Quality Factor in Optical Systems Calculator
This calculator determines the optical quality factor (Q-factor) of resonant systems, such as optical cavities or waveguides, using the resonant frequency and bandwidth. It’s essential for evaluating energy retention and sharpness of resonance in photonics, lasers, and telecommunications.
Optical Resonator Q-Factor Estimator
Q-Factor Formula in Optical Resonance
Where:
- $$Q$$ = quality factor (unitless)
- $$f_0$$ = resonant frequency (Hz)
- $$Δf$$ = bandwidth (Hz)
- $$λ_0$$ = central wavelength (nm or µm)
- $$Δλ$$ = linewidth (same units as λ_0)
Quality Factor – Calculation Example
Given:
- $$f_0$$ = 193.5 THz
- $$Δf$$ = 10 GHz
Calculation:
- $$Q = \frac{193.5 \cdot 10^{12}}{10 \cdot 10^{9}} = \frac{193.5 \cdot 10^3}{10} = 19,350$$
The quality factor in optical systems measures how well a resonator stores energy. High-Q systems exhibit narrow bandwidths and sharp resonance, which are crucial in laser design, optical filters, biosensors, and quantum photonics. This calculator supports frequency-based and wavelength-based inputs, allowing you to analyze both RF and optical spectrum devices efficiently.