PILightning Firmware feature for alignment systems

Overview

PI has developed a new algorithm named PILightning, which makes it possible to significantly reduce the time needed to find first light in photonics alignment. In combination with PI's high-precision alignment systems, the algorithm can be used for both surface and edge coupling. It is ideally suited for single-sided and double-sided alignment tasks alike. In the case of double-sided alignment, a marked reduction in the time needed for finding first light can be achieved in comparison to conventional scanning methods, with times falling from hours or minutes to a few seconds.

FMPA algorithms and controllers

The PILightning algorithm acts as an ideal extension to the FMPA (Fast Multi-Channel Photonics Alignment) algorithm package developed by PI, and helps perform alignment processes even more quickly and efficiently. The algorithm can be deployed both on ACS-based controllers and on E-712 controller platforms. For this, the latter must have the current alignment firmware installed, as is the case in the F-712 alignment systems from PI, for example. Going forward, PILightning will also be available on E-713 controller platforms. The algorithm can be easily activated by the customer after purchase.

Application fields

• Finding first light in photonics alignment
• Single-sided and double-sided alignment tasks
• Surface and edge coupling
• Silicon photonics