New Hardware for the Modernization of Laserpol Series Polarimeters

Abstract

Some considerations for the modernization of the LASERPOL series polarimeters, which consists of models 101M, 3M and LP4, are discussed. For this purpose, new designs for the control, measurement and high voltage circuits were developed and a new constructive topology was chosen for the equipment. The control circuit is based on a 8 bit PIC microcontroller that provides new performances, it extends the possibilities of employment of the series LASERPOL polarimeters and besides it facilitates resident software development using readily available design tools. The advantages of the new design for the PMT (photomultiplier tube) high voltage power supply circuit with a DC-DC module are also analyzed.