Kinesis® K-Cube™ Laser Diode Driver


  • Constant Current or Constant Power Operation
  • Control Via Local Panel or USB PC Connection
  • Full Software Control Suite Included
  • Compact Footprint

KLD101

Laser Diode Driver
(Power Supply Sold Separately)

Included Mounting Plate

Kinesis Software Included

Related Items


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Click to Enlarge

Back and Top View of the KLD101 K-Cube LD Driver

Click to Enlarge

A KCH301 USB Controller Hub with installed K-Cube KLD101 and KPZ101 modules.
Compact Light Source & Driver Modules
K-Cube™ Modules
Laser Diode Driver
Laser Sources
T-Cube™ Module
LED Driver

Features

  • Current Output up to 230 mA
  • LD Compliance Voltage up to 10 V at 50 mA
  • Low Noise: <3.5 μA
  • Constant Current and Constant Power Operating Modes
  • Compact Housing: 121.0 mm x 60.0 mm x 47.0 mm (4.76" x 2.36" x 1.85")
  • Safety Enable Key Switch and Laser Safety Interlock
  • LCD Display Screen and Controls for Standalone Operation
  • USB Connection for Remote PC-Controlled Operation
  • Includes Kinesis® and APT™ Software Control Suites
  • Single- and Multi-Channel Power Supply Options Available Separately

The KLD101 K-Cube™ Laser Diode Controller is a compact, versatile module designed to drive a wide range of semiconductor laser diodes and LEDs. It supports operating currents up to 230 mA, a compliance voltage up to 10 V at 50 mA (>7 V at 230 mA), and both constant current and constant power operating modes. The KLD101 also enables the maximum drive current current to be set to prevent damage to the laser diode by accidental overdriving. As a member of the K-Cube family of products, this driver can be controlled locally using the screen and switches on the unit, or it can be controlled using a PC via the USB interface and included software.

The unit has a highly compact 121.0 mm x 60.0 mm footprint, allowing it to be positioned close to the rest of the system when manually adjusting the laser output using the top panel controls and convenient LCD display screen. A power switch on the front of the unit turns the K-Cube on and off, and the LCD screen displays information and settings upon startup, with or without a PC. When the unit is turned off, the K-Cube saves all user-adjusted settings for the next session. The power switch should always be in the "off" position when plugging in or unplugging the unit.

USB connectivity provides easy, plug-and-play, PC-controlled operation. The included Kinesis software package features .NET controls that can be used by third-party developers programming in C or C# and working in the latest LabVIEW™ or .NET compatible frameworks to create custom applications. For more details, please see the Motion Control Software, Kinesis Tutorials, and APT Tutorials tabs. A USB 3.0 Type-A to type Micro-B cable is included with this K-Cube driver.

The K-Cube controller achieves its best performance when used with a suitable temperature controller and a laser diode mount with an integrated TEC element.

Optical Table Mounting Plate
Each unit comes with a mounting plate that attaches to the base of the module. The plate contains two magnets for temporary placement on an optical table and two counterbored slots for 1/4"-20 (M6) cap screws for a more permanent placement on the tabletop.

Power Supply Options
The preferred power supply (single channel, multi-channel, or hub-based) depends on the end user's application and whether you already own compatible power supplies. To that end and in keeping with Thorlabs' green initiative, we do not ship these units bundled with a power supply.

This K-Cube can be powered using our TPS002 power supply. If the TPS002 is used to power the KLD101, we do not recommend powering an additional K-Cube unit due the power supply's current limitations. Mutliple units can be connected to a single PC using the KCH301 or KCH601 USB Controller Hub (available below) for applications involving multiple K-Cubes. The KCH301 features three controller mounting bays while the KCH601 features six controller mounting bays. Note that these K-Cube drivers occupy two mounting bays on the USB controller hubs.

All power supply options compatible with the K-Cube laser diode driver can be found below.

Connection Cables
A CAB400 cable is required to connect the K-Cube laser diode controller to a Thorlabs Laser Diode Mount.

