PDA8000-2 In Stock

The ThorLabs PDA8000-2 a highly optimized photocurrent measurement module that is specifically designed for use with the PRO8 platform. This module is an ideal companion to other PRO8 series plug-in modules, and it comes with a range of features that are geared towards providing highly precise photocurrent measurements.

With its DC transimpedance amplifier, the PDA8000-2 is capable of delivering measurements of photocurrent ranging from a few pA to 10 mA. It offers input frequencies up to 20 Hz at the lowest amplification setting, thereby making it highly versatile and perfect for a wide range of applications. Additionally, the PDA8000-2 is equipped with a 16-bit A/D converter that ensures a measurement resolution of ±0.025% of the full scale reading (ranges >1 µA).

The PDA8000-2 is a dual-channel module that offers maximum precision and sensitivity, with the polarity of the photodiode being selectable. This photodiode can be operated photovoltaic or photoconductive by setting a bias voltage of 0 ... 10V. The module comes with 7 measurement ranges from 10 nA to 10 mA, ensuring low noise measurement with 15 bit resolution plus sign. Importantly, the PDA8000-2 is sensitive enough to detect the lowest still detectable current at about 0,1 pA.

The PDA8000-2 can be operated in a photoconductive or photovoltaic mode for precision in optical measurements depending on the application. The bias in the diode helps reduce the junction capacitance and boosts linearity in measurements that span a wide range of decades. This makes it easier to make accurate readings. Additionally, a trim-pot is located on the front panel to remove the normal dark current commonly encountered with semiconductor optical sensors.

The PDA8000-2 offers direct read-out of optical power with calibrated photodiodes. By entering the "photodiode sensitivity" value through the input screen of the PRO8 platform, one can directly enter standard calibration data provided by photodiode manufacturers when a calibrated diode is used. The PRO8 platform display menu is user-friendly with easily accessed operational panels and allows for the configuration of any module in the chassis. Additionally, the settings are stored and can be recalled upon turning on the device, allowing for easy access of previous significant data.

For added convenience, the PDA8000-2's module functions can be accessed via the IEEE-488 interface of the PRO8 chassis. Users are able to access the calibration factor, photodiode bias voltage, measurement control parameters, and the results from those measurements through the software. With the mains filter installed in the mainframe of the PDA8000-2 and the careful shielding of the transformer, the microprocessor, and the module itself, excellent suppression of noise and ripple is achieved.