Decrease in Laser Power: Why Is It Happening?

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    decreasing Laser Power
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the observed decrease in power output of a laser diode over time, particularly focusing on the potential causes related to temperature sensitivity and the need for proper driving electronics. Participants explore the implications of temperature control on laser performance.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant notes a 10% decrease in laser power over a day and questions whether the laser requires a warm-up period to stabilize.
  • Another participant emphasizes the importance of temperature control for laser diodes and inquires about the type of driver being used, suggesting that a proper driver includes a temperature controller.
  • A participant acknowledges the sensitivity of laser diodes to temperature and admits to using only a basic power source and pulse generator without a proper driver.
  • One participant provides a link to commercial temperature controllers, noting that their effectiveness depends on the compatibility with the diode mount.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying levels of understanding regarding the importance of temperature control for laser diodes. There is no consensus on the specific requirements for the participant's setup or the effectiveness of the current configuration.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include the lack of detailed information on the specific laser diode model, the absence of a temperature controller, and the potential impact of these factors on the observed power decrease.

nordmoon
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Hi, So I am working with measurements using a laser. What I have noticed is that the power of the laser decreases from the time we start the laser until maybe an hour later.

Today I noticed it has decreased 10%, from yesterday, which I think sounds like a lot.
Does the laser have to warm up and become stable Before operation? The laser is a laser diode.
 
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How is the temperature of the diode controlled? I.e,. are you using a "proper" driver or are you just driving it with a normal current source?
Laser diodes are sensitive to temperature which is why "proper" drive electronics includes a temperature controller.
 
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f95toli said:
How is the temperature of the diode controlled? I.e,. are you using a "proper" driver or are you just driving it with a normal current source?
Laser diodes are sensitive to temperature which is why "proper" drive electronics includes a temperature controller.

Ok I see, that makes sense. I forgot about the temperature sensitivity. As far as I can see it only have a power source and pulse generator. No, there is no 'proper' driver. How would a temperature controller look like? What would it consist of?
 
Commerical versions look like this

https://www.thorlabs.com/navigation.cfm?guide_id=2107

However, these will only work if your diode is an a mount which can be used with a temperature controller.

(btw, I am not an expert in this area; but I do use laser diodes from time to time)
 

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