Item # KLD101
Laser Diode (LD) Output 9-Pin D-Type
Max LD Current 230 mA
Max LD Current Limit Range 15 mA to 200 mA
LD Compliance Voltage Up to 10 V at 50 mA (>7 V at 230 mA)
LD Current Setting Resolution <8 µA
LD Power Setting Resolution 1 µW
LD Current/Power Measurement Resolution <0.4 µA (15 bit)
Output Current Accuracy (Constant Current Mode) 0.2% (at 230 mA)
Temperature Drift <40 ppm/°C (Typ.)
LD Current Noisea <3.5 µA RMS (Typ.) at 46 mA over 20 Ω
LD Voltage Reading Accuracy 3% of Full Scale (15 V)
Supported LD/PD Configurations All
LD Protection Relay - Open Circuit, Under/Over Voltage - 2 Interlocks
Operating Modes Constant Current / Constant Power
Modulation Input SMA: 0 to 10 V = 0 to Full Power,
DC or Sine Wave Input Only
Modulation Bandwidthb 20 kHz Full Depth (46 ksps)
Power Input +15 V, -15 V, +5 V
USB Connector Type USB 3.0
USB Connection Speed USB 1.1 Full Speed (12 Mbps)
Housing Dimensions (W x D x H) 121.0 x 60.0 x 47.0 mm
(4.76" x 2.36" x 1.85")
Weight 400 g (0.88 lbs)
  • The minimum noise generation is achieved in current mode. In constant power mode the digital loop introduces a quantization error that depends on the power setpoint and its position on the laser diode current curve. Furthermore, the KCH series hubs have been optimized for motion control and are not suitable for use in low noise applications. To achieve the quoted noise specification the TPS002 PSU must be used.
  • Measured in Constant Current Mode

Click to Enlarge

Mechanical Drawing of KLD101 Laser Diode Controller

Laser Diode Out

D-type Female

DB9 Female
Pin Connection Pin Connection
1 Interlocka 6 Not Connected
2 Photodiode Cathode 7 Laser Diode Cathode
(Polarity Anode Grounded)
3 Laser Diode Ground 8 Laser Diode Anode
(Polarity Cathode Grounded)
4 Photodiode Anode
5 Ground for Pin 1a 9 Not Connected
  • The Interlock must be shorted to the ground before the laser can be enabled. See section 3.6 in the manual for details.

Computer Connection

USB 3.0
The USB 3.0 port is compatible with a USB 2.0 Micro-B connector if the Micro-B connector is plugged into the shaded region in the photo above. A USB 3.0 Type-A to type Micro-B cable is included with the K-Cube.

I/O 1 & 2

SMA Female

SMA Female
These connectors provide a 5 V logic level input and output that can be configured independently to support triggering into and out of external devices.

Ext In

SMA Female

SMA Female
Used to control the intensity of the laser output from an external source. This input can be driven from a 0 to 10 V voltage source. The input impedence is 16 kΩ.

Interlock

2.5 mm Pin

Interlock
The interlock jack must be shorted with the included 2.5 mm pin or an external user gate before the laser may be enabled.
K-Cube™ vs. T-Cube™ Feature Comparison
Feature KLD101 K-Cube TLD001 T-Cube
Kinesis Software Compatibility YES! YES!
APT Software Compatibility YES! YES!
Kinesis USB Module Hubs Compatibility YES! Requires KAP102 Adapter
Previous Generation TCH002 Controller Hub No YES!
On/Off Switch YES! No
Safety Key Switch YES! YES!
Bidirectional SMA Trigger Porta 2 No
SMA External Analog Inputa YES! YES!
Computer Connectiona USB 3.0 Micro-B
(USB 2.0 Compliant)
USB 2.0 Micro-B
(USB 2.0 Compliant)
Included Mounting Plate YES! YES!
Size (W x D x H) 121.0 mm x 60.0 mm x 47.0 mm
(4.76" x 2.36" x 1.85")
121.0 mm x 60.0 mm x 47.0 mm
(4.76" x 2.36" x 1.85")
On-Unit Digital Display YES! YES!
Output Intensity Control via Top Panel YES! YES!
Control Source Selection YES! No
Display Screen Brightness Adjustment YES! YES!
Information Readout Power and Current Power and Current
  • Please see the Pin Diagrams tab for details.

Introducing Thorlabs' Kinesis® Laser Diode Controller

A major upgrade to the former-generation T-Cubes, the growing K-Cube line of high-end modules provides increased versatility not only through the new Kinesis software, but also through an overhaul and update of their physical design and firmware. Note that the Kinesis Laser Diode Controllers can also be controlled using our legacy APT software.

Every K-Cube includes a digital display. In addition to basic input and output readouts, the K-Cube laser diode controller features a scroll wheel for adjusting the output current, power, and other settings. Each unit contains a front-located power switch that, when turned off, saves all user-adjustable settings, as well as two bidirectional SMA trigger ports that accept or output a 5 V TTL logic signal.

