The Spectra Diode Labs SDL-820 is a high-current laboratory laser diode driver engineered for Continuous Wave (CW) and Quasi-Continuous Wave (quasi-CW) operation. It delivers up to 10 A of drive current and supports both current control and optical power control modes, making it suitable for laser diodes, LEDs, and similar devices. The driver incorporates transient suppression and over-current limiting circuits to protect connected devices. An embedded microprocessor enforces command validation and setup verification, while highly stabilized analog circuits ensure precise laser drive performance. Operator-initiated laser turn-on enhances system safety, and mandatory key switch control provides additional power management security.
Technical Specifications
• Maximum Drive Current: Up to 10 A
• Control Modes: Current control, optical power control
• Laser Operation: CW and quasi-CW laser diodes, LEDs
• TEC Driver: Up to 5 A at 10 V; compatible with 10 kΩ thermistors
• Line Voltage: Adjustable selector
• Display: Multi-character alpha-numeric readout
• External Interfaces: Analog trigger input, external modulation input, recorder outputs, RS232, remote interlock connector
– Key Features
• Pulse generation via internal pulse generator for quasi-CW devices and CW laser diode modulation
• Automatic self-test function
• Full thermoelectric cooler (TEC) control for temperature stabilization
• Single-knob control interface with function switches
• Meets 21 CFR 1040.10 laser safety compliance
• Remote safety interlock capability
– Typical Applications
• High-current laser diode operation in laboratory and testing environments
• Temperature-stabilized laser systems via integrated TEC control
• Pulsed and modulated laser operation
• LED driver applications requiring precision current or power regulation
– Compatibility & Integration
RS232 connectivity and external trigger/modulation inputs enable integration into automated test systems. The remote interlock connector supports integration with facility-level safety interlocks. Recorder outputs facilitate real-time monitoring and data logging of operational parameters.
