© 2020
7
PLD10000/PLD12500 LASER DIODE DRIVER
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
If you are using the driver on the benchtop or for prototyping
your laser control system, we recommend using the
PLD10EV board.
The driver is first configured for local control in order to
set the drive current limit. Then the driver is reconfigured
according to the actual application.
We recommend using a test load until you are familiar with
operation of the driver. Refer to
for test load
schematics.
NECESSARY EQUIPMENT
The following equipment is the minimum necessary to
configure the PLD for basic operation:
• PLD controller
• PLD10EV evaluation board (recommended)
• Digital multimeter, 4-½ digit resolution recommended
•
Test load for configuring the driver; laser diode, mount,
and laser temperature controller
• Connecting wires
• Power Supplies (see below)
POWER SUPPLY REQUIREMENTS
Linear-regulated or low-noise switching power supplies can
be used. We recommend using power supplies with noise
specifications suitable for your application.
For single-supply operation (PLD10000 only):
• 5 VDC power supply rated for 1.1-times the maximum
laser diode current, plus 250 mA for the electronics
For the PLD12500, or to drive a high-compliance laser with
the PLD10000:
• 5 VDC power supply rated for > 250 mA
• Power supply rated for 1.1-times the maximum laser
diode drive current and > 2.5 V greater than the
compliance voltage of the laser
NOTE: For dual supply operation, it is critical to shut
down the power supply to the laser first before shutting
down the +5V supply powering the electronics. Failure
to follow this order may damage the PLD or laser.
SAFE OPERATING AREA AND
THERMAL DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
SOA charts are included in this datasheet for quick reference,
but we recommend you use the online tools instead:
https://www.teamwavelength.com/support/design-tools/soa-ld-calculator/
https://www.teamwavelength.com/support/design-tools/soa-ld-calculator/
!
i
T
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o
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anD
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.
PREVENT DAMAGE FROM ELECTROSTATIC
DISCHARGE
Before proceeding, it is critical that you take precautions to
prevent electrostatic discharge (ESD) damage to the driver
and your laser. ESD damage can result from improper
handling of sensitive electronics, and is easily preventable
with simple precautions.
Enter the search phrase ESD Precautions for Handling
Electronics
in an internet search engine to find information
on ESD-safe handling practices.
We recommend that you always observe ESD precautions
when handling the PLD driver and your laser diode.
