Quick Tip: Analyzing Zernike field dependence using the Field Map option (FMA)

Understanding performance over an entire field is particularly important for many lens designers working on asymmetric or off-axis systems where the performance over the field doesn’t have rotational symmetry. You can analyze many performance metrics at the image plane versus field by using the Field Map (FMA) option in the Analysis > Diagnostics menu. Many classic field-dependent aberrations like distortion and astigmatism can be analyzed using FMA, as can scalar metrics like RMS spot diameter and MTF.

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By choosing the wavefront polynomial coefficient metric, you can analyze any Zernike coefficient as well, including coupled terms. For example, the Fringe Zernike coefficient pair for coma is C7 and C8. By entering 7 or 8 as the Wavefront coefficient number and unchecking Uncouple paired terms, the resulting FMA figure will show not only the magnitude of the coma over the field, but also the orientation:

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For more information about using FMA, as well as examples of the types of aberrations it can be used to analyze (and correct), take a look at the presentation, "Effective Use of the CODE V Field Map Option," on the Customer Support Portal.

CODE V Glass Catalog Updates Available for Download

Updates to the CODE V glass catalog, including the Ohara and Schott manufacturers' catalogs, are now available for download from www.opticalres.com. In addition to download links, we have included more details about the glasses affected by this update and installation instructions.