THORLABS ITC502 Operation Manual
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THORLABS ITC502 Operation Manual

Laser diode combi controller
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Operation Manual
Thorlabs Instrumentation
Laser Diode Combi Controller
ITC502 (-IEEE)
ITC510 (-IEEE)
2006

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  • Page 1 Operation Manual Thorlabs Instrumentation Laser Diode Combi Controller ITC502 (-IEEE) ITC510 (-IEEE) 2006...
  • Page 2 Version: 2.16 Date: 25.07.2006 © Copyright 2006, Thorlabs...

  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    General description of the ITC5xx controller 1.1 Packing List 1.2 Safety 1.3 Features 1.4 Mode of operation 1.5 Technical Data 1.5.1 Technical data ITC502 1.5.2 Technical data ITC510 1.6 Operating elements at the front panel 1.7 Operating elements at the rear panel 1.8 Pre-settings 1.8.1...
  • Page 4 2.11 Adjusting the power display of an internal monitor diode 2.12 Temperature window protection 2.13 Selecting the temperature sensor 2.14 Polarity check of the TEC element 2.15 Setup and function of temperature controllers 2.15.1 Statements and implications 2.15.2 Demands to the ideal temperature control loop 2.15.3 Influences on the real temperature control loop 2.15.4 PID adjustment 2.16 Analog modulation input...
  • Page 5 3.4 System command group 3.4.1 Answer mode 3.4.2 Error-LED mode 3.4.3 Querying the error queue 3.4.4 Averaging rate 3.5 Status command group 3.5.1 Query Device-Error-Condition-Register (DEC) 3.5.2 Query Device-Error-Event-Register (DEE) 3.5.3 Device-Error-Event-Enable-Register (EDE) 3.6 ITC5xx specific commands 3.6.1 Operation mode (MODE) 3.6.2 Laser diode polarity (LDPOL) 3.6.3...
  • Page 6 4.5 Trouble-shooting Service 5.1 Exchange of internal fuses Appendix 6.1 Warranty 6.2 Certifications and compliances 6.3 Thorlabs “End of Life” policy (WEEE) 6.3.1 Waste treatment on your own responsibility 6.3.2 Ecological background 6.4 List of acronyms 6.5 List of figures...
  • Page 7 Thorlabs This operation manual contains specific information on how to operate the laser diode controller ITC502 and ITC510. A general description is followed by explanations of how to operate the unit manually. You will also find informations about remote control via the IEEE 488 computer interface.

  • Page 9: General Description Of The Itc5Xx Controller

    1.1 Packing List 1 General description of the ITC5xx controller 1.1 Packing List 1 ITC502 or ITC510 packed in plastic form parts 1 power cord, connector according to ordering country 1 operation manual 1 CD-ROM with Drivers (for ITC5xx-IEEE) 1 Connection cable CAB 400 1 Connection cable CAB 420-15 1.2 Safety...
  • Page 10 1.2 Safety Only with written consent from Thorlabs may changes to single components be carried out or components not supplied by Thorlabs be used. This precision device is only dispatchable if duly packed into the complete original packaging including the plastic form parts. If necessary, ask for a replacement package.
  • Page 11 1.2 Safety To guarantee a safe operation of the ITC5xx always pay attention to keep the ventilation slots on the sides and the fan air inlet at the rear of the unit free from obstacles. Attention The unit must not be operated in explosion endangered environments! The user must not open the unit during operation.

  • Page 12: Features

    1.3 Features 1.3 Features • Key-operated power switch Protection against unauthorized or accidental use. • Defined states after switch-on When switching on the ITC5xx with the mains switch the laser and TEC current outputs are always switched off. The ITC5xx will always wake up in a mode that can be selected via a DIP switch at the rear.
  • Page 13 1.3 Features • Protection of the DUT against sensor failure Protection against use of an incorrect temperature sensor / protection against line interruption to the temperature sensor. • Electronic short-circuit switch for the laser diode With the current module off an electronic switch will short-circuit the laser diode to protect against static discharges etc.

  • Page 14: Mode Of Operation

    1.4 Mode of operation 1.4 Mode of operation A fixed adjustable hardware limit limits the maximum deliverable laser current in each operating mode. The laser diode is sourced unipolar against ground (anode or cathode to ground may be selected). This is of advantage regarding the stability of the laser current, noise and RF influences.

  • Page 15: Technical Data

    1.5 Technical Data 1.5 Technical Data (The technical data are valid at 23 ± 5°C and 45 ±15% rel. humidity) 1.5.1 Technical data ITC502 General Data Line voltage 100 V / 115 V / 230 V (-10%, +15 %) (fixed) Line frequency 50 ...
  • Page 16 1.5 Technical Data 0.1 µA / 0.01 µA Measurement resolution (manual / remote control) ± 2 µA Accuracy Photodiode bias voltage 0 ... 10 V Laser voltage Measurement principle 4-wire Measurement range 0 ... 10 V Measurement resolution (manual / remote control) 1 mV / 0.1 mV ±...
  • Page 17 1.5 Technical Data TEC Current limit 0 ... ≥ 2 A Setting range Measurement resolution (manual / remote control) 1 mA / 0.1 mA ± 20 mA Accuracy Temperature sensors AD590, AD592, LM135, LM335 Control range (AD590, LM135) - 45 °C ... + 145 °C Control range (AD592) - 25 °C ...

