The ILX Lightwave LDC3724 Laser Diode Controller integrates a precision low-noise current source and temperature controller in a single instrument for demanding laser diode applications. It delivers stable, reliable operation with dual output current ranges, adjustable compliance voltage to 10 V, and current setpoint accuracy of ±0.05% of full scale. The controller supports constant current and constant optical power modes, with analog modulation capability up to 1 MHz. Its temperature controller maintains stability to ±0.005°C across supported sensor types, with ±10 V / ±4 A TEC output capability. Remote operation via GPIB/IEEE-488 and USB interfaces enables integration into automated test systems.
Technical Specifications
Laser Diode Current Source
• Output current ranges: 200 mA / 500 mA
• Compliance voltage: Adjustable, maximum 10 V
• Current setpoint resolution: <2 µA
• Current setpoint accuracy: ±0.05% of full scale
• Current noise: <1 mA RMS
• Drive current limits: 1–202 mA (1 mA resolution, 200 mA range); 1–505 mA (2.5 mA resolution, 500 mA range)
• Analog modulation: 0–10 V input, up to 1 MHz bandwidth; 20 mA/V and 50 mA/V transfer functions
• Operating modes: Constant current (low bandwidth to 15 kHz, high bandwidth to 1 MHz); constant optical power via photodiode feedback
• Four-wire laser forward voltage measurement
Temperature Controller
• TEC output: 16 W, ±10.00 V, ±4.00 A
• Temperature control range: −5°C to +45°C
• Temperature setpoint resolution: 0.01°C
• Temperature control stability: ±0.005°C
• Temperature measurement accuracy: 0.05°C (calibrated sensor)
• Supported sensors: Thermistor (10 kΩ), IC (AD590LH, LM335AH), RTD
• Control modes: Constant temperature, constant sensor, constant TE current
Electrical & Interfaces
• Power input: 100–240 VAC, 50/60 Hz
• Remote control: GPIB/IEEE-488, USB
– Key Features
• Sub-microvolt current resolution for precision laser tuning
• Dual modulation bandwidth modes for flexibility across DC and RF applications
• Integrated photodiode feedback for optical power stabilization
• Multiple temperature sensor compatibility for diverse packaging requirements
– Typical Applications
CW and pulsed laser diode characterization; wavelength stabilization; optical communication module testing; spectroscopic instrumentation.
– Compatibility & Integration
GPIB and USB connectivity supports both standalone operation and integration into automated test environments. Support for standard sensor types enables use across diverse laser module designs.
