What Is a Beamsplitter?
A beamsplitter is an optical device that divides a single beam of light into two or more separate beams. Depending on the design, it can also combine beams, making it a versatile component in imaging, metrology, laser optics, and telecommunications.
Beamsplitter definition (short): A beamsplitter is a partially reflective optical element that transmits part of the incident light and reflects the rest.
At Bote Optical, we design and manufacture custom beamsplitters to meet precise requirements for research, industrial, and defense applications.
How Do Beamsplitters Work?
Beamsplitters use thin-film coatings, optical prisms, or substrates to split light. The splitting ratio (e.g., 50/50, 70/30) depends on the coating design.
- Reflective coating → reflects part of the beam.
- Anti-reflection coating → transmits the rest.
- Polarizing beamsplitters → split based on polarization states (S- and P-polarized light).
This makes beamsplitters essential in laser optics, interferometry, spectroscopy, and imaging systems.
Types of Beamsplitters
Different optical setups require different beamsplitter designs. Below are the most common categories:
| Type | Description | Applications |
|---|---|---|
| Beam Splitter Cube | Two right-angle prisms cemented or optically contacted together with a dielectric coating at the hypotenuse. | Laser labs, imaging systems. |
| Plate Beamsplitter | Flat glass plate with partial reflective coating. | Compact instruments, AR/VR displays. |
| Pellicle Beamsplitter | Ultra-thin membrane stretched on a frame; minimizes beam displacement. | Interferometry, precision metrology. |
| Polarizing Beam Splitter | Transmits P-polarized light, reflects S-polarized light. | Laser optics, quantum optics. |
| Polarizing Cube Beamsplitter | Cube version of PBS with high extinction ratio. | Laser isolation, optical experiments. |
| Dichroic Beamsplitters | Split beams by wavelength, not intensity. | Fluorescence microscopy, multispectral imaging. |
| NIR Beamsplitter | Optimized for near-infrared wavelengths. | NIR spectroscopy, sensors. |
| ZnSe Beamsplitter | Made from zinc selenide, optimized for IR (2–12 μm). | Thermal imaging, CO₂ laser optics. |
| Beam Splitter Prism | Uses prism geometry for stability and high precision. | Imaging systems, projectors. |
👉 For more details on custom ZnSe, CaF₂, and Germanium optics, visit our infrared optics page.
Specialized Beamsplitters
- Laser Beamsplitter – Designed for high laser damage threshold. Coatings are optimized to handle high power.
- Beam Splitter Mirror – A semi-transparent mirror that functions as a beamsplitter, widely used in autocue systems and heads-up displays.
- Light Beam Splitter – General term for beamsplitters used in visible light applications.
- DIY Beam Splitter – Hobbyists sometimes create simple beam dividers with partially reflective mirrors, but precision optics are essential for professional use.
Beamsplitter Price and Selection
The price of a beamsplitter depends on:
- Material (BK7, fused silica, ZnSe, CaF₂, sapphire).
- Type (cube, plate, pellicle, dichroic).
- Wavelength range (UV, VIS, NIR, IR).
- Tolerance and coating complexity.
At Bote Optical, we provide cost-effective, customized beamsplitter solutions. Contact us for a quotation tailored to your specifications.👉 For a full list of materials and coatings, see our Custom Infrared Optics page.
Applications of Beamsplitters
- Video & Thermal Imaging – Split light into multiple channels.
- Laser Systems – Power sampling and feedback control.
- Metrology & Interferometry – Essential for wavefront measurement.
- Life Sciences – Fluorescence microscopy using dichroic beamsplitters.
- AR/VR and HUDs – Beam splitter mirrors for see-through displays.
Why Choose Bote for Beamsplitters?
- Custom manufacturing: From polarizing cubes to ZnSe beamsplitters.
- Infrared expertise: We specialize in IR optics for 2–12 μm.
- Quality assurance: Precision polishing, coating, and inspection.
- Global delivery: From Singapore to worldwide clients.
Explore more at www.bote.com.sg.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is the difference between a polarizing beam splitter and a regular cube beamsplitter?
A polarizing beam splitter separates light by polarization, while a regular cube beamsplitter splits by intensity.
Q2: Can beamsplitters be used with high-power lasers?
Yes, but you must choose a laser beamsplitter with high damage threshold coatings.
Q3: What is the typical beamsplitter ratio?
Common ratios are 50/50, 70/30, and 90/10, depending on application.
Q4: How much does a beamsplitter cost?
Prices range from tens to hundreds of USD depending on material, coating, and precision.
Q5: Do you provide custom beamsplitters?
Yes, at Bote Optical we specialize in custom beamsplitters for IR and visible wavelengths.
Conclusion
Beamsplitters are indispensable in modern optics, with variations such as polarizing cubes, plate beamsplitters, pellicle membranes, ZnSe IR beamsplitters, and dichroic filters.
Whether you are working in laser optics, imaging, or spectroscopy, choosing the right beamsplitter is critical. At Bote Optical, we combine custom design, precision manufacturing, and advanced coatings to deliver beamsplitters tailored to your application.
Related Reads:
- What Is Interferometry?
- High-Precision IR Filters | Custom Infrared Bandpass Filters for Optical Systems
- Spherical vs Aspherical: Optical Design Tips
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