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DLP9000: applicability in the far UV region

Part Number: DLP9000

Dear TI,

we are considering the application of a DLP module to create a synthetic "slit" for a scientific prototype.

This expepriment will need to operate well below 365 nm so the protective glass in front of the array is a limitation.

Is it reasonable to operate a DLP array (of course in a cleanroom environment, maybe in a nitrogen flow) with the protective glass removed?

We think the alumiunum surface of the micromirrors will form an oxide layer when exposed to air, and this is compatible with having some reflectivity in the UV. Do you have any further details on this process?

Looking forward for your answer, kind regards,

  Lorenzo

  • Hi Lorenzo,

    The DLP9000 is only intended to operate at wavelengths of 400-700 nm, so I am unable to tell you if this will work. I would recommend you use the DLP9000XUV if you wish to use UV wavelengths. This DMD supports 355 nm to 420 nm wavelengths. We cannot guarantee what effect this will have on the DLP9000.

    Please allow me until the the middle to end of next week to talk with my coworker and get additional answers.

    May you please let us know what you mean by, "well below 365 nm?" How far below do you estimate (please give a number or range).

    Regards,
    Michael Ly

  • Dear Michael,

    for example we can consider going down to about 200nm in the UV spectrum.

    Looking foward for your answer, kind regards,

      Lorenzo

  • Hi Lorenzo,

    You are very welcome. Thank you for the information as well. I'll pass this information along.

    Regards,
    Michael Ly

  • Hello Lorenzo,

    I am jumping in here with Michael.  Neither the DLP9000 or DLP9000XUV part will reach down to 200 nm.  The glass has 0 transmissivity at that wavelength.  We do not support removal of the window as there is proprietary material inside the DMD that is required for continued operation of the mirrors.  Without it the mirrors will likely only operate for a few hours.

    I wish I had better news, but this is based on our experience with others that have attempted to remove the windows.

    Fizix

  • Dear Fizix,

    is the degradation of this proprietary material related with oxygen exposure? Do you think it is not possible to operate the DMD without window even in vacuum or in a suitable inert gas flow?

    kind regards,

      Lorenzo

  • Hi Lorenzo,

    I believe Fizix is out of office at this time. Please allow  us until next week to answer your question.

    Thank you for your patience,
    Michael Ly

  • Lorenzo,

    It is not just a matter of an inert gas.  What is inside is proprietary, but necessary.  A vacuum would adversly affect the pixel physics.

    Fizix