Lenses are transparent optical components consisting of one or more pieces of optical glass with surfaces so curved (usually spherical) that they serve to converge or diverge the transmitted rays from an object, thus forming a real or virtual image of that object. Lenses are classified as singlet lenses, cylindrical lenses and achromatic lenses.

Plano-convex lenses have a positive focal length. They are most suitable where one conjugate is more than five times the other, e.g. in sensor applications or for use with nearly collimated light. They are also used in applications where both conjugates are on the same side of the lens, e.g. as an add - on lens to increase the numerical aperture.

Double-Convex (DCX) lenses are most suitable where the conjugates are on opposite sides of the lens and the ratio of the distances is less than 5:1, e.g. as simple image relay components.

Plano-Concave (PCV) lenses have one flat and one inward curved surface. PCV lenses have a negative focal length and are used for image reduction or to spread light.

Double-Concave (DCV) lenses have two inward curved surfaces. DCV lenses have a negative focal length and are used for image reduction or to spread light.

Cylindrical lenses are used to spread or focus light in one plane.

The achromatic lens consists of two or more elements, usually of crown and flint glass, such that the composite element has been corrected for chromatic aberration with respect to two selected wavelengths. In these lenses, chromatic, spherical and coma aberrations are considerably reduced. These components are designed with respect to three wavelengths: 480 nm, 546.1nm and 643.8nm. Use achromats to replace singlets where performance must be improved.

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