Please see the table to the right for a full comparison of the features offered by our new K-Cube and previous-generation T-Cube laser diode controllers.

K-Cube Laser Source
Click for Details

KLD101 K-Cube Kinesis Laser Diode Driver

Kinesis USB Controller Hubs
Complementing our K-Cubes are our Kinesis USB 2.0 controller hubs. With two versions available for three or six K- or T-Cubes, these USB hubs are designed specifically for communication between multiple modules and the host control PC. These hubs are backward compatible with our T-Cubes.

K-Cubes simply clip into place using the provided on-unit clips, while current- and previous-generation T-Cubes require the KAP101 Adapter Plate, shown in the animation below on the right. The hub vastly reduces the number of USB and power cables required when operating multiple modules. Note that the KLS635 and KLS1550 are twice as long as a standard K-Cube and occupy two ports on the controller hub.

K-Cube Table Mounting Plate


Unlike T-Cubes, every K-Cube includes a mounting plate that clips onto the base of the controller. The plate contains two magnets for temporary placement on an optical table and two counterbores for 1/4"-20 (M6) cap screws for more permanent placement on the tabletop.

Kinesis USB Controller Hubs


3- and 6-Port USB Controller Hubs allow multiple controllers to be connected to one PC for multi-axis applications. K-Cubes can be directly attached to the hubs while T-Cubes require a KAP101 Adapter Plate.

Thorlabs offers two platforms to drive our wide range of motion controllers: our Kinesis® software package or the legacy APT™ (Advanced Positioning Technology) software package. Either package can be used to control devices in the Kinesis family, which covers a wide range of motion controllers ranging from small, low-powered, single-channel drivers (such as the K-Cubes™ and T-Cubes™) to high-power, multi-channel, modular 19" rack nanopositioning systems (the APT Rack System).

The Kinesis Software features .NET controls which can be used by 3rd party developers working in the latest C#, Visual Basic, LabVIEW™, or any .NET compatible languages to create custom applications. Low-level DLL libraries are included for applications not expected to use the .NET framework. A Central Sequence Manager supports integration and synchronization of all Thorlabs motion control hardware.

Kinesis Software
Kinesis GUI Screen
APT Software
APT GUI Screen

Our legacy APT System Software platform offers ActiveX-based controls which can be used by 3rd party developers working on C#, Visual Basic, LabVIEW™, or any Active-X compatible languages to create custom applications and includes a simulator mode to assist in developing custom applications without requiring hardware.

By providing these common software platforms, Thorlabs has ensured that users can easily mix and match any of the Kinesis and APT controllers in a single application, while only having to learn a single set of software tools. In this way, it is perfectly feasible to combine any of the controllers from single-axis to multi-axis systems and control all from a single, PC-based unified software interface.

The software packages allow two methods of usage: graphical user interface (GUI) utilities for direct interaction with and control of the controllers 'out of the box', and a set of programming interfaces that allow custom-integrated positioning and alignment solutions to be easily programmed in the development language of choice.

A range of video tutorials is available to help explain our APT system software. These tutorials provide an overview of the software and the APT Config utility. Additionally, a tutorial video is available to explain how to select simulator mode within the software, which allows the user to experiment with the software without a controller connected. Please select the APT Tutorials tab above to view these videos.

Software

Kinesis Version 1.14.47

The Kinesis Software Package, which includes a GUI for control of Thorlabs' Kinesis and APT™ system controllers.

Also Available:

  • Communications Protocol
Software Download

Software

APT Version 3.21.6

The APT Software Package, which includes a GUI for control of Thorlabs' APT™ and Kinesis system controllers.

Also Available:

  • Communications Protocol
Software Download

Thorlabs' Kinesis® software features new .NET controls which can be used by third-party developers working in the latest C#, Visual Basic, LabVIEW™, or any .NET compatible languages to create custom applications.

C#
This programming language is designed to allow multiple programming paradigms, or languages, to be used, thus allowing for complex problems to be solved in an easy or efficient manner. It encompasses typing, imperative, declarative, functional, generic, object-oriented, and component-oriented programming. By providing functionality with this common software platform, Thorlabs has ensured that users can easily mix and match any of the Kinesis controllers in a single application, while only having to learn a single set of software tools. In this way, it is perfectly feasible to combine any of the controllers from the low-powered, single-axis to the high-powered, multi-axis systems and control all from a single, PC-based unified software interface.

