Temperature-Controlled Mounts for TO-Can Laser Diodes

Overview
Specs
Pin Diagrams
Pin Configurations
Electronic Control
LD Collimation
Feedback
LD Mount Selection Guide

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LDM56 and LDM90 Socket with SM1 Threading and Taps for Cage Systems
(Click for Photo of LDM56F Socket)

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LDM38 Socket with SM1 Threading and Taps for Cage Systems

Supported Laser Diodes
Item #	TO Can Size	Pin Code
LDM38(/M)	Ø3.8 mm	G
LDM56(/M)	Ø5.6 mm^a	A, B, C, D, E, G^b, and H
LDM56F(/M)	Ø5.6 mm^a	F and G
LDM90(/M)	Ø9.0 mm	A, B, C, D, E, G^b, and H

These mounts may be compatible with certain TO-46 package laser diodes. Please contact Tech Support for more information.
Requires setting internal jumper. See Pin Configurations tab for details.

Pin Codes - See Table Above for Supported Styles

Features

Integrated TEC Element for Temperature-Controlled Operation of a Laser Diode
Compatible with Ø3.8 mm, Ø5.6 mm, or Ø9.0 mm TO-Can Laser Diodes (See Table to the Lower Right)
Integrated Bias-T Network Allows for RF Modulation of LD Current up to 600 MHz
Integrated TEC Lockout Circuit to Protect Laser Diode (Can Be Disabled)
8 W Heating/Cooling Capacity
Flexure Adapter for Collimating Optic Alignment (Sold Separately)
Compatible with 30 mm and 60 mm Cage Systems
Compatible with SM1 Lens Tube System
1/4"-20 (M6) Tapped Holes for Post Mounting

Thorlabs' LDM Series Laser Diode Mounts with Integrated TEC (Thermoelectric Cooler) are ideal for temperature-controlled operation of standard laser diodes in Ø3.8 mm, Ø5.6 mm, or Ø9.0 mm TO-can packages. Laser diodes can be quickly and easily installed by inserting the laser diode into the socket according to the imprinted pin assignment and fastening the mounting flange with two screws (5/64" [2.0 mm] hex). Each mounting flange offers tweezer slots for easy insertion and removal. The diode socket is located very close to the front of the cold plate, making the connection of short lead devices easier. We also offer a TE-cooled mount for pigtailed TO-can laser diodes.

The bottom and sides of each mount provide nine 1/4"-20 (M6) mounting holes that are each 1/4" (6.4 mm) deep. Its front face is equipped with tapped holes to mount our 30 mm and 60 mm Cage Systems and SM1 threading for use with our SM1 Lens Tubes. The laser diode socket is centered within the housing and is 2.00" (50.8 mm) above the tapped post mounting holes.

Modulation and Temperature Control
Each mount includes an internal Bias-T network for RF modulation of the laser current from 100 kHz up to 500 MHz (Item # LDM38) or 600 MHz (Item #s LDM56, LDM56F, and LDM90) using the SMA connector on the side of the mount. The maximum RF modulation power is 200 mW. User protection features include an LED on the top of the mount indicating an enabled laser and a remote interlock connector located on the side.

The built-in TE cooler enables temperature-controlled operation of the laser diode. The mounting flange protects the laser diode against air drafts, allowing temperature stabilities of about 10 mK to be achieved. Laser protection features include optional grounding configurations and a 'TEC Lockout' circuit (also included in our 14-Pin Butterfly Laser Diode Mounts) that prevents enabling the laser unless the TEC controller is active. The TEC Lockout only functions with Thorlabs' LD and TEC controllers and can be bypassed if not required.

Flexure Adapter for Collimation Optic Alignment
The LDMXY Flexure Adapter for LDM Series Mounts provides ±1.0 mm of XY translation for collimation optics. The translating optic cell is SM1 threaded for compatibility with our aspheric lens adapters and aspheric lenses. See the LD Collimation tab for more information on selecting collimation optics. The front slip plate also offers ±1.0 mm of coarse XY translation independently of the SM1-threaded optic cell and features the same eight 4-40 taps for 30 mm and 60 mm cage system compatibility. This isolates the load of attached cage systems to the laser diode mount rather than the flexure mechanism. Four standard cap screws can be loosened to adjust the slip plate, while four captive screws are used to attach the LDMXY adapter to the LDM Series Mount. All screws are compatible with 5/64" (2.0 mm) hex balldrivers and hex keys.

Recommended Current and Temperature Controllers for Laser Diode Mounts
These mounts are compatible with all of Thorlabs' LDC Series LD Controllers and ITC Series Combined LD/TEC Controllers. For temperature control when not using a combined LD/TEC controller, we recommend one of our Temperature Controllers. The appropriate cables with DB9 connectors are included with each Thorlabs controller and ensure that the controllers cannot be connected incorrectly. Additionally, these controllers have built-in protection circuitry that protects the laser when not in use. For more information, please see the Electronic Control tab.

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Right Side: DB9 Connectors for LD and TEC
(See Pin Diagrams Tab for Details)

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Top Side: Pin Code Configuration Switches
(LDM56F, LDM56, and LDM90; See Pin Configurations Tab for Details;
Click for Photo of LDM38 Top Side)

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Left Side: RF In and Interlock Connectors
(See Pin Diagrams Tab for Details)