  • Page 18: Technical Data Itc510

    1.5 Technical Data Temperature control Output > 10 kΩ Load resistance 0 ... ± 10 V Output voltage Transmission coefficient IC sensors 50 mV / °C ± 5% Transmission coeff. thermistor (20 kΩ / 200 kΩ range) 500 mV/ kΩ / 50 mV/kΩ ± 5% Temperature window protection Setting range T 0.5 °C ...
  • Page 19 1.5 Technical Data Current control 0 ... ± 1 A Range of laser current I > 6 V Compliance voltage 100 µA / 15 µA Setting resolution (manual / remote control) 100 µA / 10 µA Measurement resolution (manual / remote control) ±...
  • Page 20 1.5 Technical Data Analog modulation input Input impedance 10 kΩ Small signal 3 dB bandwidth (CC mode) DC ... 200 kHz Laser diode modulation coefficient (CC mode) 100 mA/V ± 5% Laser diode modulation coefficient (CP mode) 0.2 mA/V ± 5% Current output TEC element Control range - 4 A ...
  • Page 21 1.5 Technical Data Thermistor (2 kΩ / 20 kΩ range) 100µA / 10 µA Measurement current 10 Ω ... 19.99 kΩ / 100 Ω ... 199.9 kΩ Control range 1 Ω / 10 Ω Setting resolution (manual control) 0.3 Ω / 3 Ω Setting resolution (remote control) 1 Ω...

  • Page 22: Operating Elements At The Front Panel

    1.6 Operating elements at the front panel 1.6 Operating elements at the front panel Display Display Remote Control Display Sensor PID settings Main Dial Modulation Input Main Dial Selection Selection Display Mains control TEC ON / OFF Laser ON / OFF Analog Output Setup Selection...

  • Page 23: Operating Elements At The Rear Panel

    1.7 Operating elements at the rear panel 1.7 Operating elements at the rear panel Interface jack Temperature Tune input Analog temp. control output Mains voltage selector TUNE IN TEMP OUT Mains jack with fuse Laser diode output TEC output DIP switch for interface configuration CP gain DIP switch for „wake up“...

  • Page 24: Pre-Settings

    1.8 Pre-settings 1.8 Pre-settings To protect the laser diode the maximum possible current at the output of the ITC5xx can be limited. To protect the TEC element and the other components of the setup the maximum allowed TEC current, the maximum temperature as well as an operating temperature window may be selected.

  • Page 25: Dip Switch For "Wake Up" Preset

    1.8 Pre-settings 1.8.4 DIP switch for “wake up“ preset By means of these 8 switches you can define several preset functions to determine the wake up mode of the ITC5xx when switched on. SW1 selects the default (wakeup) mode of operation: function const I down...
  • Page 26 1.8 Pre-settings SW4 defines if the bias voltage is automatically switched on: function bias off down bias on Attention Before activating this function make sure, that the monitor diode polarity is set correctly when switching on (SW4 must be set correctly). If the monitor diode is forward biased with a voltage the resulting current may damage or even destroy the monitor diode (= the laser module).
  • Page 27 1.8 Pre-settings down SW7 and SW8 select the default (wakeup) sensor type: function AD 590 down AD 590 down TH <20kΩ down down TH <200kΩ ITC500 / page 19...

  • Page 28: Connecting Components

    1.9 Connecting components 1.9 Connecting components 1.9.1 Pin assignment for the laser diode output Pinning of the laser diode connector Figure 3 Connector Interlock, status display output for interlock and status LASER ON/OFF digital ground for pin 1 Laser diode laser diode cathode (with polarity AG) laser diode anode (with polarity CG) ground for laser diode...
  • Page 29 1.9 Connecting components We recommend to use separate wires drilled in pairs (twisted pair) in a common shield for laser diode current, monitor diode current and laser voltage measurement respectively. The shield has to be grounded. ITC500 / page 21...

  • Page 30: Pin Assignment Of The Tec Output Jack

    13,14,15 TEC element (-), ground Voltage detector TEC element (+) Voltage detector TEC element (-) Status indicator Status-LED (+) Status-LED (-), ground Temperature sensor Thermistor (-), ground Thermistor (+) AD590/592 (-) AD590/592 (+) Supply voltage for Thorlabs-mounts ITC500 / page 22...

  • Page 31: Connecting A Thermistor

    1.9 Connecting components The TEC element and the temperature sensor are to be connected according to the shown pin assignment with shielded cables to the output jack at the rear of the ITC5xx. The shielding of the cable has to be put on ground potential (pin 13,14,15). 1.9.3 Connecting a thermistor The thermistor is set up between pin 3 and pin 4.

  • Page 32: Connecting A Temperature Sensor Ad590 Or Ad592

    1.9 Connecting components − ∗ ⇔ (temperatures in Kelvin) with: R Thermistor nominal resistance at temperature T Nominal temperature (typ. 298.15 K = 25°C) Energy constant For R and B refer to the data sheet of the thermistor. Evaluate the thermistor resistance for the desired set temperature. Select with the display selection keys (see Figure 1) the display value "T "...

