets maintain diffuse and lambertian characteristic regardless of environment.  The relative size and durability make these targets equally well suited to laboratory and field applications.

Labsphere’s laminating technique also allows for multiple reflectances on one target with no visible seams.  Targets can be customized to any size and combination of white or gray scale reflectances.  All Alucore targets can be provided with National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) or Physikalisch Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB) traceable calibration certificates.

Alucore targets have been deployed in applications ranging from calibration of spectrophotometers in remote field locations to runways for calibration of airplane navigation instruments.  To speak to an experienced applications engineer about unique target needs, send an e-mail to labsphere@labsphere.com, or phone +1 (603) 927-4266.

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System measures properties of light output on LED, tungsten, xenon and krypton lamp assemblies
North Sutton, New Hampshire (May 10, 2010) – ANSI standard FL 1-2009, governing basic performance of hand-held/portable flashlights, spotlights, and headlamps providing directional lighting, is the first documented set of requirements for flashlight measurement. Labsphere’s FS2 Spectral Flux Measurement System facilitates accurate spectroradiometric, photometric and colorimetric characterization within the testing guidelines for conditions, run time and light output measurement.  Designed specifically for this application, these turnkey systems evaluate lamp efficiency for development and manufacture of LED, tungsten, xenon and krypton lamp assemblies.

Labsphere’s FS2 Systems are custom designed for accurate spectral lamp measurements, in accordance with ANSI FL 1-2009.

The FS2 System’s integrating sphere, coated with Labsphere’s proprietary highly reflective diffuse Spectraflect®, delivers exceptional spatial integration, critical for the uniform, repeatable and reproducible measurements required by the new standards. The system provides lab conditions as specified in the standards, including the ability to calibrate showing traceability to NIST standards.

ANSI FL 1-2009 requires manufacturers to determine and report Run Time–the amount of time elapsed (under continuous operation) at which the device’s light output reaches a level when users will commonly replace the batteries.  The FS2’s unique V-block sample holder ensures the device mates with the measurement port easily, the same way, every time, complying with the requirement that the device to sensor distance be identical for initial and end point measurements. The system software gathers periodic light measurements and records corresponding time values during the Run Time testing. 

Labsphere’s FS2 system determines Total Luminous Flux (Lumens)–the total quantity of emitted overall light energy as measured by integrating the entire angular output of the portable light source, as required by the ANSI standard.  In addition, the system assesses Total Spectral Flux (Watts/nm), Total Radiant Flux (Watts), Color (CCT), Lamp Performance vs. Time, Peak and Dominant Wavelength, Spectral Purity, Color Rendering Index (CRI), Chromaticity Coordinates and Half-Bandwidth.

The system’s MtrX-Flashlight measurement software provides a user-friendly, intuitive platform for calibrating the system and analyzing measurements. All measurement results are captured instantly with real time graphics and the ability to generate and export reports.

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North Sutton, New Hampshire (April 22, 2010) – To expand service in the growing Indian light measurement market, Labsphere has appointed Laser Spectra Services India Pvt Ltd (LSS), as a reseller for Labsphere products in southern India.

LSS will market and sell the complete line of Labsphere products which include integrating spheres, lamp and LED measurement systems, laser power measurement systems, uniform light sources and luminance/radiance standards, as well as Labsphere’s Spectralon® diffuse reflectance standards and targets.

Located in Bangalore, LSS is a leading high technology trading and technical service company specializing in representing established overseas photonics companies. LSS has been involved in the scientific instruments business for the past 24 years representing such companies as Newport Corporation, USA and Horiba Jobin Yvon in India. LSS carries products covering fields such as spectroscopy, lighting, photonics, optics, physics, and electronics that are used in research, product development and education.

Contact Details:
Laser Spectra Services India Pvt Ltd.,
80/10, First Floor, Raj Towers,
M.S.Ramaiah Main Road,
Mathikere, Bangalore-560 054.
Ph: +91-80-23576907
Fax: +91-80-23576904
EMail: Suresh Kumar, Technical Sales lss.skr@vsnl.net

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Custom system supplied to the Shanghai Research Centre of Engineering and Technology for Solid-State Lighting
North Sutton, New Hampshire (March 25, 2010) – A custom LED testing installation from light metrology industry leader, Labsphere, has been chosen by the Shanghai Research Centre of Engineering and Technology for Solid-State Lighting for its LED life measurement lab. The Institute supplies LED testing services to local manufacturers of solid state lighting. The powerful system is the first of its kind in China, with potential to become the national standard in LED testing.

The Labsphere custom LED testing system in use at the Shanghai Research Centre of

Labsphere’s high performance and strong local support were the deciding factors for the Institute in selecting its system. Locally made systems currently offer testing of only one parameter of a single, low-power LED at a time. The integrated system from Labsphere is able to perform a variety of optical and electrical test measurements on an array of up to 20 discrete LEDs, including high power lamps, in under 60 seconds. 

During a single measurement sequence, the life test station simultaneously produces optical measurements of total spectral radiance and luminous flux, peak and dominant wavelength, full width/half max, CIE purity and CIE chromaticity, as well as forward current, leakage current and reverse voltage electrical measurements. Labsphere’s powerful software gathers radiometric, photometric and colorimetric parameters used for analysis that meets requirements set by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).

Labsphere’s life test station will enable the Institute to quickly and accurately test new products for its clients, increasing the reliability and energy performance of solid state lighting used in street lighting, architectural lighting and outdoor signage. There are no national standards for LED testing in China currently. The Institute hopes that this new system will bridge the gap left by traditional methods of LED testing to become the first national standard. 

In addition to system performance, the quality of Labsphere’s sales support impressed the Institute. During system development, US staff flew to Shanghai to meet with the Institute face to face, along with Labsphere’s local sales and applications engineers. Now that the system is in place, Labsphere’s Shanghai-based team will be available on an ongoing basis for upgrades to meet evolving LED market needs.

“The Labsphere system is ideal as we will be able to upgrade it for certain applications. The system is also tailored specifically to new solid state lighting sources,” said Steven Li, the Institute’s General Evaluation Lab Manager.

Per Roger Xiao, Asia Pacific Sales Director of Labsphere, a key reason the Institute selected Labsphere is, “Labsphere can commit to the customer that we can help them with customization of software locally; also both parties can cooperate on building a SSL test and measurement platform that complies with international industry trends.”

About the Institute
Shanghai Research Centre of Engineering and Technology for Solid-State Lighting was founded in 2004 by the Shanghai Technology Commission under the Shanghai Municipal Government. It is a leading advisory body in China’s growing SSL industry. The main purpose is to evaluate and advocate best practices for the Chinese SSL industry in the fields of measurement, manufacturing and standardization. The organization also provides professional consulting service and certifications in SSL design and evaluation to Chinese SSL manufacturers, including the LED lighting project contractors for 2010 SHANGHAI EXPO.

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