
( Brand: Thorlabs ), ( Part Type: Filter ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: NE503B )
The Thorlabs NE503B is an unmounted 1/2 wave length (1/2 wave optically dense) absorptive neutral density filter with an optical density (OD) of 0.3. This filter is designed to attenuate light while maintaining a neutral color transmission.
The NE503B filter is made of high-quality optical glass with a Schott B270 type substrate. It has a thickness of approximately 2.54 mm (0.10 inches). The absorptive material used in this filter is a natural iron oxide coating, which has a broad absorption band across the visible spectrum. This coating is uniformly applied to both sides of the filter to ensure even light attenuation.
This unmounted filter has a circular shape with a diameter of 50.8 mm (2 inches) and a flat, parallel surface. It is suitable for use in various imaging and optical systems, including microscopes, cameras, and laser setups. The NE503B filter can be easily mounted using standard 50.8 mm filter holders or mounting rings.
The OD of 0.3 provides a transmission loss of approximately 35% at 546 nm (green light). This makes it an ideal choice for applications where it is necessary to reduce the intensity of the incoming light while maintaining a natural color balance. For example, it can be used to prevent overexposure in high-intensity imaging applications or to protect sensitive detectors from excessive light.
The NE503B filter is also available in other densities and sizes upon request. It is shipped in a protective pouch to ensure safe handling and transportation. With its high optical quality, even attenuation, and versatile applications, the Thorlabs NE503B is a valuable addition to any optical system setup.
The Thorlabs NE503B is an unmounted 1/2 wave length (od) absorptive neutral density (ND) filter with a density of 0.3. Here are some pros and cons of buying this filter:
Pros:1. High-quality filter: Thorlabs is a reputable company known for producing high-quality optics and filters.
2. Neutral density: This filter reduces the amount of light without affecting the color balance, making it suitable for various applications including photography and videography.
3. Absorptive filter: The absorptive filter type is ideal for applications where polarization is not a concern.
4. 1/2 wave length: The 1/2 wave length density ensures that the filter does not introduce significant optical delay or phase shift, making it suitable for use in optical systems with tight specifications.
5. Wide range of applications: The filter can be used in various applications, including microscopy, spectroscopy, and laser systems.
Cons:1. Price: The filter may be more expensive than some other ND filters on the market, but the high-quality and specifications may justify the cost.
2. Manual installation: Since it is an unmounted filter, it requires manual installation in the optical path, which may add to the time and effort required for setup.
Conclusion:The Thorlabs NE503B is a high-quality, neutral density absorptive filter with a density of 0.3. While it may be more expensive than some other filters on the market, its specifications and reputation make it a worthwhile investment for applications where optical performance is critical. The manual installation may add to the setup time, but the benefits of using a high-quality filter outweigh the inconvenience.
Recommendation:If you require a high-quality, neutral density absorptive filter with a density of 0.3, the Thorlabs NE503B is a recommended option. Its reputation, specifications, and wide range of applications make it a valuable addition to any optical setup. While it may be more expensive than some other filters, the investment in a high-performance filter can lead to improved results and greater satisfaction with your optical system.
NEW Thorlabs NE503B Unmounted 1/2 Absorptive ND Filter OD 0.3.