In this project, led by Ajit Jha at the Department of Engineering Sciences and Mechatronics at the University of Agder, Kenneth Østerhus has worked on the development, implementation, and configuration of new laser drivers. The work combined practical laboratory setup with electronic design aimed at achieving stable and low-noise power solutions.
A central part of the project involved designing a robust ±5 V power supply for the laser drivers. This included the development of a π-filter (CLC) to reduce ripple and high-frequency noise originating from the switched DC–DC converters powering the drivers. The solution combines a common-mode choke at the input and a differential π-filter with capacitors and an inductor.
In addition to the power supply, several new laser drivers were configured and tested, including both LD1100 and IP500 drivers, focusing on correct connection of the laser diode and photodiode, current limiting, and configuration for modulation. The drivers were set up in Automatic Constant Current Control (ACC) mode, with limits to match the ratings of the components. Work was also carried out on analog modulation using a signal generator, including correct selection of signal characteristics. Documentation from the setup details wiring points, jumper configurations, and power requirements for the ±5 V supply used with the IP500 driver.
The project combined electronic circuit design with configuration work in the laboratory, with the goal of ensuring stable and noise-free operation of the lasers during both continuous and modulated use.