ILX Lightwave LDC-3916338 User Manual
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ILX Lightwave LDC-3916338 User Manual

3.0 amp laser diode current source module
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  • Page 1 (217) 352-9330 | Click HERE Find the Newport / ILX Lightwave LDC-3916376 at our website:...
  • Page 2 User’s Guide 3.0 Amp Laser Diode Current Source Module -3916338 ILX Lightwave Corporation P. O. Box 6310 Bozeman, MT, U.S.A. 59771 · · · U.S. & Canada 1-800-459-9459 · International Inquiries: 406-586-1244 Fax 406-586-9405 · E-mail: support@ilxlightwave.com www.ilxlightwave.com 70031502_7/01 Artisan Technology Group - Quality Instrumentation ... Guaranteed | (888) 88-SOURCE | www.artisantg.com...
  • Page 3 Artisan Technology Group - Quality Instrumentation ... Guaranteed | (888) 88-SOURCE | www.artisantg.com...
  • Page 4 • Prolonged storage under adverse conditions • Failure to perform intended measurements or functions If necessary, return the instrument to ILX Lightwave, or authorized local ILX Lightwave distributor, for service or repair to ensure that safety features are maintained (see the contact information on page vi).
  • Page 5 Technical specifications including electrical ratings and weight are included within the manual. See the Table of Contents to locate the specifications and other product information. The following classifications are standard across all ILX Lightwave products: • Indoor use only • Ordinary Protection: This product is NOT protected against the harmful ingress of moisture.
  • Page 6 Returning an Instrument If an instrument is to be shipped to ILX Lightwave for repair or service, be sure to: Obtain a Return Authorization number (RA) from ILX Customer Service. Attach a tag to the instrument identifying the owner and indicating the required service or repair.
  • Page 7 Comments, Suggestions, and Problems To ensure that you get the most out of your ILX Lightwave product, we ask that you direct any product operation or service related questions or comments to ILX Lightwave Customer Support. You may contact us in whatever way is most convenient: Phone .

  • Page 8: Table Of Contents

    Table of Contents Module Instruction Manual Chapter 1 Introduction to the LDC-3916338 3.0 Amp Laser Diode Current Source Module Introduction ................................1 Safety Symbols and Terms ..............................1 Product Overview ................................2 Installing your LDC-3916338 Laser Diode Current Source Module................2 How to Contact Customer Service ..........................3 LDC-3916338 3.0 Amp Current Source Module Specifications..................5...
  • Page 9 Artisan Technology Group - Quality Instrumentation ... Guaranteed | (888) 88-SOURCE | www.artisantg.com...
  • Page 10 CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION TO THE LDC-3916338 3.0 AMP LASER DIODE CURRENT SOURCE MODULE INTRODUCTION SAFETY SYMBOLS AND TERMS PRODUCT OVERVIEW INSTALLING YOUR LDC-3916338 LASER DIODE CURRENT SOURCE MODULE Installation into LDC-3916 or LDC-3908 Laser Diode Controller Mainframe HOW TO CONTACT CUSTOMER SERVICE...
  • Page 11 Artisan Technology Group - Quality Instrumentation ... Guaranteed | (888) 88-SOURCE | www.artisantg.com...

  • Page 12: Introduction

    SOURCE MODULE INTRODUCTION This chapter is an introduction to the LDC-3916338 3.0 Amp Laser Diode Current Source Module for the LDC-3916 or LDC-3908 LD Controller Mainframes. Contained in Chapter 1 is unpacking information, instructions on how to install and apply power, and safety considerations and instructions. It also contains some maintenance information, and specifications.

  • Page 13: Product Overview

    Instrument Power On PRODUCT OVERVIEW The LDC-3916338 Laser Diode Current Source Module contains one fully independent current source. The current sources provide high stability output up to a maximum drive current of 3.0 Amps, with fully redundant current limits and multiple laser protection features such as contact bounce detection, compliance voltage limit adjust, and 4-wire voltage measurement for precise laser diode forward voltage measurement.

  • Page 14: How To Contact Customer Service

    General Shipping Instructions If you need to ship your LDC-3916338 Laser Diode Current Source Module back to the factory for repair, be sure that the module is packaged in an anti-static bag and an enclosure with cushioning material to prevent damage to the module during shipment (use the original shipping containers and accessories if possible).

