OPTILAB SWL-15 MC Series User manual

SWL-15XX-MC User’s Manual
Caution: The user must read this manual before operating the Scanning Wavelength
Laser (SWL) module. Operations other than those described in this manual
may result in personal injury and damage to the module.
Note that any attempt to open or fix the equipment without prior approval by
Optilab, LLC voids the warranty.
Ver. 1.2
September 22nd, 2021

SWL-15XX-MC User’s Manual
Page ii of iii
Optilab, LLC
600 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, AZ 85012
Phone: [phone], Fax: [phone], Email: [e-mail]
Revision History
Version
Date
Summary
1.0
11/01/2020
Manual introduced.
1.1
05/17/2021
Command and front panel update
1.2
09/22/2021
Format update
Copyright ©2021 by Optilab, LLC.
All rights reserved.
This document is copyrighted property of Optilab, LLC. It may not be used in whole or in part for
manufacture, sale, or design of items without the written permission of Optilab, LLC.
Information herein is preliminary and subject to change without any notices.

SWL-15XX-MC User’s Manual
Page iii of iii
Optilab, LLC
600 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, AZ 85012
Phone: [phone], Fax: [phone], Email: [e-mail]
Table of Contents
1. GENERAL INFORMATION 1
1.1 INTRODUCTION 1
1.2 PRODUCT OVERVIEW 1
1.3 FEATURES 1
1.4 USER SAFETY 1
2. OPERATION 2
2.1 INTRODUCTION 2
2.2 INITIAL INSPECTION 2
2.3 FUNCTION DIAGRAM 2
2.4 PANEL DIAGRAMS AND CONTROLS 3
2.5 OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS 5
2.6 REMOTE CONTROL (OPTIONAL) 8
3. TROUBLESHOOTING 11
4. SERVICE AND SUPPORT 12
4.1 WARRANTY 12
4.2 SERVICE AND CALIBRATION 12
4.3 CARE OF FIBER-OPTIC CONNECTORS 13

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Optilab, LLC
600 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, AZ 85012
Phone: [phone], Fax: [phone], Email: [e-mail]
1. General Information
1.1 Introduction
This manual contains information on the installation and operation of the
Optilab SWL-15XX-MC module unit.
1.2 Product Overview
The Optilab SWL-15XX-MC is a high frequency, broad band tunable laser
module, designed for general laboratory and industry applications. The
module uses a low noise, tunable VCSEL as the light source, and can be
ordered with various central wavelengths. The maximum output optical power
level is around 1 mW. The wavelength of the module is tunable in a wide
range (≥10 nm) and can be tuned by applying a DC voltage on the VCSEL
through the knob on the top of the module. The wavelength can also be
scanned at variable frequencies (1 Hz~100 kHz) through the internal
scanning function or by applying an external scanning signal.
1.3 Features
•Large wavelength tunable range.
•High wavelength scanning frequency.
•Trigger in and trigger out function.
•Local control and monitoring.
•Remote control and monitoring via USB/RS-485.
1.4 User Safety
This product emits invisible laser radiation from the optical connector(s) that classifies it to be a CLASS
3R laser product accordingly to IEC 60825-1:2007. The optical output is not hazardous to eyes and skin.
HOWEVER, AVOID DELIBERATELY LOOK OR STARE INTO THE LASER BEAM.
THE OPTICAL OUTPUT MUST BE DISABLED WHEN SWAPPING PATCHCORD
CONNECTIONS.
NEVER USE ADAPTOR OR CONNECTOR TYPE OTHER THAN SPECIFIED IN THE TEST
REPORT OR USER MANUAL. If measurement instruments accept different connector type, use hybrid
patch-cords.
THE LASER CAN BE A DISTRACTION, GLARE OR FLASHBLINDNESS HAZARD FOR
PILOTS AND DRIVERS. NEVER AIM ANY LASER TOWARDS AN AIRCRAFT OR VEHICLE
THAT IS IN MOTION.
The equipment is certified for EMC requirements.THE USER SHOULD NEVER OPEN THE
EQUIPMENT CASE; any attempt will void the warrantee and may result in electric shock and EMI attack
to equipment in the vicinity.
Avoid using any solvent or vaporizing chemical to clean the equipment panel or case. It may result in
damage to the surface and internal circuits.

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Optilab, LLC
600 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, AZ 85012
Phone: [phone], Fax: [phone], Email: [e-mail]
2. Operation
2.1 Introduction
This chapter describes how to operate the SWL-15XX-MC module, and
introduces the location and function of the controls and connectors.
2.2 Initial Inspection
Your SWL-15XX-MC module was carefully inspected before it left the
manufacturer. It should be in proper working order upon receipt. You should,
however, inspect the unit for any damage that may have occurred in transit. If
the shipping container or the packing material is damaged, keep it until the
contents of the shipment have been checked to be free of mechanical and
electrical damages. Notify Optilab, LLC promptly if any notable damage is
found.
2.3 Function Diagram
The function diagram of the SWL-15XX-MC module is shown in the figure
below.

