3DOptix vs. CODE V (Code 5):
In-Depth Comparison of Optical Design Capabilities

Optical engineers require sophisticated tools to design, simulate, and optimize complex optical systems. This comprehensive comparison between 3DOptix and CODE V highlights their capabilities, focusing on features that make 3DOptix a compelling choice for optical designers in the private sector.
Comparison Table
Feature
3DOptix
CODE V
Platform Type
Cloud-based optical simulation and design platform accessible via web browsers on any device.
A desktop-based application requiring installation on Windows OS.
Optical Simulation Methods
Supports Geometrical Optics, and Physical Optics simulations within a unified environment.
Specializes in Sequential Ray Tracing, Optimization, and Aberration Analysis for lens and optical system design.
User Interface
Intuitive 3D graphical interface with drag-and-drop functionality; real-time visualization of optical systems in a web browser.
Feature-rich interfaces with advanced tools; may have a steeper learning curve due to extensive functionality and traditional UI design.
Component Library
Extensive online library with a variety of optical components, including lenses, mirrors, prisms, and diffractive elements; easy to customize.
Comprehensive lens and optical component library; supports custom lens definitions and material properties; focuses on sequential components.
Collaboration Tools
Real-time collaboration allows multiple users to work on the same project simultaneously; with easy sharing via cloud links.
Limited collaboration features; primarily single-user focused; sharing requires manual file exchange.
Computational Power
Leverages cloud computing for high-performance simulations; scalable resources handle complex, large-scale projects efficiently.
Relies on local hardware; simulation speed and capacity depend on the user’s workstation specifications.
Integration and Compatibility
Supports import of standard optical and mechanical CAD formats (STEP); integrates with other tools via APIs.
Integrates with LightTools and other tools; supports import/export of lens data files; limited direct CAD integration.
Licensing and Cost
Flexible, usage-based subscription models; lower upfront costs; scalable pricing to match project needs.
Traditional licensing models; may involve higher upfront costs and annual maintenance fees; pricing varies based on modules and features.
Learning Resources and Support
Extensive online tutorials, webinars, and responsive global customer support; shorter learning curve due to intuitive design.
Comprehensive documentation and training programs; technical support available with maintenance agreements; may have a steeper learning curve.
Updates and Maintenance
Automatic updates with new features and improvements; minimal downtime; no user intervention required.
Updates are released periodically, and require an active maintenance plan; manual installation may be necessary.
Security and Data Management
Data is stored securely in the cloud with encryption; compliance with international data protection standards; accessible anywhere.
Data stored locally; security dependent on user’s infrastructure; limited remote accessibility without additional setup.
Advanced Features
  • Photonics and Quantum Optics Simulation
  • Optimization Algorithms
  • Machine Learning Integration
  • Advanced Optimization Tools
  • Aberration Analysis
  • Tolerance and Sensitivity Analysis
  • Macro Programming Language
Feature Comparison Chart
Below is a detailed comparison of specific features between 3DOptix and CODE V, using check marks (√) to indicate the presence of a feature.
Specific Feature
3DOptix
CODE V
Huygens Method Support
Fresnel Method Support
Diffraction Analysis
3D Polarization
X
Analysis Portal
X
Physical Optics Propagation
Non-Sequential Ray Tracing
X
System Beam Routing Tools
X
CAD Integration
Limited
Native GPU engine
X
Enhanced 3D visualization
X
Cloud-Based Simulations
X
Real-Time Collaboration
X
API for Automation
X
Remote Access
X
Cross-Platform Compatibility
X (Windows only)
Explanation of Features
  • Huygens Method Support: Both platforms support the Huygens principle for wavefront propagation, essential for modeling diffraction and interference effects.
  • Fresnel Method Support: Allows for accurate modeling of light behavior at interfaces, accounting for partial reflections and transmissions based on incident angle and polarization.
  • Diffraction Analysis: Both 3DOptix and CODE V provide tools for analyzing diffraction in optical systems.
  • Analysis Portal: 3DOptix offers an online analysis portal where users can access simulation results, perform data analysis, and generate reports directly from the cloud. CODE V does not have a dedicated analysis portal.
  • Physical Optics Propagation (POP): Both platforms provide physical optics propagation capabilities to model wavefront transformations through optical systems.
  • Non-Sequential Ray Tracing: The simulation of complex systems where light paths are not strictly defined.
  • System Beam Routing Tools: Enable precise manipulation and analysis of light paths through complex optical systems, ensuring accurate modeling of beam propagation, reflection, and refraction.
  • CAD Integration: Both tools support integration with CAD software, facilitating the import and export of mechanical and optical components.
  • Native GPU engine: A native GPU engine offers unparalleled simulation speed by leveraging the massive parallel processing power of modern GPUs, significantly accelerating optical calculations and enabling real-time analysis of complex systems.
  • Cloud-Based Simulations: 3DOptix leverages cloud computing for simulations, offering scalability and remote accessibility. CODE V operates on local hardware and does not offer cloud-based simulations.
  • Real-Time Collaboration: 3DOptix supports real-time collaboration, allowing multiple users to work simultaneously on projects. CODE V lacks this feature.
  • API/Macro for Customization: Both platforms offer APIs or scripting languages for customization and automation. CODE V uses a macro programming language for custom tasks.
  • Remote Access: As a cloud-based platform, 3DOptix allows users to access their projects from anywhere with internet connectivity. CODE V requires installation on local machines, limiting remote access.
  • Cross-Platform Compatibility: 3DOptix is accessible via web browsers on multiple operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and Linux. CODE V is only compatible with Windows OS.
Detailed Feature Comparison
Platform Accessibility