  • Page 15: Laser Current Source Specifications

    50% modulation at mid-scale output, 1 Ω load. High bandwidth mode. Responsivity value is user-defined and is used to calculate the optical power. Four-wire voltage measurement while driving calibration load. Specification valid for values above 10 mV. INTRODUCTION TO THE LDC-3916338 3.0 AMP CURRENT SOURCE MODULE CHPT 1 PAGE...
  • Page 16 CHAPTER 2 HOW TO OPERATE YOUR LDC-3916338 LASER DIODE CURRENT SOURCE MODULE INTRODUCTION CONNECTING TO THE LASER CURRENT SOURCE Interlock Connections Four-Wire Voltage Sense Photodiode Connections Grounding considerations OPERATING THE LASER CURRENT SOURCE FROM THE FRONT PANEL OPERATING A LASER IN CONSTANT CURRENT MODE...
  • Page 17 Artisan Technology Group - Quality Instrumentation ... Guaranteed | (888) 88-SOURCE | www.artisantg.com...

  • Page 18: Introduction

    This chapter also contains step by step procedures that teach you how to operate your module in Constant Current Mode or Constant Power Mode. We recommend that you review the contents of this chapter at a minimum before operating your new LDC-3916338 Laser Diode Current Source.

  • Page 19: Connecting To The Laser Current Source

    CONNECTING TO THE LASER CURRENT SOURCE When connecting your laser diode or any other sensitive devices to the LDC-3916338 Laser Diode Current Source Modules, we recommend that the instrument be powered up and the LASER output be off. In this condition, a low impedance shunt is active across the output terminals.
  • Page 20 There are connections provided for laser cathode and anode, photodiode cathode and anode, chassis ground, interlock, and laser forward voltage. The pin-out diagram for this connector is shown in Figure 2.2. HOW TO OPERATE YOUR LDC-3916338 3.0 AMP CURRENT SOURCE MODULE CHPT 2 PAGE...

  • Page 21: Interlock Connections

    Four-Wire Voltage Sense The LDC-3916338 Module has a 4-wire voltage sense feature. The laser voltage is sensed through a pair of connections (pins 4 and 8) that is separate from the laser current drive connections (pins 5 and 9). This allows a more accurate laser voltage reading for the voltage limit feature.

  • Page 22: Operating The Laser Current Source From The Front Panel

    OPERATING A LASER IN CONSTANT CURRENT MODE Suppose you have an LDC-3916338 Module and you want to run the instrument in Constant Current low bandwidth mode (Ilbw), with a set point of 150 mA, a current limit of 175 mA, and a voltage limit of 4 volts. The Ilbw mode uses a low-pass filter on the laser drive current output to significantly reduce noise.

  • Page 23: Selecting The Mode Of Control

    Vlim value. The Vlim value should be set slightly above the operating voltage of the laser diode to provide maximum protection. HOW TO OPERATE YOUR LDC-3916338 3.0 AMP CURRENT SOURCE MODULE CHPT 2 PAGE...

  • Page 24: Enabling The Modulation Input

    All Chnl menu. See the LDC-3916 or LDC-3908 Mainframe Instruction Manual for more information on the all channel operation. HOW TO OPERATE YOUR LDC-3916338 3.0 AMP CURRENT SOURCE MODULE CHPT 2 PAGE Artisan Technology Group - Quality Instrumentation ...

  • Page 25: Operating A Laser In Constant Power Mode

    OPERATING A LASER IN CONSTANT POWER (P) MODE Suppose you want to operate a 3 mW laser in constant optical power at 1 mW. The LDC-3916338 Modules allow you to operate the instrument current source drivers in Constant Optical Power (P) mode. In the “P” mode, the controller drives current to the laser to reach a set power value in mW.

  • Page 26: Setting The Current Limit

    Be sure to push the ENTER key within three seconds after using the keypad to adjust any numeric values in the setup menus; otherwise, the value will revert to the previous setting. HOW TO OPERATE YOUR LDC-3916338 3.0 AMP CURRENT SOURCE MODULE CHPT 2 PAGE Artisan Technology Group - Quality Instrumentation ...

  • Page 27: Setting The Power Limit

    • Calculate the responsivity (CalPD) by dividing the photodiode current by the optical power noting the units required are µA/mW. HOW TO OPERATE YOUR LDC-3916338 3.0 AMP CURRENT SOURCE MODULE CHPT 2 PAGE Artisan Technology Group - Quality Instrumentation ... Guaranteed | (888) 88-SOURCE | www.artisantg.com...

  • Page 28: Setting The Photodiode Bias Voltage

    Select the Modulation parameter by pressing the (DISPLAY) UP/DOWN ARROW keys until the Modulation parameter is highlighted. Adjust the value to ON or OFF as desired. Refer to the LDC-3916338 Series module specifications in chapter 1 for modulation input specifications and limitations.

  • Page 29: Conditions Which Will Automatically Shut Off The Laser Output

    LASER output is active. The LDC-3916338 Series Current Source Modules’ response to sensing the various limits can be controlled via the GPIB interface. Most high limit responses can be set to either turn off the source or just give a limit warning through the GPIB interface.