  • Page 33: Connecting A Temperature Sensor Lm135 Or Lm335

    1.9 Connecting components 1.9.5 Connecting a temperature sensor LM135 or LM335 The IC-temperature sensor LM335 is set up between pin 8, 10 and 11. These sensors will map the temperature into an equivalent voltage that can be displayed and set directly in °C. Figure 7 Connecting a LM135 or LM335 NOTE...
  • Page 34 1.9 Connecting components Figure 8 Connecting a TEC Attention A TEC element connected with wrong polarity may lead to thermal runaway and destruction of the connected components. 1.9.6.1 Polarity check of the TEC element • Connect TEC element and temperature sensor. The sensor must have good thermal contact to the active surface of the TEC element.

  • Page 35: Connecting The Status Indicator

    1.9 Connecting components If T is settling up and down evenly around the value T the TEC element is connected correctly however the values for the P-, I- and D-share of the control loop are still incorrect. (Refer to chapter 2.15.4, "PID adjustment" starting on page 45) If T is settling properly to the value T the TEC element is connected correctly...
  • Page 36 1.9 Connecting components integrated monitor diode and shared ground connector) use two separate wires for pin 2 (PD ground) and pin 3 (LD ground) and connect them only once as close as possible to the laser diode to avoid measurement errors when measuring the monitor diode current.

  • Page 37: Connecting Interlock And Status Led

    1.9 Connecting components 1.9.9 Connecting interlock and status LED Interlock, cable damage monitoring Pin 1 and pin 5 of the connector jack will serve as test connectors to determine whether the current output for the laser diode may be switched on. Between the two pins a low resistive (<100Ω) connection must be maintained.

  • Page 38: Temperature Tune Input

    1.9 Connecting components 1.9.10 Temperature tune input The ITC5xx is equipped with a temperature tune input, e.g. to externally lock the laser temperature. The input is a BNC-jack at the rear panel above the Sub-D laser diode output connector. Attention Maximum input voltage of ±...

  • Page 39: Operating The Itc5Xx

    2.1 Mains voltage selector 2 Operating the ITC5xx 2.1 Mains voltage selector The ITC5xx can operate with mains voltages of AC 100V, 115V or 230V. Please set the mains voltage selector at the rear of the unit to the proper value and change the fuse to the appropriate value before switching the ITC5xx on.

  • Page 40: Display

    2.4 Display 2.4 Display The display consists of a 4 ½ digit display and 16 LED's The display continuously shows the value selected in the field “DISPLAY“. If the value to be shown is a set value (i. e. the laser current with the output switched off) this is indicated with the LED “PRESET“...

  • Page 41: Select The Value To Be Displayed

    2.5 Select the value to be displayed 2.5 Select the value to be displayed Twelve different values can be displayed. The value is selected with the buttons “⇓“ and “⇐ ⇒“ in the field “DISPLAY“: Left Display: • TEC current limit I TEC LIM •...

  • Page 42: Operating Mode Of The Laser Diode (Mode)

    2.6 Operating Mode of the laser diode (MODE) 2.6 Operating Mode of the laser diode (MODE) Two modes of operation can be selected • Constant current • Constant power mode using a (laser-internal) monitor diode A corresponding LED indicates the selected mode. Constant current mode In constant current mode the laser diode current is kept constant.
  • Page 43 2.6 Operating Mode of the laser diode (MODE) Constant power mode In constant power mode the current in the monitor diode (= the optical output power) is kept constant. Thermal changes of the active zone of the laser do not entail a change of the output power, however, a change of the central wavelength.

  • Page 44: Polarity Of The Laser Diode (Ld Pol)

    2.7 Polarity of the laser diode (LD POL) 2.7 Polarity of the laser diode (LD POL) The laser diode can either be operated with anode or cathode connected to ground. If you have chosen the right pins of the output jack, you also have to select the right polarity with the button LD POL in the field SETUP at the front panel.
  • Page 45 2.9 Bias voltage of the monitor diode (BIAS) The button PD POL repeatedly toggles between four different settings: (monitor diode cathode grounded) (monitor diode cathode grounded with bias voltage) CG + BIAS (monitor diode anode grounded) (monitor diode anode grounded with bias voltage) AG + BIAS .

  • Page 46: Adjusting The Bias Voltage Of The Monitor Diode

    2.10 Adjusting the bias voltage of the monitor diode 2.10 Adjusting the bias voltage of the monitor diode The bias voltage of the internal monitor diode may be adjusted in a range between 0 and 10 V. It is displayed continuously when selecting the display BIAS and can be set with the potentiometer marked ADJ located next to the LED "BIAS".
  • Page 47 2.11 Adjusting the power display of an internal monitor diode Adjustment During the whole procedure the laser remains switched off. Select the operating mode P and the display I at the ITC5xx. Take the nominal optical output power and the corresponding monitor current from the datasheet of the laser diode.

  • Page 48: Temperature Window Protection

    2.12 Temperature window protection 2.12 Temperature window protection The ITC5xx offers the possibility to control the TEC temperature within a user defined range. (Refer to chapter 1.8.3, “Setting the temperature window“ on page 16) There are two LED’s related to the temperature protection: The LED "WIN"...

  • Page 49: Polarity Check Of The Tec Element

    2.14 Polarity check of the TEC element 2.14 Polarity check of the TEC element Pre-settings • Connect TEC element and temperature sensor. The sensor must be in good thermal contact to the active surface of the TEC element. • Switch on the ITC5xx. Now follow the steps described in chapter 1.8, “Pre-settings“...

