© 2015 Thorlabs
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LDC200C Series
1 General Information
The Thorlabs LDC200C Series Laser Diode Controllers are high accuracy precise injection
current controllers for laser diodes and LEDs. Together with a Thorlabs Temperature Controller
a stable operation of the connected laser diode can be achieved. The LDC200C Series
includes the following types:
·
LDC200CV - designed for safe operation of VCSEL laser diodes.
·
LDC201CU - ultra low noise current (<0.2µA RMS).
·
LDC202C, LDC205C and LDC210C - enhanced compliance voltage (>10V) for use with
blue laser diodes.
·
LDC240C - higher current (4A).
The LDC200C Series controllers are easy to operate via the operating elements on the front
panel. Operating parameters are shown on a 5-digit LED display. UP-DOWN keys allow to
select the parameter to be displayed.
After switching on a LDC200C Series laser diode controller, it remains in LASER OFF mode.
The laser current can be switched on/off using the appropriate key at the front panel.
Additionally the laser current can be switched by applying a TTL signal to the LD remote input
at the rear of the unit.
The laser and the photodiode are connected via a 9-pin D-SUB jack at the rear of the unit. The
output for the laser diode and the input for the photodiode are bipolar, thus all polarities of
commercial available laser diodes can be connected.
The injection current or the optical output power of the laser diode can be modulated applying a
modulation signal to the input at the rear of the unit.
A voltage proportional to the laser diode current is provided for monitoring purposes at an
analog control output at the rear.
If an error occurs or the limit for the laser current is reached, the corresponding LED lights up
and a short beep gives a warning.
For a low ripple and noise of the output current a mains filter is installed and the transformer is
shielded carefully.
The LDC200C Series controller are cooled by an internal fan, which protects the unit against
overheating in case of high environmental temperatures. With free air circulation a safe
operation of the unit is guaranteed up to 40 °C ambient temperature.
Warning
Do not obstruct the air ventilation slots in the housing!
Note
In order to prevent damages to the laser diode, it is recommended to mount the laser
into a suitable Thorlabs laser diode mount and connect it to the LDC200C Series using
the supplied Thorlabs CAB400 cable. This ensures the utmost protection of the laser
diode from damage by wrong connection.
