ILX Lightwave LDC3724 Laser Diode Controller

The ILX Lightwave LDC3724 Laser Diode Controller integrates a precision low-noise current source and temperature controller in a single instrument for demanding laser diode applications. It delivers stable, reliable operation with dual output current ranges, adjustable compliance voltage to 10 V, and current setpoint accuracy of ±0.05% of full scale. The controller supports constant current and constant optical power modes, with analog modulation capability up to 1 MHz.

Its temperature controller maintains stability to ±0.005°C across supported sensor types, with ±10 V / ±4 A TEC output capability. Remote operation via GPIB/IEEE-488 and USB interfaces enables integration into automated test systems.

Technical Specifications

• Output current ranges: 200 mA / 500 mA


• Compliance voltage: Adjustable, maximum 10 V


• Current setpoint resolution: <2 µA


• Current setpoint accuracy: ±0.05% of full scale


• Current noise: <1 mA RMS


• Drive current limits: 1–202 mA (1 mA resolution, 200 mA range); 1–505 mA (2.5 mA resolution, 500 mA range)


• Analog modulation: 0–10 V input, up to 1 MHz bandwidth; 20 mA/V and 50 mA/V transfer functions


• Operating modes: Constant current (low bandwidth to 15 kHz, high bandwidth to 1 MHz); constant optical power via photodiode feedback


• Four-wire laser forward voltage measurement Temperature Controller


• TEC output: 16 W, ±10.00 V, ±4.00 A


• Temperature control range: −5°C to +45°C


• Temperature setpoint resolution: 0.01°C


• Temperature control stability: ±0.005°C


• Temperature measurement accuracy: 0.05°C (calibrated sensor)


• Supported sensors: Thermistor (10 kΩ), IC (AD590LH, LM335AH), RTD


• Control modes: Constant temperature, constant sensor, constant TE current Electrical & Interfaces


• Power input: 100–240 VAC, 50/60 Hz


• Remote control: GPIB/IEEE-488, USB

Key Features

• Sub-microvolt current resolution for precision laser tuning


• Dual modulation bandwidth modes for flexibility across DC and RF applications


• Integrated photodiode feedback for optical power stabilization


• Multiple temperature sensor compatibility for diverse packaging requirements

Typical Applications CW and pulsed laser diode characterization; wavelength stabilization; optical communication module testing; spectroscopic instrumentation.

Compatibility & Integration GPIB and USB connectivity supports both standalone operation and integration into automated test environments. Support for standard sensor types enables use across diverse laser module designs.