The Newport 501 Laser Diode Driver is a precision current source engineered for stable, low-noise operation of laser diodes across research, development, and industrial applications. It delivers selectable output current ranges with exceptional setpoint resolution and accuracy, supporting both constant current and constant laser power modes. Built-in current limiting provides unconditional protection against exceeding maximum diode specifications.
Technical Specifications
Output Current & Control
• Selectable ranges: 0–50 mA and 0–100 mA
• Setpoint resolution: 0.005 mA (0–50 mA range), 0.010 mA (0–100 mA range)
• Accuracy: ±0.1 mA across both ranges
• Temperature coefficient: <50 ppm/°C
• Current noise/ripple (RMS): <2 µA (high bandwidth), <1 µA (low bandwidth)
Operating Modes
• Constant current
• Constant laser power
Photodiode Monitor
• Zero-bias or reverse-bias operation up to 5 V without external power supply
External Modulation
• Analog input: DC–800 kHz (high bandwidth), DC–10 kHz (low bandwidth)
• Current limiting: Independent protection across all operating modes
Physical
• Dimensions: 18 × 18 × 12 inches
• Weight: 2.82 kg (15 lbs)
– Key Features
• Soft-start sequence with redundant FET and relay protection during initial ramp-up phase
• Analog interface card available for remote control and monitoring
• CE and CDRH compliance for regulatory adherence
• Selectable high and low bandwidth configurations for noise-critical applications
– Typical Applications
Laser diode characterization and testing in laboratory and production environments where low noise, high setpoint precision, and stable long-term performance are required.
– Compatibility & Integration
Designed to integrate with Newport diode temperature controllers and laser diode mounts within the 500B Series ecosystem for optimized system performance.
