The Lambda 10-C system features the same masterfully designed stepper-motor driven wheel used in our Lambda 10-2 system but in a more economical package. The direct drive system means no belts to slip, and no backlash. Only the controller has been changed to provide a lower cost package for low to medium frame-rate imaging applications requiring only a single wheel. All wheel components and shutters are interchangeable with the Lambda 10-2.

Switching speed between adjacent filter positions is maximally achieved in less than 90msec with two filters installed. The user can select between one of eight speeds allowing the speed to be adjusted in accordance with the loading of the wheel. An optional shutter which can be installed on the wheel has opening and closing times of 11 msec and 15 msec respectively.

Filter selection is easy with the microprocessor-based control unit. The desired filter can be selected from the keypad, or through the simple interface. The controller determines the direction and distance to move and performs an acceleration and deceleration sequence to make the move with minimal vibration. Filter position is displayed on the front panel. Internal sensors monitor the position of the filter wheel to insure that the correct filter is in place. The drive uses switching mode current regulation, which is more economical than the linear supply of the Lambda 10-2. An integral shutter driver is also included for users who select to have the optional shutter.

A serial and an 8 bit parallel input port are provided to allow complete and easy control from a remote computer or other source of logic level signals. The serial port accepts RS232 level signals through a DB-9 connector. Parallel input is made through a DB-25 connector and can be directly connected to a PC type parallel printer port. Both serial and parallel communication is command compatable with out Lambda 10-2. The Lambda 10-C draws less than 75 Watts of power. Line voltage may be either 120 or 240 volts, 50 or 60Hz. A switch is provided on the rear of the unit for selection of the line voltage.

As with the Lambda 10-2, for applications requiring absolute vibration isolation, and/ or spatial uniformity independent of wavelength, an optional liquid lightguide output is available for the wheel.