2 – 2
Getting Started
2.1
Preparation for Use
Before using the instrument, your laser diode and TEC module
should be properly wired. This section covers that process.
A male DB–9 connector is required for the laser connection, and a
male DB–15 connector is required for the TEC connection.
2.1.1
Power and ground
Before connecting your laser and TEC cables to the LDC500 rear
panel, make sure the power entry voltage selector is in the correct
position for your region, and the rotary power key-switch is at “0”
(o
ff
) position (see Figure 2.1).
Figure 2.1: Power entry module (with line selector).
Front-panel key switch, shown in the “on” position.
The instrument chassis is internally connected to power line earth.
Be sure that the power cord ground is secure. Otherwise, the chassis
should be grounded through the CHASSIS GND lug on the rear
panel. Chassis ground should be tied to earth
before
any further
connections are made.
2.1.2
Laser diode connections
Figure 2.2 shows the proper connections for the laser diode. Be
certain that the connection from the LDC500 to your laser diode
preserves the wiring polarity. In particular, pin 5 must connect to
the laser diode
cathode
(
−
), and pin 9 must connect to the laser diode
anode
(
+
). Pins 4 and 8 are for 4–wire voltage measurement; if they
CAUTION
are left disconnected, the LDC500 measures laser voltage between
pins 5 and 9 internally.
The interlock function requires a low-resistance electrical connection
between pin 1 and pin 2 for the laser to operate. Neither of these pins
may be allowed to contact ground or any other signal.
2.1.3
TEC module connections
Figure 2.3 shows the proper connections for the TEC module. Power
is delivered by current flowing (in parallel) through pins 1 and 2,
LDC500 Series Laser Diode Controllers
