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Breadboards and Table Tops
Frequently Asked Questions
Optical Tabletops and breadboards are platforms commonly used by optical engineers to stabilize and support components during manufacturing and experimentation processes. They are frequently used for optics and photonics research, and often utilized for the testing and repair of standard optical devices (e.g. lasers, microscopes, telescopes).
Optical Tabletops isolate surrounding environmental vibrations with an extremely stiff and structurally damped honeycomb structure. The support stands are also vibration-isolating structures, isolating the table from ambient background vibrations.
Optical Tables are essentially a larger version of Optical Breadboards. So, yes, they are breadboards. However, although Optical Tables and Breadboards share many of the same properties, this does not mean they can always be used interchangeably. Depending on the needs and size of the project, a smaller Optical Breadboard may be preferred over a larger Optical Table.
The top and bottom sheets of Optical Tables are typically made of rigid materials: steel, aluminum, carbon fiber, and other materials with little deflection to maximize stability.
Frequent applications include microscopy, interferometry, metrology, and optical fiber alignment. They are used in projects where a vibration-free environment is desired for data collection. Because Optical Breadboards are smaller, they are oftentimes used for academic demonstrations and research laboratory experiments.
Optical Tabletops can cost from $800 to upwards of $5,000 depending on the size and material. Optical Breadboards are typically within the price range of $80-$800, with some outliers in the $2,000 range for those made of more advanced materials.
Seeing as the two are very similar, it depends on the project it’s being used for. Tabletops are better for large-scale manufacturing or experimentation projects, whereas Breadboards are preferred for academic demonstrations and smaller lab experiments.
High-Quality Optical Breadboards and Table Tops for Precise Experimental Setups
When it comes to designing and assembling optical systems, stability and precision are key. Optical breadboards and table tops provide a rigid, flat platform upon which you can safely mount your components — whether it's for laser experiments, imaging setups, or complex optical assemblies.
At FindLight, we specialize in offering a wide range of optical breadboards and table tops to enable you to create high-performance, low-noise setups that produce reliable, reproducible results.
What Are Optical Breadboards and Table Tops?
Optical breadboards and table tops serve as the foundation for your optical assemblies. They typically feature a grid of threaded holes, allowing you to directly affix components, mounts, and posts in a flexible configuration. This adaptability lets you customize your optical setup to match your application’s unique requirements.
The main distinguishing feature of these platforms is their ability to dampen vibrations and provide a stable, flat surface — two crucial factors for high-precision optical experiments. This stability is especially important for interferometers, laser alignment stations, imaging systems, and other applications where even tiny vibrations can compromise your results.
Why Choose Our Optical Breadboards and Table Tops?
At FindLight, we collaborate with leading suppliers to bring you a vast selection of optical breadboards and table tops made from high-caliber materials, designed to maximize stiffness while reducing vibrations. Our range includes lightweight breadboards for less-demanding setups, heavy-duty honeycomb table tops for greater stability, and specialized materials to account for different thermal expansion coefficients.
This lets you select the platform that’s most appropriate for your application — whether you’re developing a new laser delivery system, designing a custom optical testing bench, or optimizing a sophisticated imaging apparatus.
Key Features:
Threaded hole patterns: Provide convenient and flexible mounting for optical components.
Vibration-dampening materials: Reduce vibrations that can undermine your results.
Robust, stable structures: Ensure your equipment maintains its alignment over time.
Custom sizes and thicknesses: Available to match your space and application requirements.
Compatibility: Easily integrate with standard optical components and mounts.
Applications of Optical Breadboards and Table Tops:
These platforms are used across numerous fields, including research and development, biotechnology, materials science, and industrial manufacturing. Scientists, engineers, and designers rely on them to align their optical components accurately and perform their experiments under stable, repeatable conditions.
Whether you’re developing a high-resolution imaging system, designing a laser interferometers, or setting up a custom optical testing bench, choosing the right breadboard or table top is essential for your application’s success. Our extensive range guarantees you can find a platform that fits your technical needs, your budget, and your laboratory space.
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