Decrease in Laser Power: Why Is It Happening?

  • Context: High School 
  • Thread starter Thread starter nordmoon
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    decreasing Laser Power
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the decrease in laser power observed in laser diodes, specifically noting a 10% reduction over a day. It highlights the importance of using a proper driver with a temperature controller to maintain stable diode performance, as laser diodes are sensitive to temperature fluctuations. The conversation also references commercial temperature controllers available from Thorlabs, which are suitable for specific diode mounts. The lack of a proper driver in the user's setup is identified as a potential cause for the observed power decrease.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of laser diode technology
  • Knowledge of temperature control systems for electronics
  • Familiarity with laser power measurement techniques
  • Experience with electronic driver circuits
NEXT STEPS
  • Research "laser diode temperature control systems"
  • Learn about "Thorlabs temperature controllers" and their specifications
  • Investigate "proper laser diode driver circuits"
  • Explore "laser power stability techniques" in diode applications
USEFUL FOR

Engineers, researchers, and hobbyists working with laser diodes, particularly those interested in optimizing laser performance and stability through proper electronic control methods.

nordmoon
Messages
65
Reaction score
0
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.
 
Science news on Phys.org
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.
 
  • Like
Likes   Reactions: davenn
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)
 

Similar threads

High School How to build a simple polarization filter
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
3K
High School Wavelength of a laser beam emerging from a prism
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Graduate Laser Question - Axial Modes & Gain Saturation
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Graduate Is a Pin-Bar TEA Laser the Key to High-Pressure CO2 Laser Success?
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Graduate Power spectral density of a laser's frequency noise
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
3K
Graduate Class Making a T.E.A. Laser-- we have questions....
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
2K
Graduate Can Laser Intensity Stabilization Be Improved for Precise Measurements?
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K
Undergrad Possible non-burning visible beam mock-up?
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
3K
Undergrad Setting up a circuit to drive a Laser Diode
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
Frequency Comb (Photonics, Optics)
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
625