Laser trimming, also known as laser alignment, is a process in which electronic components (e.g. resistors) and circuits are aligned or trimmed using laser-induced changes. As a rule, resistors (thick and thin film) of a circuit are influenced by the laser in such a way that the individual resistance value or the entire circuit is adjusted. The prerequisite for carrying out such a laser trimming process is a suitable laser system that can be controlled with pulse accuracy by connecting it to the measurement technology. The laser system is combined with a vision system to position the laser beam with high precision and thus enable excellent alignment.
Various cutting forms are used in practice for laser trimming or laser alignment. The frequently used serpentine cut is characterized by a large trimming range and advantageously replaces mechanical trimmers. In addition to the smaller size and lower costs compared to trimming potentiometers, laser-trimmed resistors are characterized by higher long-term stability. Frequent trimming applications are the characteristic curve adjustment of electronic sensors, the adjustment to the nominal switching distance of proximity switches or the linearization of measuring amplifiers in medical and measurement technology.