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Optilab, LLC
600 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, AZ 85012
Phone: [phone], Fax: [phone], Email: [e-mail]
2.4 Panel Diagrams and Controls
FEATURE
FUNCTION
TRIGGER IN PORT
This receptacle accepts an electrical SMA connection for
external trigger signal.
Note: Trigger In should be a LVCMOS signal, and Voltage
level larger than +3.6 V may damage the module.
TRIGGER OUT PORT
This receptacle accepts an electrical SMA connection for
output sync signal.
Note: Trigger Out sends out a LVCMOS signal with the
voltage level as +3.3 V.
OPTICAL OUTPUT
PORT
The optical output receptacle for the module, this
receptacle is FC/APC type.
REMOTE
CONNECTION SWITCH
The remote connection switch enables the customer to
select either the RS-485 connector or USB connector for
remote control/monitoring.
RS-485 CONNECTOR
This port provides RS-485 connection for
control/monitoring from a PC. Refer to section 2.6 for
pinout information.
USB FEMALE
CONNECTOR
This port provides USB connection for control/monitoring
from a PC.
SWL-15XX-MC Front Panel
1
2
3
4
5
6

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Optilab, LLC
600 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, AZ 85012
Phone: [phone], Fax: [phone], Email: [e-mail]
FEATURE
FUNCTION
AC POWER SOCKET
The AC power socket is the input for the AC power source.
A three-pin standard power cord should be used to
connect this equipment to any 110 or 220 V main supply.
MAIN AC POWER
SWITCH
This switch enables the electrical power to the SWL-15XX-
MC module.
FEATURE
FUNCTION
CONTROL KNOB
Use this Knob to change the SWL-15XX-MC module
settings. Refer to section 2.5.
OLED DISPLAY
The OLED display shows the optical settings and
wavelength tuning parameters of the SWL-155XX-MC
module. Refer to section 2.5.
SWL-15XX-MC Rear Panel
7
8
SWL-15XX-MC Top Panel
9
10

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Optilab, LLC
600 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, AZ 85012
Phone: [phone], Fax: [phone], Email: [e-mail]
2.5 Operation Instructions
Prepare Procedure
1. Prior to the operation, read the user manual carefully and refer to laser
safety information in Sec 1.4. Inappropriate operation may cause severe
damage to the instrument and harm the health of the operators and people
close by the device.
Start-up Procedure
1. Make sure main power button on the back panel is off.
2. After plugging in the appropriate power plug into the AC Power Socket, flip
the rear panel Main AC Power Switch to the ON position to enable
electrical power to the module. The OLED Display will turn on.
3. Connect the optical output port using the indicated connector patchcord to
the appropriate signal destination to utilize the optical output signal.
4. The LD current, TEC temperature and the wavelength tuning parameters
can be read from the OLED display, and the SWL-15XX-MC is ready for
operation.
Note: The SWL-15XX-MC should have been set to the default output status.
Once the Laser Power Switch is ON, the LD current is set to be 00.0 mA,
TEC temperature is set to be 25.0 °C, scanning mode is OFF and the DC
tuning voltage is set to be 00.0 V.
OLED Display and Control Knob
The OLED Display and the Knob is on the top side of the module. Four
settings are shown on the OLED once the module is powered on, they are LD
Current, TEC temperature, Wavelength scanning mode and Wavelength DC
tuning voltage. Rotate the Knob to select the setting (an arrow will appear
before the setting once it is selected). Press the Knob to edit the setting (a
line will appear under the value of the digit), rotate the Knob to change the
number of the underlined digit, press the Knob to select the digit or exit the
edit.
OLED display
Knob

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Optilab, LLC
600 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, AZ 85012
Phone: [phone], Fax: [phone], Email: [e-mail]
Wavelength tuning via the DC voltage
The laser wavelength can be tuned by changing the DC voltage (Vt, unit: V)
that is applied to the laser module. Refer to the test report for the tuning range
and the relation between the wavelength and Vt.
Note: The Scanning Mode should be OFF when the wavelength is tuned by
applying the DC voltage.
Wavelength scanning via the internal trigger
The laser wavelength can be scanned via the internal trigger function, the
scanning frequency is adjustable through the Knob, A sync signal is available
at the Trigger Out port for synchronization applications.
To enable the wavelength scanning via internal trigger function, first set the
Scan Mode ON, then adjust the Scanning frequency (SWL-155XX-MC
supports the scanning frequency of 1 Hz, 10 Hz, 100 Hz, 1 kHz, 5 kHz, 10
kHz, 50 kHz, and 100 kHz. Note: The scanning frequency can be set
continuously within 1Hz~100 kHz if the module is operated in remote control
mode, refer to section 2.6).