  • Page 30: Laser Error Indicators

    Laser Error Indicators The LDC-3916338 Laser Diode Current Source Controllers indicate general LASER operational error conditions. When an error occurs, the Error Indicator Code will appear on the Status page, the Chan page, or the LAS Setup pages for the respective channel. The Error Indicator Code will clear if you exit any page that it appears on. The output drive will shut off when any Error occurs.
  • Page 31 Artisan Technology Group - Quality Instrumentation ... Guaranteed | (888) 88-SOURCE | www.artisantg.com...
  • Page 32 CHAPTER 3 OPERATING IN REMOTE CONTROL INTRODUCTION REMOTE CONFIGURATION LDC-3916338 LASER DIODE CURRENT SOURCE COMMAND SET LDC-3916338 Laser Diode Current Source Often Used Commands Command Timing and Completion STATUS REPORTING Status Registers Output Off Registers Error Messages OPERATING IN REMOTE CONTROL CHPT 3 Artisan Technology Group - Quality Instrumentation ...
  • Page 33 Artisan Technology Group - Quality Instrumentation ... Guaranteed | (888) 88-SOURCE | www.artisantg.com...

  • Page 34: Chapter 3 Operating In Remote Control

    The LDC-3916338 Series modules have their own module-specific command sets, separate from the commands for the LDC-3916 or LDC-3908 mainframe (see LDC-3916 or LDC-3908 Instruction Manual Chapter 3 “Operating in Remote Control”). Figure 3.1 shows all of the commands which are usable by the LDC-3916338 Series modules in conjunction with the LDC-3916 or LDC-3908.
  • Page 35 :OUT? :STEP :STEP? :SYNCLDI? :SYNCLDV? :SYNCMDI? :SYNCMPD? :TOL :TOL? Figure 3.1 LDC-3916338 Laser Diode Current Source Command Path Structure OPERATING IN REMOTE CONTROL CHPT 3 PAGE 2 Artisan Technology Group - Quality Instrumentation ... Guaranteed | (888) 88-SOURCE | www.artisantg.com...

  • Page 36: Ldc-3916338 Laser Diode Current Source Often Used Commands

    LDC-3916338 Laser Diode Current Source Often Used Commands The complete command set of the LDC-3916338 Laser Diode Current Source module contains over 100 commands that allow you to operate the module for a variety of applications. Within the command set, however, is a smaller subset of commands that will meet most of your needs;...

  • Page 37: Status Reporting

    Each channel of the LDC-3916 or LDC-3908 may contribute to the “ALLCOND” and “ALLEVE” registers. For the LDC-3916338 modules, the enabled conditions of the laser current source are passed to the appropriate bit of the ALLCOND register (see Figure 3.2). Likewise, the enabled events of the current source are passed to the appropriate bit of the ALLEVE register (see Figure 3.3).
  • Page 38 LASER Condition Status Register LASER:COND? 15 14 13 12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0 bit-wise LOGICAL OR To ALLCOND LOGICAL AND Register 15 14 13 12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0 LASER Condition Status Enable Register LASER:ENABle:COND <nrf>...
  • Page 39 LASER Event Status Register LASER:EVEnt? 15 14 13 12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0 bit-wise To ALLEVE LOGICAL OR LOGICAL AND Register 15 14 13 12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0 LASER Event Status Enable Register LASER:ENABle:EVEnt <nrf>...

  • Page 40: Output Off Registers

    Figures 3.4 and 3.5. The default settings for these registers for an LDC-3916338 module are shown in Table 3.2. The registers take on these values at power-up, as the result of a *RST command, or when you choose “Default” from the Save/Recall menu.
  • Page 41 6- N/A 14- N/A 7- N/A 15- N/A Figure 3.4 LDC-3916338 Series Laser Diode Controller LASER Output Off Register OPERATING IN REMOTE CONTROL CHPT 3 PAGE 8 Artisan Technology Group - Quality Instrumentation ... Guaranteed | (888) 88-SOURCE | www.artisantg.com...

  • Page 42: Error Messages

    Error Messages This section contains descriptions of the errors which are specific to the LDC-3916338 Series modules. These are the error codes that are returned from the “MODERR?” query. Refer to the LDC-3916 or LDC-3908 Laser Diode Controller Instruction Manual, Chapter 3, for a list of LDC-3916 or LDC-3908 mainframe error codes and descriptions (the codes returned from the “ERR?”...