The Kinesis System Software allows two methods of usage: graphical user interface (GUI) utilities for direct interaction and control of the controllers 'out of the box', and a set of programming interfaces that allow custom-integrated positioning and alignment solutions to be easily programmed in the development language of choice.

For a collection of example projects that can be compiled and run to demonstrate the different ways in which developers can build on the Kinesis motion control libraries, click on the links below. Please note that a separate integrated development environment (IDE) (e.g., Microsoft Visual Studio) will be required to execute the Quick Start examples. The C# example projects can be executed using the included .NET controls in the Kinesis software package (see the Kinesis Software tab for details).

C Sharp Icon Click Here for the Kinesis with C# Quick Start Guide
Click Here for C# Example Projects
Click Here for Quick Start Device Control Examples
C Sharp Icon

LabVIEW
LabVIEW can be used to communicate with any Kinesis- or APT-based controller via .NET controls. In LabVIEW, you build a user interface, known as a front panel, with a set of tools and objects and then add code using graphical representations of functions to control the front panel objects. The LabVIEW tutorial, provided below, provides some information on using the .NET controls to create control GUIs for Kinesis- and APT-driven devices within LabVIEW. It includes an overview with basic information about using controllers in LabVIEW and explains the setup procedure that needs to be completed before using a LabVIEW GUI to operate a device.

Labview Icon Click Here to View the LabVIEW Guide
Click Here to View the Kinesis with LabVIEW Overview Page
Labview Icon

The APT video tutorials available here fall into two main groups - one group covers using the supplied APT utilities and the second group covers programming the APT System using a selection of different programming environments.

Disclaimer: The videos below were originally produced in Adobe Flash. Following the discontinuation of Flash after 2020, these tutorials were re-recorded for future use. The Flash Player controls still appear in the bottom of each video, but they are not functional.

Every APT controller is supplied with the utilities APTUser and APTConfig. APTUser provides a quick and easy way of interacting with the APT control hardware using intuitive graphical control panels. APTConfig is an 'off-line' utility that allows various system wide settings to be made such as pre-selecting mechanical stage types and associating them with specific motion controllers.

APT User Utility

The first video below gives an overview of using the APTUser Utility. The OptoDriver single channel controller products can be operated via their front panel controls in the absence of a control PC. The stored settings relating to the operation of these front panel controls can be changed using the APTUser utility. The second video illustrates this process.

APT User - Overview
APT User - OptoDriver Settings


APT Config Utility

There are various APT system-wide settings that can be made using the APT Config utility, including setting up a simulated hardware configuration and associating mechanical stages with specific motor drive channels. The first video presents a brief overview of the APT Config application. More details on creating a simulated hardware configuration and making stage associations are present in the next two videos.

APT Config - Overview
APT Config - Simulator Setup
APT Config - Stage Association


APT Programming

The APT Software System is implemented as a collection of ActiveX Controls. ActiveX Controls are language-independant software modules that provide both a graphical user interface and a programming interface. There is an ActiveX Control type for each type of hardware unit, e.g. a Motor ActiveX Control covers operation with any type of APT motor controller (DC or stepper). Many Windows software development environments and languages directly support ActiveX Controls, and, once such a Control is embedded into a custom application, all of the functionality it contains is immediately available to the application for automated operation. The videos below illustrate the basics of using the APT ActiveX Controls with LabVIEW, Visual Basic, and Visual C++. Note that many other languages support ActiveX including LabWindows CVI, C++ Builder, VB.NET, C#.NET, Office VBA, Matlab, HPVEE etc. Although these environments are not covered specifically by the tutorial videos, many of the ideas shown will still be relevant to using these other languages.

Visual Basic

Part 1 illustrates how to get an APT ActiveX Control running within Visual Basic, and Part 2 goes on to show how to program a custom positioning sequence.

APT Programming Using Visual Basic - Part 1
APT Programming Using Visual Basic - Part 2


LabVIEW

Full Active support is provided by LabVIEW and the series of tutorial videos below illustrate the basic building blocks in creating a custom APT motion control sequence. We start by showing how to call up the Thorlabs-supplied online help during software development. Part 2 illustrates how to create an APT ActiveX Control. ActiveX Controls provide both Methods (i.e. Functions) and Properties (i.e. Value Settings). Parts 3 and 4 show how to create and wire up both the methods and properties exposed by an ActiveX Control. Finally, in Part 5, we pull everything together and show a completed LabVIEW example program that demonstrates a custom move sequence.

