LDC205C Manual
LDC205C Manual
LDC200C Series
Operation Manual
2021
Version: 6.8
Date: 09-Mar-2021
Thorlabs GmbH
Warning
Sections marked by this symbol explain dangers that might result in
personal injury or death. Always read the associated information
carefully, before performing the indicated procedure.
Attention
Paragraphs preceded by this symbol explain hazards that could
damage the instrument and the connected equipment or may cause
loss of data.
Note
This manual also contains "NOTES" and "HINTS" written in this form.
© 2021 Thorlabs 3
LDC200C Series
1 General Information
The Thorlabs LDC200C Series Laser Diode Controllers are high accuracy precise injection cur-
rent controllers for laser diodes and LEDs. Together with a Thorlabs Temperature Controller a
stable operation of the connected laser diode can be achieved. The LDC200C Series includes
the following types:
· LDC200CV - designed for safe operation of VCSEL laser diodes.
· LDC201CU - ultra low noise current (<0.2µA RMS).
· LDC202C, LDC205C and LDC210C - enhanced compliance voltage (>10V) for use with
blue laser diodes.
· LDC220C - Laser diode controller, current range 0 to 2 A / 4 V
· LDC240C - higher current (4A).
The LDC200C Series controllers are easy to operate via the operating elements on the front
panel. Operating parameters are shown on a 5-digit LED display. UP-DOWN keys allow to se-
lect the parameter to be displayed.
After switching on a LDC200C Series laser diode controller, it remains in LASER OFF mode.
The laser current can be switched on/off using the appropriate key at the front panel.
Additionally the laser current can be switched by applying a TTL signal to the LD remote input
at the rear of the unit.
The laser and the photodiode are connected via a 9-pin D-SUB jack at the rear of the unit. The
output for the laser diode and the input for the photodiode are bipolar, thus all polarities of com-
mercial available laser diodes can be connected.
The injection current or the optical output power of the laser diode can be modulated applying a
modulation signal to the input at the rear of the unit.
A voltage proportional to the laser diode current is provided for monitoring purposes at an ana-
log control output at the rear.
If an error occurs or the limit for the laser current is reached, the corresponding LED lights up
and a short beep gives a warning.
For a low ripple and noise of the output current a mains filter is installed and the transformer is
shielded carefully.
The LDC200C Series controller are cooled by an internal fan, which protects the unit against
overheating in case of high environmental temperatures. With free air circulation a safe opera-
tion of the unit is guaranteed up to 40 °C ambient temperature.
Warning
Do not obstruct the air ventilation slots in the housing!
Note
In order to prevent damages to the laser diode, it is recommended to mount the laser
into a suitable Thorlabs laser diode mount and connect it to the LDC200C Series using
the supplied Thorlabs CAB400 cable. This ensures the utmost protection of the laser di-
ode from damage by wrong connection.
4 © 2021 Thorlabs
1 General Information
The laser can only be switched on with the interlock input closed. If the interlock contact is
opened during operation (even for a very short time) the output is switched off immediately and
can be switched on manually only.
1.2 Safety
Attention
The safety of any system incorporating the equipment is the responsibility of the assem-
bler of the system.
All statements regarding safety of operation and technical data in this instruction manual
will only apply when the unit is operated correctly as it was designed for.
The LDC200C Series must not be operated in explosion endangered environments!
Do not obstruct the air ventilation slots in the housing!
Do not remove covers!
Do not open the cabinet. There are no parts serviceable by the operator inside!
This precision device is only serviceable if properly packed into the complete original
packaging including the plastic foam sleeves. If necessary, ask for replacement pack-
aging.
Refer servicing to qualified personnel!
Only with written consent from Thorlabs may changes to single components be made or
components not supplied by Thorlabs be used.
