Highly intense light sources such as free-electron lasers (FEL) are the key to cutting edge research at the the molecular level. With ultrashort pulses they offer the necessary attosecond temporal and subatomic spatial resolution. But their performance depends on the stable synchronization of optical and microwave sources in a multi-kilometer range. Such high-end light sources often implement optical timing distribution systems that meet their strict synchronization and timing requirements. But one challenge remains for the operation of these facilities: How to incorporate the existing electronic components into the precise optical timing distribution?
In our article “Optical to RF Synchronization for Accelerators and Free Electron Lasers” we explain how the scientists and engineers at the Dalian Coherent Light Source (DCLS) in China implemented highest synchronization standards for their facility. After reading, you will know more about how to implement a BOMPD in a timing distribution system to achieve femtosecond synchronization precision.
