Abstract
This article describes the development of a compact, relatively low-cost, high compliance voltage laser driver that can provide the constant optical laser output required for a range of applications. The system contains an integrated, high-precision temperature controller that can be implemented with butterfly-style lasers containing an internal thermoelectric cooler. The laser parameters can be controlled manually or via an onboard microcontroller. Additionally, an adjustable over-current protection circuit safeguards the laser diode from potential damage.
Highlights
This article describes the development of a compact, relatively low-cost, high compliance voltage laser driver that can provide the constant optical laser output required for a range of applications
Especially for short emission wavelengths of 405 or 488 nm, both attractive wavelengths for laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) experiments [8], the compliance, or forward-voltage, Vf, of diode lasers can be higher than supported by many commercial laser controllers
Power/current and temperature can either be set via potentiometers on the hardware itself or by serial commands via USB or Ethernet. This driver is primarily designed for continuous wave (CW) laser operation and provides telemetry regarding laser temperature as well as laser diode (LD), PD, and thermoelectric cooler (TEC) current
Summary
This board is equipped with a MOT3000-25 (U5, Modular One Technology LLC, TX, USA) precision temperature controller for Peltier modules This driver’s internal loop compensation is optimized for laser module assemblies such as 14-pin butterfly packages, provides a maximum output current of ±2.5 A, and temperature stability of ±0.002 °C. To convert the set voltage into temperature, the user is referred to the MOT3000-25 datasheet, as well as on how to limit the maximum TEC current and voltage by choosing appropriate resistors for R23, R24, and R27 (Fig. 8). By default, these resistor positions can be left open-circuited. A CAD file for a 3D printable, custom enclosure for the laser board is provided with this manuscript, comprising a bottom part and a lid (Fig. 10)
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