collimator

[ kol-uh-mey-ter ]

noun

1. Optics.
   1. a fixed telescope for use in collimating other instruments.
   2. an optical system that transmits parallel rays of light, as the receiving lens or telescope of a spectroscope.
2. Physics. a device for producing a beam of particles in which the paths of all the particles are parallel.

collimator

/ ˈkɒlɪˌmeɪtə /

noun

1. a small telescope attached to a larger optical instrument as an aid in fixing its line of sight
2. an optical system of lenses and slits producing a nondivergent beam of light, usually for use in spectroscopes
3. any device for limiting the size and angle of spread of a beam of radiation or particles

collimator

/ kŏl′ə-mā′tər /

1. A device that turns incoming radiation, such as light, into parallel beams. Simple collimators consists of a tube having a narrow, variable slit at one end and a convex lens at the other. Radiation entering the tube through the slit exits the lens in the form of parallel beams. Collimators are used to establish focal lengths of lenses and to measure the distance of distant objects whose position is known.

Word History and Origins

Origin of collimator¹

First recorded in 1815–25; collimate + -or ²

Example Sentences

The slit and lens, together with the tube in which they are usually supported, are called a collimator.

From Project Gutenberg

The form of spectroscope mentioned above, in which the collimator and slit are replaced by a concave lens, will be tried.

From Project Gutenberg

The French collimator sight for the 75-millimeter gun presented difficulties to the manufacturer, especially in the optical parts.

From Project Gutenberg

The collimator and observing telescope have an aperture of 25 mm., focus of 200 mm.

From Project Gutenberg

The slit and collimator are shown; the micrometer end of the observing telescope is out of the picture.

From Project Gutenberg