PRO8 Laser Diode Current Control Modules

PRO8 Series Modulesa
Laser Diode Current Controllers (Up to 8 A)
TEC Temperature Controllers (Up to 64 W)
Combination Laser Diode Current (Up to 1 A) & TEC Temperature Controllers (Up to 16 W)
DWDM DFB Laser Modulesb
Optical Switches
Photocurrent Measurement Modules

• Our PRO8 Series Chassis can accommodate multiple PRO8 Series Modules, allowing for a customized telecom solution.
• Please contact Tech Support for availability of desired wavelength.

Features

• Current Ranges: 0 to ±100 mA, ±200 mA, ±500 mA, ±1 A, ±2 A, ±4 A, ±8 A
• Supports Anode Ground (AG) and Cathode Ground (CG) Polarities
• Supports Constant Current (CC) and Constant Power (CP) Operation
• 3 dB Analog Modulation Bandwidth DC up to 200 kHz
• 16-Bit Setting Resolution
• Full Laser Protection

Introduction
Our Laser Diode Controller Modules for the PRO8 platform have extremely low current noise and drift, resulting in "best in class" laser stability performance. The PRO8 Series Chassis can also be ordered with these modules preinstalled; contact Tech Support prior to placing your order.

Seven Current Ranges
Seven different current controller modules are available, with maximum output currents ranging from 100 mA up to 8 A. The drive current can be set precisely with 16-bit resolution - one part in 65,000. All LDC8000 Modules can be operated in either constant current (CC), or constant power (CP) mode.

User-Friendly Controls
The PRO8 display menu allows easy configuration of any module in the chassis. Mnemonic symbols provide user-friendly access to all operational parameters. All settings are retained in memory and automatically recalled upon powering on the mainframe, as long as modules have not been moved to a different slot.

Built-in Laser Diode Protection Features
The LDC8000 Series Current Control Modules incorporate proven laser protection features to safeguard sensitive laser diodes. Besides common protection functions, such as current limits, soft start and interrupt protection, an advanced circuit design ensures that AC power-line transients or power outages, as well as RF pickup cannot affect the laser diode.

For each current module, three independent limits can be set to safeguard the laser. Two of the limits are programmable and prevent the laser current and the laser power from exceeding the user defined maximum values. The third limit is set via a recessed front panel trim-pot that defines a “hardware” current limit and protects against programming errors and accidental adjustment of the front panel knob. Even while externally modulating the laser current, it is not possible to exceed either the hard or soft limits, whichever is lower. After activating the laser diode, a soft-start function smoothly increases the laser current without overshoots and spikes.

Even in the case of an AC power interruption, the laser current remains transient-free. Voltage peaks on the AC line are effectively suppressed by electronic filters, shielding of the transformer, and careful grounding of the modules and chassis. The LDC8000 Series meets the international requirements regarding laser protection (e.g., CDRH US21 CFR 1040.10 and IEC 60825-1). All PRO8 systems include a key-operated power switch and an interlock.

Thorlabs recommends recalibrating these modules every 24 months and offers a factory recalibration service. To order this service, scroll to the bottom of the page and select Item # CAL-LDC8.

To connect an LDC8001, LDC8002, LDC8005, LDC8010, LDC8020, or LDC8040 current controller to our TEC Mounts, a CAB400 cable (length 1.5 m) is required and can be ordered below. Note: Thorlabs does not offer a compatible cable for the LDC8080.

For further information, please contact our Tech Support Team.

• Small Signal Bandwidth
• External TTL Modulation Synchronous for all Current Cards
• 10 A Available Upon Request

The following parts are included together with each of our LDC8000 Series Current Controllers:

• 1 LDC8000 Series Current Controller Module
• Operating Manual