Simple focal-length measurement technique with a circular Dammann grating

A novel technique for focal-length measurements with a circular Dammann grating is presented. In the back focal plane of the lens under test, a one-order circular Dammann grating with limited aperture will produce double-humped radial rings. The separation between the two lobes varies with the displacement of the observed plane from the focal plane of the lens. By searching for the position at which the separation is minimal, the focal point of the lens can be located and hence the back focal length can be determined. Experimental results demonstrated that this method is efficient and can be used effectively for a quick check of focal length. (c) 2007 Optical Society of America.