Wavefront Error Measurement Station for SWIR, MWIR, LWIR
The Kaleo IR MTF & WFE Measurement Station is a specialised infrared optics test bench engineered for high-precision quality characterisation of lenses and...
Wavefront Error Measurement Station for SWIR, MWIR, LWIR
The Kaleo IR MTF & WFE Measurement Station is a specialised infrared optics test bench engineered for high-precision quality characterisation of lenses and optical systems operating across the short-wave (SWIR), mid-wave (MWIR), and long-wave (LWIR) infrared spectral regions. Unlike conventional test setups that rely on scanning methods or complex alignment procedures, this station captures modulation transfer function (MTF) and wavefront error (WFE) data in a true single-shot acquisition—significantly reducing measurement time while improving repeatability.
Designed for flexibility and accuracy, the Kaleo IR station supports both on-axis and off-axis measurements and accommodates infinite as well as finite object distance configurations. This versatility enables comprehensive evaluation of infrared optics used in imaging, surveillance, aerospace, defense, and industrial inspection systems, even for wide-field designs and high-performance IR lenses.
Ideal for advanced R&D laboratories and production quality control environments, the Kaleo IR MTF & WFE Measurement Station streamlines infrared optics metrology without compromising precision. United Spectrum Instruments is the official distributor of Phasics products in India, providing sales, technical support, and application expertise for integrating the WIC Industrial into industrial and R&D workflows.
Understanding Wavefront Error Measurement Station for SWIR, MWIR, LWIR
The Kaleo IR measurement station is built to make infrared lens quality control straightforward and precise. Leveraging advanced wavefront sensing technology, it measures both MTF and wavefront aberrations (WFE) in one single capture, without the need for mechanical scanning or complex alignment procedures. Designed to support multiple IR bands — including SWIR, MWIR, and LWIR — on the same bench, it provides versatile measurement for a wide range of infrared optics from small lenses to larger apertures. Its optical configuration accommodates different lens types and testing scenarios, enabling reliable output for design validation, alignment and production quality control.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
| Spectral Range | SWIR (900 – 1700 nm), eSWIR (1.2 – 2.1 µm), MWIR (3 – 5 µm), LWIR (8 – 14 µm) |
| Measurement Types | Modulation Transfer Function (MTF), Wavefront Error (WFE), Comparison to Design |
| Bench Configuration | Single/Dual Pass; On-Axis/Off-Axis; Finite – Infinite Paths |
| Acquisition Mode | Single-Shot (No Scanning Required) |
| Beam Size Range | Few millimeters up to hundreds of millimeters |
| Optics Support | Infrared lenses and assemblies for SWIR–LWIR |
| Application Areas | Optical metrology, system alignment |
| Output Metrics | MTF, WFE, aberration analysis, design comparison |
| Ease of Use | Minimal alignment, versatile configurations |
| Adaptability | Supports multiple infrared wavelengths on same bench |
Key Features and Advantages
Single-Shot IR MTF and WFE Acquisition
The standout feature of the Kaleo IR station is its ability to deliver modulation transfer function (MTF) and wavefront error (WFE) data in one single acquisition without the need for scanning or repeated measurements. This reduces test times and simplifies workflows — an advantage especially valuable in high-throughput labs and production environments.
Multi-Band Infrared Support
Built for infrared optics testing, the Kaleo IR supports SWIR, eSWIR, MWIR, and LWIR spectral bands on the same optical bench. Users can characterise lenses and optical assemblies operating at different IR wavelengths without changing core hardware, enabling flexible multi-wavelength metrology.
Flexible Test Configurations
The system offers multiple configuration modes — including single or double pass, on-axis or off-axis, and infinite to finite object distances — making it suitable for a wide variety of infrared optics. Whether testing standard imaging lenses or complex assemblies for optical systems, the measurement setup can be tailored to specific requirements.
High-Accuracy Wavefront and Aberration Data
By capturing wavefront aberrations along with MTF, the station provides a comprehensive picture of optical quality — including aberration maps and design comparisons. This level of detail supports fine alignment adjustments, design verification, and quality control of infrared optics, ensuring devices meet performance expectations.
