Measuring With Short Light Pulses

The Measuring With Short Light Pulses apparatus is designed to determine the speed of light by measuring the transit time of short optical pulses. The system generates light pulses with a duration of approximately 20 ns, which travel over a known distance before being converted into electrical signals for observation on an oscilloscope. The apparatus also enables the measurement of the propagation velocity of electrical pulses in coaxial cables, providing a practical understanding of signal transmission and high-speed measurement techniques. Manufactured by Atico Export India.

Principle

The experiment is based on the measurement of the transit time of short light pulses. A light pulse is transmitted over a known distance, reflected, and detected by the measuring instrument. The received optical pulse is converted into an electrical signal and displayed on an oscilloscope. By measuring the travel time and the corresponding distance, the velocity of light can be calculated. The same setup can also be used to determine the propagation velocity of electrical pulses through coaxial cables.

Objectives

• Determine the velocity of light in air using short light pulses.
• Measure the transit time of optical pulses.
• Determine the propagation velocity of voltage pulses in coaxial cables.
• Study high-speed optical and electrical signal transmission.
• Understand time-of-flight measurement techniques.

System Components

Light Velocity Measuring Instrument :

• Quantity: 1

Lens in Frame :

• Focal Length: 200 mm
• Quantity: 1

Optical Bench :

• Standardized Profile
• Length: 0.5 m
• Quantity: 1

Optics Rider :

• Quantity: 2

Two-Channel Analog Oscilloscope :

• Bandwidth: 30 MHz
• Quantity: 1

BNC Cable :

• Length: 1 m
• Quantity: 3

Metal Rule :

• Length: 1 m
• Quantity: 1

Large V-Shaped Stand Base :

• Quantity: 1

Stand Rod :

• Length: 100 cm
• Diameter: 12 mm
• Quantity: 1

Multi Clamp :

• Quantity: 1

Short Pulse Light Source :

• Generates light pulses with a pulse width of approximately 20 ns.

Time-of-Flight Measurement :

• Enables accurate determination of light transit time.

Oscilloscope Observation :

• Converts optical pulses into electrical signals for waveform analysis.

Dual Experiment Capability :

• Suitable for measuring both the velocity of light and the propagation speed of voltage pulses in coaxial cables.

Precision Optical Alignment :

• Optical bench ensures accurate positioning of optical components.

Educational Design :

• Ideal for studying optics, high-speed electronics, and signal propagation.