  • Page 43: Operating In Remote Control Chpt

    Calibration Measurement Entered Before Calibration was Ready. E-803 Attempted to Enter Invalid Calibration Mode. Table 3.3 LDC-3916338 Series Error Message Codes OPERATING IN REMOTE CONTROL CHPT 3 PAGE 10 Artisan Technology Group - Quality Instrumentation ... Guaranteed | (888) 88-SOURCE | www.artisantg.com...
  • Page 44 CHAPTER 4 COMMAND REFERENCE INTRODUCTION LDC-3916338 DEVICE-DEPENDENT COMMANDS LDC-3916338 DEVICE-COMMAND REFERENCE COMMAND REFERENCE CHPT 4 Artisan Technology Group - Quality Instrumentation ... Guaranteed | (888) 88-SOURCE | www.artisantg.com...
  • Page 45 Artisan Technology Group - Quality Instrumentation ... Guaranteed | (888) 88-SOURCE | www.artisantg.com...

  • Page 46: Introduction

    COMMAND REFERENCE INTRODUCTION This chapter is a guide to all of the device-dependent commands for the LDC-3916338 Laser Diode Current Source module. This chapter is divided into two parts. The first part contains an overview of the remote commands used by the LDC-3916338.
  • Page 47 Sets line 2 of the status menu to display photodiode current. STATMENU:LINE2:PPD NONE Sets line 2 of the status menu to display optical power. Table 4.1 LDC-3916338 Device-Dependent Commands (Cont.) COMMAND REFERENCE CHPT 4 PAGE 2 Artisan Technology Group - Quality Instrumentation ... Guaranteed | (888) 88-SOURCE | www.artisantg.com...