© 2021 Thorlabs 5
LDC200C Series
Attention
Prior to applying power to the LDC200C Series, make sure that the protective conductor
of the 3 conductor mains power cord is correctly connected to the protective earth
ground contact of the socket outlet! Improper grounding can cause electric shock result-
ing in damage to your health or even death!
Ensure that the line voltage setting of the fuse holder at the rear panel agrees with your
local supply and that the corresponding fuses are inserted. If not, please change the line
voltage setting (see section Line voltage setting 20 ) and the mains fuses (see section Re-
placing the main fuses 21 ).
To avoid risk of fire, only the appropriate fuses for the corresponding line voltage must
be used.
All modules must only be operated with proper shielded connection cables.
Attention
The following statement applies to the products covered in this manual, unless other-
wise specified herein. The statement for other products will appear in the respective ac-
companying documentation.
Note:
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital
device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules and meets all requirements of the Canadian
Interference-Causing Equipment Standard ICES-003 for digital apparatus. These limits
are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residen-
tial installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy
and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful in-
terference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference
will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interfer-
ence to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment
off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the
following measures:
· Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
· Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
· Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the re-
ceiver is connected.
· Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/T.V. technician for help.
Users that change or modify the product described in this manual in a way not expressly
approved by Thorlabs (party responsible for compliance) could void the user’s authority
to operate the equipment.
Thorlabs GmbH is not responsible for any radio television interference caused by modi-
fications of this equipment or the substitution or attachment of connecting cables and
equipment other than those specified by Thorlabs GmbH. The correction of interference
caused by such unauthorized modification, substitution or attachment will be the re-
sponsibility of the user.
The use of shielded I/O cables is required when connecting this equipment to any and all
optional peripheral or host devices. Failure to do so may violate FCC and ICES rules.
Attention
Mobile telephones, cellular phones or other radio transmitters must not be used within
the range of three meters of this unit since the electromagnetic field intensity may then
exceed the maximum allowed disturbance values according to IEC61326-1.
6 © 2021 Thorlabs
1 General Information
This product has been tested and found complying with the limits according to IEC
61326-1 for using connection cables shorter than or equal to 3 meters (9.8 feet).
Warning
Laser modules can deliver up to several 100mW of even invisible laser radiation! When
operated incorrectly, this can cause severe damage to your eyes and health! Be ensure
to pay strict attention to the safety recommendations of the appropriate laser safety
class, as stated for the used light source.
Vous pouvez trouver les traductions françaises des paragraphes ayant trait à la sécurité
d'utilisation de ce produit sur le lien suivant:
https://www.thorlabs.com/_sd.cfm?fileName=15988-D03.pdf&partNumber=LDC202C
En outre, vous pouvez soit scanner le QR code, soit vous référer à la section "Docu-
ments" sur la page web du produit.
Shielded cable:
CAB400 Cable to connect the LDC200C Series controller to a Thorlabs Laser Diode
Mount (included)
© 2021 Thorlabs 7
LDC200C Series
2 Getting Started
2.1 Parts List
Inspect the shipping container for damage.
If the shipping container seems to be damaged, keep it until you have inspected the contents
and you have inspected the LDC200C Series controller mechanically and electrically.
Verify that you have received the following items within the package:
1. 1 LDC200C Series controller
2. 1 power cord, connector according to ordering country
3. 1 operation manual
4. 1 connection cable CAB400
2.2 Preparation
Prior to operate a LDC200C Series controller, check if the set line voltage matches with your
local power supply and if the appropriate fuses are inserted. (See sections Line Voltage Set-
ting 20 and Replacing the Mains Fuses 21 )
Connect the unit to the power line using the supplied cable. Turn the unit on by pressing the
line switch (F10) 9 .
If required, the chassis ground can be connected to ground potential via the connector jack
(R5). The ground pin of the laser diode is internally connected to chassis ground.
