Multimode pump laser set for show launch

Bookham will launch a fully qualified high-power uncooled multimode pump laser module for industrial applications such as fibre laser pumping at Photonics West later this month.

Bookham will launch a fully qualified high-power uncooled multimode pump laser module for industrial applications such as fibre laser pumping at Photonics West later this month.

The pump module combines high power with high reliability and stable performance.

The multimode pump laser module allows a significant step forward in the design of current and next generation laser systems by providing increased brightness at lower cost and with high reliability.

The uncooled module, incorporating the latest generation of multimode pump laser chips from the Bookham Zurich facility, delivers 7W light output power from a multimode fibre with 105um core diameter and 0.15 or 0.22 numerical aperture.

During a 2000h life test at module level at 8A injection current and up to 45C heatsink temperature, the pump units have proven their long term stability.

Successful thermal cycling, high temperature storage and mechanical integrity tests provide the base for the qualification of this unique high power module.

In addition, powers of more than 11W out of fibre have been successfully achieved, demonstrating the capability and robustness of the overall design.

The hermetic module provides a preferred packaging platform incorporating a floating anode and cathode.

"This is a significant advance in high power uncooled multimode pump performance and a key product to our qualified industrial laser portfolio", said Berthold Schmidt, Director of Product Marketing for High Power Lasers.

"It is another example of our leadership in producing high brightness and high reliability laser diodes".

"Our in-house semiconductor design and highly automated high volume manufacturing line are enabling us to deliver exceptional value to a broad range of industrial laser markets".

One of the core technologies driving advances in power and reliability is the Bookham proprietary E2 process, which passivates the laser's front mirror.

The aim of this passivation is to prevent catastrophic optical mirror damage (COMD), which is otherwise a common problem in the development of high brightness GaAs laser diodes.

Bookham has also developed a high temperature AuSn die bonding technology that enables laser diode bars to be driven at the highest power levels.

The new pump module will be displayed at the Bookham stand (1727) at Photonics West in San Jose later this month.

Bookham will also present two papers at associated symposium LASE 2006: high brightness laser diode bars; and 9xx high power pump modules.

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