Item #		LDM38(/M)	LDM56(/M)	LDM56F(/M)	LDM90(/M)
Laser Diode
Supported Laser Diode Package		Ø3.8 mm	Ø5.6 mm^a		Ø9.0 mm
Supported Pin Configuration(s)		G	A, B, C, D, E, G^b, and H (Switch Selectable)	F and G (Switch Selectable)	A, B, C, D, E, G^a, and H (Switch Selectable)
Accepted Pin Lead Diameter		0.015" - 0.020" (0.38 mm - 0.51 mm)
Accepted Pin Lead Length		Up to 0.25" (6.35 mm)	Up to 0.6" (15.24 mm)
Pin Hole Array Diameter		0.06" (1.4 mm)	0.08" (2.0 mm)^a		0.10" (2.5 mm)
Laser Diode Depth^c		0.147" (3.7 mm)	0.24" (6.1 mm)
Laser Current (Max, T_ambient = 25 ºC)		1 A	2 A
RF Modulation Frequency (Bias-T)		100 kHz to 500 MHz	100 kHz to 600 MHz
RF Input Impedance		50 Ω
RF Max Power		-	200 mW
Temperature Controller
TEC Current (Max)^d		5.6 A	5 A
TEC Voltage (Max)		3.6 V	4 V
TEC Heating/Cooling Capacity (T_ambient = 25 ºC)		8 W
Typical Temperature Range (LD Dependent)		-	0 to 70 °C
Temperature Sensors	Thermistor	10 kΩ ± 2.2% @ 25 °C, NTC, β = 3984 K	10 kΩ ± 3% @ 25 °C, NTC, β = 3977 K ± 0.75%
Temperature Sensors	Thermocouple	AD592AN (1 μA/°K)

These mounts may be compatible with certain TO-46 package laser diodes. Please contact Tech Support for more information.
Requires setting internal jumper. See Pin Configurations tab for details.
This is the distance from the front surface of the mount to the base of the laser diode.
When operating with Thorlabs' ITC4000 Series controllers, the recommended max operating current should be set to 8 A to ensure the TEC over voltage limits are not exceeded.

Common Specifications
Laser Interface		DB9 Female
TEC Interface		DB9 Male
RF Modulation Connector		SMA
Interlock Connector		2.5 mm Phono Jack
Indicator		Green LED - LD Enabled
Mounting Holes	Imperial Mounts	1/4"-20 (9 Places)
Mounting Holes	Metric Mounts	M6 x 1.0 (9 Places)
Cage Compatibility		4-40 Taps (8 Places) for 30 mm and 60 mm Cage Systems
Operating Temperature		10 to 40 °C
Storage Temperature		10 to 80 °C
Dimensions (L x W x D)		4.00" x 4.00" x 2.07" (101.6 mm × 101.6 mm × 52.6 mm)
Weight		1.9 lbs (0.87 kg)

Click for Details
Mounting Features Diagram

LD Driver: D-Type Female

Pin	Signal	Description (Item #s LDM38(/M), LDM56(/M), and LDM90(/M))	Description (Item # LDM56F(/M))
1	Interlock and Status Pin (LDC Specific)	Laser Diode (LD) Status Indicator and Interlock Circuits input.
2	Photodiode Cathode	This pin is connected to the 9 o'clock pin on the laser socket when the photodiode (PD) polarity switch is set to anode ground (AG). It is attached to ground and the 12 o'clock and 6 o'clock pins on the laser socket when the PD polarity switch is set to cathode ground (CG).	This pin is connected to the 6 o'clock pin on the laser socket when the photodiode (PD) polarity switch is set to anode ground (AG). It is attached to ground and the 12 o'clock and 3 o'clock pins on the laser socket when the PD polarity switch is set to cathode ground (CG).
3	Laser Ground (Case)	This pin is connected to the 3 o'clock and 9 o'clock pins on the laser socket and corresponds to the settings of the LD and PD polarity switches (i.e. If the LD and PD switches are set to AG then this pin grounds the anodes of the laser and photodiodes).	This pin is connected to the 12 o'clock and 3 o'clock pins on the laser socket and corresponds to the settings of the LD and PD polarity switches (i.e. If the LD and PD switches are set to AG then this pin grounds the anodes of the laser and photodiodes).
4	Photodiode Anode	This pin is connected to the 6 o'clock pin on the laser socket when the PD polarity switch is set to CG. It is attached to ground and the 3 o'clock and 9 o'clock pins on the laser socket when the PD polarity switch is set to AG.	This pin is connected to the 6 o'clock pin on the laser socket when the photodiode (PD) polarity switch is set to cathode ground (CG). It is attached to ground and the 12 o'clock and 3 o'clock pins on the laser socket when the PD polarity switch is set to anode ground (AG).
5	Interlock and Status Return	Status and interlock circuitry return.
6	Laser Diode Voltage (Cathode)	This pin is connected to LD interface pin 7, through a 499 Ω resistor, when the LD polarity switch is set to AG. It is attached directly to LD interface pin 3 when the LD polarity switch is set to CG.
7	Laser Diode Cathode	This pin is connected to the 12 o'clock pin on the laser socket when the LD polarity switch is set to AG, and it floats otherwise.	This pin is connected to the 9 o'clock pin on the laser socket when the LD polarity switch is set to AG, and it floats otherwise.
8	Laser Diode Anode	This pin is connected to the 12 o'clock pin on the laser socket when the LD polarity switch is set to CG, and it floats otherwise.	This pin is connected to the 9 o'clock pin on the laser socket when the LD polarity switch is set to CG, and it floats otherwise.
9	Laser Diode Voltage (Anode)	This pin is connected to LD interface pin 8, through a 499 Ω resistor, when the LD polarity switch is set to CG. It is attached directly to LD interface pin 3 when the LD polarity switch is set to AG.

TEC Controller: D-Type Male

Pin	Signal	Description
1	TEC Lockout (+)	This pin is connected to the anode of the photo-relay side of the TEC Lockout circuit. When using Thorlabs TEDs no external circuitry is required. To use these features with third-party controllers please refer to the Status and Interlock section of the mount's manual.
2	+Thermistor	The 10 kΩ at 25 °C NTC thermistor (provided for temperature feedback).
3	-Thermistor	The thermistor return pin.
4	+TEC	This pin is connected to the positive terminal of the TEC element.
5	-TEC and TEC Lockout (-)	This pin is connected to the negative terminal of the TEC element, and also is common to the cathode of the photo-relay of the TEC Lockout circuit - refer to the Status and Interlock section of the mount's manual.
6	N.C.	Not Used.
7	AD592(-)	The negative terminal of the AD592 temperature transducer. When using Thorlabs TEDs no external circuitry is required. To use this device with third party controllers it must be properly biased. Refer to Analog Devices AD592 Data for application information.
8	N.C.	Not Used.
9	AD592(+)	The positive terminal of the AD592

Optional Remote Interlock

2.5 mm Female Mono Phono Jack

Specification	Value
Type of Mating Connector	2.5 mm Mono Phono Jack
Open Circuit Voltage	+5 VDC with Respect to System Ground (When Used in Conjunction with Thorlabs Drivers)
Short Circuit Current	10 mA DC (Typ.)
Connector Polarity	Tip: Positive; Barrel: Ground
Interlock Switch Requirements	Must be N.O. dry contacts. Under no circumstances should any external voltages be applied to the Interlock input.

