Simple and robust calibration procedure for k-linearization and dispersion compensation in optical coherence tomography

In Fourier-domain optical coherence tomography (FD-OCT), proper signal sampling and dispersion compensation are essential steps to achieve optimal axial resolution. These calibration steps can be performed through numerical signal processing, but require calibration information about the system that may require lengthy and complex measurement protocols. We report a highly robust calibration procedure that can simultaneously determine correction vectors for nonlinear wavenumber sampling and dispersion compensation. The proposed method requires only two simple mirror measurements and no prior knowledge about the system’s illumination source or detection scheme. This method applies to both spectral domain and swept-source OCT systems. Furthermore, it may be implemented as a low-cost fail-safe to validate the proper function of calibration hardware such as k-clocks. We demonstrate the method’s simple implementation, effectiveness, and robustness on both types of OCT systems.