OPTILAB SWL-1550-M User manual

Optilab SWL-1550-M User’s Manual
Swept Wavelength Laser Module, 1550nm Type
Caution: The user must read this manual before operating the SWL-1550-M
unit. Operations other than those described in this manual may
result in personal injury and damage to the unit.
Note that any attempt to open or fix the equipment without prior
approval by Optilab, LLC. voids the warranty.
Ver. 1.5
Dec 15th, 2021

Revision History
Version
Date
Summary
1.0
10/22/10
Manual introduced.
1.1
8/05/15
Manual revision.
1.2
1/15/17
Power supply revision.
1.3
09/11/2020
Document format update
1.4
11/17/2021
Power supply revision
1.5
12/15/2021
Updated DC voltage input range
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-1550-M 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 2
2. OPERATION 2
2.1 INTRODUCTION 2
2.2 INITIAL INSPECTION 2
2.3 CONTROLS 3
2.4 DB15 PIN-OUT DIAGRAM 5
2.5 OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS 5
2.6 PC CONNECTION MODE 7
2.7 RS232 COMMAND SET 8
3. TROUBLESHOOTING 9
4. SERVICE AND SUPPORT 10
4.1 WARRANTY 10
4.2 SERVICE AND CALIBRATION 10
4.3 CARE OF FIBER-OPTIC CONNECTORS 11

SWL-1550-M User’s Manual
Page 1 of 11
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 SWL-1550-M modular swept wavelength laser unit.
1.2 Product Overview
The SWL-1550-M is a turn-key solution for fiber sensor
interrogation, Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT), and other
optical sensing applications. Inside a ruggedized anodized-
aluminum housing, the SWL-1550-M contains a fast tunable laser
source with driver circuit and control electronics. Through the
electrical voltage input, the SWL-1550-M is a laser source that
provides a fast, continuous wavelength sweeping from 1520 nm to
1610 nm (90nm version)
The optional RS-232 port will provide laser status monitoring and
laser control functions. This laser requires a single +5/-5 VDC
power supply to initiate as well as an additional voltage source for
wavelength sweeping and tuning.
1.3 Features
•Sweeping range of up to 90nm
•Laser linewidth (FWHM) of 0.15 nm
•Output power of 10mW minimum
•Optical Signal to Noise Ratio of 40 dB
•Continuous sweeping driven by external voltage source < 2 kHz
•Modular Design for OEM Integration
•One year warranty standard

SWL-1550-M User’s Manual
Page 2 of 11
Optilab, LLC
600 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, AZ 85012
Phone: [phone], Fax: [phone], Email: [e-mail]
1.4 User Safety
1. The SWL-1550-M unit emits high intensity invisible light from the
optical output receptacle. Avoid direct exposure to skin and eyes.
2. The module case is fully certified for EMS protection. The user should
never open the module case; any attempt will void the warranty and
may result in electric shock and EMS attack to equipment in the
vicinity.
3. The user should avoid using any solvent or vaporizing chemical to
clean the exterior. It may result in damage to the surface and internal
circuits.
2. Operation
2.1 Introduction
This chapter describes how to operate the SWL-1550-M unit, and
discusses the location and function of the controls and connectors.
2.2 Initial Inspection
Your SWL-1550-M 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.

SWL-1550-M User’s Manual
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Optilab, LLC
600 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, AZ 85012
Phone: [phone], Fax: [phone], Email: [e-mail]
2.3 Controls
FEATURE
Function
ELECTRICAL
CONNECTION PORT
This port is used to connect the SWL module to the power
supply and RS232 cable. It is a DB15 type connector, with
the full pin-out diagram shown on page 6 of this manual.
Optical Output Fiber
Port
The output fiber port for the SWL unit. The fiber port shown
is FC/APC type.
Voltage Tuning Port
This 50-Ohm SMA port is used to sweep the SWL-1550-M
device across its wavelength potential range. For more
information, please see page 7.
Status LEDs
These LEDs show the current status of the Laser:
Optic: Green –Optical output power enabled; Red –Optical
output power disabled
Power: Green –Electrical power enabled; Off –Electrical
power disabled.
1
3
SWL-1550-M –Laser Module
2
4