RF Laser Modulation Input

SMA Female

RF input for modulation with an external source. This is a 50 Ω input that is AC-coupled directly to the laser through a Bias-T network.

Figure 1: Thorlabs Pin Configurations

Laser Diode Pin Configurations

Thorlabs offers many different TO can laser diodes that emit in the UV, visible, and NIR. Many laser diode packages also include a built-in monitor photodiode, and the electrical connections for the diodes vary based on the internal circuitry of the package. Thorlabs labels these different configurations, shown in Figure 1, as Styles A through H. Thorlabs notes the pin configuration styles of the diodes we offer both in the specifications provided on our website and on the specification sheets included with the diodes. To determine the style of any laser diode package, compare its pin diagram supplied with the styles shown in Figure 1. Use the style type, pin configuration, and the following information to properly power the laser diode.

The laser diode orientation is engraved on the front of each mount and also shown in Figures 2 through 4.

LDM38 Mount Compatibility

The LDM38 Laser Diode Mount is compatible with Ø3.8 mm laser diodes with a G pin configuration as depicted in Figure 1. Full details of the assembly and operation of the LDM38 Mount can be found in the LDM38 operating manual.

LDM56 and LDM90 Mount Compatibility

The LDM56 and LDM90 Laser Diode Mounts are compatible with all three-pin Ø5.6 mm and Ø9 mm laser diode packages, respectively, that have an A, B, or C pin configuration style. These configurations include both a laser diode and a monitor photodiode, and the packages feature a common ground pin and independent control of the Laser Diode (LD) and Photodiode (PD) voltages.

Figure 4. LDM56F Standard Configurations

Figure 3. LDM56 and LDM90 Standard Configurations

Figure 2. LDM38 Standard Configurations

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Figure 5. Internal Circuitry of LDM90 Mount Showing Jumper JP5

These mounts are also compatible with Style E, G, and H laser diodes, which do not possess a monitor photodiode. These are three-pin packages that include a laser diode pin and a ground pin, as shown in Figure 1. When used with Style G pin code laser diodes, an internal jumper must be set behind the front cover, as illustrated in Figure 5. See the Style G Configuration section for more details.

Lastly, the LDM56 and LDM90 mounts are also compatible with all of our currently available four-pin laser diodes possessing a Style D configuration (see Figure 1). As with Style A, B, and C laser diodes, Style D laser diodes feature a laser diode and monitoring photodiode; however, the photodiode floats with respect to the case in Style D packages.

Please note that while Style D and Style F packages appear similar, the LDM56 and LDM90 mounts are NOT compatible with Style F four-pin package configurations. The Style F pin configuration has a pin layout that prohibits its use in these mounts. Please use the LDM56F mount for Ø5.6 mm laser diodes with a style F pin configuration.

Full details of the assembly and operation of the LDM56 and LDM90 Mounts can be found in the LDM56/LDM90 operating manual. The LDM56 mount may also be compatible with certain TO-46 package laser diodes. Please contact Tech Support for more information.

LDM56F Mount Compatibility

The LDM56F Laser Diode Mount is compatible with Ø5.6 mm laser diodes with an F or G pin configuration as depicted in Figure 1. Full details of the assembly and operation of the LDM56F Mount can be found in the LDM56F operating manual. The LDM56F mount may also be compatible with certain TO-46 package laser diodes. Please contact Tech Support for more information.

Style G Configuration for LDM56 and LDM90 Mounts

Style G configurations feature only a laser diode in the package; no photodiode is present. This style of laser diode is directly compatible with our LDM56F mount. It is also compatible with our LDM56 or LDM90 mounts, but a minor change must be made inside since the LD and ground pins are directly across from each other (i.e. in the LD and PD positions or 3 and 9 o'clock positions).

In order to drive a style G laser diode in our LDM56 or LDM90 mounts, the PD pin in the mount must be grounded. To ground the PD pin, remove the front cover of the mount. Locate jumper JP5 on the left-hand side of the mount. A photo of the internal circuitry is shown in Figure 5, and jumper JP5 is circled. Grounding the photodiode pin will allow the mount to drive a laser diode only (no photodiode) configuration with the LD pin at the 12 o'clock position. Follow the engraved guide for configuring the jumper based on the laser diode pin code.

Laser Diode Current Controllers

The laser diode current controller should be chosen to be compatible with the particular laser diode and application. Thorlabs offers a wide variety of laser diode controllers ranging from low power (low current and low voltage) to high power (high current and/or voltage) versions. Thorlabs also offers several dual laser diode current/temperature controllers. See the TEC Controllers section that follows for discussion of the temperature controllers.

Thorlabs' LDC2xxC series of controllers are suitable for use with a large majority of popular laser diodes. Thorlabs' LDC200CV is specifically designed to handle and safely operate Vertical Cavity Surface Emitting Lasers (VCSELs), while the LDC201CU provides users with an ultra-low noise current (<0.2 μA RMS) for stable operation of low power laser diodes. If your application requires the higher voltages typically necessary for driving blue and other short laser diodes, consider our LDC202C, LDC205C, or LDC210C controller. For driving higher power laser diodes, the LDC220C and LDC240C offer drive currents of 2 A and 4 A, respectively. Higher current (5 and 20 A), T-Cube-compatible, and rack mount controllers are also available. All of these controllers operate in a similar manor. Only the LDC2xxC series controllers will be discussed in more detail.

