Self-spectral calibration of a compound zero-order waveplate at blind rotation angles

A blind-angle calibration method is introduced for self-spectral calibration of a compound zero-order waveplate. By rotating the waveplate at blind detection angles, the wavelength-dependent retardance and the orientation of the effective fast axis can be determined through iterative least-squares calculations of the spectra measured by a multi-channel spectrometer. Excellent agreement between the experimental values and the theoretical values is achieved, indicating that the new method can be used as a reliable way to calibrate compound zero-order wave plates. Using the new method, there is no need to rotate the waveplate at specific detection angles. A high-precision waveplate holder or complex adjustment procedure is not required.