THORLABS DC2200 User manual

High Power LED Controller
DC2200
Operation Manual
2020

Copyright © 2020 Thorlabs GmbH
Version:
Date: 1.6 23-Sep-2020

Foreword
Contents 3
1 General Information 4
51.1 Safety 61.2 Ordering Codes and Accessories 61.3 Requirements
2 Getting Started 7
72.1 Parts List 72.2 Operating Elements 92.3 First Steps
3 Operating Instruction 10
113.1 LED Settings 133.2 System Settings 143.3 Operation 143.3.1 Constant Current Mode 153.3.2 Brightness Mode 163.3.3 PWM Mode 173.3.4 Pulse Mode 183.3.5 Internal Modulation Mode 193.3.6 External Modulation Mode 193.3.7 TTL Modulation Mode 203.3.8 Info 213.4 Remote Operation 223.4.1 Installing Software 313.4.2 Remote Operation GUI
4 Write Your Own Application 37
384.1 32 bit Systems 394.2 64 bit Systems 414.3 Command Reference 414.3.1 IEEE488.2 Common Commands 434.3.2 SCPI Command Reference 494.3.3 Status Reporting 524.3.4 Error Reporting
5 Maintenance and Service 58
585.1 Version Information 595.2 Firmware Update 645.3 Error Messages
6 Appendix 66
666.1 Technical Data

686.2 Dimensions 696.3 Interlock Circuit 696.4 Connect a Custom LED 716.5 Return of Devices 716.6 Manufacturer Address 726.7 Certifications and Compliances 736.8 Warranty 736.9 Copyright and Exclusion of Liability 746.10List of Acronyms 756.11Thorlabs Worldwide Contacts and WEEE Policy

© 2020 Thorlabs GmbH
We aim to develop and produce the best solution for your application
in the field of optical measurement technique. To help us to live up to
your expectations and constantly improve our products we need
your ideas and suggestions. Therefore, please let us know about
possible criticism or ideas. We and our international partners are
looking forward to hearing from you.
Thorlabs GmbH
Warning
Sections marked by this symbol explain dangers that might result in
personal injury or death. Always read the associated information
carefully, before performing the indicated procedure.
Please read this advice carefully!
This manual also contains "NOTES" and "HINTS" written in this form.
Attention
Paragraphs preceded by this symbol explain hazards that could
damage the instrument and the connected equipment or may cause
loss of data.
Note
3

© 2020 Thorlabs GmbH4
DC2200
1 General Information
The Thorlabs DC2200 High-Power LED controller features:
·Color Touch-Panel Display
·Two output terminals
-LED1 (12 pin connector) for Thorlabs SOLIS High-Power LED Series
-LED2 (4 pin connector) for Thorlabs Mounted (MxxxLx) or Fiber-Coupled (MxxxFx)
LEDs.
Using the supplied CAB-DC2200 and CAB-LEDD1 cables, custom LEDs can be connec-
ted as well, see Appendix in the full manual, section Connecting Custom LED .
·Constant Current Mode
·Brightness Mode
·Internal PWM (Pulse-Width Modulation) Mode with adjustable frequency, duty cycle and
pulse count
·Internal Pulse Mode with adjustable On- /Off-Time and pulse count
·Internal Modulation (sine, square and triangle waveforms, 20 Hz to 100 kHz)
·External Modulation Mode
·External TTL Modulation Mode
·Remote Control via USB interface (DC2200 Remote Application; USB Test & Measure-
ment Device driver)
·Firmware Update Capability via USB Interface and Thorlabs DFU Wizard application.
Terminal LED1
Terminal LED1 is capable of driving an LED with a forward voltage of up to 50 V and a current
of up to 10 A. Five "pairs" of max. voltage and max. current are given:
·Max. current 10 A @ max. forward voltage 5 V
·Max. current 5 A @ max. forward voltage 10 V
·Max. current 4 A @ max. forward voltage 15 V
·Max. current 2 A @ max. forward voltage 35 V
·Max. current 1 A @ max. forward voltage 50 V
Terminal LED2
Terminal LED2 is capable of driving an LED with a forward voltage of up to 50 V and a current
of up to 2 A. Two "pairs" of max. voltage and max. current are given:
·Max. current 2 A @ max. forward voltage 35 V
·Max. current 1.5 A @ max. forward voltage 50 V
69

