High Power Laser Diode Driver, Current Range 35 Amps, Voltage Range 40 Volts

Product Overview:

LDI Series High Power Laser Diode Driver

The LDI-321 laser diode driver offers up to 1.5 kilowatts of output power to bias high voltage pump laser diodes, laser diodes connected in series, stacks, and multi-single chip emitter laser diodes. These laser diode drivers feature multiple layers of built-in laser diode protection which have been optimized for high voltage and high current devices. They are designed to safeguard the laser diode under test, and have multiple integrated features to protect the user. They have been designed to bias the newest generation of high voltage lasers and pump lasers from companies such as nLIGHT, Coherent, AeroDIODE, Lumics, BWT, and Jenoptik. These units offer CW, modulated and Quasi-CW/ pulsed modes and have an integrated function generator. Pulse widths as narrow as 30 microseconds are achievable.

High Power Laser Diode Protection Features

These units offer the highest level of commercially available laser diode protection to ensure that your laser is protected from damage. Current and voltage limits, user adjustable soft-start current ramp to set-point, laser temperature measurement and limit, and a fast shut-down sequence keep your device protected at all times. The following protection features combine to safeguard your laser diode:

• Soft-Start Current Ramping: Gradually increases current to prevent sudden power surges or "thermal shock" that can damage the laser diode. These units offer the ability for the user to customize the ramp time if desired. The factory default is set to 300 milliseconds.
• Over-current Protection: Prevents excessive current from flowing into the laser diode.
• Over-voltage Protection: Limits the voltage applied to the laser diode.
• Reverse Voltage Protection: Protects against accidental polarity reversal which can permanently damage the diode.
• Thermal Shutdown: Monitors the a thermistor sensor temperature and automatically shuts down if over-heating occurs.
• Current Limit: Allows users to define a maximum current to safeguard the diode.
• Compliance Voltage Limit: Ensures the voltage supplied to the diode remains within safe operating conditions.
• Transient Suppression: Filters out power supply transients and electrical noise that could cause instability.
• Short-Circuit Protection: Detects and prevents damage caused by accidental short circuits in the laser diode current circuit.
• Interlock Safety Mechanism: Requires an external hardware switch or key to enable laser operation, adding an extra layer of safety.
• e-Stop Power Kill Switch: Fast, immediate shut-down to add an extra layer of safety.

Constant Current Source Laser Diode Driver

The LDI series controllers are based on high stability, low-noise current source topology to ensure optimal performance from your laser diode. They provide exceptionally low drift, allowing for consistent and repeatable results. The constant current source topology is based on a precision sense resistor which is placed in series with the laser diode. The voltage across this sense resistor is fed into a differential amplifier, which compares it to the reference voltage. If the measured current deviates from the setpoint, the feedback loop adjusts the control voltage applied to the pass transistor (MOSFET). The transistor acts as a variable resistor, dynamically adjusting to maintain the desired current. The current source automatically adjusts its output voltage to meet the laser's requirements while keeping the current constant.

Modulation, Internal Function Generator and QCW Modes

In addition to CW (continuous wave) mode of operation, the LDI series laser diode controllers offer flexible modulation capabilities and a built-in QCW function generator. The rear panel of the controller has a BNC input for analog or TTL digital modulation inputs with a 10k Ω input impedance. The controller has an internal function generator which can be used to set the quasi-CW (QCW) pulses. In QCW mode, the user can also set QCW pulses from a remote TTL signal source or by using the internal function generator.

User Interface: Front Panel LCD Display with Key-Pad | RS232 & USB Interfaces | Analog Signal Controls

These drivers offer multiple user interface options. The user has complete control of all laser diode parameters through an intuitive front panel menu. The front panel has an LCD display with a keypad. For remote control, these units come standard with a RS-232 interface and USB adapter. The LabView GUI (included) makes set-up and control of the system fast and simple. An open-source terminal software program is also available for download. The user can also control the unit using analog controls signal inputs available on the rear panel.