8 © 2021 Thorlabs
2 Getting Started
© 2021 Thorlabs 9
LDC200C Series
Rear Panel
10 © 2021 Thorlabs
3 Operating Instruction
3 Operating Instruction
3.1 External Connections
Prior to switching on the LDC200C Series controller, all required external connections must be
made properly. Please read the following sections carefully.
Pin assignment of the "LD OUT" jack (female, rear panel view)
Pin # Connection
Interlock (open circuit monitoring, status display)
1 interlock and status LASER ON / OFF
5 ground for pin 1
Laser Diode
7 laser diode cathode (in case of polarity "anode grounded" - AG)
8 laser diode anode (in case of polarity "cathode grounded" - CG)
3 laser diode ground
Photodiode
2 photodiode cathode
4 photodiode anode
Note
Do not connect the laser diode between pin 7 and 8! The correct connection must be:
· for laser diode "AG": cathode to pin 7, anode to pin 3, pin 8 - open
· for laser diode "CG": anode to pin 8, cathode to pin 3, pin 7 - open.
© 2021 Thorlabs 11
LDC200C Series
The laser diode is always sourced with respect to ground. Compared to a floating ground
scheme, the advantages of this operation mode are higher safety for the laser diode, better sta-
bility of the laser current and less introduced interferences.
Prior to turning on the laser current, the correct polarity of the laser diode must be selected:
· Make sure the laser is switched off (key “LASER ON” F8).
· Select the required polarity by pressing the key "LD POL" (F23).
· For laser diodes with a built-in monitor diode the common pin of laser diode and photodi-
ode is the ground pin.
· The selected polarity of the output is indicated by the LED "AG" (F19) or "CG" (F20).
If the laser diode was connected correctly (see above) but the polarity of the laser diode was
selected wrong with the key “LD POL” (F23), an “OPEN” error will be indicated (LED “OPEN”
F4).
After pressing "LASER ON" (F8) the LED "OPEN" (F4) extinguishes and the output can be
switched on by pressing "LASER ON" (F8) again.
12 © 2021 Thorlabs
3 Operating Instruction
Attention
A wrong polarity of the battery may destroy the photodiode due to a forward current flowing
through it!
3.1.3 Interlock
Pin 1 and pin 5 of the "LD OUT" jack (R6) 11 are the interface of the interlock circuit.
The interlock output represents a current source, while the voltage across the external circuit,
connected to pin 1 and 5, is being observed. As soon as this voltage rises above a certain
threshold (~2.5V), the external circuit is considered as "open", the laser current output is dis-
abled and the LED "OPEN" (F4) 9 lights up .
Pin 1 and pin 5 must be connected externally by a short cut wire, by a circuit (total resistance
<430 W) or by a LED (anode to pin 1, cathode to pin 5, connect in parallel resistor R=1 kW). A
connected LED lights up when the laser current is switched on (LASER ON).
Note
Do not use blue LED due to their high forward voltage
Thorlabs Laser Diode Mounts use the interlock current for indication "LD ON". When using a
Thorlabs LDM90, LDM56, or LM14S2 laser diode mount, interlock functionality can be easily
used for emergency switch-off of the laser by connecting an opening contact to the jack located
on the laser mount. For details, please refer to the appropriate laser diode mount manual.
© 2021 Thorlabs 13
LDC200C Series
When connecting a load avoid ground loops. The load resistance should be >10 kW. The con-
version coefficient for this output can be calculated to:
kCTL OUT = 10V/Imax [V/mA]
where Imax is the max. output current for the given controller.
Example:
For an LDC202C with a max. output current of 200mA the conversion coefficient kCTL OUT is
equal to 0.05 V/mA.
Note
The current limit can be displayed at any time by selecting the parameter "ILIM"
If the laser current reaches it's limit during operation, the LED "LIMIT" (F5) lights up and a short
beep alerts about that. The current limit can also be adjusted when the output is switched on.
Avoid any adjustments when the LED "LIMIT" (F5) lights up.
