LDXProduct Features
Low cost laser diode driver:0 - 200 mA output range
Versatile control: constant current
and constant power modes
Laser diode protection
Fully independent, precision current
limit control
Easy connection to lasers and LEDs

The LDX-3412 Low Cost Precision Laser Diode Driver isdesigned for current controlling general purpose laser diodes.
This 0-200 mA driver has the outstanding performance expectedfrom ILX Lightwave, at an attractive price. Our industry-leading
laser diode protection circuits are included, along with useradjustable photodiode feedback capability.
The LDX-3412 is an easy to operate, precision current source
optimized for controlling laser diodes and LEDs. An intuitive front
panel with a highly visible LED display simplifies operation, andthe innovative voltage source / constant current output stage
design makes operation dependable. For many applications,the LDX-3412 offers the right features at the right price.
When laser diode applications require stable, low-noise
current performance, but are restrained by a limited budget, theLDX-3412 is the ideal solution. This laser diode driver delivers astable, low-noise current in both constant current and constantlight operating modes, and offers ILX Lightwave’s provenprotection and safety features to safeguard lasers.

A Precision Current Source
Designed to Fit Every Budget

3412
Low CostPrecision
Laser DiodeDriver

LDX

3412
Low CostPrecision
Laser Diode
DriverVersatile Operation Modes
The LDX-3412 features three operation/display
modes. (1) Constant Current, which delivers astable precision current up to 200 mA at up to 6V
to the laser diode. (2) Constant Power, which uses
a photodiode feedback signal to control the currentoutput, ensuring a constant light level, despite
varying junction. (3) Limit Display, which conveniently
displays the current limit set point level.

sources. The output stage is actually a voltage source,
controlled by a slow feedback loop to maintain aconstant output current.
The LDX-3412 also employs our proven current
limit circuit, which allows current adjustment without
over-driving. This allows the current limit to be safely
set, even while the unit is actively driving a laser at alower current level, which is independent of the outputcompliance voltage.

Unique Laser Diode Protection

Connect to Any Laser or LED Package

Like other ILX Lightwave laser diode drivers, theLDX-3412 employs our unique output off/on switch
technology. When the output switch is enabled, theoutput is turned on safely by slowly switching theshunt to a high impedance state. When turned off,the output switch returns the semiconductor shunting
device to a low impedance state, thereby shorting
the output terminals while suppressing potentiallydamaging current transients. Also a double-shieldedtransformer reduces AC line noise, and suppresses
potentially damaging line transients.
By incorporating our voltage source/constantcurrent output stage design, the 3412 provides agreater level of laser protection than other current

The output terminals of the LDX-3412 arefully floating, allowing either side to be grounded
if necessary. For constant power operation, aninstrumentation amplifier is used at the 3412’s
input from the external monitor photodiode. This
allows connection to any laser/LED package pin
configuration.

Low Noise and High Stability
The LDX-3412 output broadband noise is lessthan 0.01% rms, and temperature coefficient stability
is better than 100 ppm/oC. Under typical laboratory
conditions, output current drift is less than 50 ppm overa 30-minute period, in constant current mode.

Specifications
OUTPUT
Output Current Range:
Compliance Voltage:
Temperature Coefficient:
Stability, 10-30 minutes:
Noise and Ripple (@ 100 mA):
Transients:2

0-200 mA, floating>6V<100 ppm/oC, ambient
50 ppm or better<2 A rms
<100 A

With a typical drift of less than 20 ppm/oC over a 30 minute period,
the LDX-3412 out performs typical low cost power supplies.

DISPLAYType:
Maximum Reading:Accuracy (@ 25oC):

3 1/2 digit green LED
199.9 mA
+0.2 mA

CURRENT LIMIT
Range:
Accuracy:

1-200 mA
+3 mA

PHOTODIODE FEEDBACK
Input Type:
Range:
Stability:

Current input from external
photodiode20 A to 2 mA
+0.1%

GENERAL
Power:
Size (HxWxD):
Weight:Operating Temperature:
Storage Temperature:

100, 120, 220, or 240 VAC;
50/60 Hz66mm x 140mm x 267mm;
2.6” x 5.5” x 10.5”
1.8 kg (4.0 lbs.)
0oC to 50oC
-40oC to 70oCWarm-Up:
Laser Output Connector:
Chassis Ground:Interlock:

1 hour, to rated accuracy
9-pin D-sub
Standard banana jack
System interlock, set byinternal jumpers, user adjustable

NOTES
1. All values measured after a one-hour warm up period.
2.

Maximum output current resulting from normal operational situations (i.e. power on-off,current on-off), as well as accidental situations (i.e. power line plug removal). Tested toILX Technical Standard #LDC-00196.

ORDERING INFORMATION
LDX-3412
LDM-4405
CC-305S
CC-306S
LNF-320

Low Cost Precision Current Source
Low Cost TO-Can Laser Diode Mount
Current Source / Laser Diode Mount Interconnect Cable
Current Source / Unterminated Interconnect Cable
Low Noise Filter

In keeping with our commitment to continuing improvement, ILX Lightwave reserves the right to change
specifications without notice or liability for such changes.

For information call
P.O. Box 6310, Bozeman, MT 59771 • FAX: 406-586-9405

1-800-459-9459

www.ilxlightwave.com

International Inquiries: 406-556-2481
email: sales@ilxlightwave.com

REV02.042909