TEC Controllers

Thorlabs also offers a wide variety of TEC controllers as stand-alone units and dual laser diode/ temperature controllers. The TED200C benchtop temperature controller is ideally suited to regulate the temperature of a laser diode mounted in our LDM Series Laser Diode Mounts. This unit features a wide operating temperature range, 12 W of cooling, and high temperature stability. For more cooling power and even higher temperature stability, the TED4015 225 W temperature controller can be used.

The TEC elements in these mounts can be connected to a temperature controller via the DB9 female connection on the side of the unit. Adapter cables are available for temperature controllers with other connector types. For third-party controllers, please refer to the operating manual for pin layouts and descriptions. Follow the instructions for the TEC controller, paying careful attention not to overdrive the TEC elements in the mount.

RF Modulation

Modulation of a laser diode is possible but not via the laser diode controller. The input from the laser diode controller is sent through an inductor that only allows low bandwidth, DC currents to pass through to the laser diode. To allow high frequency modulation of the laser diode, the mount's built-in bypass needs to be used to circumvent the low pass filter. The bypass is accessed through an SMA connector on the side of the mount, is directly coupled to the laser using a bias-T network, and features a 50 Ω RF input that can accept an AC-coupled RF source up to 500 MHz (Item # LDM38) or 600 MHz (Item #s LDM56, LDM56F, and LDM90).

In order to properly modulate the laser diode emission, the correct modulation voltage must first be determined. The modulation voltage, V_RF, is determined from the product of the laser diode modulation current, I_LD, and the input impedance, Z_input:

V_RF = I_LD * Z_input. (1)

I_LD is given by the manufacturer, and Z_input is the impedance of the mount, which is equal to 50 Ω.

When setting the modulation voltage, it is recommended to start at a factor of 10 lower than the value determined from Eq. 1. The modulation voltage can then be slowly increased until V_RF or the desired modulation is achieved. The laser diode controller can then be used to increase DC voltage to the proper level.

Warning: The RF input is directly coupled to the laser diode. There is no suppression of noise or other spurious signals to the laser diode. Stable and clean RF sources should be used to avoid overdriving the laser diode. In addition, the laser diode can be easily overdriven by an RF voltage above the specified level in Eq. 1. Take care when controlling and adjusting the RF voltage to avoid damage to the laser diode.

Safety Interlock

These mounts are equipped with a Remote Interlock connector located on the side panel. In order to enable the laser source, a short circuit must be applied across the terminals of the remote interlock connector. In practice this connection is made available to allow the user to connect a remote actuated switch to the connector (i.e. an open door indicator). The switch (which must be normally open) has to be closed in order for the unit to be enabled. Once the switch is in an open state the laser diode must automatically shut down.

All units are shipped configured with a shorting device installed in the interlock connector. If you are not going to use this feature then you can leave the shorting device installed and the unit will operate normally. If you wish to make use of the interlock feature you will need to acquire the appropriate connector mate and wire it to your remote interlock switch. Next, remove the shorting device by pulling it from the input and install the connector into the interlock input.

The interlock input only accepts a 2.5 mm mono phono jack. This connector is readily available at most electronics suppliers.

Choosing Collimation and Ellipticity Correction Optics for Your Laser Diode

Since the output of a laser diode is highly divergent, collimating optics are often necessary. Due to their excellent ability to correct spherical aberration, aspheric lenses are the most commonly used optics when the desired collimated beam waist is between one and five millimeters. Choosing an appropriate aspheric lens for collimating a laser diode is essential, as the resulting beam size and transmission range are dependent on the lens used. To calculate the beam size of a collimated laser diode, we first need to know its divergences.

The beam divergences of an edge-emitting laser diode will be different in the parallel and perpendicular directions, leading to an elliptical beam. This can be compensated for by inserting anamorphic prism pairs or cylindrical lenses into the collimated beam. The divergences are typically specified as "Beam Divergence (FWHM) - Parallel" and "Beam Divergence (FWHM) - Perpendicular" for the two axes of the chip. There are variations from lot to lot of laser diodes, but using the typical divergence values should be adequate for most applications.

The simple example below will illustrate the key specifications to consider when choosing the correct optics for a given application.

Example: 785 nm, 25 mW Laser Diode, L785P25, Ø3 mm Desired Collimated

Step 1: Collimating Emission

The specifications for the L785P25 laser diode indicate that the typical perpendicular and parallel beam divergences are 30^o and 8^o, respectively. The major (perpendicular) beam divergence is shown in Figure 1. The minor (parallel) beam divergence is shown in Figure 2. Because of this asymmetry in the two axes, an elliptical beam will form as the light diverges. To collect as much light as possible during the collimation process, consider the larger of these two divergence angles in any calculations (i.e., in this case use 30^o).

Note: Parallel and perpendicular notation are specified relative to the junction plane of the laser diode.

Figure 1. Perpendicular beam divergence from L785P25 style B laser diode

Figure 2. Parallel beam divergence from L785P25 style B laser diode

In the above schematics, LD denotes the laser diode, Parallel Diameter and Perpendicular Diameter are the beam diameters in the parallel and perpendicular orientations, respectively, and Parallel Divergence and Perpendicular Divergence are the divergence angles in the parallel and perpendicular orientations, respectively. Please note that the notch in Figures 1 and 2 can be used to determine the orientation of the laser diode within the package. Laser diodes are typically oriented parallel to the notch; however there are many exceptions, especially for different laser diode packages. Care should be taken to note the orientation of the laser diode emission.

To calculate the focal length needed to achieve a Ø3 mm collimated beam diameter, we can use:

Collimating Eq 1

where is the focal length that produces the desired perpendicular beam diameter, Perpendicular Diameter . The focal length of the lens needed to collimate a 30^o diverging beam into a Ø3 mm collimated beam is = 5.6 mm.