SWL-1550-M User’s Manual
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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
This receptacle accepts the electrical input for the
110/220VAC source
AC Power Switch
Enables / disables the AC electrical power to the module
unit.
LED Indicators
These LED indicators provide the status of the SWL-1550-
M. The ‘Power” indicator will illuminate green when the
device has received proper AC power connections and the
rear panel AC switch is enabled. The “Laser” indicator will
illuminate green when the laser is enabled for operation, as
set by the Laser Enable Switch.
LASER ENABLE SWITCH
This key switch toggles the internal SWL-1550-M laser
source On and Off
USB /DB9
COMMUNICATION PORTS
These ports are used to send the software commands for
proper interface and control. Using the switch selects
between either USB or DB9 as the primary interface.
DB15 ELECTRICAL
PORT
This port connects directly to the SWL-1550-M laser unit,
which relays the +5 / -5 VDC and RS232 pin terminals for
remote interfacing.
MOLEX DC OUT
This four-pin output port is not used with the SWL-1550-M
series of lasers, as the DB15 provides the primary electrical
power signals.
1
2
SWL-1550-M –Power Supply Assembly
3
6
4
5
7

SWL-1550-M User’s Manual
Page 5 of 11
Optilab, LLC
600 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, AZ 85012
Phone: [phone], Fax: [phone], Email: [e-mail]
2.4 DB15 Pin-Out Diagram
Listed below is the pin-out diagram for the DB15 pin port on the
external of the SWL-1550-M module:
2.5 Operation Instructions
Start-up Procedure
1. Ensure that the proper cable connections are made, which includes the
power assembly interconnects (as shown on page 4) and the DB15
connection between the module and power supply.
2. Due to the increased temperature of the device over time, it is strongly
recommended to use the SWL in a well-ventilated area with an
adequate heat sink in contact with the SWL for proper heat dissipation.
3. After plugging in the appropriate power plug into the AC Power Socket,
flip the Main AC Switch to the On position to enable electrical power to
the unit. The AC/DC converter supply’s LED will enable.
4. Connect the Optical Output Port using the indicated connector
patchcords to the appropriate signal destination to utilize the swept
wavelength optical output signal.
5. Turn the Laser Key Switch to the On position.
6. The SWL-1550-M is now enabled, with both status LEDs enabling to
green.
7. To voltage tune the device, you can use either a DC programmable
power supply to manually adjust and sweep the wavelength (from -5 to
+45 VDC; voltages below -5VDC may cause permanent damage to the
SWL-1550-M device, and is not covered by your warranty!), or you can
use a function generator to sweep across this same voltage potential,
up to 2 kHz. The electrical connection should be made to the Voltage
Tuning Port, which is a 50 Ohm SMA termination.
Pins 1, 2, 9, 10 –+5 VDC. It is important to
have all pins connected for proper operation.
Pins 3, 4, 5, 12 –-5VDC. It is important to have
all pins connected for proper operation.
Pins 6, 7, 8, 13 –Ground
Pin 11 –Enable, short this pin to Ground to
enable Laser operation.
Pin 14 –RS232 RX, for receiving data via
standard serial communication.
Pin 15 –RS232 TX, for transmitting data via
standard serial communication.