APT Programming Using LabVIEW -
Part 1: Accessing Online Help
APT Programming Using LabVIEW -
Part 2: Creating an ActiveX Control
APT Programming Using LabVIEW -
Part 3: Create an ActiveX Method
APT Programming Using LabVIEW -
Part 4: Create an ActiveX Property
APT Programming Using LabVIEW -
Part 5: How to Start an ActiveX Control


The following tutorial videos illustrate alternative ways of creating Method and Property nodes:

APT Programming Using LabVIEW -
Create an ActiveX Method (Alternative)
APT Programming Using LabVIEW -
Create an ActiveX Property (Alternative)


Visual C++

Part 1 illustrates how to get an APT ActiveX Control running within Visual C++, and Part 2 goes on to show how to program a custom positioning sequence.

APT Programming with Visual C++ - Part 1
APT Programming with Visual C++ - Part 2


MATLAB

For assistance when using MATLAB and ActiveX controls with the Thorlabs APT positioners, click here.

To further assist programmers, a guide to programming the APT software in LabVIEW is also available here.


Posted Comments:
Takahiro Serikawa  (posted 2023-07-11 11:00:31.717)
I bought KLD101 and tried external modulation. I wanted to apply constant current (for example 100mA) and change the LD current slightly (for example 10mA) by analog signal. The kinesis manual (ETN045988-D02, page 32) says: >For example, if the maximum laser current is set to 75mA, then the 0 to 10V will result in an output current of 0 to 75mA (i.e. the transconductance of the system is not constant, but depends on the initial set up). Note that this is in addition to the current already set by the software or the OUTPUT control knob. So I assumed that I can set the DC current on the kinesis software and add modulation current according to the SMA voltage. However the driving current was determined only by the external voltage when I enabled the external modulation. This behavior doesn't fit my application. Now I am add DC current bias to the SMA voltage and KLD101 is working fine, but I suggest correcting the expression in the manual not to confuse customers anymore.
do'neill  (posted 2023-07-12 06:54:59.0)
Response from Daniel at Thorlabs. Thank you for your feedback and your comments. We will review your suggestions and see what amendments are needed in the the manual. Again thank you for your suggestions.
user  (posted 2023-02-01 15:24:04.443)
Hello, I want to control KLD101 not with the Kinesis software but by pythonnet. Is there a document that has organized the usage of dll files? I want to look inside the files to know which functions I can call, but it seems for me the summary there are hard to understand.
do'neill  (posted 2023-02-02 07:25:01.0)
Response from Daniel at Thorlabs: Thank you for your enquiry. In the install folder, there an API help file for both sets of DLLs, both the C and the .NET DLLs. I will reach out to you to discuss your application directly.
Holger Sahlmann  (posted 2021-10-28 04:33:35.233)
Hello, is there any pin assigment for the power connector available? Thanks in advance, Holger
DJayasuriya  (posted 2021-10-29 09:06:22.0)
Thank you for your inquiery. We will get in touch with you directly.
user  (posted 2020-02-20 07:47:20.36)
I am currently looking at a both the KLD101 and LDC220C drivers and had a question regarding the modulation inputs. I understand the modes of operation but could not find any specification regarding the output speed when changing between levels of intensity. Is it solely a limitation of my external source or do these controllers ramp the current between intensity levels? Ideally for my experiments I would like to pulse a laser diode very quickly (ie. 0 to max modulation). Many Thanks in advance!
DJayasuriya  (posted 2020-02-26 03:29:37.0)
Response from Dinuka at Thorlabs: Unfortunately we do not have external analogue modulation on the KLD101 and LDC220C. However using a KLD101 it is possible to modulate the laser diode output by connecting a modulating signal to the rear panel MOD IN connector. The modulation bandwidth is 20 kHz full depth.You can find more detailed information in the corresponding manual(chapter 5):https://www.thorlabs.com/drawings/cdb7625d27edd0dc-05CB9220-D0F1-54B2-263CE7E602045518/KLD101-Manual.pdf
DJayasuriya  (posted 2020-02-26 03:29:37.0)
Response from Dinuka at Thorlabs: Unfortunately we do not have external analogue modulation on the KLD101 and LDC220C. However using a KLD101 it is possible to modulate the laser diode output by connecting a modulating signal to the rear panel MOD IN connector. The modulation bandwidth is 20 kHz full depth.You can find more detailed information in the corresponding manual(chapter 5):https://www.thorlabs.com/drawings/cdb7625d27edd0dc-05CB9220-D0F1-54B2-263CE7E602045518/KLD101-Manual.pdf
user  (posted 2019-09-03 17:56:33.74)
I am using SLED diode from EXALOS company. Style H type. Pin 1 is the anode, pin 2 is the cathode. So I looked at KLD101 pin map and connected pin 1 and pin 5. Connect pin 1 of diode to pin 8, pin 2 to pin 7, and press ENABLE button. However, an Open Circuit error message occurs. How do I solve it?
AManickavasagam  (posted 2019-09-04 11:23:51.0)