  • Page 50: Setup And Function Of Temperature Controllers

    2.15 Setup and function of temperature controllers 2.15 Setup and function of temperature controllers A temperature difference between two points in a room (thermal slope) results in a thermal flow trying to compensate the temperature differences. When devices are tempered the following components will normally be involved: •...

  • Page 51: Demands To The Ideal Temperature Control Loop

    2.15 Setup and function of temperature controllers So the temperature of the laser can be influenced with the TEC current. The quantity of heat flowing from the laser into the copper bloc and the size of the block effects the thermal settling time of the setup. Usually very small components (laser diodes) are tempered with relatively extensive cooling elements (TEC elements).
  • Page 52 2.15 Setup and function of temperature controllers To 3. The transient response by setting a new temperature is limited since the heat transport in the copper bloc is relatively slow. Furthermore, the temperature slope in the copper must form anew. The sensor (which also possesses a significant heat capacity) must settle to the laser temperature.

  • Page 53: Pid Adjustment

    2.15 Setup and function of temperature controllers 2.15.4 PID adjustment Temperature control loops are comparatively slow control loops with control oscillations in the Hertz range. The PID adjustment will optimize the dynamic behavior. With the ITC5xx the three parameters P, I and D may be selected independently. 2.15.4.1 Example of a PID adjustment (Preconditions: All limit values have been set correctly, all polarities are correct, a suitable sensor is connected and selected.
  • Page 54 2.15 Setup and function of temperature controllers 2.15.4.3 D-share Change the set temperature repeatedly between values of ambient temperature +2°C and ambient temperature -2°C and observe the settling behavior of the actual temperature. Increase the D-share gradually by turning the corresponding potentiometer clockwise.
  • Page 55 2.15 Setup and function of temperature controllers 2.15.4.5 I-Share disconnection For some cases, particularly for slow thermal loads, this procedure will not work satisfactory. Please follow the steps listed below to obtain a better adjustment. Attention This procedure should only be done by qualified service personnel! Hazardous voltages exist within the device.

  • Page 56: Analog Modulation Input

    2.16 Analog modulation input 2.16 Analog modulation input The laser diode controller ITC5xx has an input to modulate the laser diode current in constant current mode. As the internal set value for the laser diode current is modulated all laser protections remain active (!).

  • Page 57: Analog Output (I )

    2.17 Analog output (ILD) 2.17 Analog output (I At the analog output (BNC jack) a voltage directly proportional to the laser current is available. Due to the wide bandwidth the output is an exact replica of the laser current. Possible deviations of the control output from control input are due to limited bandwidth and rise time of the laser output.

  • Page 58: Laser And Tec Current On/Off

    2.18 Laser and TEC current ON/OFF 2.18 Laser and TEC current ON/OFF The laser current and/or the TEC current can be switched on by pressing the button ON in the corresponding ADJUST field. When the ITC5xx is switched on with the mains switch, the currents are always OFF to prevent the laser to be activated unintentionally.

  • Page 59: Cp Gain

    2.19 CP gain 2.19 CP gain With this potentiometer the speed of the regulation loop in constant power mode can be adapted to the setup. This potentiometer will usually be in a 7 o'clock position for standard speed. If the speed is too high and overshoots occur, please turn the potentiometer clockwise to achieve a slower settling time.

  • Page 60: Bnc Connector Temp Tune

    2.21 BNC connector Temp tune 2.21 BNC connector Temp tune This BNC connector is the temperature tuning input. This input allows tuning of the temperature with an external voltage of max. ±10 V e.g. to lock the temperature to an external process. Attention Maximum input voltage of ±...

  • Page 61: Examples Of Various Protection Functions

    2.22 Using the interlock input 2.22.1 Examples of various protection functions 2.22.1.1 External Emergency key in the lab An external emergency key (opener) is connected to the two pins of the interlock. If there are other safety switch functions connect all switches in series. 2.22.1.2 Temperature control Sometimes you may want to monitor the cooling loop of a high-power diode laser, e.g.

  • Page 62: Laser Voltage Measurement

    2.23 Laser voltage measurement 2.22.1.4 Cable damage monitoring If the interlock line is installed in parallel to the line for the laser current, a cable damage monitoring may be realized as well. An interruption of this line will open the interlock. 2.22.1.5 Laser ON/OFF-Display The interlock can also be closed by switching a LED with the anode to pin 1 and the cathode to pin 5 of the 9pin D-SUB jack in parallel with a 500 Ω...

  • Page 63: Remote Control By A Pc (Itc5Xx-Ieee)

    2.23 Laser voltage measurement 3 Remote control by a PC (ITC5xx-IEEE) NOTE The following operating elements are still working with the remote control active: • The display • The display selection • all potentiometers except the main dial knob NOTE All analog values are read and written in SI units, i.e.

  • Page 64: Ieee488 Interface

    3.1 IEEE488 Interface 3.1 IEEE488 Interface The IEEE488 interface of the ITC5xx-IEEE is based on the IEEE488.2 standard. This includes the IEEE488.1 standard for the hardware settings. There is a standard 24- pin IEEE488 jack at the rear of the unit. The address of the ITC5xx must differ from that of other devices on the IEEE488 bus.