Note
The current output can be switched on only if the jack "LD OUT" (R6) is connected correctly
The display shows the injection current "ILD".
14 © 2021 Thorlabs
3 Operating Instruction
With the adjust knob (F8) the laser current can be set continuously between 0 mA and the se-
lected current limit "ILIM".
ð If the injection current "ILD" reaches the set current limit "ILIM" during operation, the LED
"LIMIT" (F5) lights up, a short alert beep is heard, and the laser current is limited to the value
of the current limit "ILIM". In this case, noise a nd ripple do not longer correspond to the spe-
cifications for normal operation. However exceeding the set current limit "ILIM" is impossible.
ð If the connection to the laser diode is interrupted during operation, the laser diode current is
switched off automatically. LED "LASER ON" (F7) extinguishes, LED "OPEN" (F4) lights up
and a short beep is heard.
ð If the output is switched on while the interlock is closed and there is no laser diode connec-
ted, at first the LED "LASER ON" (F7) lights up and the output is switched on. Then the
LDC2xxC recognizes the missing laser diode and switches the output off. The LED "LASER
ON" (F7) extinguishes and the LED "OPEN" (F4) lights up. Connect the laser and press
"LASER ON" (F8) - the LED "OPEN" (F4) extinguishes and the output switches on.
ð If a photodiode is connected, the display can be set to show the photodiode current "IPD" or
the optical power "PLD" by pressing the key (F17) or (F18).
The laser current can be modulated 17 via the connector "MOD IN" (R2).
Note
If the sign of the photodiode current "IPD" is negative, the photodiode must be reversed.
· Switch off the laser current by pressing the key "LASER ON" (F8) .
· Select constant power mode (“P”) by pressing the key “CONST” (F24) until LED "P" (F21)
lights up.
· Set the adjust knob (F9) completely counter clockwise.
· Switch on the output by pressing "LASER ON" (F8). The LED "LASER ON" (F7) lights up,
the output is activated and the current slowly increases (about 1 s) to the set value.
· The photodiode current "IPD" can be set using (F9) and with that the optical power of the
laser diode increases until the laser current "ILD" reaches the selected current limit "ILIM".
ð If the desired photodiode current "IPD" cannot be set with a sufficient accuracy (F9), the
range of the knob (F9) can be fitted to the current range of the connected photodiode using
the potentiometer "PD RANGE" (F25) - see below.
ð If no photodiode is connected or the polarity of the photodiode is set wrong, the laser current
"ILD" increases to the limit "ILIM" after the output is switched on.
© 2021 Thorlabs 15
LDC200C Series
ð If the connection to the photodiode is interrupted in constant power mode, the laser current
"ILD" increases to the set current limit "ILIM".
ð If the injection current "ILD" is limited by the selected current limit "ILIM", ripple and noise do
not longer correspond to the specifications for normal operation. However, the set maximum
current "ILIM" cannot be exceeded.
ð If the connection to the laser diode is interrupted during operation, the output is switched off
automatically. LED "LASER ON" (F7) extinguishes, LED "OPEN" (F4) lights up and a short
beep is heard.
ð If the output is switched on while the interlock is closed and there is no laser diode connec-
ted, at first the LED "LASER ON" (F7) lights up and the output switches on. Then the
LDC2xxC recognizes the missing laser diode, switches the output off, the LED "LASER
ON" (F7) extinguishes and the LED "OPEN" (F4) lights up. Connect the laser, then press
"LASER ON" (F8) - the LED "OPEN" (F4) extinguishes and the laser diode current output
switches.
ð The laser current can be modulated via the connector "MOD IN" (R3) - see section External
Analog Modulation 17 .
If the desired operating point cannot be reached even if the knob (F9) is turned completely
clockwise (i.e. IPD > 0.6 mA), turn the potentiometer "PD RANGE" (F25) clockwise until the de-
sired setting range has been reached.