Simplified Metrology Workflow
Kaleo IR’s intuitive measurement approach removes common barriers in IR optics testing. With minimal alignment and no scanning requirement, operators can quickly capture reliable data, making it suitable for both R&D labs and production settings, improving throughput and repeatability.
Applications Across Industries
Infrared Optical Manufacturing & Quality Control
In industries where infrared optics are manufactured — such as thermal imaging, night-vision systems and infrared cameras — quality control is crucial. The Kaleo IR station enables accurate evaluation of infrared lenses and assemblies by capturing key performance metrics like MTF and WFE across SWIR, MWIR, and LWIR bands. This ensures components meet design tolerances and imaging requirements before integration into final products.
Aerospace & Defense Optics Verification
Defense and aerospace applications rely heavily on high-performance infrared optics for targeting, missile guidance, and surveillance systems. Kaleo IR provides the detailed measurement capabilities needed to qualify these critical optical systems, ensuring they deliver accurate imaging and align with mission specifications across extreme environments.
Automotive and ADAS Sensors
Automotive sensing technologies — such as advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and night vision cameras — incorporate IR optics to operate reliably under low-light conditions. Comprehensive IR optical metrology with Kaleo IR ensures sensors provide accurate contrast, sharpness and optical performance, boosting safety and reliability.
Scientific Instrumentation & Research
Research labs working with infrared imaging systems, spectroscopy equipment, or optical experiments benefit from accurate MTF and wavefront analysis. Kaleo IR supports experimental validation and design verification for novel optical systems across diverse research fields.
Industrial Inspection & Thermal Imaging
In sectors such as industrial automation and thermal inspection, infrared cameras and optics are essential for monitoring heat profiles, detecting defects or conducting process control. The Kaleo IR station helps manufacturers ensure consistent optical image quality in these mission-critical applications.
Why Choose United Spectrum Instruments?
United Spectrum Instruments is the authorised distributor of advanced optical metrology solutions, providing expert support for systems such as the Kaleo IR MTF & WFE Measurement Station. With deep photonics expertise and hands-on experience in infrared optics testing, we help customers select the right configuration, integrate the system into existing workflows, and optimise measurement performance. Our strong local presence ensures precise, consistent results across R&D and production environments.
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Authorised distributor of advanced infrared optical metrology systems
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Expertise in IR MTF, wavefront error, and infrared optics testing
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Support for system configuration, integration, and performance optimisation
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Local installation, operator training, and responsive after-sales service
FAQs
What is the Kaleo IR MTF & WFE Measurement Station?
A specialised infrared test bench that measures MTF and wavefront error (WFE) in single-shot acquisitions for SWIR, MWIR, and LWIR optics
Which wavelength bands does it support?
It supports SWIR (900–1700 nm), eSWIR (1.2–2.1 µm), MWIR (3–5 µm), and LWIR (8–14 µm) on the same bench.
Does it require scanning or complex alignment?
No — Kaleo IR performs MTF and WFE measurements in a single-shot acquisition with minimal alignment.
What types of optics can be measured?
Infrared lenses and optical systems operating in SWIR up to LWIR regions, including assemblies and imaging optics
Is this suitable for production quality control?
Yes — its rapid measurement workflow and high-accuracy outputs make it ideal for both R&D labs and industrial production.
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FAQs
What is the Kaleo IR MTF & WFE Measurement Station?
A specialised infrared test bench that measures MTF and wavefront error (WFE) in single-shot acquisitions for SWIR, MWIR, and LWIR optics
Which wavelength bands does it support?
It supports SWIR (900–1700 nm), eSWIR (1.2–2.1 µm), MWIR (3–5 µm), and LWIR (8–14 µm) on the same bench.
Does it require scanning or complex alignment?
No — Kaleo IR performs MTF and WFE measurements in a single-shot acquisition with minimal alignment.
What types of optics can be measured?
Infrared lenses and optical systems operating in SWIR up to LWIR regions, including assemblies and imaging optics
Is this suitable for production quality control?
Yes — its rapid measurement workflow and high-accuracy outputs make it ideal for both R&D labs and industrial production.