  • Page 48: Ldc-3916338 Device-Command Reference

    LDC-3916338 Device-Dependent Commands This section contains all of the device-dependent commands for the LDC-3916338 Laser Diode Current Source, listed in alphabetical order. Sub-sections for each path are presented, listing the commands which are legal for that path. See Chapter 3 Figure 3.1 for command path tree structure.
  • Page 49 LASer: n Front Panel n Remote The LASer: command path is used to get to the LDC-3916338 Laser Diode Current Source commands. The following command paths may be reached from the LASer: command path. LASer:CAL: LASer:ENABle: LASer:LIMit: LASer:MODE: LASer:SET: The following commands may be reached directly from the LASer: command path.
  • Page 50 LASer:BIAS? n Front Panel n Remote The LASer:BIAS? query returns the status of the selected laser channel's photodiode bias selection. SYNTAX DIAGRAM BIAS PARAMETERS None. The response is an <nrf value>. POINTS OF INTEREST Photodiode bias is turned off when a *RST command is issued. EXAMPLES "Las:BIAS?"...
  • Page 51 LASer:CALPD? n Front Panel n Remote The LASer:CALPD? query returns the value of the laser's photodiode feedback responsivity (CAL PD parameter) setting for the selected channel. SYNTAX DIAGRAM CALPD PARAMETERS None. The response is an <nrf value>. POINTS OF INTEREST If this value is 0, the selected channel’s monitor current/power conversion will not be done.
  • Page 52 POINTS OF INTEREST After this command is issued it is safe to run the LDC-3916338 Laser Diode Current Source with the same calibration values used as before the LAS calibration mode was started. This command is intended for use after a false or invalid calibration value is entered, or to exit calibration mode before any values have been entered.
  • Page 53 Since the limit circuit is the same for both high and low bandwidth modes, it is only calibrated once. Both low and high bandwidth are calibrated during this procedure. After this command is issued, the LDC-3916338 Laser Diode Current Source will allow calibration of the current set point, measurement, and limit. This procedure is outlined in the Calibration section of the Laser module instruction manual.
  • Page 54 Calibration section of the Laser module instruction manual. In remote operation, the LAS:CAL:STAT? query may be used to determine if the LDC-3916338 Laser Diode Current Source is ready for the user to enter a value via the LAS:CAL:MEAS command.
  • Page 55 An <nrf value> which represents the calibration value expected for the present LAS calibration state. POINTS OF INTEREST In remote operation, the LAS:CAL:STAT? query may be used to determine if the LDC-3916338 Laser Diode Current Source is ready for the user to enter a value via the LAS:CAL:MEAS command. EXAMPLES "Las:CAL:MEAS 4.95"...
  • Page 56 LASer:CAL:VALUE? ¨Front Panel n Remote The LASer:CAL:VALUE? query is used at the factory only. LASer:COND? ¨ Front Panel n Remote The LASer:COND? query returns the value of the selected channel’s Laser Condition Status register. SYNTAX DIAGRAM COND PARAMETERS None. The response is the sum of the following: 1 - Laser current limit 256 - Output is off 2 - Laser voltage limit...
  • Page 57 EXAMPLES "LAS:COND?" -response: 1027, means that the output is on, and the current limit and voltage limit conditions currently exist. LASer:DEC ¨ Front Panel n Remote The LASer:DEC command decrements the selected channel’s laser constant-current set point by one or more steps.
  • Page 58 LASer:ENABle: ¨ Front Panel n Remote The LASer:ENABle: command path is used to get to the selected channel's laser status enable commands and queries. The following commands may be reached directly from the LASer:ENABle: command path. LASer:ENABle:COND LASer:ENABle:EVEnt? LASer:ENABle:COND? LASer:ENABle:OUTOFF LASer:ENABle:EVEnt LASer:ENABle:OUTOFF? LASer:ENABle:COND...
  • Page 59 LASer:ENABle:COND? ¨ Front Panel n Remote The LASer:ENABle:COND? query returns the value of the selected channel's Laser Condition Status Enable register. SYNTAX DIAGRAM COND ENAB PARAMETERS None. The response is the sum of the following: 1 - Laser Current Limit 256 - Output is Off 2 - Laser Voltage Limit 512 - Output In Tolerance...
  • Page 60 LASer:ENABle:EVEnt ¨ Front Panel n Remote The LASer:ENABle:EVEnt command sets the selected channel’s Laser Event Status Enable register. The bits in this register determine which bits in the Event Status register are summarized in the 3916 or 3908 Status Byte. SYNTAX DIAGRAM <white <nrf...
  • Page 61 LASer:ENABle:EVEnt? ¨ Front Panel n Remote The LASer:ENABle:EVEnt? query returns the value of the selected channel's Laser Event Status Enable register. SYNTAX DIAGRAM ENAB PARAMETERS None. The response is the sum of the following: 1 - Laser Current Limit Changed State 256 - Output is Off Changed State 2 - Laser Voltage Limit Changed State 512 - Output Changed Tolerance State...
  • Page 62 LASer:ENABle:OUTOFF ¨ Front Panel n Remote The LASer:ENABle:OUTOFF command sets the selected channel’s Laser Output Off Enable register. The bits in this register determine which conditions will cause the laser output to be automatically disabled. SYNTAX DIAGRAM <white <nrf ENAB OUTOFF value>...
  • Page 63 LASer:ENABle:OUTOFF? ¨ Front Panel n Remote The LASer:ENABle:OUTOFF? query returns the contents of the selected channel’s Laser Output Off Enable register. SYNTAX DIAGRAM OUTOFF ENAB PARAMETERS None. The response is the sum of the following: 1 - Laser Current Limit 256 - N/A 2 - Laser Voltage Limit 512 –...
