What is a Faraday Isolator?

A Faraday Isolator is a device that isolates the laser source from an optical system, to protect the laser source from reflections. It uses the magneto-optic rotation phenomenon to protect the laser source from reflections that can damage the operation of the laser system.

A Faraday Isolator basically acts as an optical diode allowing the propagation of light in only one direction. A typical Faraday isolator is made up of a Faraday rotator, two polarizers, and a body to house the parts. This is also called Faraday Rotation Isolator. Click here to learn more about Faraday Rotation Isolators.