18 • General Operation NEW FOCUS, Inc.
While in constant-current mode, you can adjust the diode current and
laser wavelength (piezo voltage). To change one of these parameters
from the front panel, display the current (mA) or piezo voltage (V),
press the Set button so it is lit, and turn the adjustment knob. The laser
power is not adjustable in this mode; the power is read from the back
facet of the laser diode, and is only accurate to within about 20% of the
true laser output power.
Each laser head is designed and built for a specific operating current
and has a factory-limited maximum current level to prevent possible
damage to the laser diode. This current limit also limits the maximum
power output from the laser head.
Constant-Power Mode
When operating in constant-power mode, the controller adjusts the
laser current to maintain a stable output power. Only power and laser
frequency (piezo voltage) can be varied in constant-power mode. The
laser power displayed in this mode is given in terms of a percentage of
maximum auxiliary input signal.
Constant-power mode requires use of an external beamsplitter and a
photodetector to measure the laser power and provide an electrical
signal for the internal feedback circuit.
See the “Constant-Power Mode” chapter beginning on page 25 for
details on setting up and using the Vortex in constant-power mode.
Setting the Operating Mode
The Constant Current and Constant Power LEDs on the front panel (see
Figure 5 on page 15) indicate which mode is active.
To change the mode:
1. Make sure the power to the laser head is off.
If the LED in the Power button is lit, then the laser head is on: press
the Power button to turn off the laser power.
2. Press the Mode button to switch modes. The mode indicator on the
front panel will change to show the newly selected mode.
Vortex6000.book Page 18 Tuesday, February 19, 2002 3:25 PM
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