  • Page 65: Setting Up The Interface

    3.1 IEEE488 Interface 3.1.2 Setting up the Interface Address The device address of the ITC5xx can be changed by using the IEEE488 DIP switch at the rear panel of the ITC5xx. SW1 to SW5 have to be set according to this table: Address Continued next page ITC500 / page 57...
  • Page 66 3.1 IEEE488 Interface Address On or Off NOTE The device address is valid after switching off and on again. String Terminator The string terminator of the ITC5xx is preset to <LF><EOI>. This is fixed and cannot be changed. The ITC5xx will accept any combination of <LF> and <EOI> as string terminator. ITC500 / page 58...

  • Page 67: Connecting The Instrument

    3.1 IEEE488 Interface 3.1.3 Connecting the Instrument • Connect the ITC5xx and the PC to the line • Connect the units with shielded IEEE488 cables • Switch on all units on the bus and the control computer To guarantee a safe transmission of data the IEEE488 cable between two units should not be longer than 2 meters and the total cable length should not be more than 20 meters.

  • Page 68: Ieee488 Bus Commands

    ® ® Also in the LabVIEW - or LabWindows/CVI -drivers from these functions Thorlabs are implemented. When receiving the IEEE488 bus commands [GET], [LLO], [GTL], ] the ITC5xx will execute the following functions: [DCL] and [SDC [LLO]...
  • Page 69 3.1 IEEE488 Interface [DCL] Device Clear The command [DCL] will clear the input buffer and output queue. It will also reset the parser unit and the execution unit NOTE The command [DCL] will set back all units connected to the IEEE488 bus. [SDC] Selected Device Clear The command [SDC] will clear the input buffer and output queue.

  • Page 70: Before Programming

    3.2 Before Programming 3.2 Before Programming 3.2.1 Nomenclature Program messages (PC ⇒ ITC5xx) are written in inverted commas: "*IDN?" [MODE CC] Response messages (ITC5xx ⇒ PC) are written in brackets: There is a decimal point: 1.234 Parameters are separated with comma: "PLOT 2,0"...

  • Page 71: Data Format

    3.2 Before Programming 3.2.3 Data format According to the IEEE488.2 specifications all data variables are divided into 4 different data formats: Character response data (<CRD>) Is a single character or a string. Examples: A or ABGRS or A125TG or A1.23456A (Refer to IEEE488.2-1992 standard, chapter 8.7.1) Numeric response data Type 1 (<NR1>) Is a numerical value with sign in integer notation.
  • Page 72 3.2 Before Programming Numeric response data Type 3 (<NR3>) Is a numerical value with or without sign in floating point notation with exponent with sign. Examples: 1.1E+1 or +1.1E-1 or -22.1E+1 or 143.56789432E+306 (Refer to IEEE488.2-1992 standard, chapter 8.7.4) ITC500 / page 64...

  • Page 73: Common Commands And Queries

    3.3 Common commands and queries 3.3 Common commands and queries The common commands are independent of the instrument’s functions, and are specified in the IEEE488.2 standard. 3.3.1 Identification query Syntax: "*IDN?" Response: [PROFILE, ITC510, 0, 2.17] Description: A reply consists of the following sequence: <Manufacturer>, <Model>, <Serial No.>, <Firmware version>...

  • Page 74: Operation-Complete Query

    3.3 Common commands and queries 3.3.5 Operation-complete query Syntax: "*OPC?" Response: Description: 1: Operation completed. 3.3.6 Wait Syntax: "*WAI" Description: The ITC5xx will wait until the last operation is completed. 3.3.7 Event-Status-Enable-Register (ESE) Programming: Syntax: "*ESE <NR1>" Valid Range: 0..255 Default Value: 0 Description: Sets the Event-Status-Enable-Register (ESE).

  • Page 75: Service-Request-Enable-Register (Sre)

    3.3 Common commands and queries 3.3.9 Service-Request-Enable-Register (SRE) Programming: Syntax: "*SRE <NR1>" Valid Range: 0..255 Default Value: 0 Description: Sets the Service-Request-Enable-Register (SRE). Reading: Syntax: "*SRE?" Response: [<NR1>] Description: Queries the Service-Request-Enable-Register (ESE) and returns the content in decimal notation. The content is not modified. 3.3.10 Query Status-Byte-Register (STB) Syntax: "*STB?"...

  • Page 76: System Command Group

    3.4 System command group 3.4 System command group 3.4.1 Answer mode Programming: Syntax: ":SYST:ANSW FULL" ":SYST:ANSW VALUE" Default Value: FULL Description: When switched to the ITC5xx will send only the requested "VALUE" parameter without designator. Example: When requesting the actual laser diode current with ":ILD:ACT?"...

  • Page 77: Querying The Error Queue

    3.4 System command group 3.4.3 Querying the error queue Syntax: ":SYST:ERR?" Response: [0, "No Error"] Description: Queries the error queue of the ITC5xx. The reply consists of the following sequence: <Error No.>, "<Error text>". If the error queue is empty: is given.

  • Page 78: Status Command Group

    3.5 Status command group 3.5 Status command group (Refer to chapter 3.8, "Status reporting" on page 90) 3.5.1 Query Device-Error-Condition-Register (DEC) Syntax: ":STAT:DEC?" Response: [:STAT:DEC <NR1>] Description: Queries the Device-Error-Condition-Register (DEC) and returns the content in decimal notation. The content is not modified. 3.5.2 Query Device-Error-Event-Register (DEE) Syntax: ":STAT:DEE?"...

