. ed - p h ] 2 7 Ju n 20 01 Exploring closed - loop feedback control using experiments in optics

We present two experiments in closed-loop feedback control. In the first experiment, students control the pointing angle of a laser to “lock” the laser onto a “target.” In the second, students stabilize the pathlength difference in two arms of a Michelson interferometer. These experiments are appropriate for electronics and optics laboratory classes for junior and senior level students.