Note
A change of the "PD RANGE" (F25) leads to a change of the power set value in CP mode. In
constant current mode the potentiometer "PD RANGE" is without function.
16 © 2021 Thorlabs
3 Operating Instruction
Start operation in constant current or constant power mode (refer to chapter 3.4 or 3.5) and ad-
just the desired set value with the knob (F9).
Connect the modulation source to the jack "MOD IN" (R2). Avoid ground loops when connec-
ting the function generator.
The laser diode current "ILD" can be monitored at the analog output "CTL OUT" (R3) 14 .
If the injection current "ILD" reaches the current limit "ILIM" in operation, the LED "LIMIT" (F5)
lights up, a short beep is heard, and the laser current is limited to the value of the current limit
"ILIM". In this case, ripple and noise do no longer correspond to the specifications for normal op-
eration. However the set maximum current "ILIM" cannot be exceeded.
© 2021 Thorlabs 17
LDC200C Series
18 © 2021 Thorlabs
3 Operating Instruction
Note
The laser current output must be switched on, otherwise a current control via MOD IN is im-
possible.
© 2021 Thorlabs 19
LDC200C Series
Attention
If you have changed to or from 230 V, also change the mains fuses to the correct value given in
section Replacing Mains Fuses 21 .
20 © 2021 Thorlabs
4 Maintenance and Service
Fuse types
LDC200VC, LDC201CU, LDC202C, LDC205C, LDC210C, and LDC220C:
100 V 500 mA, time-lag, 250V T0.5A250V
115 V 500 mA, time-lag, 250V T0.5A250V
230 V 250 mA, time-lag, 250V T0.25A250V
LDC240C:
100 V 800 mA, time-lag, 250V T0.8A250V
115 V 800 mA, time-lag, 250V T0.8A250V
230 V 400 mA, time-lag, 250V T0.4A250V
All fuses must meet IEC specification 60127-2/III, time characteristic: time-lag (T), 250V AC,
size 5 x 20 mm.
© 2021 Thorlabs 21
LDC200C Series
4.3 Troubleshooting
In case that your LDC200C Series Controller shows malfunction please check the following
items:
o Are you using a bias voltage 12 with the photodiode in photo current mode?
§ Change the polarity of the diode for photo element mode or change the polarity of the
bias voltage source.
22 © 2021 Thorlabs
4 Maintenance and Service
q The unit switches on, but display shows error message (e.g., “Err06”)
If you don’t find the error source by means of the trouble shooting list please contact Thorlabs
for advise and/or return instructions
© 2021 Thorlabs 23
LDC200C Series
5 Appendix
5.1 Technical Data
Common Technical Data
General Data
Interlock
Laser Current Limit
Soft Start
Safety Features
Short Circuit when Laser off
Open Circuit Detection
Overtemperature Protection
Display LED, 5 Digits
Connector for Laser, Photodiode, Interlock &
9-pin D-Sub Jack
Laser On Signal
Connectors for Control Input / Output BNC
Chassis Ground Connector 4mm Banana Jack
100 V
Line Voltage 115 V +15% / –10%
230 V
Mains Supply Overvoltage Category II (Cat II)
Line Frequency 50 to 60 Hz
Operating Temperature Range 1) 0°C to +40 °C
Storage Temperature Range -40°C to +70 °C
Relative Humidity Max. 80% up to 31 °C, decreasing to 50% at 40 °C
Pollution Degree (Indoor Use only) 2
Operation Altitude <2000 m
Warm-up Time for Rated Accuracy 10 min
Dimensions (W x H x D)
w/o Operating Elements 146 x 66 x 290 mm³
with Operating Elements 146 x 77 x 320 mm³
1) non-condensing
All technical data are valid at 23 ± 5°C and 45 ± 15% rel. humidity (non condensing)
24 © 2021 Thorlabs
5 Appendix
5.1.1 LDC200CV
Current Limit