This equation yields the focal length to achieve our desired major (perpendicular) axis diameter. Use this to then select an aspheric lens with a focal length that most closely matches the focal length given by the equation. Please note that the diameter of the lens must be larger than your desired major axis beam diameter.

Thorlabs offers a large selection of aspheric lenses. For this application, the ideal lens is an -B AR-coated molded glass aspheric lens with focal length near 5.6 mm. The C171TMD-B (mounted) or 354171-B (unmounted) aspheric lenses have a focal length of 6.20 mm. Next, check to see if the numerical aperture (NA) of the diode is smaller than the NA of the lenses so that the light emitted from the laser diode is not clipped by the lens:

0.30 = NA_Lens > NA_Diode ~ sin(15) = 0.26

Anamorphic Prism Pair

Figure 3. Anamorphic Prism Pair and optic trace for an ellipse to round beam.

Solving the first equation again with your actual focal length and major axis divergence angle yields the actual major axis beam diameter, Perpendicular Diameter = 3.3 mm.

Step 2: Correcting Ellipticity

Emission from an edge emitting laser diode is elliptical (asymmetric with respect to two different axes), as shown in Figures 1 and 2. To correct for this and produce a circular beam, the minor axis diameter, Parallel Diameter , can be magnified using anamorphic prism pairs or cylindrical lenses after collimation. Note: only cylindrical lens pairs can correct for any astigmatism present in the diode output. Figure 3 shows an anamorphic prism pair magnifying an elliptical beam minor axis to produce the desired symmetric beam.

To determine what magnification of the minor axis is needed to produce a round beam, solve Eq. 1 using the focal length from the aspheric lens, = 6.20 mm, and minor axis divergence for the laser diode, Parallel Divergence = 8^o, instead of the major axis divergence. This results in a minor axis diameter, Parallel Diameter = 0.9 mm. Comparing Perpendicular Diameter and , we see that a 3.5X magnification is necessary in the minor beam axis. This 3.5X magnification can be achieived using the PS881-B Mounted Anamorphic Prism Pair.

Lens Tube Mounting

For mounted aspheric lenses, our SM05Txx or S1TMxx adapters can be used. Take care to ensure that the lens does not contact the laser diode. The SM05Txx adapters will require the use of an SM1A6T SM1-to-SM05 adapter.

Unmounted aspheres can be epoxied to an LMRAxx adapter, which can then be mounted in an SM1A6T SM1-to-SM05 adapter. The SM1 threading of the adapter can then be used to attach the lens/mount/adapter to the laser diode mount's front plate. The SM1A6T adapter has a mounting range of 10 mm, covering almost the entire focal length range of our aspheric lenses.

In the above example, the C171TMD-B mounted lens features M8 x 0.5 threading, thus requiring the S05TM08-threaded adapter. The S05TM08 M8-to-SM05 adapter can be mounted in the laser diode mount using the SM1A6T SM- to-SM05 adapter. The correct distance between the laser diode and lens can be achieved by adjusting both the S05TM08 and the SM1A6T adapters.

If the 354171-B, unmounted ashperic lens is used, it must first be epoxied to the LMRA5 adapter. It can then be mounted in the SM1A6T SM1-to-SM05 adapter. Again, adjustment of the aspheric lens can be made at the LMRA5 and SM1A6T adapters.

Cage Assembly Mounting

Mounted and unmounted aspheric lenses with focal lengths greater than 8 mm can be cage mounted using our 30 mm cage system. Cage rods can be attached directly to the front plate of the laser diode mount. The CP33(/M) cage plate may be used to hold the S1TMxx adapter with mounted aspheric lens or the SM1A6T adapter with unmounted aspheric lens epoxied to an LMRAxx adapter.

For fine adjustment of the aspheric lens, the SM1Z can be used in lieu of the CP33 cage plate. The SM1Z translator allows 1.5 mm of travel along the optic axis and 1 μm incremental movement. For larger translational adjustments, the CT1 1/2" Travel Translator can be used.

Anamorphic Prism Pair Mounting

The asymmetric output of the laser diode can be corrected using either anamorphic prisms or cylindrical lenses. As determined in the example above, a 3.5X mounted anamorphic prism pair (i.e., PS881-B) was needed to produce a round beam profile. Unmounted prisms may be used as well.

The PS881-B Mounted Anamorphic Prism Pair features SM05 threading on the output end or may be mounted inside an SM1 Lens tube. Since the input and output beams from the Anamorphic Prism Pair are offset from each other, prisms should be mounted on another cage or lens tube axis.

Posted Comments:

Ronan Le Harzic (posted 2019-06-06 14:04:53.977)

Dear, I work with TO can 5,6 and 9,0 mm laser diodes, I am quite interested in the high power Temperature Controlled Mounts. I would like to use only one LMD for both 5,6 and 9,0 mm laser diodes and not purchase 2, a LMD56 and a LMD90. Why the LMD90 is not compatible for 5,6 mm and 9,0 mm TO can diodes? or is it compatible and I can switch my different laser diodes as I want ? Brest Regards Ronan

asundararaj (posted 2019-06-06 08:06:07.0)

Thank you for Feedback, Ronan. The LDM90 is not compatible with the 5.6 mm TO can laser diodes. Using a 5.6 mm TO Can in a mount designed for a 9.0 mm laser diode has bad thermal coupling and compromises the lifetime of the diode.

user (posted 2018-02-28 11:15:36.52)

Hello, I just purchased the LDM38/M and TLD001. And want to confirm if these two observations are true: 1) The anode and cathode engravings on the LDM38/M are reversed. 2) On the LDM38/M, DIP SW Setting 1. TEC INTLK DISABLE should be set to the "ON" position to enable diode operation.

tfrisch (posted 2018-02-28 04:18:13.0)

Hello, thank you for contacting Thorlabs. The engravings are indeed reversed for units sold prior to 2/28/2018, but as the diodes can only be inserted in one direction, they still function properly. Units sold after that date will have correct engravings. As for the TEC Interlock Disable, switching it to ON will indeed bypass the interlock and suppress the interlock error. This will allow normal operation when you do not have a TEC driver compatible with the interlock feature. Please feel free to email us at TechSupport@Thorlabs.com if you need further clarification on either of these.

