LDC8040 In Stock

The LDC8040 by ThorLabs is a laser diode current controller, - a versatile and high-performance device designed to drive laser diodes with different connection schemes, including CG and AG, as well as with or without monitor diodes. Compatible with PRO8000 systems, the LDC8040 is a powerful tool for those seeking precise and stable laser control. One of the key features of the LDC8040 is its extremely low current noise and drift, which translates into exceptional laser stability. With a maximum output current of ±4 A and 16-bit resolution (one part in 65,000), the LDC8040 offers precise current control for a wide range of applications. 

The LDC8040 can also be operated in either constant current (CC) or constant power (CP) mode, depending on the needs of the user. In CC mode, the laser diode current is maintained constant. A temperature change of the laser changes the optical power as well, since the laser efficiency will change. On the other hand, in CP mode a monitor diode is used to measure the emitted laser power. Constant monitor current is equivalent to a constant optical power. To maintain the monitor current constant, the laser diode current is controlled correspondingly.

The LDC8040's user-friendly controls and simple PRO8 display interface make it easy to configure and adjust all operational parameters. The device also incorporates a range of protection features to prevent the laser diode from sustaining any damage, including power outages, RF pickup, AC power-line transients and more.

To prevent laser diode damage, the LDC8040 allows users to set three independent limits, including two programmable limits that prevent the laser current and power from exceeding maximum values defined by the user. The front panel trim-pot that is recessed defines a "hardware" current limit to protect from any programming mistakes or unintentional changes of the front panel knob. The laser current cannot be exceeded either beyond the hard or soft limits, no matter how much it is adjusted externally. Additionally, the LDC8040 features a soft-start function that smoothly increases the laser current without overshoots or spikes, ensuring transient-free operation even in the event of an AC power interruption.