© 2020 Thorlabs GmbH
1 General Information
5
1.1 Safety
Attention
The safety of any system incorporating the equipment is the responsibility of the assembler of
the system.
All statements regarding safety of operation and technical data in this instruction manual will
only apply when the unit is operated correctly as it was designed for.
The DC2200 must not be operated in explosion endangered environments!
Do not obstruct the air ventilation slots in the housing! Do not remove covers or open the cab-
inet!
There are no parts serviceable by the operator inside!
Keep in mind, that High Power LEDs may get hot!
This precision device is only serviceable if properly packed into the complete original packaging
including the plastic foam sleeves. If necessary, ask for replacement packaging.
Refer servicing to qualified personnel!
Only with written consent from Thorlabs GmbH may changes to single components be made or
components not supplied by Thorlabs GmbH be used.
Attention
Prior to applying power to the DC2200, make sure that the protective conductor of the 3 con-
ductor mains power cord is correctly connected to the protective earth ground contact of the
socket outlet! Improper grounding can cause electric shock resulting in damage to your health
or even death!
All modules must only be operated with duly shielded connection cables.
Attention
The following statement applies to the products covered in this manual, unless otherwise spe-
cified herein. The statement for other products will appear in the respective accompanying doc-
umentation.
Note This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital
device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules and meets all requirements of the Canadian Inter-
ference-Causing Equipment Standard ICES-003 for digital apparatus. These limits are de-
signed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is op-
erated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio
frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may
cause harmful interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a residen-
tial area is likely to cause harmful interference in which case the user will be required to correct
the interference at his own expense.
Users that change or modify the product described in this manual in a way not expressly ap-
proved by Thorlabs GmbH (party responsible for compliance) could void the user’s authority to
operate the equipment.
Thorlabs GmbH is not responsible for any radio television interference caused by modifications
of this equipment or the substitution or attachment of connecting cables and equipment other
than those specified by Thorlabs GmbH. The correction of interference caused by such unau-
thorized modification, substitution or attachment will be the responsibility of the user.
The use of shielded I/O cables is required when connecting this equipment to any and all op-
tional peripheral or host devices. Failure to do so may violate FCC and ICES rules.

© 2020 Thorlabs GmbH6
DC2200
Attention
Mobile telephones, cellular phones or other radio transmitters are not to be used within the
range of three meters of this unit since the electromagnetic field intensity may then exceed the
maximum allowed disturbance values according to IEC 61326-1.
This product has been tested and found to comply with the limits according to IEC 61326-1 for
using connection cables shorter than 3 meters (9.8 feet).
1.2 Ordering Codes and Accessories
DC2200
High-Power LED Current Controller
CAB-DC2200
Connection Cable for custom LED - terminal LED1 (one end open wires, in-
cluded)
CAB-LEDD1
Connection Cable for custom LED - terminal LED2 (one end open wires, in-
cluded)
Compatible LEDs
SOLIS Series
Thorlabs High Power LED
MxxxLx
Thorlabs Mounted LED
MxxxFx
Thorlabs Fiber Coupled LED
1.3 Requirements
These are the requirements for the PC intended to be used for remote operation of the
DC2200.
Hardware Requirements
CPU: 1 GHz or higher
RAM: 256 MB
Graphic card Min. 32 MB memory
Hard disc Min 100 MB free storage space
Interface free USB 2.0 port, USB cable according the USB 2.0 specification
Software Requirements
The DC2200 software is compatible with the following operating systems:
·Windows®XP (32-bit) SP3
·Windows®Vista (32-bit, 64-bit)
·Windows®7 (32-bit, 64-bit)
·Windows®8 / 8.1 (32-bit, 64-bit)
For operation of the DC2200, the NI-VISA™ Runtime (V 5.1.1 or later) is required as well. This
NI-VISA™ software is included with the Thorlabs GmbH DC2200 installation package, but can
be downloaded also from National Instruments' website www.ni.com.

© 2020 Thorlabs GmbH
2 Getting Started
7
2 Getting Started
2.1 Parts List
Inspect the shipping container for damage.
If the shipping container seems to be damaged, keep it until you have inspected the contents
and you have inspected the DC2200 mechanically and electrically.
Verify that you have received the following items within the package:
1. DC2200
2. Power Supply 100 - 240 V AC / 48 V 2.08 A DC
3. Custom Cable CAB-DC2200 to connect a custom LED to terminal LED1
4. Custom Cable CAB-LEDD1 to connect a custom LED to terminal LED2
5. USB 2.0 Cable
6. Quick Start Manual
2.2 Operating Elements
Front Panel
1
LED On / Off Button
2
Main Menu
3
Status Bar
4
Device Information Button
5
System Settings Button

