Lightwave Communications LDX-3232 - Manual (Page 30)

O P E R A T I O N
Front Panel Operation
14 LDX-3232
C H A P T E R
2
Front Panel Operation
This section describes fundamentals of operation for your LDX-3232 in two
operating modes: Constant Current (I) and Constant Power (P).
The Display
The digital display is used to show control parameters such as laser drive current
(mA), laser current limit (mA), laser forward voltage (V), voltage limit (V), monitor
photodiode current (µA), and laser optical power (mW) in both setpoint and
measurement modes. It will also display error codes that relate to LASER
operation. Error indicators underneath the display indicate control errors and are
explained in the section titled “ERROR INDICATORS”. All laser control
parameters are displayed on this digital display with the appropriate annunciator
illuminated.
Operating a Laser in Constant Current (I) Mode
Suppose you have an LDX-3232 and you want to run the instrument in Constant
Current, low bandwidth mode, with a setpoint of 1500 mA and a current limit of
1750 mA. This particular mode uses a low-pass filter on the laser drive current
output to significantly reduce noise. In this mode a modulation input of up to
10 kHz may be used via the front panel MOD EXTERNAL connector. Follow the
instructions below in the sequence presented.