This Variable Attenuator incorporates a high - performance Polarizing Cube Beamsplitter which reflects s-polarized light at 90° while transmitting p-polarized light.
A rotatable λ/2 waveplate is placed in the incident polarized laser beam. The intensity ratio of the two outgoing beams may be continuously varied without alteration of other beam parameters by rotating the half waveplate. The intensity of either exit beam, or their intensity ratio, can be controlled over a wide dynamic range. Pure p-polarization could be selected for maximum transmission, or pure s-polarization for maximum reflection.