agreen13 (posted 2018-01-09 09:32:24.807)

This product is a disappointment after successfully using the TCLDM9 for years. I was hoping to purchase the TCLDM9. The modularity of TCLDM9 was particularly attractive as we often interchange 5.6 and 9 mm diodes. In addition to lacking the modularity of the TCLDM9, the LDM56 is deficient for my needs in that the travel on the threaded hole for mounting collimation optics is only half the length as that in the TCLDM9 which makes mounting our typical optics with out typical diodes (both purchased from Thorlabs) impossible without machining our own parts or purchasing additional parts from Thorlabs. In addition to these design flaws, there is evidence that these products were manufactured with less care than I have come to expect from Thorlabs. Not only was our product shipped with improper engraving, it is evident that the threaded hole for mounting collimation optics and the center of the diode socket are not exactly coaxial. I see that the problem of this offset and the lack of travel on the threads could both be solved with the purchase of an LDMXY but note that such a device has never been required in my work with several iterations of the TCLDM9. Noting the high cost of the LDMXY and the what seems to be the superior design and manufacturing quality of the older model, this seems like a bit of a racket. If the design and manufacturing of the LDM56 is not noted to be improved I will be turning to Newport to fill my lab's future need for products like this.

tfrisch (posted 2018-01-10 11:31:15.0)

Hello, thank you for your honest feedback on this new product line. I apologize for the inconvenience this new product line has caused you. The main reason for splitting these laser diode mounts was to improve thermal contact of the 5.6mm laser diodes. The TCLDM9 was designed with a socket that matched the pin spacing for 9mm laser diodes. 5.6mm laser diodes have a smaller pin spacing and outer diameter. The pins of the 5.6mm diode could be bent out to match the hole spacing of the 9mm diode socket, but the cutout of the mount cold plate that allowed the pins to pass through was too large for the 5.6mm diode to make good thermal contact; with as little as 0.25 mm overlap of the flange on the cold block surface. In the newer models, thermal contact is improved with the minimum amount of overlap increased to >1.1 mm. In changing the whole line, our design team also saw the opportunity to make the front plate thinner to allow easier access to the diode in applications that do not use the threaded hole. As you have found, the trade-off for that has been thread depth. I will reach out to you directly about what lenses you are using so we can provide an appropriate adapter. As for the engraving, we apologize for the error, and our design team is correcting their prints to avoid foolish mistakes like this in the future. For the centration, we noticed even with TCLDM9 that the emitting point would translate laterally depending on the mounted diode. Because of this, the face plate was held on with 4 cap screws, but the counterbores were toleranced to be large so that with the screws loosened but under tension, coarse adjustments could be made to the lateral position of the face plate with respect to the mounted diode. This can still be done with the newer line of laser diode mounts. While this is not as precise as the LDMXY, it is sufficient in many applications. I will also reach out to you about the availability of TCLDM9. While our Electronics Team is not manufacturing new ones, they may have one they can offer. Thank you again for these notes. They will certainly spark a few discussions in our engineering teams.

jevirahe_92 (posted 2017-07-07 16:25:24.907)

Good morning I want to know how can I short j4 pin 3 (ground, right pin) to j4 pin 2 (photodiode, middle pin) for style G pin. thank you for your answer soon Jeniffer Ramírez

tfrisch (posted 2017-08-07 10:00:53.0)

Hello, thank you for contacting Thorlabs. I will reach out to you directly about soldering these two pins.

seweryn.morawiec (posted 2017-04-27 13:28:38.973)

Hi, can use TCLDM9 mount with your ITC500 Laser Diode and Temperature Controller? Should I change anything in Pin configuration? Regards

tfrisch (posted 2017-05-03 11:39:40.0)

Hello, thank you for contacting Thorlabs. CAB400 and CAB420-15 will be compatible with both TCLDM9 and ITC500. I will reach out to you directly about your application.

benalunda10 (posted 2016-11-21 16:55:28.56)

Hi, I have a question about TCLDM9, on page 14. Does the VRF to modulate the laser mean Vpp or Vrms? Kindly let me know. Thank you.

tfrisch (posted 2016-11-28 02:26:11.0)

Hello, I see you are already working with our Technical Support Team on this inquiry, but there are two relevant quantities. For the input RF power (to stay below the maximum limit), use Vrms to calculate that. If you want to relate the peak to peak change in current to the voltage, use Vpp.

podrazky (posted 2016-10-24 11:13:23.247)

Hello, we would like to use G-style laser diode (OSRAM PLTB450B) with TCLDM9 and we need to "short" J4 pins 2 and 3. Since the jumper pins are already soldered to some PCB we cannot use a common jumper switch. Is it really necessary to solder a piece of wire to the pins or is there some easier way you can recommend us? Thank you. Ondrej

tfrisch (posted 2016-10-25 11:16:19.0)

Hello, thank you for contacting Thorlabs. Solder is the easiest way to connect these pins in my experience.

m.bisi (posted 2016-05-05 13:07:55.36)

Hi, I would like to mount a G-style LD on the TCLDM9. I have shorted the internal jumper as suggested by the manual. I understand that the 9 o'clock pin (PD) will be LD cathode, and the 3 o'clock pin (LD) will be LD anode INDIPENDENTLY of the PD and LD switches: is this correct? Thank you. Marco

besembeson (posted 2016-05-05 11:00:06.0)

Response from Bweh at Thorlabs USA: The PD switch will not matter. But the LD switch needs to have the correct polarity, noting that the pin (Anode or Cathode) that goes to the 9 o'clock position is ground when the mount is wired for G-style laser diodes.

yncghg (posted 2016-02-21 03:45:27.26)

Where can I get a pigtail flange(shown in the manual page 11)?

besembeson (posted 2016-03-04 10:27:46.0)