Response from Arunthathi at Thorlabs: Thanks for your query. Open circuit means that the KLD does not see the SLED diode or the voltage across the SLED diode is high (like 11-12V, considered abnormal or an open loop) Pin1 and Pin5 are for the interlock and would throw a different error message. I have contacted you directly for further details which would help to investigate further and to hopefully resolve the issue.
young ho yun  (posted 2019-08-23 10:51:07.373)
When I press the enable button, the interrok open! I get a message How do I fix it?
rmiron  (posted 2019-08-27 10:16:54.0)
Response from Radu at Thorlabs: Hello Young Ho Yun. Before the unit can be enabled, the key switch must be turned on and the provided INTERLOCK pin fitted (the interlock LED should light green when it is fitted). Furthermore, a short circuit must be applied across the interlock terminals of the LD OUT connector (pins 1 and 5 - see Fig. 3.8). If you went through all of these steps and are still unable to enable the unit, please contact your local technical support office.
e.v.loenhout  (posted 2014-03-14 11:57:48.027)
What is wrong if the Pdr L (photodiode Range) is set to Pdr L and stays to this. Despite I change the switches?
msoulby  (posted 2014-03-18 10:57:59.0)
Response from Mike at Thorlabs: You must ensure that when you set the photodiode range that the laser current is turned up to the current limit. This is to ensure that the photodiode produces a photocurrent; this can vary between devices so the switches should be adjusted from large to small until the correct range is found. If the photodiode is faulty or not present in your laser diode then the value will always remain at Pdr L (low) as there will be not photocurrent to set the device to.
user  (posted 2013-04-30 11:10:42.72)
After changing the laser (and laser polarity in the config) I press ‘Laser on’ and this thing immediately sends the MAXIMUM current through the laser (ILim=202 mA) and burns it. Could it be even more silly??? Why can’t it start from safe 0mA, so that I can increase it then manually? So frustrating!! Secondly, I have to set ILim to 202 mA because I need analogue modulation of the laser current. If I set ILim to actual maximum laser current I have to apply -10V to drive laser current to 0mA. Now, why 10V and not 100V or 1kV??? Typical signal generators give a swing of +/-5 V, hence I have to set excessive ILim. In overall the product is poorly designed, which is very disappointing.
jlow  (posted 2013-05-03 11:33:00.0)
Response from Jeremy at Thorlabs: Thank you for your feedback. If you press the “Laser On“ button, then the controller will go to the last set current value. In constant current mode, when the laser is not enabled, you should be able to set the output current or turn the pot until you reached the desired value. When you re-enable the TLD001 it will go to the new set current. With regard to the modulation, the contribution of modulation current is added to the current set by the software or the output knob. FOr more information on this, please refer to Section 5.5 of the manual (http://www.thorlabs.com/Thorcat/17800/TLD001-Manual.pdf).
user  (posted 2011-12-09 13:51:42.0)
A response from Tyler at Thorlabs: We will contact you to help with the setup of your laser source. The setting information is dependent on the laser diode, which means that you need to fill it out and save it before driving your laser diode. You will not need a power meter to get the system working.
hebinfriendly  (posted 2011-12-08 23:05:32.0)
Our laboratory bought your company’s TCLDM9, TTC001, TLD001 and two laser diodes. Here are several questions. First, is the power meter a must? Second, why there is a note ‘laser driver settings not yet implemented’ when clicking the ‘settings’ button in the APT software? Third, when does the laser diode work while I operate the TLD001 according to page 27 of the manual? Thanks for your help.
tor  (posted 2010-12-10 11:52:33.0)
Response from Tor at Thorlabs to Mark: We will be contacting you directly to answer your questions.
tor  (posted 2010-12-09 13:13:32.0)
Response from Tor at Thorlabs to MHUEBNER: Thank you for your interest in the TLD001. For details regarding the photodiode current settings, please refer to page 23 of the manual: http://www.thorlabs.de/Thorcat/17800/17874-D01.pdf . The LD power setting resolution is 1µW. The potentiometer is an infinite-turn potentiometer. The rate of change of the power output depends on how quickly you turn the pot; therefore, the number of turns would not uniquely determine a specific change in output power. The photodiode current can be monitored in the GUI software while the unit is in constant power mode. Our engineers advise that there is no spec for photodiode current accuracy, as this value may depend on the photodiode used. Please do not hesitate to contact us at techsupport@thorlabs.com if you have additional inquiries.
MHUEBNER  (posted 2010-12-07 18:07:11.0)
I would like to use the TLD001 to control the output power of a large number of different individual laser diodes, one at a time. I expect the photodiode current to be between 50 and 500 uA. What setting should I choose? How closely will the power be controlled (1%, 0.01mW)? How many pot turns from 0mW to 5mW? How many pot turns from 4.5mW to 5mW? Can I read the photodiode current while the unit is in constant power mode? What is the accuracy of the photodiode current reading? Thank you.