  • Page 79: Itc5Xx Specific Commands

    3.6 ITC5xx specific commands 3.6 ITC5xx specific commands 3.6.1 Operation mode (MODE) Programming: Syntax: ":MODE CC" ":MODE CP" Assumption: The laser diode output is switched off. Description: Changes the mode of operation. Sets the laser diode current, the photo diode current and the optical power to default values. Reading: Syntax: ":MODE?"...

  • Page 80: Photo Diode Polarity (Pdpol)

    3.6 ITC5xx specific commands 3.6.3 Photo diode polarity (PDPOL) Programming: Syntax: ":PDPOL CG" ":PDPOL AG" Assumption: The laser diode output and the bias voltage is switched off. Description: Selects the photo diode polarity. Sets the laser diode current, the photo diode current and the optical power to default values. Reading: Syntax: ":PDPOL?"...

  • Page 81: Switching The Bias Voltage On And Off (Pdbia)

    3.6 ITC5xx specific commands 3.6.5 Switching the bias voltage on and off (PDBIA) Programming: Syntax: ":PDBIA OFF" ":PDBIA ON" Assumption: The laser diode output is switched off. Description: Switches the photo diode bias voltage on or off. Reading: Syntax: ":PDBIA?" Response: [:PDBIA OFF] [:PDBIA ON]...

  • Page 82: Turn The Output On And Off (Laser)

    3.6 ITC5xx specific commands 3.6.6 Turn the output on and off (LASER) Programming: Syntax: ":LASER OFF" ":LASER ON" Default Value: OFF Assumption: To switch the output on there must be no device errors (interlock open, open circuit, over temperature, ...). Description: Switches the laser diode output on or off.

  • Page 83: Reading The Laser Diode Hardware Limit (Limcp)

    3.6 ITC5xx specific commands 3.6.7 Reading the laser diode hardware limit (LIMCP) Syntax: ":LIMCP:ACT?" Response: [:LIMCP:ACT <NR3>] Description: Queries the laser diode limit current (adjusted via potentiometer). (Refer to Chapter 1.8.1, "Setting the limit of the laser current I " on page 16) LD LIM 3.6.8 Laser diode current (ILD) Programming:...

  • Page 84: Monitor Diode Current (Imd)

    3.6 ITC5xx specific commands 3.6.9 Monitor diode current (IMD) Programming: Syntax: ":IMD:SET <NR3>" Valid Range: Depends on the instrument type. Default Value: 0 A Assumption: The operation mode is set to constant power. Description: Sets the photo diode current. Unit: [A]. Reading the set current: Syntax: ":IMD:SET?"...

  • Page 85: Calibrating A Photo Diode (Calpd)

    3.6 ITC5xx specific commands 3.6.10 Calibrating a photo diode (CALPD) Programming: Syntax: ":CALPD:SET <NR3>" Valid Range: Depends on the instrument type. Default Value: 1.0 A/W Assumption: The laser diode output is switched off. Description: Sets the sensitivity (η) of the monitor diode. Unit: [A/W]. Reading the set sensitivity: Syntax: ":CALPD:SET?"...

  • Page 86: Optical Power (Popt)

    3.6 ITC5xx specific commands 3.6.11 Optical power (POPT) Programming: Syntax: ":POPT:SET <NR3>" Valid Range: Depends on the instrument type and the programmed sensitivity of the monitor diode. Default Value: 0 W Assumption: The operation mode is set to constant power. Description: Sets the optical power.

  • Page 87: Reading The Optical Power From The Display (Poptp)

    3.6 ITC5xx specific commands 3.6.12 Reading the optical power from the display (POPTP) Syntax: ":POPTP:ACT?" Response: [:POPTP:ACT <NR3>] Description: Queries the actual optical power, that is calculated from the position of the potentiometer marked ADJ next to the LED P .

  • Page 88: Temperature Sensor (Sens)

    3.6 ITC5xx specific commands 3.6.15 Temperature Sensor (SENS) Programming: Syntax: (AD590 family) ":SENS AD" (thermistor, 20 kΩ range) ":SENS THL" (thermistor, 200 kΩ range) ":SENS THH" Assumption: The TEC output is switched off. Description: Selects the type of temperature sensor. Sets the programmed temperature / resistance to default values.

  • Page 89: Temperature (Only Ad590) (Temp)

    3.6 ITC5xx specific commands 3.6.17 Temperature (only AD590) (TEMP) Programming: Syntax: ":TEMP:SET <NR3>" Valid Range: Depends on the instrument type. Default Value: 25 °C Assumption: The temperature sensor is set to AD590. Description: Sets the TEC temperature. Unit: [°C]. Reading the set temperature: Syntax: ":TEMP:SET?"...

  • Page 90: Resistance Of The Thermistor (Resi)

    3.6 ITC5xx specific commands 3.6.18 Resistance of the thermistor (RESI) Programming: Syntax: ":RESI:SET <NR3>" Valid Range: Depends on the instrument type and the selected temperature sensor. Default Value: Depends on the selected thermistor range. Assumption: The temperature sensor is set to thermistor (high or low range). Description: Sets the TEC thermistor resistance.

