The 4201-DR LaserSource is well suited for low power applications, offering an excellent combination of low noise, accuracy, and resolution. If you are working with VCSELs, quantum dot lasers, or other low power devices, the 4201-DR provides a very precise, very accurate driver well suited for these types of devices.
Dual Range
One of the key new features of the 4201-DR is the dual range capability, which allows operation in either a 50mA range or 100mA range. For applications that need less than 50mA, the lower range offers higher accuracy, lower noise, and improved stability, while still maintaining the 100mA range for higher power devices.
Simple User Interface
The 4201-DR’s user interface is remarkably simple… so easy to use, you’ll have it up and running in no time. Unlike other instruments which rely on 7-segment LED displays and a confusing array of indicators and buttons, the 4201-DR instead presents the information on a high contrast VFD display in an easy-to-read format. The 4201-DR displays current, voltage, and photodiode current simultaneously… no need to toggle through the readings like on most instruments. Settings and error messages are in clear English, not cryptic codes and flashing status lights.
Programmable PD Bias Voltage
Unlike other laser drivers, the 4201-DR includes a software programmable PD bias voltage, from 0 to -5V, so selecting your bias voltage has never been easier. Simply adjust the voltage in the user menu or via a software command… no more fumbling around with a DMM and screwdriver to adjust the trim pot.
USB Interface Standard
The 4201-DR includes a USB computer interface, allowing for quick and easy connection to a PC for remote operation. In addition, the LaserSource’s command set is compatible with ILX and Newport controllers, allowing you to leverage any existing software you may have already developed.
Ground Loops Eliminated
Like all LaserSources, the 4201-DR includes isolated inputs and outputs. In technical terms, this means that every input and output signal is electrically isolated, so that offset voltages, ground connections, and AC noise will not “bleed” into other parts of the electronics. Even the photodiode input is fully isolated from the laser output, ensuring full isolation of the laser output. In practical terms, this means it’s impossible to create a ground loop through the LaserSource, a common problem in laboratory setups where several different instruments are used in the same test. No other driver on the market has this capability.
Analog Modulation
The 4201-DR’s analog interface supports modulation via the rear BNC jack.
4201-DR LaserSource FAQ
Arroyo Instruments temperature controllers feature bipolar current output, allowing for heating and cooling applications. All Arroyo Instruments temperature controllers, including the OEM packaged 585 and 586 Series TECPak controllers, provide heating and cooling capabilities.
Yes, Arroyo Instruments TEC controllers offer both low and high temperature set point limits, as well as the ability to fine-tune the controller’s PID parameters. PID parameters can be adjusted using eight standard factory gain settings that are numbered 1 through 300. Increasing the controller’s gain value will increase the speed of your control loop, while a rapid temperature fluctuation can be fixed by reducing the gain value. Users may need to experiment with a few different factory gain values to find the ideal value, and the gain can also be set to PID for even finer tuning. The PID parameters can also be set via the AutoTune Function, where the controller calculates ideal PID values based on your typical operating conditions. Please refer to your temperature controller’s user manual for more information and guidance for starting the Autotune feature.
Yes, most models support USB and RS-232 connections, with a select few models supporting Ethernet. Both the Arroyo benchtop and OEM temperature controllers can be controlled remotely via the ArroyoControl software, or integrated into custom systems using software such as LabVIEW, Python, and MATLAB.
The 585 and 586 Series TECPak temperature controllers are designed for compact, custom systems, and support PC-based control via USB and RS-232 communication interfaces. Both the 585 and 586 can be mounted in a standard 19 inch rack, and the 585 Series TECPak also includes an analog interface.
The TECPak Series controllers feature bipolar output capability like the rest of the Arroyo Instruments temperature controller selection. The 585 and 586 Series support NTC thermistors and 2 and 4-wire RTDs, while the 586 Series also supports LM335 sensors.
The Arroyo Instruments line of temperature controllers was designed for precision temperature control across a broad range of applications. Common applications and testing environments are laboratory/university research work, laser diode characterization, industrial and manufacturing testing applications, and OEM system integration.
Arroyo Instruments temperature controllers have a temperature stability specification of ±0.004°C over a 1 hour span and ±0.01°C over 24 hours at an ambient room temperature of roughly 25°C.
CW Mode Specifications
LASER CURRENT (Low / High)
| Range (mA) | 0 – 50 / 0 – 100 |
| Resolution (mA) | 0.002 / 0.005 |
| Setpoint Accuracy (±[% set+mA]) | 0.025% + 0.02 / 0.025% + 0.03 |
| Measurement Accuracy (±[% reading+mA]) | 0.025% + 0.02 / 0.025% + 0.03 |
| Stability (ppm, time) | < 10, 1 hour |
| Temperature Coeff (ppm/°C) | 50 |
| Noise/Ripple (μA rms, low BW) | < 1 / < 1 |
| Transients (μA) | < 50 |
| Compliance Voltage (V) | 10 |
| Modulation Bandwidth (kHz) | 325 |
| Modulation Input Range | 0 – 10V, 10kΩ |
PHOTODIODE CURRENT
| Range (μA) | 5 – 5,000 |
| Resolution (μA) | 0.1 |
| Setpoint Accuracy (±[% set+μA]) | 0.05% + 1 |
| Measurement Accuracy (±[% reading+μA]) | 0.05% + 1 |
| Stability (ppm, time) | < 200, 24 hours |
| Temperature Coeff (ppm/°C) | < 200 |
| PD Bias (V) | 0 to -5V, software programmable |
LASER VOLTAGE
| Range (V) | 0 – 10 |
| Resolution (V) | 0.001 |
| Setpoint Accuracy (±[% set+V]) | 0.05% + 0.005 |
| Measurement Accuracy (±[% reading+V]) | 0.05% + 0.005 |
| Stability (ppm, time) | < 50, 1 hour |
| Temperature Coeff (ppm/°C) | < 100 |
LIMITS
| Current Limit Accuracy (mA) | 5 |
| Voltage Limit Accuracy (±% FS) | 2.5% |
GENERAL
| Display Type | 2×20 VFD |
| Laser Connector | DB-9, female |
| Computer Interface | USB 2.0 Full Speed (Type B) |
| Input Power | 100V / 120V / 230V50 / 60Hz |
| Size (H x W x D) [inches (mm)] | 1.82 (47) x 8.5 (215) x 11.13 (283) |
| Operating Temperature | +10°C to +40°C |
| Storage Temperature | -20°C to +60°C |
 | 1201 USB Cable, 3m |
 | 1220B LaserSource Cable, 4A, 2m |
 | 1221B LaserSource Cable, 4A, 2m, Pigtailed |
 | 1400-BL 1 Bay Blank for 1400-RM |
 | 1400-RM 4200/5200 Series 2U Rack Mount Kit, 2 Bay |
| Datasheet | 4200-DR Series LaserSource Datasheet |
| Manuals | 4200-DR Series LaserSource User’s Manual |
| Manuals | Computer Interfacing Manual |
| Software | Arroyo Control |
| Software | USB Drivers |
| Software | LabVIEW Drivers |
| Model | 4200-DR Series LaserSource CAD Model |
| Firmware Update | 4200-DR Series LaserSource Firmware Update |