Laser Diode Controller Selection Guide

The tables below are designed to give a quick overview of the key specifications for our laser diode controllers and dual diode/temperature controllers. For more details and specifications, or to order a specific item, click on the appropriate item number below.

Current Controllers
Item # Drive Current Compliance Voltage Constant Current Constant Power Modulation Package
LDC200CV 20 mA 6 V Yes! Yes! External Benchtop
VLDC002 25 mA 5 V Yes! - Int/Ext OEM
LDC201CU 100 mA 5 V Yes! Yes! External Benchtop
LD2000R 100 mA 3.5 V - Yes! External OEM
EK2000 100 mA 3.5 V - Yes! External OEM
LDC202C 200 mA 10 V Yes! Yes! External Benchtop
KLD101 230 mA ≤10 V Yes! Yes! External K-Cube™
IP250-BV 250 mA 8 Va Yes! Yes! External OEM
LD1100 250 mA 6.5 Va - Yes! -- OEM
LD1101 250 mA 6.5 Va - Yes! -- OEM
EK1101 250 mA 6.5 Va - Yes! -- OEM
EK1102 250 mA 6.5 Va - Yes! -- OEM
LD1255R 250 mA 3.3 V Yes! - External OEM
LDC205C 500 mA 10 V Yes! Yes! External Benchtop
IP500 500 mA 3 V Yes! Yes! External OEM
LDC210C 1 A 10 V Yes! Yes! External Benchtop
LDC220C 2 A 4 V Yes! Yes! External Benchtop
LD3000R 2.5 A -- Yes! - External OEM
LDC240C 4 A 5 V Yes! Yes! External Benchtop
LDC4005 5 A 12 V Yes! Yes! Int/Ext Benchtop
LDC4020 20 A 11 V Yes! Yes! Int/Ext Benchtop
  • When using a 12 V power supply.
Dual Temperature and Current Controllers
Item # Drive Current Compliance Voltage TEC Power (Max) Constant Current Constant Power Modulation Package
VITC002 25 mA 5 V >2 W Yes! - Int/Ext OEM
ITC102 200 mA >4 V 12 W Yes! Yes! Ext OEM
ITC110 1 A >4 V 12 W Yes! Yes! Ext OEM
ITC4001 1 A 11 V >96 W Yes! Yes! Int/Ext Benchtop
CLD1010LPa 1.0 A >8 V >14.1 W Yes! Yes! Ext Benchtop
CLD1011LPb 1.0 A >8 V >14.1 W Yes! Yes! Ext Benchtop
CLD1015c 1.5 A >4 V >14.1 W Yes! Yes! Ext Benchtop
ITC4002QCLd 2 A 17 V >225 W Yes! Yes! Int/Ext Benchtop
ITC133 3 A >4 V 18 W Yes! Yes! Ext OEM
ITC4005 5 A 12 V >225 W Yes! Yes! Int/Ext Benchtop
ITC4005QCLd 5 A 20 V >225 W Yes! Yes! Int/Ext Benchtop
ITC4020 20 A 11 V >225 W Yes! Yes! Int/Ext Benchtop
  • Combined controller and mount for pigtailed laser diodes in TO can packages with A, D, E, or G pin codes only.
  • Combined controller and mount for pigtailed laser diodes in TO can packages with B, C, or H pin codes only.
  • Combined controller and mount for laser diodes in butterfly packages only.
  • Enhanced compliance voltage for QCL operation.

