The ILX Lightwave LDX-32420 is a precision current source engineered to drive high-power laser diodes and similar devices requiring stable, accurate current control. Part of the LDX-36000 Series, this instrument delivers up to 20 A of DC current across dual selectable ranges (10 A and 20 A) with 4 V compliance voltage. It operates in constant current and constant optical power modes, incorporating real-time forward voltage measurement via four-wire sensing and integrated photodiode current measurement with adjustable reverse bias. The unit combines low-noise operation with modulation capability to 100 kHz bandwidth, making it suitable for both CW and dynamic laser characterization. Comprehensive protection circuitry—including adjustable voltage and current limits, output shorting relays, and transient suppression—safeguards connected devices during power-up and normal operation. IEEE488/GPIB and USB 2.0 interfaces enable remote control and integration with automated test systems; LabVIEW drivers are available. Note: This model has been discontinued by the manufacturer.
Technical Specifications
Current Output
• Maximum output: 20 A across dual ranges (10 A, 20 A)
• Setpoint resolution: 1 mA
• Setpoint accuracy: 0.1% or ±0.1% reading + 10 mA
• Output stability (1 hour): ±50 ppm
• Noise/ripple (rms): <5 mA or <100 ppm at full scale
• Modulation bandwidth: DC to 100 kHz
Forward Voltage Measurement
• Accuracy: ±5 mV
• Resolution: 1 mV
• Four-wire sensing system
Photodiode Current Measurement
• Range: 0 to 5000 µA
• Accuracy: ±2 µA
• Adjustable reverse bias: 0 to -5 V
Voltage Compliance: 4 V
– Key Features
• Constant current (CW) operation in low and high bandwidth modes
• Constant optical power mode with programmable photodiode responsivity
• Output shorting relays and slow turn-on/off circuits
• Fast error detection and intermittent contact protection
• 5-digit green LED display
• Power input: 220 VAC
– Typical Applications
• High-power single-emitter laser diode testing and characterization
• Precision current control for high-current optical devices
• Modulated and CW laser operation with optical feedback control
– Compatibility & Integration
• IEEE488/GPIB interface
• USB 2.0 connectivity
• LabVIEW driver support
