Our calibrated photodiode sensors include a full spectral response calibration utilizing NIST-traceable standards calibrated with high-precision equipment maintained in Newport’s optical detector calibration facility. Tight calibration facility and process control allows the tightest calibration uncertainty in industry. Each detector is shipped with the calibration data, which is electronically stored inside the detector's EEPROM. A certificate of calibration as well as the actual calibration curves and data are shipped with each detector for attenuator and no attenuator models. To maintain accuracy and guarantee performance, Newport recommends annual photodiode detector calibration.

For less than 1 mW input power (or 0.1 mW for 818-UV/DB between 200-400 nm), removing the OD3 attenuator by unscrewing it from the detector head is recommended to maximize the signal-to-noise ratio.

The BNC connector extends the functionality of the 818 Series photodiode sensors. It enables direct connection to an ammeter or lock-in amplifier. It also allows the detector output to be viewed on an oscilloscope after first connecting it to a current-to-voltage preamplifier, such as Newport's model 70710. Furthermore, the cable length can be extended by connecting another BNC cable.

These photodiode sensors can be converted to measure optical power from connectorized or bare optical fibers. Newport offers a comprehensive set of screw-in fiber-optic adapters to match a variety of connector types. Our bare fiber holder and adapter mount are designed together to hold 250-µm bare fibers without damaging the fiber.