SWL-1550-M User’s Manual
Page 6 of 11
Optilab, LLC
600 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, AZ 85012
Phone: [phone], Fax: [phone], Email: [e-mail]
Patchcord Swapping Procedure
1. Turn the Laser Key Switch to the OFF position to disable the SWL-1550-M
output.
2. Swap patchcords as desired. Only connect the indicated connector
patchcords to the optical output receptacle, cleaning them as necessary.
3. Turn the Laser Key Switch back to the ON position; normal operation will
resume after a few seconds.
Over-temperature Procedure
1. When the Temp Overheat warning enables the pump laser will shutdown
automatically and the system will freeze up.
2. Flip the main AC switch to the Off position.
3. Restart the unit using the Start-up Procedure described above.
4. To prevent temperature issues in the future, please allow for adequate
ventilation and increased heat sinks for proper dissipation of heat.
Swept Wavelength Tuning Details
Due to the wide variety of applications for the SWL, it may require some fine-
tuning and trial and error to get the best possible swept wavelength range and
frequency for your specific use. Here are some tips for the best performance.
1. Using an Optical Spectrum Analyzer (OSA) or other wavelength meter will
aide you in determining the best voltage range to sweep. Due to the Free
Spectral Range (FSR) trait of the SWL, the wavelength tuning will loop for
increased voltage potentials. One full voltage sweep (0 VDC to +15 VDC,
for example), may see as many as two full wavelength sweeps in one
function cycle.
2. Due to the physical characteristics of the SWL, there are certain limitations
to its fine voltage tuning. For any particular DC voltage potential, the
output wavelength will shift over time (as much as 1nm per 10 minutes),
though the effect will dissipate over time. For this reason it is impossible
to develop a high-resolution voltage vs. wavelength relationship, though a
general range can be reliably determined.
3. When using a function generator, it is highly recommended to use a
sawtooth function, as the most repeatable results will happen from a
similar voltage adjustment for each cycle. For example, you will see a
slightly different wavelength range tuning from 0 to 5 VDC than from 5 to 0
VDC for a triangle wave function.
4. Though the 50-Ohm impedance should be observed for connecting a
function generator, setting the generating device to High-Z impedance
output will work as well. If you are unsure you are using the correct
voltage level, it is best to check the function on an electrical oscilloscope
first.

SWL-1550-M User’s Manual
Page 7 of 11
Optilab, LLC
600 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, AZ 85012
Phone: [phone], Fax: [phone], Email: [e-mail]
5. As you increase the frequency at which the SWL is swept, you may notice
a slight decrease in the total wavelength sweeping range. For this reason
it is best to use the slowest allowable speed in your application, and not to
exceed 2 kHz sweeping frequency. Frequencies used beyond 2 kHz may
cause permanent damage to the SWL-1550-M device, and is not covered
by your warranty!
2.6 PC Connection Mode
For the standard SWL-1550-M, connecting the module to an
external PC will allow for parameter monitoring and pump current
adjustments. If you have an SWL-1550-M with additional software
control, please refer to the additional supplemental manual for
complete information.
Using the RS232 port on the cable assembly, connect the SWL
module to a PC using the following connection diagram and serial
port settings:

SWL-1550-M User’s Manual
Page 8 of 11
Optilab, LLC
600 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, AZ 85012
Phone: [phone], Fax: [phone], Email: [e-mail]
2.7 RS232 Command Set
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 LR module. For the basic SWL-1550-M, there is
only the READ command, which displays the current parameters and
settings.
The screenshot below shows a typical RS232 response for the
‘READ’ command:

SWL-1550-M User’s Manual
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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: SWL is tuned to a lower output region.
S: The SWL will have a slightly lower output power level on the
edges of its usable bandwidth. If using a DC power supply, adjust
the voltage until you see the optimum power level.
C: Optical input/output connectors dirty.
S: Disable optical output and clean optical connectors.
C: Use of incorrect optical adapters or connectors.
S: Use only the indicated optical adapters and connectors. 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 original Optilab test data. 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 ports to prevent the damage of optical
connectors.
C: Improper pin connections
S: If directly connecting the voltage to the DB15 pins, ensure that
all +/- 5 VDC pins are making adequate contact to your supply.
SWL MODULE IS
OVERHEATING
C: Insufficient ventilation / heat dissipation.
S: Place unit in well-ventilated area or supply additional fans for
ventilation. You may need to add a heat sink for additional heat
dissipation.
UNIT DOES NOT POWER
UP.
C: Improper pin connections
S: If directly connecting the voltage to the DB15 pins, ensure that
all +/- 5 VDC pins are making adequate contact to your supply.
C: Insufficient electrical voltage.
S: Check that the electrical supply is at least 110 VAC.
C: AC Power cord is loose.
S: Plug power cord is 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.

SWL-1550-M User’s Manual
Page 10 of 11
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-1550-M unit is guaranteed 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-1550-M unit 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: [e-mail]

SWL-1550-M User’s Manual
Page 11 of 11
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.