  • Page 64 LASer:EVEnt? ¨ Front Panel n Remote The LASer:EVEnt? query returns the value of the selected channel's Event Status Register. SYNTAX DIAGRAM PARAMETERS None. The response is the sum of the following: 1 - Laser Current Limit Changed State 256 - Output Is Off Changed State 2 - Laser Voltage Limit Changed State 512 - Output Changed Tolerance State 4 - N/A...
  • Page 65 LASer:INC ¨ Front Panel n Remote The LASer:INC command increments the selected channel’s laser constant-current set point by one or more steps. Parameters allow multiple steps to be incremented and the time (in milliseconds) between increments to be set, respectively. SYNTAX DIAGRAM <white <nrf...
  • Page 66 LASer:LDI n Front Panel n Remote The LASer:LDI command sets the laser current setpoint for the selected channel. SYNTAX DIAGRAM <white <nrf space> value> PARAMETERS An <nrf value> which represents the (laser) output current, in mA. POINTS OF INTEREST The setpoint is the same for both low and high bandwidth output modes. EXAMPLES "Las:LDI 400"...
  • Page 67 LASer:LDV? n Front Panel n Remote The LASer:LDV? query returns the value of the selected channel's measured laser voltage. SYNTAX DIAGRAM PARAMETERS None. The response is an <nrf value>. POINTS OF INTEREST Response is the selected channel's measured laser output voltage, regardless of LAS control mode.
  • Page 68 LASer:LIMit: n Front Panel n Remote The LASer:LIMit: command path is used to get to the selected channel's laser limit commands. The following commands may be reached directly from the LASer:LIMit: command path. LASer:LIMit:I LASer:LIMit:MDP LASer:LIMit:V LASer:LIMit:I? LASer:LIMit:MDP? LASer:LIMit:V? LASer:LIMit:I n Front Panel n Remote The LASer:LIMit:I command sets the selected channel's Laser current limit value.
  • Page 69 PARAMETERS None. The response is an <nrf value>. POINTS OF INTEREST The selected channel's current limit is valid for all modes of Laser operation. EXAMPLES "LAS:LIM:I?" -response: 40, means the selected channel's laser current limit is 40 mA. "Laser:LIM:I?" -response: 300, means the selected channel's laser current limit is 300 mA. LASer:LIMit:V n Front Panel n Remote...
  • Page 70 PARAMETERS None. The response is an <nrf value>. POINTS OF INTEREST The selected channel's compliance voltage limit is valid for all modes of Laser operation. EXAMPLES "LAS:LIM:V?" -response: 4.0, means the selected channel's laser current limit is 4.0 volts. "Laser:LIM:v?" -response: 3.3, means the selected channel's laser current limit is 3.3 volts. LASer:LIMit:MDP n Front Panel n Remote...
  • Page 71 POINTS OF INTEREST The LAS:LIM:MDP is in effect for all LAS operating modes. EXAMPLES "LAS:LIM:MDP?" -response: 3.0, means the selected channel's monitor PD power limit is set to 3.0 mW. ":LAS:Limit:MDP?" -response: 10.0, means the selected channel's monitor PD power limit is set to 10.0 mW.
  • Page 72 LASer:MDI? n Front Panel n Remote The LASer:MDI? query returns the value of the selected channel's laser photodetector current measurement, in µA. SYNTAX DIAGRAM PARAMETERS None. The response is an <nrf value>. POINTS OF The response is in µA. The response is valid, even when the unit is not in MDI mode. INTEREST This measurement is updated approximately once every 600 msec.
  • Page 73 LASer:MDP? n Front Panel n Remote The LASer:MDP? query returns the value of the selected channel's laser photodetector power measurement, in SYNTAX DIAGRAM PARAMETERS None. The response is an <nrf value>. POINTS OF INTEREST The response is in mW. The response is valid, even when the unit is not in constant P mode. This measurement is updated approximately once every 600 msec.
  • Page 74 LASer:MODE: n Front Panel n Remote The LASer:MODE: command path is used to get to the selected channel's laser mode selection commands. The following commands may be reached directly from the LASer:MODE: command path. LASer:MODE:IHBW LASer:MODE:ILBW LASer:MODE:MDI LASer:MODE:MDP LASer:MODE:IHBW n Front Panel n Remote The LASer:MODE:IHBW command selects laser high bandwidth constant current mode for the selected channel.
  • Page 75 LASer:MODE:ILBW n Front Panel n Remote The LASer:MODE:ILBW command selects laser constant current mode. SYNTAX DIAGRAM MODE ILBW PARAMETERS None. POINTS OF INTEREST Constant ILBW mode (low bandwidth) enables the selected channel's output low bandpass filter. EXAMPLES "LAS:MODE:ILBW" -action: sets the selected channel's laser output for constant I mode (low bandwidth).
  • Page 76 LASer:MODE:MDP n Front Panel n Remote The LASer:MODE:MDP command selects constant optical power mode for the present channel. SYNTAX DIAGRAM MODE PARAMETERS None. POINTS OF INTEREST On the front panel, photodetector power mode is referred to as P mode. This mode of laser operation uses the monitor photodiode feedback current to maintain constant optical power.
  • Page 77 LASer:MODulation? n Front Panel n Remote The LASer:MODulation? query returns the status of the selected laser channel's modulation switch. SYNTAX DIAGRAM PARAMETERS None. The response is an <nrf value>, 1 = ON, 0 = OFF. POINTS OF INTEREST More than one channel at a time may be modulated via the modulation signal, if desired. EXAMPLES "Las:MODULATION?"...
  • Page 78 LASer:OUTput n Front Panel n Remote The LASer:OUTput command turns the selected channel's laser output on or off. SYNTAX DIAGRAM <white <nrf space> value> PARAMETERS An <nrf value>; 1 = on, 0 = off. POINTS OF INTEREST After the selected channel's output is turned on, it may be useful to wait until the output is fully on before performing further operations, but it is not necessary.