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600 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, AZ 85012
Phone: [phone], Fax: [phone], Email: [e-mail]
The time diagram of the scanning under Internal Trigger is shown below:
In the Internal Trigger mode, the module will apply a sawtooth wave (0~-20 V)
on the laser, the laser wavelength will blue shift/red shift when the applied
voltage level is decreasing/increasing. The module also output a 3.3 V 50%
duty ratio square wave LVCMOS signal at the beginning of each scanning
round.
Wavelength scanning via the external trigger
The laser wavelength can also be scanned by applying an external trigger
(+3.3 V LVCMOS clock) signal to the module through the Trigger In port, the
scanning will be triggered on the rising edge of the Trigger In signal. The
scanning duration is adjustable through the Knob. A sync signal is available at
the Trigger Out port for synchronization applications.
To enable the wavelength scanning via external trigger function, first set the
Scan Mode to External, then apply the external signal to the module through
the Trigger In port and adjust the scanning duration (PW, the time range for
one scanning round).
SWL-15XX-MC supports up to 99.99 kHz scanning frequency when working
in the external trigger mode. The minimum scanning duration is PW=0.005
ms.

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Optilab, LLC
600 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, AZ 85012
Phone: [phone], Fax: [phone], Email: [e-mail]
The time diagram of the scanning under External Trigger is shown below:
The module will apply a Sawtooth signal (0 V~-20 V) once it sees the rising
edge of the Trigger In signal, the duration of the sawtooth signal equals to
PW. The laser wavelength will blue shift/red shift when the applied voltage
level is decreasing/increasing. Once the scanning is finished, the module will
send out a Trigger Out signal to the Trigger Out port.
The module will ignore any Trigger In signal before it finishes the on-going
scanning process.
2.6 Remote Control (OPTIONAL)
As an optional feature, the SWL-1550-MC is capable connecting to an
external PC to allow for parameter monitoring and setting.
1. Set the remote connection switch to either RS-485 or USB connector type.
Using an RS-485 cable or USB cable to connect the module to a PC.
2. By using the Device Manager (or other similar PC device tool), the SWL-
15XX-MC should be recognized as COM Port device. If the SWL-15XX-MC
does not appear as a COM Port device, you may need to install the
necessary RS485 driver first.

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600 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, AZ 85012
Phone: [phone], Fax: [phone], Email: [e-mail]
3. Once the device is recognized by the PC interface, you can use the
following connection diagram and settings to initialize communication to the
module:
4. The RS-485 connector pinout is shown below:
5. When the electrical connections have been made, and the software
settings for serial port transmission are set correctly, you are now able to
send commands to the module. Please see the list below for the available
commands and actions.
COMMAND
DESCRIPTION
EXAMPLE
RESPONSE
SETC
Set the current of the
LD.
SETC:10.0{CR,LF}
This command will
set LD current to be
10 mA.
Successful
SETM
Set the wavelength
tuning/scanning mode:
0: Wavelength tuning via
DC Voltage.
1: Wavelength scanning
via Internal Trigger.
2: Wavelength scanning
via External Trigger.
SETM:1{CR,LF}
This command will
set the scanning
mode to be Internal
Trigger mode.
Successful

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Phone: [phone], Fax: [phone], Email: [e-mail]
COMMAND
DESCRIPTION
EXAMPLE
RESPONSE
SETDC
Set the wavelength
tuning voltage when the
module is in DC voltage
tuning mode.
The value can be set
between 000 and 999.
The corresponding DC
voltage (Vt) is between 0
V and -20 V.
SETDC:050{CR,LF}
This command will
set the DC voltage to
be -01.0 V.
Successful
SETF
Set the wavelength
scanning frequency
when the module is in
the Internal Trigger
mode.
The value can be set
between 1 and 100000.
The corresponding
frequency is between 1
Hz and 100 kHz.
SETF:50000{CR,LF}
This command will
set the scanning
frequency to be 50
kHz.
Successful
SETP
Set the wavelength
scanning duration when
the module is in the
External Trigger mode.
The value can be set
between 0 and 199999.
The corresponding
scanning duration is
PW=(SETP+1)*0.005 ms
SETP:2{CR,LF}
This command will
set the scanning
duration to be 0.015
ms
Successful
SETT
Set the TEC value.
The value can be set
between 412 and 612.
The corresponding TEC
temperature is between
35°C and 15°C.
SETP:512{CR,LF}
This command will
set the TEC
temperature to be
25.0 °C
Successful

