New Wave Research introduced the Solo PIV – the smallest Nd:YAG laser available for particle image velocimetry (PIV) applications. The compact, Q-switched, laser system features a new, smaller dual-head laser powered by a single power supply. The single power supply provides control and power electronics and cooling for both laser heads. Solo PIV produces a highly stable, pulsed green light that is designed for water and air flow analysis applications using PIV.

"The Solo PIV is the smallest, Nd:YAG PIV laser available on the market today, and unlike other PIV lasers, which have always required two independent power supplies, the Solo PIV is the first low cost dual laser-head system available using a single power supply. This allows for easier set up, operation and mobility," said Ed North, president of New Wave Research.

The laser head box measures 14 x 6 x 3 in. and contains two independently fired laser heads mounted on a single baseplate. The single power supply measures only 18 x 9 x 14 in. and features an internal, closed-loop cooling system operating from single-phase 115/230 VAC.

The Solo PIV is available in four different models featuring different energy levels, 15 to 50 mJ pulses at 532 nm, and repetition rates, 1 to 15 Hz or 1 to 30 Hz depending on the model selected. Each model has a pulse width of 5 to 7 ns (FWHM) and energy stability of ± 4 percent at 532 nm. Beam diameter is either 2.5 or 3.5 mm, depending on the model.