  • Page 79 LASer:SET: n Front Panel n Remote The LASer:SET: command path is used to get to the selected channel's laser set point queries. The following commands may be reached directly from the LASer:SET: command path. LASer:SET:LDI? LASer:SET:MDI? LASer:SET:MDP? LASer:SET:LDI? n Front Panel n Remote The LASer:SET:LDI? query returns the constant current setpoint which is used for both bandwidth modes.
  • Page 80 LASer:SET:MDI? n Front Panel n Remote The LASer:SET:MDI? query returns the selected channel's laser monitor photodiode current set point value, in µA. SYNTAX DIAGRAM PARAMETERS None. The response is an <nrf value> which represents the selected channel's constant IPD set point value, in µA.
  • Page 81 LASer:STEP ¨ Front Panel n Remote The LASer:STEP command specifies the amount the current setpoint will change in response to the LASer:INC or LASer:DEC command. SYNTAX DIAGRAM <white <nrf STEP space> value> PARAMETERS An <nrf value> of the step amount, in the range 1.0 to 100.0. The resolution is 0.1. POINTS OF INTEREST The step of 0.1 corresponds to 0.1 mA.
  • Page 82 LASer:SYNCLDI? o Front Panel n Remote The LASer:SYNCLDI? query returns the value of the selected channel's measured laser current, in mA. SYNTAX DIAGRAM SYNCLDI PARAMETERS None. The response is an <nrf value> representing current in mA. POINTS OF INTEREST This is a “synchronized” measurement: the measurement system is connected to the current- measure signal when this query is received.
  • Page 83 LASer:SYNCLDV? o Front Panel n Remote The LASer:SYNCLDV? query returns the value of the selected channel's measured laser voltage, in volts. SYNTAX DIAGRAM SYNCLDV PARAMETERS None. The response is an <nrf value> representing voltage in Volts. POINTS OF INTEREST This is a “synchronized” measurement: the measurement system is connected to the voltage- measure signal when this query is received.
  • Page 84 LASer:SYNCMDI? o Front Panel n Remote The LASer:SYNCMDI? query returns the value of the selected channel's measured monitor photodiode current in µA. SYNTAX DIAGRAM SYNCMDI None. The response is an <nrf value> representing current in µA. PARAMETERS POINTS OF INTEREST This is a “synchronized”...
  • Page 85 LASer:SYNCMDP? o Front Panel n Remote The LASer:SYNCMDP? query returns the value of the selected channel's measured optical power, in mW. SYNTAX DIAGRAM SYNCMDP PARAMETERS None. The response is an <nrf value> representing optical power in mW. POINTS OF INTEREST Optical power is derived from photodiode current.
  • Page 86 µA. If the mode is constant power (P), the first parameter is in mW. The range of the second parameter, the time window, is 0.1 to 50.0. The LDC-3916338 Laser Diode Current Source defaults to a tolerance of 100 mA, µA, or mW, for 5 seconds, unless changed by the LAS:TOLerance command.
  • Page 87 STATMENU:LINE1? ¨ Front Panel n Remote The STATMENU:LINE1? query returns name of the measurement that is currently being displayed on line 1 of the status menu. SYNTAX DIAGRAM STATMENU LINE1 PARAMETERS None. The response is character data which represents the measurement that is currently being displayed on line 1 of the selected channel’s portion of the status menu.
  • Page 88 STATMENU:LINE1:IPD ¨ Front Panel n Remote The STATMENU:LINE1:IPD command sets the measurement that is to be displayed on line 1 of the status menu to photodiode current ( IPD ). SYNTAX DIAGRAM STATMENU LINE1 PARAMETERS None. POINTS OF INTEREST The default condition of the status menu displays laser diode current ( LDI ) on line 1 and photodiode current ( IPD ) on line 2.
  • Page 89 STATMENU:LINE1:PPD ¨ Front Panel n Remote The STATMENU:LINE1:PPD command sets the measurement that is to be displayed on line 1 of the status menu to optical power ( PPD ). SYNTAX DIAGRAM STATMENU LINE1 PARAMETERS None. POINTS OF INTEREST Photodetector power is calculated via the CALPD conversion factor. The measurement is only as accurate as the user’s CALPD value.
  • Page 90 STATMENU:LINE2? ¨ Front Panel n Remote The STATMENU:LINE2? query returns name of the measurement that is currently being displayed on line 2 of the status menu. SYNTAX DIAGRAM STATMENU LINE2 PARAMETERS None. The response is character data which represents the measurement that is currently being displayed on line 2 of the selected channel’s portion of the status menu.
  • Page 91 STATMENU:LINE2:IPD ¨ Front Panel n Remote The STATMENU:LINE2:IPD command sets the measurement that is to be displayed on line 2 of the status menu to photodiode current ( IPD ). SYNTAX DIAGRAM STATMENU LINE2 PARAMETERS None. POINTS OF INTEREST The default condition of the status menu displays laser diode current ( LDI ) on line 1 and photodiode current ( IPD ) on line 2.
  • Page 92 STATMENU:LINE2:PPD ¨ Front Panel n Remote The STATMENU:LINE2:PPD command sets the measurement that is to be displayed on line 2 of the status menu to optical power ( PPD ). SYNTAX DIAGRAM STATMENU LINE2 PARAMETERS None. POINTS OF INTEREST Photodetector power is calculated via the CALPD conversion factor. The measurement is only as accurate as the user’s CALPD value.
  • Page 93 Artisan Technology Group - Quality Instrumentation ... Guaranteed | (888) 88-SOURCE | www.artisantg.com...
  • Page 94 CHAPTER 5 CALIBRATION AND TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE INTRODUCTION CALIBRATION OVERVIEW Recommended Equipment LOCAL CALIBRATION OF THE LASER CURRENT SOURCE Current Source Calibration IPD Current Calibration Laser Forward Voltage Measurement Calibration REMOTE CALIBRATION OF THE 3916338 CURRENT SOURCE MODULE Laser Current Source Calibration LDI Calibration IPD Current Calibration Laser Forward Voltage Measurement Calibration...
  • Page 95 Artisan Technology Group - Quality Instrumentation ... Guaranteed | (888) 88-SOURCE | www.artisantg.com...