We also offer a variety of OEM and rack-mounted laser diode current & temperature controllers (OEM Modules, PRO8 Current Control Rack Modules, and PRO8 Current and Temperature Control Rack Modules).

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K-Cube™ Laser Diode Driver

  • Top Panel Display Screen and Controls for Standalone Operation
  • USB Connectivity for PC Operation with Kinesis® Software
  • Two External Trigger Ports (SMA Connectors)
  • Compact Footprint: 121.0 mm x 60.0 mm x 47.0 mm (4.76" x 2.36" x 1.85")
  • Power Supply and CAB400 Connection Cable Sold Separately (See Options Below)

The K-Cube Laser Diode Driver provides local and computerized control of a laser diode or LED. It features top-panel controls that support both constant current and constant power operation modes. The digital display on the top panel includes a backlight that can be dimmed or turned off using the top panel menu options. The front of the unit contains two bidirectional trigger ports that can be used to read a 5 V external logic signal or output a 5 V logic signal to control external equipment. The CAB400 cable, sold separately below, is needed to connect KLD101 to our laser diode mounts.

The unit is fully compatible with our Kinesis software package and our legacy APT™ software. Please see the Motion Control Software tab for more information.

This K-Cube controller achieves its best performance when used with a suitable temperature controller and a laser diode mount with an integrated TEC element.

Please note that this controller does not ship with a power supply. Compatible power supplies are listed below. See the table to the right for assistance in choosing a power supply.

Based on your currency / country selection, your order will ship from Newton, New Jersey  
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Universal Price Available
KLD101 Support Documentation
KLD101K-Cube™ Laser Diode Driver (Power Supply Sold Separately)
$973.85
Today
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Compatible Power Supplies

  • Individual ±15 V/5 V Power Supply
    • TPS002: For up to Two K-Cubes™ or T-Cubes™ with Mini-DIN Input*
  • USB Controller Hubs Provide Power and Communications
    • KCH301: For up to Three K-Cubes or T-Cubes
    • KCH601: For up to Six K-Cubes or T-Cubes

The TPS002 supplies power for up to two K-Cubes* or T-Cubes. The cubes still require individual computer connection via USB cable.

The KCH301 and KCH601 USB Controller Hubs each consist of two parts: the hub, which can support up to three (KCH301) or six (KCH601) K-Cubes or T-Cubes, and a power supply that plugs into a standard wall outlet. The hub draws a maximum current of 10 A; please verify that the cubes being used do not require a total current of more than 10 A. In addition, the hub provides USB connectivity to any docked K-Cube or T-Cube through a single USB connection.

For more information on the USB Controller Hubs, see the full web presentation.

*The TPS002 can only support one KNA-VIS or KNA-IR controller or one KLD101 driver and should not be used to power any additional units as that may exceed current limitations.

Based on your currency / country selection, your order will ship from Newton, New Jersey  
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Universal Price Available
TPS002 Support Documentation
TPS002±15 V/5 V Power Supply Unit with Mini-DIN Connectors for up to Two K- or T-Cubes
$128.29
Today
KCH301 Support Documentation
KCH301USB Controller Hub and Power Supply for Three K-Cubes or T-Cubes
$598.63
Today
KCH601 Support Documentation
KCH601USB Controller Hub and Power Supply for Six K-Cubes or T-Cubes
$724.52
Today
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CAB400 Series Connection Cables

CAB400 9 Pin Diagram

The CAB400 is needed to connect laser diode drivers to our laser diode mounts.

CAB400 (9 Pin Male) Cable
Pin # Description
1 Interlock and Status LASER ON/OFF
2 Photodiodea
3 Laser Diode Ground
4 Photodiodeb
5 Ground for Pin 1
6 Voltage Measurement Laser Diode Cathodec
7 Laser Diode Cathode (with Polarity Anode Grounded - AG)
8 Laser Diode Anode (with Polarity Cathode Grounded - CG)
9 Voltage Measurement Laser Diode Anodec
  • LDC200C Series, Photodiode Cathode PRO8 Series: Photodiode Ground, Cathode or Anode (Configurable)
  • LDC200C Series, Photodiode Anode PRO8 Series: Photodiode Input, Anode or Cathode (Configurable)
  • LDC200C Series: N.C.
Based on your currency / country selection, your order will ship from Newton, New Jersey  
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Universal Price Available
CAB400 Support Documentation
CAB400Cable; Current Controller with 9-Pin D-Sub Connector, 1.5 m
$82.56
Today