© 2020 Thorlabs GmbH8
DC2200
Rear Panel
1
LED1 High-Power Terminal
2
LED2 Standard Terminal
3
Interlock Connector
4
SMA Connector: External Modulation Input / Internal Modulation Monitor
5
USB 2.0 Interface
6
DC Supply Input
7
Power-On Switch
8
Ground Jack
9
Ventilation Slots

© 2020 Thorlabs GmbH
2 Getting Started
9
2.3 First Steps
1. Connect the included power supply to the mains power and to the jack (6) on the rear
panel.
2. Connect your LED to the appropriate Terminal (LED1 (1) for SOLIS or custom high-power
LED - or LED2 (2) for MxxxLx / MxxxFx or custom LED).
3. Make sure that the interlock pin (3) is inserted. Alternatively, if you use an external inter-
lock , connect it to the 3.5 mm jack (3) .
4. Switch on your DC2200.
8
69 8

© 2020 Thorlabs GmbH10
DC2200
3 Operating Instruction
After the DC2200 is switched on, it will start up and show the main operating panel.
DC2200 Main Panel Menu
Click a menu topic or tab to get more information.
The image above is a screenshot of the main menu panel for the DC2200. Click on a button in
the above image to skip to the section of this manual with detailed information on that button's
function, or browse the appropriate sections in the Operation chapter.
General Operations:
Menu Side Bar
Select menu topic up
Select menu topic down
Edit menu topic (change value) (alternatively, push the highlighted topic a 2nd
time). Note: Some menu items may be not editable in the actual menu or they
might be read-out only parameters.
Exit and return to Main Menu
Edit Side Bar
Increase value
Decrease value
Shift cursor left
Shift cursor right
Save changes and return to previous menu
Don't save changes and return to previous menu
14

© 2020 Thorlabs GmbH
3 Operating Instruction
11
3.1 LED Settings
In this panel you can select the active output terminal, test (read out) and measure the connec-
ted head and change the user defined current limit for the connected LED(s).
Active Output Terminal
The selected terminal will be displayed.
DC2200 LED Settings Panel (LED1)
DC2200 LED Settings Panel (LED2)
To change the selection, tap the line "Active Output Terminal". A blinking yellow frame will ap-
pear to indicate that this field is being edited. Select the desired terminal from the options on
the right sidebar and tap DONE.
The displayed values
·Name of the LED-Head
·Serial Number of the Head
·LED Color
·Forward Voltage
·Max. Current Limit
show the read-out from the internal LED memory (Thorlabs LEDs only). LED Color shows
either the nominal LED wavelength (monochromatic LEDs) or the color temperature (only
Thorlabs SOLIS series). If you have connected a custom LED, the above mentioned fields will
show "n/a".
TEST HEAD
Tap this button to refresh information about the connected LED, particularly in case
of a custom LED or when the LED was disconnected and replaced by another one.

© 2020 Thorlabs GmbH12
DC2200
MEAS
Tap this button to start the measurement of the current and forward voltage of the
connected LED. By switching on the LED (lower left display button), the LED set cur-
rent is applied and in the display the values as below will be displayed.
DC2200 Measurement Panel (High Power LED)
DC2200 Measurement Panel (Standard LED)
Notes
·The LED voltage is derived from a 2-wire measurement. Please be aware that the current
through the LED cable will cause a voltage drop in addition to the forward voltage of the LED,
resulting in a current-dependent inaccuracy in the forward voltage measurement.
·The LED Temperature will be displayed only for LEDs with an internal temperature sensor
that is connected to the DC2200 via the LED1 high-power terminal.
User Current Limit
Thorlabs LEDs come with an internal memory that saves the Max. Current Limit for the given
type of LED. This value cannot be exceeded in order to avoid damage to the LED. Beside this
limit, a user defined current limit can be set. Tap the menu item User Current Limit and adjust
the desired value between 1 and the maximum. Then tap to save changes.
14

© 2020 Thorlabs GmbH
3 Operating Instruction
13
3.2 System Settings
Tap the button to display System Settings:
DC2200 System Settings Panel
DC2200 System Settings Panel
Display Brightness
Tap EDIT, set the desired brightness, then tap DONE. The brightness can be reduced down to
0% while the display will not become entirely dark to ensure operation.
Enable Display Auto-Dimming
If the remaining display brightness interferes with your application, check this option. The dis-
play illumination will shut off after about 30 seconds. When touching the display surface, the
display brightness will return instantly to the set value.
Enable Audible Feedback
Enables a click sound each time the display was touched.
Beeper Volume
Adjust the volume of the alert beeper. The warning signal occurs when input values exceed
valid range or a warning is sent by a connected device.
Temperature Unit
Select between °C, °F and °K to display the device temperature.
more...
Show more System Settings.
Enable LED Safety Mode
With the Safety Mode enabled, you cannot exit any of the LED operation panels (Constant Cur-
rent, Brightness Mode, etc.) while the LED is switched on. The LED must be switched off prior
to exiting the current operation panel.
Enable Firmware Update
Check this box if you want to update the DC2200's firmware .
Fan Voltage
An external fan for heat management can be connected to the DC2200. The fan power can be
set between 6.0 V and 13.0 V. Please see the pin assignment to use this feature.
Switch LED on when starting device
The connected LED will be activated when the DC2200 is switched on.
Select ...back to switch to the previous System Settings panel.
59
69

