Evolution of output power and gain when an Yb-doped fiber laser is switched on. One can see the relaxation oscillations, with convergence towards the steady state. Each red or gray segment corresponds to 0.2 μs.

In some cases, it may not be clear how exactly the mentioned distance is measured – for example, if some mechanical parts protude beyond the final lens. It should then be made clear what exactly is meant with the working distance.

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The working distance of an objective is the distance between the objective and the object. That quantity is relevant in various situations; some examples:

Note that the working distance is not necessarily the same as the front focal distance. Even if the object is placed in a beam focus, that focus does not need to lie in the focal plane if the input light of the objective is not collimated.

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