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Optilab, LLC
600 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, AZ 85012
Phone: [phone], Fax: [phone], Email: [e-mail]
3. Troubleshooting
SYMPTOM
POSSIBLE CAUSE AND SOLUTION
OPTICAL OUTPUT POWER
NOT HIGH ENOUGH.
C: Optical output connector dirty.
S: Disable optical output and clean optical connector.
C: Use of incorrect optical adapter or connector.
S: Use only the indicated optical adapter and connector. If
measurement instruments accept different connector type, then
use hybrid patchcords.
C: Optical output connector damaged.
S: Measure optical output power with power meter and compare
with readout on Main Display. Return to Optilab for repair if the
difference is high (>4 dB) and cannot be corrected by cleaning or
replacing the optical connectors. Always apply dust cover plugs
to unused optical receptacles to prevent the damage of internal
optical connectors.
MAIN DISPLAY GOES
BLANK.
C: Static electrical discharge.
S: Wait 10 to 30 seconds for the display to refresh.
C: Insufficient ventilation.
S: Place unit in well ventilated area or supply additional fans for
ventilation.
OPTICAL OUTPUT POWER
UNSTABLE.
C: Insufficient optical output isolation.
S: Connect isolator of corresponding wavelength to optical output
connector. The use of angled patchcords (APC) will help minimize
the light being reflected back into the laser and improve stability.
UNIT DOES NOT POWER
UP.
C: Blown fuse.
S: Contact Optilab, LLC for fuse replacement procedure.
C: Insufficient electrical voltage.
S: Check that the electrical supply is at least 110 VAC.
C: Power cord is loose.
S: Plug the power cord firmly into the unit.
UNIT RESETS OR BLINKS
ON AND OFF.
C: Insufficient electrical voltage.
S: Check that the electrical supply is at least 110 VAC.

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Optilab, LLC
600 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, AZ 85012
Phone: [phone], Fax: [phone], Email: [e-mail]
4. Service and Support
4.1 Warranty
Optilab, LLC guarantees its SWL-15XX-MC module to be free of defects for 1
year from the date of shipment. The guarantee does not cover any damages
resulting from the misuse or improper handling of the equipment, or any
incidental or consequential loss. Note that the warranty will be void upon any
attempt to open or to fix the equipment by the user without prior approval of
Optilab, LLC.
4.2 Service and Calibration
Your SWL-15XX-MC module has been designed to provide years of trouble-
free operation. No internal maintenance is required provided that the
equipment is properly handled, operated and kept away from contamination.
For any questions regarding the operation and performance of the unit,
please contact Optilab, LLC at:
Optilab, LLC
600 E. Camelback Road
Phoenix, AZ 85012
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [email protected]

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Optilab, LLC
600 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, AZ 85012
Phone: [phone], Fax: [phone], Email: [e-mail]
4.3 Care of Fiber-optic Connectors
Damage to optical connectors account for more than 70 percent of equipment
performance degradation. To avoid such damage, the user should use only industrial
grade 99% pure isopropyl alcohol and follow the procedures below to keep the
connectors, adaptors and receptacles clean.
Cleaning Optical Connector End-face with Wipe and Alcohol
To properly clean optical connectors utilizing lens tissue grade wipes and alcohol
follow the procedure below. The moist wipe removes dust particles, oil and
contaminants that may damage or blot the end-face of the connector during
connection. The dry wipe removes residual alcohol that may be ignited by optical
emission.
1. Disable the optical output and turn off unit to prevent accidental exposure or
damage to the optical connector by optical emission.
2. Moisten a wipe with alcohol by placing on top of the alcohol dispenser and push
down to saturate the wipe.
3. Place the moist wipe on a work surface, and place a second dry wipe next to it.
4. Wipe the optical connector, end-face down on the moist wipe 3 times and then
repeat on the dry wipe.
5. Visually inspect the end-face of the optical connector with an optical microscope
to verify cleanliness. Repeat steps 2 to 5 as needed.
Cleaning Optical Connector Sides, Receptacles, Adaptors with Swab and Alcohol
Dust or particles can adhere to the insides of receptacles and adaptors or the sides
of the optical connector ferrule. Their presence can affect the alignment of the optical
fiber connectors and increase connection loss. To properly clean optical connectors,
receptacles, and adaptors utilizing a swab and alcohol follow the procedure below:
1. Disable the optical output and turn off unit to prevent accidental exposure or
damage to the optical connector by optical emission.
2. Moisten the swab by placing it on top of the alcohol dispenser and push down to
saturate the swab.
3. For receptacles, adapters, or other connection points, insert the moistened swab
and rotate the tip 1/2 turn clockwise and counter-clockwise 6 times while applying
light but firm pressure.
4. For fiber connectors, rotate the tip of the moistened swab 5 revolutions around the
connector while applying light but firm pressure.
5. Visually inspect the end face of the connector with an optical microscope to verify
cleanliness. Clean end-face as needed.