Polilight PL500

The Polilight 500 is a high-intensity light source based on a 500-watt xenon arc lamp. This type of lamp delivers UV, visible, and infrared light. A special characteristic of the light output in the visible region is that the intensity of light is the same in the whole spectrum, just like sun light. This is in contrast with halogen lamps that deliver progressively more light, going from blue (low wavelength) to red (high wavelength).

Apart from white light, the Polilight 500 has 11 selectable wavebands (from UV to red light). With filter tuning, any narrow band of light (with width of about 40 nm) in the visible spectrum can be selected.

The waveband is selected either by using the buttons on the front panel, or stepwise with the remote control (2 m-long cable). The filter selection and fine tuning are operated internally by stepper motors. The remote control is attached to the unit through a RS232 port.

This port can also be used for operating the PL500 from a computer (using optionally available software). Also available is a security code option that uses the filter selection buttons. This option will prevent unauthorized persons from switching on the instrument.

With the remote control or the buttons on the front panel, the light power can also be tuned (8 settings, from about 15 to 100% in equal increments).