  • Page 91: Reading The Tec Current Hardware Limit (Limtp)

    3.6 ITC5xx specific commands 3.6.19 Reading the TEC current hardware limit (LIMTP) Syntax: ":LIMTP:ACT?" Response: [:LIMTP:ACT <NR3>] Description: Queries the actual TEC current hardware-limit. Unit: [A] (Refer to Chapter 1.8.2, "Setting the limit value of the TEC current" on page 16) 3.6.20 Reading the TEC current (ITE) Syntax: ":ITE:ACT?"...

  • Page 92: Error Messages Of The Itc5Xx

    3.7 Error messages of the ITC5xx 3.7 Error messages of the ITC5xx Devices following the IEEE488.2 standard provide an error queue storing errors one by one. An Error may occur as result of a program message (refer to chapter 3.2.2, “Program and response messages“...
  • Page 93 Possible reason: Many. Device must probably be maintained. [301, "Software error"] Category: Device Error Possible reason: Unexpected error. Please contact Thorlabs. [302, "Not implemented yet"] Category: Device Error Possible reason: Feature not enabled. Please contact Thorlabs. ITC500 / page 85...
  • Page 94 3.7 Error messages of the ITC5xx [303, "Key emulation error"] Category: Device Error Possible reason: Internal communication problem. Please contact Thorlabs. [400, "Too many errors"] Category: Device Error Possible reason: Error queue overflow (32 errors max). [410, "Query interrupted"] Category:...

  • Page 95: Itc5Xx Operation Error Messages

    3.7 Error messages of the ITC5xx 3.7.2 ITC5xx operation error messages [1301, "Interlock is open"] Category: Execution Error Possible reason: Try to switch on the output while the Interlock line is open. (Refer to chapter 2.22, "Using the interlock input" on page 52) [1302, "Open circuit"] Category: Execution Error...
  • Page 96 3.7 Error messages of the ITC5xx [1308, "No setting during constant current mode"] Category: Execution Error Possible reason: The set value of the monitor diode current and the optical power cannot be changed during constant current mode. [1309, "No LD polarity change during laser on"] Category: Execution Error Possible reason:...
  • Page 97 3.7 Error messages of the ITC5xx [1315, "Attempt to switch on laser while temperature is out of window"] Category: Execution Error Possible reason: The actual temperature of the laser diode is outside the temperature window. [1317, "Limit of temperature/resistance reached"] Category: Execution Error Possible reason:...

  • Page 98: Status Reporting

    3.8 Status reporting 3.8 Status reporting The ITC5xx provides four 8 bit registers ESR, STB, ESE and SRE and three 16 bit registers DEC, DEE and EDE to program various service request functions and status reporting. (Please refer to the IEEE488.2-1992 standard chapter 11) 3.8.1 Standard event status register (ESR) The bits of this register mirror the following standard events: This event bit indicates, that an off to on transition has...
  • Page 99 3.8 Status reporting Output buffer ERROR Queue or serial poll Service Request Generation Figure 13 ITC5xx Status registers ESR, ESE, STB and SRE ITC500 / page 91...
  • Page 100 3.8 Status reporting Power supply error No or wrong sensor Open Circuit (TEC) Temperature out of window Current limit Interlock open Open circuit (LD) Over temperature (:S TAT:DEC ?) Figure 14 ITC5xx Status registers DEC, DEE and EDE ITC500 / page 92...

  • Page 101: Standard Event Status Enable Register (Ese)

    3.8 Status reporting 3.8.2 Standard event status enable register (ESE) The bits of the ESE are used to select, which bits of the ESR shall influence bit 5 (ESB) of the STB. The 8 bits of the ESE are combined with the according 8 bits of the ESR via a wired “AND”-function.

  • Page 102: Service Request Enable Register (Sre)

    3.8 Status reporting All bits except bit 6 of the STB can be used to assert a service request (SRQ) (Please refer to 3.8.5). Alternatively the SRQ can be recognized using the command "*STB?" (Please refer to 3.8.6) or by serial poll (Please refer to 3.8.7). 3.8.4 Service request enable register (SRE) The bits of the SRE are used to select, which bits of the STB shall assert an SRQ.

  • Page 103: Device Error Condition Register (Dec)

    3.8 Status reporting 3.8.8 Device error condition register (DEC) The bits of this register show the errors, that occur during operation (device errors). The bits are active high. If the error disappears, the bits are reset to low. For an ITC5xx bits 0 ... 6, 8 are used: Internal temperature too high.

  • Page 104: Device Error Event Register (Dee)

    3.8 Status reporting 3.8.9 Device error event register (DEE) The bits of this register hold the errors that occurred during operation (operation errors). So each bit of the DEC sets the according bit of the DEE. The DEE can be read but not set. Reading clears the DEE. 3.8.10 Device error event enable register (EDE) The bits of the EDE are used to select, which bits of the DEE shall influence bit 3 (DES) of the STB.

  • Page 105: Hints For Setting Up Control Programs

    3.9 Hints for setting up control programs 3.9 Hints for setting up control programs The following flowcharts show the communication sequences between a control computer and an ITC5xx using the IEEE488 interface. Use these sequences to ensure fast and secure communication. Flowchart for writing device commands Start writing Write command to...
  • Page 106 3.9 Hints for setting up control programs Flowchart for reading device messages Start reading Write query to device (ibwrt ...) Poll status byte (ibrsp ...) Is FIN-bit set ? Is EAV-bit set ? Query error-queue (write “:SYST:ERR?“ to the device) Read device- Poll status byte message (ibrd)..
  • Page 107 3.9 Hints for setting up control programs NOTE During the test phase of control programs all program messages should be transmitted separately. Each command should be followed by a status request (response message) so that possible errors are read out directly after the command causing them.

