In addition to volume manufacturing, Micron Optics closely collaborates with researchers in many fields, pursuing new ideas and projects that often result in new instruments and components with unique capabilities.  Micron Optics maintains clear distinctions between products and prototypes within our TTM development process.  These distinctions are highlighted below: 

 

Qualified Product  Qualified Product

A "Qualified" designation indicates a completed commercial product.  Qualified products have completed design validation, proven component suppliers, documented volume manufacturing procedures, and passed appropriate lifetime and reliability qualification testing.

 

Beta Product  Beta Product

A "Beta" designation refers to the first wave of production for a particular instrument or component that is available for sale to customers.  Beta customers often share feedback with Micron Optics, helping to shape the completion of the Qualified Product.  Beta instrument customers are assured of a free upgrade to Qualified product functionality.

 

Alpha product  Alpha Prototype

An "Alpha" designation indicates prototype (not product) that has been initiated through standard product development or research channels, but is not necessarily destined to become Beta or Qualified product.  Alpha prototypes are intended for experienced research customers and enable use of a new or unique measurement technology.  Micron Optics values user feedback regarding an Alpha prototype which can spark a new, ground-up development of a Micron Optics product.