Response from Bweh at Thorlabs USA: The pigtail flange comes with our laser diode pigtails and encloses a custom designed optical housing. We can provide this flange only to you as a special item. I will contact you.

mk7615 (posted 2016-02-09 09:09:05.12)

Where can I get a shorting device for the Interlock connector for TCLDM9? (The one we had got lost.)Is it possible to buy it separately? Thanks you!

besembeson (posted 2016-02-10 08:57:43.0)

Response from Bweh at Thorlabs USA: We can provide you a replacement. We will contact you.

y.s.yong (posted 2015-11-03 20:02:37.377)

Hi, I would like to have a copy of the Thermistor data for TCLDM9. The values provided in the manual is only limited to 15-35 degree C. We are interested on the data for the full temperature range. Thank you.

jlow (posted 2015-11-04 12:01:28.0)

Response from Jeremy at Thorlabs: We will contact you directly to provide this.

stan (posted 2015-09-15 22:38:47.787)

Can you give me a quote on 3 pcs. of the 9mm mounting plate for TCLDM9? Thank you.

fabian (posted 2015-06-15 14:55:07.063)

Hi Jeremy, I have got the same problem as jbn, only mine is pointing upwards. I was wondering what kinematic mount you would recommend?

besembeson (posted 2015-09-21 11:13:04.0)

Response from Bweh at Thorlabs USA: You can use an extended RMS adapter (such as E09RMS or similar http://www.thorlabs.com/newgrouppage9.cfm?objectgroup_id=1749) to hold collimating lens and the adapter connected to a kinematic mount of your choice.

s.kasture (posted 2015-05-14 01:26:19.263)

Hi, I am a postdoc at the Centre for Quantum Dynamics, Griffith University,Nathan, Australia. I had sent a email regarding this to your tech support but didn't here from them for two days.We recently purchased a blue laser diode with a style F configuration as mentioned on your website https://www.thorlabs.com/newgrouppage9.cfm?objectgroup_ID=308 We have a TCLDM9 laser diode mount which is not compatible with this configuration. Is it possible to tweak it so that we may be able to use it. If not can you send me a quote for a modified TCLDM9 mount for a 5.6 mm diameter diode. Also is there a possibility of us shipping this controller to you and you can modify it? Regards

jlow (posted 2015-05-18 08:13:14.0)

Response from Jeremy at Thorlabs: We have contacted you directly for a quote on the TCLDM9 modified for F-style LD.

jbn (posted 2015-02-10 15:43:56.563)

Upon mounting a diode into the TCLDM9 and collimating the resulting laser output with an asperic lens, the output is not horisontal. Rather, with two different laser diodes, the output is in both cases drifting downwards toward the table with a few degrees. To get the laser beam horisontal, I have to shift the diode in the mount, meaning it is no longer in full optimal contact with the copper cooling plate. Is there a trick which I am missing, could something be wrong with the laser diodes, or are you simply supposed to live with this deficit?

jlow (posted 2015-02-11 03:35:22.0)

Response from Jeremy at Thorlabs: Please make sure that the proper mounting flange supplied is used with your LD. Even then, due to the tolerance stack ups between the cold plate and front plate, there can be some slight misalignment. To eliminate that, you could put the collimating lens on kinematic mount to compensate for any alignment issue.

user (posted 2014-06-06 18:15:30.433)

this stupid thing has gigantic cables sticking out of the side... any option to mount it 90° so the cables stick out of the top?

jlow (posted 2014-06-11 04:16:53.0)

Response from Jeremy at Thorlabs: If you must rotate this by 90°, then you can either use a 90° post clamp or something like the TR3C.

dan (posted 2014-03-06 00:36:02.953)

Hi, Do you sell any mounting adapters for this which accept and cool 3.8mm sized laser diodes (TO38)? Thanks, Daniel

jlow (posted 2014-03-06 04:00:05.0)

Response from Jeremy at Thorlabs: This is not something we have at the moment. We are looking to release a TEC mount for TO38 can laser diodes in the near future.

johanna.tragardh (posted 2014-01-10 17:24:00.923)

There seems to be two different plates (for 5.6 and 9mm diodes) clamping the diode to the cold plate. Is it possible to buy the one for 5.6 mm separately (we seem to have lost it)?

jlow (posted 2014-01-15 08:29:42.0)

Response from Jeremy at Thorlabs: We can sell the 5.6mm mounting flange separately. We will contact you to provide a quote.

alee (posted 2013-09-10 18:54:53.78)

I would like to use this mount with a style F diode. I know this isn't supported but I don't need to use the monitor photodiode. If I just change the jumper as for a G configuration will the LD work whilst the PD is just grounded and not doing anything?

cdaly (posted 2013-09-12 09:29:00.0)

Response from Chris at Thorlabs: Yes, as long as you are operating under constant current mode, you can short the PD pin socket to ground as with pin Style G to run the F style diode.

user (posted 2013-04-02 13:34:21.94)

I recently purchased this and I can't seem to get it to work. There seems to be a short, current will flow through but the voltage is low. I've tried it now on a couple of different lasers and no laser at all in every orientation and combination of switches. I suspect the interlock it on and I can't turn it off. JMP1 is installed the interlock short is installed, I have 10ma to the interlock pin on the laser connector.(the LED is on) I do not have a TEC controller attached does it require a TEC controller attached even if the TEC interlock is bypassed. The manual is poor and not clear about connectors and interlocks a couple of circuit diagrams would be very useful.

tcohen (posted 2013-04-04 14:07:00.0)

Response from Tim at Thorlabs: It does not need a TEC controller attached if the TEC interlock is bypassed. We ship it with the interlock installed and the JMP1 correctly located to bypass the TEC Lockout feature. I see that you did not leave any contact information. Please contact us at techsupport@thorlabs.com so we can troubleshoot with you directly.

jlow (posted 2012-12-20 11:36:00.0)

