Laser diodes come under closer scrutiny

Keithley Instruments has updated its L-I-V (light-current-voltage) test systems for testing laser diode modules (LDMs).

Keithley Instruments has updated its L-I-V (light-current-voltage) test systems for testing laser diode modules (LDMs).

These field-proven systems have been developed in close co-operation with major manufacturers of fibre-optic metropolitan-area network (MAN) and long-haul dense wavelength-division multiplexing (DWDM) communication systems.

Keithley's growing line of instrumentation for L-I-V production testing of laser diodes and LDMs now includes submicrosecond pulse testing and up to 5A maximum continuous wave (CW) testing.

Keithley L-I-V test systems are designed for production testing of laser diode chips and bars, and complete laser diode modules used in fibre-optic communication systems.

These test systems are also used to qualify and sort laser diodes for optical read/write heads in data storage devices.

Four standard L-I-V test system configurations are now available with an optional TEC (thermoelectric cooler) controller.

LIV-1 is a general purpose L-I-V system suitable for low power telecomm laser diode modules.

LIV-2 is optimised for DWDM transmitter module L-I-V testing.

LIV-3 is aligned with a 980nm EDFA pump laser diode module testing.

LIV-4 provides the additional power needed to test Raman pump laser diode modules.

Custom test and measurement solutions can also be configured based on the instruments selected for a Keithley L-I-V Test System.

A typical configuration consists of a Series 2400 SourceMeter instrument, a Model 2500-AT autotuning TEC SourceMeter, a Model 2500 dual photodiode meter, and the Model 2500INT integrating sphere.

A SourceMeter instrument is used to drive the laser diode, and as a modulator bias source in LDMs employing an integrated modulator.

The Keithley 24xx Series provide tight integration of source and measurement functions, improves measurement speed and precision, conserves rack space, and minimises software overhead.

These instruments are available with outputs up to a continuous 50W, 5A rating (Model 2440), suitable for the latest of high-power pump lasers.

Back to top