  • Page 108: Maintenance

    The ITC5xx does not contain any components to be repaired by the user. If any disturbances in function should occur, please contact or your local Thorlabs representative for help or ask for a RMA Number, before sending the unit back for repair.

  • Page 109: Exchanging The Line Fuse

    Attention To avoid fire hazard only the appropriate fuse for the corresponding line voltage must be used (ITC502 and ITC510): 100V / 115V : T4H250V 230V :...
  • Page 110 • Push the fuse holder back until is has snapped in. • Execute a function test of the ITC5xx by switching it on. In case the ITC5xx could not be switched on despite the correct fuse being inserted, please contact your supplier or Thorlabs (Germany). ITC500 / page 102...

  • Page 111: Trouble-Shooting

    4.5 Trouble-shooting 4.5 Trouble-shooting Unit does not work at all (no display on the mainframe): Controller connected properly to the mains? Connect the ITC5xx to the power line, take care of the right voltage setting. ITC5xx controller turned on? Turn on the unit with the key mains-switch. Control the fuse at the rear panel of the ITC5xx.
  • Page 112 4.5 Trouble-shooting If not, change the polarity at the front panel, with the ":LDPOL AG/CG" command or change the connection at the laser output jack. Is the photo diode connected properly? Check the connecting cable. Is the photo diode poled correctly? If not, change the polarity with the command or at ":PDPOL AG/CG"...
  • Page 113 If you don’t find the error source by means of the trouble shooting list please first connect the before sending the whole system for checkup and Thorlabs-Hotline repair to Thorlabs-Germany. (refer to section 7, “Addresses ” on page 114) ITC500 / page 105...

  • Page 114: Service

    5.1 Exchange of internal fuses 5 Service Attention Only qualified service personnel should perform service procedures. Hazardous voltages exist within the device. 5.1 Exchange of internal fuses Disconnect Power. To avoid electrical shock, first switch off the ITC5xx power, and then disconnect the power cord from the mains power.

  • Page 115: Appendix

    Thorlabs Thorlabs. The customer will carry the shipping costs back to Thorlabs, in case of warranty repairs will carry the shipping costs back to the customer, if no Thorlabs warranty repair is applicable the customer will also carry the costs for shipment.

  • Page 116: Certifications And Compliances

    6.2 Certifications and compliances 6.2 Certifications and compliances Certifications and compliances Category Standards or description EC Declaration of Meets intent of Directive 89/336/EEC for Electromagnetic Compatibility. Conformity - EMC Compliance was demonstrated to the following specifications as listed in the Official Journal of the European Communities: EN 61326 EMC requirements for Class A electrical...

  • Page 117: Thorlabs "End Of Life" Policy (Weee)

    • As the WEEE directive applies to self contained operational electrical and electronic products, this “end of life” take back service does not refer to other Thorlabs products, such as pure OEM products, that means assemblies to be built into a unit by the user •...

  • Page 118: Waste Treatment On Your Own Responsibility

    6.3.1 Waste treatment on your own responsibility If you do not return an “end of life” unit to Thorlabs, you must hand it to a company specialized in waste recovery. Do not dispose of the unit in a litter bin or at a public waste disposal site.

  • Page 119: List Of Acronyms

    6.4 List of acronyms 6.4 List of acronyms Alternating Current Anode Ground ASCII American Standard Code for Information Interchange Constant Current Cathode Ground CleaR CMOS Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor Constant Power Carriage Return Character Response Data D-Share Differential share Direct Current Device Clear Device Error Condition Register Device Error Event Register...
  • Page 120 6.4 List of acronyms Light Emitting Diode Line Feed Local Lockout Laser Source Module Numeric Response data of type 1 Numeric Response data of type 2 Numeric Response data of type 3 Message AVailable) Master Summary Status Over TemPerature Personal Computer Photo Diode Proportional, Integral, Differential (regulator) P-Share...

  • Page 121: List Of Figures

    6.5 List of figures 6.5 List of figures Figure 1 Operating elements at the front panel ..........14 Figure 2 Operating elements at the rear panel ..........15 Figure 3 Pinning of the laser diode connector ..........20 Figure 4 Pinning of the TEC connector ............

  • Page 122: Addresses

    6.5 List of figures 7 Addresses Our Company is represented by several distributors and sales offices throughout the world. Europe Thorlabs GmbH Gauss-Strasse 11 D-85757 Karlsfeld Germany Sales and Support Phone: +49 (0) 81 31 / 5956-0 Fax: +49 (0) 81 31 / 5956-99 Email: europe@thorlabs.com...
  • Page 123 6.5 List of figures Japan Thorlabs, Inc. 6th Floor, Fujimizaka Building 5-17-1, Ohtsuka Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 112-0012 Japan Sales and Support Phone: +81-3-5977-8401 Fax: +81-3-5977-8402 Email: sales@thorlabs.jp Web: www.thorlabs.jp Please call our hotlines, send an Email to ask for your nearest distributor or just visit our homepage http://www.thorlabs.com...

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