Fiber Array Units for Precision Optical Interfaces
Modern technologies in integrated photonics, quantum systems and scientific instrumentation require precise and stable light transmission. In practice, this means one thing: the optical interface must be designed with the highest possible precision while also operating reliably under real world conditions.
SQS develops and manufactures high precision fiber array units, including versions designed for ultra-high vacuum (UHV) environments. Each solution is tailored to the specific application, from photonic integrated circuits to specialised laboratory systems.
Fiber Array Units Tailored to Your Application
SQS offers configuration according to the required number of channels, fiber pitch, fiber type, array geometry, end face treatment such as polishing angle, mechanical dimensions and connector interface.
The positional accuracy of the individual fibers within the array plays a particularly important role.
When manufacturing high precision fiber arrays, SQS typically achieves a fiber positioning accuracy of approximately 0.5 µm, depending on the specific design and application requirements.
Design and Materials for Ultra High Vacuum
Applications in ultra-high vacuum environments place specific demands on optical components. The selection of materials, adhesives and manufacturing processes is critical.
SQS manufactures .UHV compatible fiber array units using processes suitable for ultra-high vacuum and low outgassing adhesives.
The fiber array units are cleaned and double packed in a clean environment under laminar airflow.
This approach is particularly important for systems in which even minimal particle contamination can adversely affect environmental cleanliness, stability and the long-term reliability of the optical interface.
In addition to UHV environments, SQS fiber array units are also used in systems operating at cryogenic temperatures and in other demanding laboratory and industrial applications.
Practical Use in Quantum Experiments
The relevance of SQS UHV compatible fiber array units is also demonstrated by research published in 2026 by teams from the University of California, Berkeley, and the University of California, Los Angeles. (https://arxiv.org/pdf/2607.25062)
The study developed a hybrid 2D and 3D photonic integrated circuit for broadband optical control of trapped ions. The system operated across a wavelength range of 405 to 880 nm.
The experimental methodology specifically mentions UHV compatible fiber array units from SQS Vláknová optika, which were used as part of the optical interface between external fibers and the photonic integrated chip.
The fully packaged assemblies underwent four vacuum bakeout cycles at temperatures of up to 125 °C, with the authors reporting only minimal changes in optical loss. During the experiments, the vacuum systems reached pressures below 1 × 10⁻¹⁰ Torr.
It is important to emphasise that these values describe the specific experimental environment and are not general product specifications. Nevertheless, the study clearly demonstrates that SQS UHV compatible fiber array units are suitable for use in advanced quantum and photonic systems.
Custom Solutions for Demanding Optical Systems
Are you developing an optical interface for a photonic integrated circuit, UHV system, quantum technology or another application with demanding requirements for precision and stability?
Contact SQS and we will work with you to design a fiber array unit optimised specifically for your optical and mechanical interface.
