The definition of both meter and second relies on precisely measured frequency. The convenient sources of such frequencies are lasers stabilized by molecular vapours. The He-Ne lasers stabilized by iodine vapours represent the cornerstone sources in the visible spectrum. On the other hand, the infrared spectrum (particularly 1550 nm C-band) is of metrological interest thanks to its cost-effective, readily available components. The widely used absorption media at 1550nm has been two acetylene isotopes (12C2H2, 13C2H2), while H13C14N represents an alternative covering a broader spectrum well corresponding to the telecommunication C-band.
The laser spectroscopy is a fundamental approach for the realisation of traceable optical frequency standards. In the 1:55 μm wavelength band, widely used in telecommunications, the acetylene is the typical and the most widespread absorption media. We present our investigation of using the hydrogen cyanide (HCN) as a cost-efficient and readily available alternative, that also provides a wider frequency span (from 1527nm to 1563 nm). We have compared the practical aspects of using new absorption media in comparison to existing experience with the acetylene with an outlook to carry out an independent measurement of the entire spectra. The results should contribute to the future inclusion of the HCN spectroscopic data into the Mise en pratique, thus allowing for the use of HCN as a reference for the realisation of traceable laser standards.
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