Description
iC-WKP is a driver for laser diodes in continuous wave (CW) operation with laser currents of up to 350mA from a wide power supply range of up to 15 V which requires only four external components. The driver is optimised for P-type laser diodes and allows the connection of the laser diode case to ground. The iC includes integrated circuitry protecting against destruction by ESD, excessive temperature and overcurrent plus a soft start of the regulator to protect the laser diode when the power supply is switched on. The iC also filters the laser diode power supply for transients. The regulator is adapted to the laser diode by an external resistor at MDK. The monitor current acts as a reference and is regulated independent of the influence of temperature and supply voltage (range: 2.5 ìA to 6.25 mA). The capacitor at CI determines the control time constants and start-up time. A second monitor input, pin MDA, allows the driver to be used for N-type laser diode configuration; alternatively, it can be used as an analog modulation input (DC to a few kHz). In the event of failure, such as overcurrent in the laser path with a lack of feedback, for example, a quick power lockout is activated. The shutdown persists until power is reapplied, permitting a restart. The strain on power packs and batteries is relieved and the laser class is retained even in the event of a disturbance. iC-WKP offers additional protection by means of spike detection at pin MDK. Should spikes or oscillation occur at pin MDK the power lockout is activated after a certain time-out.
Features