3DOptix is a cloud-based platform accessible from any device with an internet connection, supporting remote work and collaboration without the need for local installations.

CODE V is a desktop application that requires installation on Windows OS. It does not natively support remote access or cross-platform use without additional configurations.

Optical Simulation Capabilities

3DOptix provides a unified environment for a wide range of simulations, including geometrical optics, physical optics, electromagnetic field simulations, photonics, and quantum optics. This versatility makes it suitable for diverse optical design projects.

CODE V specializes in sequential ray tracing and is renowned for its advanced optimization and aberration analysis tools. It is ideal for designing lenses and optical systems requiring precise control over optical performance.

User Interface and Ease of Use

3DOptix features an intuitive, user-friendly interface with drag-and-drop functionality and real-time 3D visualization, reducing the learning curve for new users.

CODE V has a feature-rich interface with extensive functionality, which may result in a steeper learning curve. Users may need more time to become proficient, especially when utilizing advanced features.

Collaboration and Teamwork

3DOptix supports real-time collaboration, allowing multiple users to work on the same project simultaneously with instant synchronization.

CODE V lacks built-in real-time collaboration features. Sharing work typically involves manual file exchange, which can hinder team efficiency and version control.

Computational Efficiency

3DOptix leverages cloud computing to provide scalable computational resources, enabling efficient handling of large-scale simulations without the need for high-end local hardware.

CODE V relies on the user’s local hardware. Running complex simulations may require powerful workstations, increasing costs and potentially limiting simulation complexity.

Cost Considerations

3DOptix offers flexible, usage-based subscription models with lower upfront costs, making it accessible to a wider range of users and adaptable to various project needs.

CODE V employs traditional licensing models, which may involve higher upfront costs and annual maintenance fees. Additional modules or support options can increase the overall cost.

Integration with Other Tools

3DOptix supports standard CAD file formats and provides APIs for integration with other software tools, facilitating interoperability.

CODE V integrates with other tools like LightTools for non-sequential ray tracing and illumination design. However, direct CAD integration is limited compared to 3DOptix.

Learning Curve and Support

3DOptix offers extensive online resources, tutorials, and responsive customer support, making it easier for users to become proficient quickly.

CODE V may have a steeper learning curve due to the complexity of its advanced features. Comprehensive documentation and training programs are available but may require additional time and resources.

Data Security and Accessibility

3DOptix stores data securely in the cloud with encryption and compliance with data protection standards, accessible from anywhere.

CODE V stores data locally, with security dependent on the user’s infrastructure. Remote access and data sharing may require additional setup and management.

Conclusion

3DOptix emerges as a modern, versatile, and user-friendly optical simulation platform, offering a wide range of features that cater to both traditional optical design and advanced photonics. Its cloud-based architecture provides scalability, remote accessibility, and real-time collaboration, making it an excellent choice for optical engineers in the private sector.

CODE V is a powerful and industry-recognized tool specializing in sequential optical design, optimization, and aberration analysis. It is ideal for precision lens design and systems requiring meticulous control over optical performance. However, it may present challenges in terms of accessibility, ease of use, and collaboration.

For optical engineers seeking a comprehensive, collaborative, and accessible solution with advanced simulation capabilities, 3DOptix offers a compelling platform that aligns with the evolving needs of optical design and simulation.

Elevate your optical design capabilities with 3DOptix. Explore more at www.3doptix.com.
mascot-1-1

3DOptix works
only on desktop!

Please go to 3doptix.com on a
desktop device, using the
Chrome or Edge browser

Available on January 30th, 2023