Setting Range 0 to >20 mA
Resolution 1 µA
Accuracy ± 50 µA
General data
Maximum Power Consumption 20 VA
Weight <3.1 kg
© 2021 Thorlabs 25
LDC200C Series
5.1.2 LDC201CU
Current Limit
Setting Range 0 to >100 mA
Resolution 10 µA
Accuracy ± 200 µA
General data
Maximum Power Consumption 20 VA
Weight <3.1 kg
26 © 2021 Thorlabs
5 Appendix
5.1.3 LDC202C
Current Limit
Setting Range 0 to >200 mA
Resolution 10 µA
Accuracy ± 500 µA
General data
Maximum Power Consumption 25 VA
Weight <3.1 kg
© 2021 Thorlabs 27
LDC200C Series
5.1.4 LDC205C
Current Limit
Setting Range 0 to >500 mA
Resolution 10 µA
Accuracy ±1.5 mA
General data
Maximum Power Consumption 30 VA
Weight <3.1 kg
28 © 2021 Thorlabs
5 Appendix
5.1.5 LDC210C
Current Limit
Setting Range 0 to >1 A
Resolution 100 µA
Accuracy ± 2.5 mA
General data
Maximum Power Consumption 40 VA
Weight <3.1 kg
© 2021 Thorlabs 29
LDC200C Series
5.1.6 LDC220C
Current Limit
Setting Range 0 to >2 A
Resolution 100 µA
Accuracy ± 5 mA
General data
Maximum Power Consumption 60 VA
Weight <3.3 kg
30 © 2021 Thorlabs
5 Appendix
5.1.7 LDC240C
Current Limit
Setting Range 0 to >4 A
Resolution 100 µA
Accuracy ± 10 mA
General data
Maximum Power Consumption 100 VA
Weight <3.3 kg
© 2021 Thorlabs 31
LDC200C Series
This product was tested for and complies with the following standards:
· CAN/CSA-C22.2 No. 61010-1-04
· ANSI/UL 61010-1-2004
32 © 2021 Thorlabs
5 Appendix
5.3 Warranty
Thorlabs warrants material and production of the LDC200C Series for a period of 24 months
starting with the date of shipment. During this warranty period Thorlabs will see to defaults by
repair or by exchange if these are entitled to warranty.
For warranty repairs or service the unit must be sent back to Thorlabs. The customer will carry
the shipping costs to Thorlabs, in case of warranty repairs Thorlabs will carry the shipping costs
back to the customer.
If no warranty repair is applicable the customer also has to carry the costs for back shipment.
In case of shipment from outside EU duties, taxes etc. which should arise have to be carried by
the customer.
Thorlabs warrants the hard- and/or software determined by Thorlabs for this unit to operate
fault-free provided that they are handled according to our requirements. However, Thorlabs
does not warrant a fault free and uninterrupted operation of the unit, of the software or firmware
for special applications nor this instruction manual to be error free. Thorlabs is not liable for
consequential damages.
Restriction of Warranty
The warranty mentioned before does not cover errors and defects being the result of improper
treatment, software or interface not supplied by us, modification, misuse or operation outside
the defined ambient stated by us or unauthorized maintenance.
Further claims will not be consented to and will not be acknowledged. Thorlabs does explicitly
not warrant the usability or the economical use for certain cases of application.
Thorlabs reserves the right to change this instruction manual or the technical data of the de-
scribed unit at any time.
© 2021 Thorlabs 33
LDC200C Series
34 © 2021 Thorlabs
5 Appendix
Europe Scandinavia
Thorlabs GmbH Thorlabs Sweden AB
[email protected] [email protected]
France Brazil
Thorlabs SAS Thorlabs Vendas de Fotônicos Ltda.
[email protected] [email protected]
Japan China
Thorlabs Japan, Inc. Thorlabs China
[email protected] [email protected]
© 2021 Thorlabs 35
www.thorlabs.com