You need to choose the best optical window sizes for your applications. What's the first step?

2 Size calculation

Once you have defined your optical requirements, you can calculate the optimal size of your windows. This size affects the amount of light that reaches your optical system, the field of view that you can capture, and the mechanical stability that you can achieve. To make this calculation, consider factors such as aperture, tolerance, and margin. Aperture is the diameter of the circular area that allows light to pass through your windows and depends on the focal length and magnification of your optical system. For example, a telescope with a long focal length and high magnification may require a larger aperture to collect enough light and resolve fine details. Tolerance is the allowable deviation from the nominal size of your windows and depends on the accuracy and precision of fabrication and alignment processes. Margin is extra space that you add to account for thermal expansion, mechanical stress, and safety factors. It varies based on environmental and operational conditions; for instance, a window in a high-temperature or high-pressure environment may need a larger margin to prevent cracking or breaking.

3 Size selection

After you have calculated the optimal size of your windows, you can select the best size from the available options. The size of your windows affects the availability, compatibility, and affordability of your windows, so you need to consider several factors when making your selection. For example, if you're using a common window material, shape, and coating, your availability might be high and you can choose from a wide range of standard sizes. On the other hand, if you're using a rare window material, shape, or coating, your availability might be low and you might have to order a custom size. Additionally, if you are using a simple optical system with a standard mount, holder, or seal, your compatibility might be high and you can choose any size that meets your optical requirements. But if you are using a complex optical system with a specific mount, holder, or seal, your compatibility might be low and you might have to choose a size that matches your optical system dimensions. Moreover, if you are using a cheap window material, shape, and coating, your affordability might be high and you can choose a large size that maximizes your optical performance. However, if you are using an expensive window material, shape, or coating, your affordability might be low and you might have to choose a small size that minimizes your optical cost.

4 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?