Response from Jeremy at Thorlabs: You should be able to get them in most electronics store. For example, in UK, you can try Farnell (http://uk.farnell.com/) or Digikey (http://www.digikey.co.uk/).

jsm2e11 (posted 2012-12-17 11:07:42.563)

I cannot seem to find an interlock cable that will fit the interlock socket on this diode mount. Could you tell me where I can get a 2.5mm mono jack, as it would seem that they are now a little tricky to get hold of? Many thanks, Jon

tcohen (posted 2012-04-16 11:19:00.0)

Response from Tim at Thorlabs: The FPL1053S is in a butterfly package. The TCLDM9 accepts many pin laser diodes with TO-18 or TO-46 packages. We do offer butterfly mounts, such as the dual controller/mount LDC1300B and the standard LM14S2 mount that will be compatible with this butterfly package.

bslalit (posted 2012-04-14 02:56:40.0)

I want to know whether mount TCLDM9 can be used to mount Laser diode FPL1053S ?? Lalit

Adam (posted 2010-05-07 16:14:00.0)

A response from Adam at Thorlabs to wccox: You would be supplying an RF voltage. The way the T-Bias works is that there is a filter created between the RF input and the LD controller. On the laser controller side is an inductor that allows only low BW and DC level currents to flow through to the laser diode. The RF side includes a 50 Ohm resistor and a capacitor in line with the RF signal. The capacitor allows only the higher BW AC signal to pass to the LD. The 50 Ohm resistor terminates the cable but also allows a voltage to be used to drive the RF input. The current can be calculated using V=IR. Care must be taken when using this input though since it directly drives the laser diode. The LD controller current is added to the RF input signal and both applied to the LD. Care must be taken that the input in not overdriven. On page 8 of the TCLDM9 manual there is detailed operating instructions for using the RF input and how to set it up. We are also updating the website to include this information. Please start with a very small voltage to be safe and work up to what is needed.

wccox (posted 2010-05-07 13:44:08.0)

Its not quite clear to me how the Bias-T works - is it a RF voltage source to current conversion, or does the input to the Bias-T need to be a RF current source? i.e. Can I modulate the lasers current via a voltage waveform into the bias-T?

jhartmann (posted 2009-12-14 11:21:58.0)

A response from Juergen at Thorlabs to tony : "temperature stability or the power and wavelength stability" cannot be stated for TCLDM9 only - all depends on the used Laser Diode Current and Temperature Controllers, as well as on the laser diode itself. We do specify for LD and TE controllers the stability; the rest is a question of environmetal stability and the laser itself.

tony (posted 2009-12-14 10:04:07.0)

The spec. does not include the temperature stability or the power and wavelength stability that can be achieved.

hudw06 (posted 2008-05-25 06:01:32.0)

The CAD file (1981-E0W.dxf) is invalid. I cant open it. Could you send it to me if it is possible. Thank you very much.

Laser Diode Mount Selection Guide
Item #		LDM38(/M)	LDM56(/M)	LDM56F(/M)	LDM90(/M)	LDM21	LDM9T(/M)
Click Photo to Enlarge
Laser Diode
Supported Laser Diode Package(s)		Ø3.8 mm	Ø5.6 mm	Ø5.6 mm	Ø9 mm	Ø5.6 mm and Ø9 mm	Ø5.6 mm and Ø9 mm
Supported Pin Configuration(s)		G	A, B, C, D, E, G^a, H (Switch Selectable)	F and G (Switch Selectable)	A, B, C, D, E, G^a, H (Switch Selectable)	A, B, C, D, E, and H	A, B, C, D, E, G, and H (Some Modification Necessary for G Style)^b
Maximum Laser Current (T_ambient = 25 °C)		1 A	2 A			500 mA	200 mA
RF Modulation Frequency Range^c		100 kHz to 500 MHz	100 kHz to 600 MHz			N/A	200 kHz to 1 GHz
Temperature Controller
TEC Heating/Cooling Capacity (T_ambient = 25 °C)		8 W	8 W			2 W	0.5 W
Temperature Adjustment Range		-	0 to 70 °C			20 to 30 °C
General Specifications
Laser Interface		DB9 Female
TEC Interface		DB9 Male					N/A^d
Compatible Current and Temperature Controllers		LDC Series and T-Cube LD Controllers^e, ITC Series Combined LD/TEC Controllers^f, and Temperature Controllers^f					LDC Series and T-Cube LD Series Controllers^e
Mounting Features	Imperial Mounts	1/4"-20 Tapped Hole (9 Places)				8-32 Tapped Hole^g (4 Places)	8-32 Tapped Hole (3 Places)
Mounting Features	Metric Mounts	M6 x 1.0 Tapped Hole (9 Places)				N/A	M4 x 0.7 Tapped Hole (3 Places)
Accommodations for Collimating Optics		SM1 (1.035"-40) Series Internal Thread; LDMXY Flexure Adapter (Sold Separately)				SM1 (1.035"-40) Series Internal Thread
Cage System Compatibility		4-40 Tap (8 Places) for 30 mm and 60 mm Cage Systems				4-40 Tap (4 Places) for 30 mm Cage System
Dimensions		4.00" x 4.00" x 2.07" (101.6 x 101.6 x 52.6 mm)				1.75" x 1.75" x 1.66" (44.5 x 44.5 x 42.1 mm)	3.09" x 2.89" x 1.79" (78.5 x 73.3 x 45.5 mm)

Requires setting internal jumper. Please see Pin Configurations tab on this page for details.
Please see the Pin Configurations tab on this page or the operating manual for more information.
All of the mounts shown in the table, except the LDM21, have an SMA input for frequency modulation.
LDM9T(/M) has a built-in TEC controller.
All of the controllers include a compatible CAB4005 cable, except the LDC4020. This cable must be purchased separately for the LDC4020 to be compatible with these mounts.
All of the controllers include a compatible CAB4005 cable, except the ITC4020. This cable must be purchased separately for the ITC4020 to be compatible with these mounts.
An AS4M8E 8-32 to M4 Adapter is included for mounting using metric components.