  • Page 96: Chapter 5 Calibration And Troubleshooting Guide

    CHAPTER 5 CALIBRATION AND TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE INTRODUCTION This chapter describes calibration of your 3916338 Laser Diode Current Source Module. Descriptions of the required test instruments, calibration conditions, and the detailed procedures for calibration of the instrument’s Laser Diode Current Sources are included. A troubleshooting guide is also offered for some of the more common failure symptoms.
  • Page 97 It will be necessary to connect various loads and circuits to the outputs of the module for the calibration procedure. The devices required for most of the calibration loads are listed in Table 5.2. A schematic is shown in Figure 5.1 for the photodiode calibration circuit, with the required components listed in Table 5.3.

  • Page 98: Local Calibration Of The Laser Current Source

    LOCAL CALIBRATION OF THE LASER CURRENT SOURCE There are three calibration adjustments for the current source of the 3916338 Current Source Module. They are: calibration of the constant current (LDI) source, calibration of the constant light power (I PD ) feedback circuit, and calibration of the laser forward voltage (LDV) measurement.

  • Page 99: Ipd Current Calibration

    g. Measure the actual current, and enter that value into the IREAL adjust field. After you have entered the second value, the internal cal procedure calibrates the LD current measurement circuit, the LD current source for both low and high bandwidths, and the LD current limit circuit. IPD Current Calibration The following procedure is for calibrating the LASER I PD (photodiode monitor) measurement circuit.

  • Page 100: Laser Forward Voltage Measurement Calibration

    Laser Forward Voltage Measurement Calibration The following procedure is for calibrating the LASER forward voltage (LDV) measurement circuit. The internal calibration procedure sets the current to two values. You must enter the resulting forward voltage that you measure at both of these points. The internal procedure will then use this information to calibrate the LDV measurement circuit.

  • Page 101: Remote Calibration Of The 3916338 Current Source Module

    REMOTE CALIBRATION OF THE 3916338 CURRENT SOURCE MODULE The 3916338 Modules can be calibrated remotely via the GPIB Interface. All of the required calibration commands are listed in Table 4.1 in Chapter 4. The procedures below are general guidelines for writing a program to calibrate your instrument.
  • Page 102 Enter the Laser Current Source calibration mode by sending the following command over GPIB: LAS:CAL:LDI The internal cal procedure will begin by setting the Laser output current to approximately 25% of its full range. Allow the current to settle for at least 10 seconds. If this calibration value is to be measured and entered remotely via a GPIB controlled DMM, for example, the actual value of the current should not be entered until the cal procedure is ready to receive it.

  • Page 103: Ipd Current Calibration

    IPD Current Calibration The following procedure is for remotely calibrating the LASER I PD (photodiode monitor) measurement circuit. The module’s internal calibration procedure sets the current to two values. You must enter the resulting I PD (photodiode monitor) current that you measure at both of these points. The module’s internal cal procedure will then use this information to calibrate the I PD measurement circuit.

  • Page 104: Laser Forward Voltage Measurement Calibration

    Laser Forward Voltage Measurement Calibration The following procedure is for remotely calibrating the laser forward voltage measurement circuit. The module’s internal calibration procedure sets the current to two values. You must measure and enter the forward voltage at both of these points. The module’s internal cal procedure will then use this information to calibrate the voltage measurement system.

  • Page 105: Troubleshooting Guide

    We recommend that the user start at the beginning of this guide. Read the symptom descriptions, and follow the steps for the corrective actions which apply. If you encounter problems which are beyond the scope of this guide, contact your ILX Lightwave customer service representative.
  • Page 106 Output goes off intermittently Check the interlock circuit. An intermittent interlock will turn the output off. Check that the AC power cord connection is secure. Power-line drop-outs may reset the unit and when power is restored, the output will be off. Unable to adjust output Make sure that the ISET adjust parameter is highlighted.

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