Newport's patented quadruple grating turret assembly holds four gratings. Our wide selection of grating configurations enable this one instrument to perform extended wavelength range scans beginning in the ultraviolet (UV), and extending into the visible and near-infrared (NIR) wavelength regions. Users can choose from a variety of options that meets the wavelength scanning range and/or resolution requirements of his/her application. Custom grating requirements such as gold or AlMgF₂ coatings are also available upon request. A wide offering of MS257 models are available based on grating selection, micrometer driven or motorized slit assembly, and single (axial) or dual output port access. For more information on the advantages of each option, see below. For a full listing of each model number, click here.  Please contact your Newport Sales Engineer for assistance in selection or purchasing a specific model.

When configuring the MS257 to specific needs, a single output port (axial) or access to both axial and lateral ports can be chosen. The axial output port is in the internal optics' light output path and therefore provides greater throughput. The lateral output port's position on the MS257 provides better flexibility for mounting a detector or other external component due to its accessibility. Choosing the dual output port option allows two detectors to simultaneously be mounted to the MS257 for extended wavelength range scans. A motorized output mirror with a precise, highly repeatable mirror position will direct the light to the user requested output port at the command of Newport software, low level commands, or the 77709 hand controller. Redirection of light to the desired output port can be selected at any time, or pre-programmed at specific wavelength ranges. Newport also offers the 77765 motorized beam steerer. When coupled to the input port of the MS257 the 77765 allows two different light sources to be utilized with the instrument. For example, a deuterium light source and quartz tungsten halogen (QTH) light source can be coupled to the monochromator for extended range UV to IR light input.

The MS257 offers users a variety of control options:

·USB and RS-232/GPIB (IEEE-448): The MS257 is equipped with both a USB and RS-232 port. For GPIB (IEEE-488) communication, the 77793 RS-232 to GPIB (IEEE-4878) External Interface is required.

·MS257 Utility Software: This utility program, included with the MS257 is written in National Instruments™ LabVIEW software. The program can be expanded upon to form a unique application software through use of the LabVIEW source code and VI's or .dll. Please note direct communication through the .dll is only available via USB 2.0 and not RS-232/GPIB (IEEE-488)

·TRACQ-BASIC Data Acquisition and Spectroscopy Software: This software application controls the MS257 as well as a variety of detectors to perform radiometric measurements. Data is graphed in real time and easily exportable for further analysis. 

·77709 Hand Controller: This controller is a good option for those who do not wish to use a computer due to convenience or security concerns. It provides access to almost all of the MS257's functionality including grating selection, active filter position, current wavelength, shutter status and more.

·TTL signal as well as auxiliary input and output connectors are located on the back panel of the MS257. The TTL signal enables control of select functions such as the integrated shutter and output port mirror, for dual output port models.

Two MS257 monochromators, configured with identical gratings and three slit assemblies, can be mechanically coupled via a light tight connection and mounted to a single baseplate to hold the proper optical alignment. Dual monochromator configurations are only controllable via RS-232. A subtractive double monochromator configuration uses the second monochromator to recombine the output light of the first monochromator. The result is almost zero linear light dispersion at the output of the second monochromator. This uniformity in wavelength between the left and right edges of the output slits is useful for applications such as spectral responsivity characterization of a detector. Contact a Newport Sales Engineer for assistance in configuring a double monochromator system.