The Oxxius Laser Combiner, available in L4Cc (four-slot) and L6Cc (six-slot) models, is a versatile platform designed to integrate and combine multiple laser sources into a single output. This device is suitable for UV, visible, and NIR laser applications, catering to both plug-and-play laboratory environments and OEM integration into industrial systems.

Function Description:

The core function of the Oxxius Laser Combiner is to house and combine several laser sources, which can be Oxxius LaserBoxx models (LCX, LPX, LBX, LSX) or third-party sources (e.g., Coherent OBIS™, CNI MGL series). The combined output beam can be delivered either in free space or through one or more optical fibers. The system can optionally include acousto-optic modulators (AOMs) or motorized power adjustment (MPA) modules for modulating the output of fixed-power laser sources, such as diode-pumped solid-state (DPSS) lasers. Additional functionalities may include "clean-up" filters, modules for switching the output beam between several channels (MDL-FLPM, MDL-FSTM), and modules for splitting the output beam (MDL-MDUAL, MDL-SPLIT).

Important Technical Specifications:

Models: L4Cc (four-slot) and L6Cc (six-slot) for LaserBoxx sources.
Laser Sources: Supports up to four (L4Cc) or six (L6Cc) laser sources, including monolithic DPSS lasers (LCX, LPX LaserBoxx) and semiconductor laser diodes (LBX, LSX LaserBoxx).
Modulation: Can integrate two acousto-optic modulators (AOMs) for output modulation.
Output: Free space or fiber-coupled output.
Power Supply: Operates from low voltages, with a typical output voltage of 24 Volts and a power rating of 160 Watts for the provided power supply. Input voltage range is 100-240 VAC, 50-60 Hz.
Environmental Conditions: Indoor use only, suitable for pollution degree 2 environments. Operating temperature range: +10°C to +40°C (ambient air), +15°C to +40°C (base plate). Maximum relative humidity of 80% up to 31°C, decreasing linearly to 50% at 40°C. Altitude up to 2000 meters.
ESD Protection: Tested against ESD of +/-4kV on contact and +/-8kV on air.
EMC Class: Class A, intended for industrial environments.
Laser Classification: Standard combiner models typically belong to Class 3B or Class 4. Specific classification details are provided in the Manufacturing Test Report (MTR).
Wavelengths and Power: Accessible wavelengths and maximum power values are indicated on the laser wavelength label (e.g., 405 nm at 120 mW, 488 nm at 240 mW, 532 nm at 350 mW, 638 nm at 120 mW).
Dimensions (L6Cc Laser Head): Approximately 253.00 mm (length) x 108.00 mm (height) x 310.00 mm (width, including mounting features).
Dimensions (L4Cc Laser Head): Approximately 253.00 mm (length) x 108.00 mm (height) x 310.00 mm (width, including mounting features).
Remote Control Dimensions: Approximately 108.50 mm (length) x 44.00 mm (width) x 30.00 mm (height).

Usage Features:

Plug-and-Play vs. OEM: Available in two versions. The Plug-and-Play version offers direct access to most functions and safety features for laboratory use. The OEM version is designed for integration into larger industrial systems.
Software Control: The Oxxius control software (compatible with Windows 7, 8, 10) allows monitoring and control of multiple laser sources. It requires Microsoft .NET 3.5 framework.
Power Up/Down: Simple procedure involving connecting the power cord, powering on the optical bench, and activating the emission key. Powering down involves turning off the optical bench and unplugging the power cord.
Shutter Activation: Mechanical shutters at each output aperture provide complete beam extinction. Shutters can be activated via the GUI or I/O port.
Power Level Setting: Power levels can be set via the GUI by entering absolute power values (in mW) or percentages of nominal power.
Blanking Function: Temporarily shuts off optical signals, but is not a safety feature. For safety, the actuated key master control or remote interlock should be used.
Selective Deactivation: Individual laser sources can be turned off via the software to reduce power consumption.
Modulation Functions: Analog and digital modulation can be configured via the GUI or software commands. Analog modulation can be linearized or set to direct mode.
Power Control Loops: LBX laser sources can be configured for constant power or constant current control loops via the GUI.
Configuration Software (OCC): A dedicated tool for configuring combiner components, accessible via USB. It allows saving and loading configurations.
Ethernet Communication: Supports Ethernet-based communication for remote control by entering the IP address and socket port in the configuration menu.
Remote Interlock: Disables laser emission when the dedicated socket on the rear panel is not electrically connected, typically used with door interlocks.
Actuated Key Master Control: A lock and key on the remote control enable/disable laser emission. The key is removable only in the "OFF" position.
Emission Warning Indicator: An indicator on the remote control lights up for 6 seconds before laser emission, providing a warning delay.
Optical Output(s): Combined laser beams are concentrated at the output aperture, which can be free space or fiber-coupled.
Adjustable Dual Output (MDL-MDUAL): An optional module that splits the combined beam into two separate output channels with an adjustable split ratio (0-100%) via software commands.
Motorized Flip-Mirror (MDL-FLPM): An optional module that steers the input beam to one of two output channels. It includes electro-mechanical shutters and can be controlled via software commands or a digital signal.
Fast Switch Mirror (MDL-FSTM): An optional module similar to the flip-mirror but with faster switching speeds (typically >20 times/second). It also includes electro-mechanical shutters.
Repositionable Fiber Coupling System (ACX-RFC): An optional system that allows easy removal and attachment of the fiber coupling system without additional adjustment.

Maintenance Features:

Cleaning: Use a dry, lint-free cloth. Do not use liquid cleaning agents as the casing is not waterproof.
Optical Fiber Handling: Requires specific attention to avoid bending or mechanical damage. Users should use a 200x magnification microscope (e.g., Thorlabs FS201) and lint-free wiping material (e.g., NTT-AT CLETOP tools) for inspection and cleaning of optical connectors.
Fiber Coupling Optimization: Procedures are provided to maximize coupling efficiency for single-mode and multi-mode fibers, involving careful adjustment of counter-screws and adjustment screws on the coupler. This process should be performed at low optical power (50mW or below) to prevent damage.
Beam Steering Mirror Adjustment: For maintenance, individual laser sources can be adjusted by fine-tuning steering mirrors using "X" and "Y" screws to optimize beam position.
Beam Positioner Adjustment: Adjustments to the beam positioner, which uses a glass plate to translate the beam, can be made by rotating an Allen key in the tethering hole.
Data Logging: Software function to record the functional status of the combiner over time, including log interval, directory, and specific queries for LBX and LCX units.
Troubleshooting: The manual provides guidance on identifying and resolving issues, particularly for alarms. Alarms are indicated by an "Alarm" LED on the remote control and specific codes returned by software queries.
Interlocked Panel: A panel accessible for maintenance is connected to an interlock circuit that shuts off emission when opened, preventing exposure to hazardous laser radiation.
Customer Support: Contact information for Oxxius S.A. (phone, fax, email) and their website (www.oxxius.com) for expert help and detailed information.
Disposal: Oxxius is committed to ecological disposal of electrical and electronic waste. Products with the designated label should not be disposed of in normal household waste; contact a local service representative for proper disposal.

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