March 2001
The design of the receiver optics plays a crucial part in the ultimate sensitivity of the ALMA array. We present some general design concepts to guide the development of the optical layout of the final receivers. Relevant properties of materials used in the optical path are examined, and various types of optical elements are discussed. General principles of high efficiency optical train designs are presented. In general, simple systems are advocated, with minimal truncation losses. The areas which have the greatest uncertainty are the windows and infrared filters where the trade-offs between the RF losses, infrared blocking, pressure resistance and gas permeability have to be carefully considered. A sample design for Band 3 is given.
View a pdf version of ALMA Memo 359.
Download a postscript version of ALMA Memo 359.
Last modified: March 27, 2001
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