© 2020 Thorlabs GmbH14
DC2200
3.3 Operation
This section is dedicated to the local operation of the DC2200. Thorlabs offers an application
for remote operation as well.
3.3.1 Constant Current Mode
In the Constant Current mode, you can set the LED current to a constant value. This panel
shows the LED type, the allowed max. current (the indicated LED Current Limit is either the cur-
rent limit of the detected LED or the user defined LED current limit - whichever is lower) and the
set value of the LED current, that will be applied when switching on the LED.
DC2200 Constant Current Mode Panel
Set the LED Current
Tap the LED Current line or tap EDIT
Tap the large / or the / buttons
to decrease / increase the LED current. Switch
LED on in order to observe the illumination.
Press to save your setting.
For more convenience, the area of the large /
button can be increased by pressing the
button - the side and the status bar will be hidden:
To return to normal display and make all opera-
tion buttons visible, press the button.
21

© 2020 Thorlabs GmbH
3 Operating Instruction
15
3.3.2 Brightness Mode
In this mode, you can set the brightness of the LED. This panel shows the LED type, the al-
lowed max. current (the indicated LED Current Limit is either the current limit of the detected
LED or the user defined LED current limit - whichever is lower) and the set brightness of the
LED current, that will be applied when switching on the LED. The 100% brightness is always re-
lated to the displayed LED current limit.
DC2200 Brightness Mode Panel
Set the LED Brightness
Tap the LED Brightness line or tap EDIT
Tap the large / or the / buttons
to decrease / increase the LED brightness. Switch
LED on in order to observe the illumination.
Press to save your setting.
For more convenience, the area of the large /
button can be increased by pressing the
button - the side and the status bar will be hidden:
To return to normal display and make all opera-
tion buttons visible, press the button.

© 2020 Thorlabs GmbH16
DC2200
3.3.3 PWM Mode
PWM stands for Pulse Width Modulation. In PWM mode the DC2200 generates rectangular
pulses with
·adjustable frequency (0.1 Hz to 20 kHz)
·adjustable duty cycle (0.1 % to 99.9 %)
·adjustable pulse count (1 to 1000; infinite)
The pulse amplitude is given by the set value of the LED current, in other words, the LED cur-
rent is modulated by a train of rectangular pulses. The graphics below illustrates the Duty
Cycle parameter:
DC2200 PWM Panel
·Set the LED Current: This will be the current supplied to the LED while it is switched on. It
can be adjusted between 0 and the indicated above LED Current Limit .
·Set the Frequency.
·Set the Duty Cycle.
·Set the number of counts. "Infinite" is set by decreasing below 1.
Note
In PWM Mode, at the SMA MOD IN/OUT connector (4) at the rear panel the internal modula-
tion signal is reproduced as a TTL signal.
12
8

© 2020 Thorlabs GmbH
3 Operating Instruction
17
3.3.4 Pulse Mode
The Pulse Mode is comparable to the PWM Mode . Here, the DC2200 generates also rectan-
gular pulses with
·adjustable ON time (0.001 ms to 10 s)
·adjustable OFF time (0.001 ms to 10 s)
·adjustable pulse count (1 to 1000; infinite)
The pulse amplitude is given by the set value of the LED brightness from 0 to 100 %. As in
Brightness Mode , 100 % brightness are related to the maximum LED current.
If needed, the pulse frequency can be calculated from
The achievable frequency range reaches from 0.05 to 500 Hz.
DC2200 Pulse Mode Panel
·Set the LED brightness: This will be the brightness during "LED ON". It can be adjusted
between 0 and 100 %, with the max brightness corresponding to the LED being driven at
the LED Current Limit .
·Set the ON and OFF time.
·Set the number of counts. "Infinite" is set by decreasing below 1.
Note
In Pulse Mode, at the SMA MOD IN/OUT connector (4) at the rear panel the internal modula-
tion signal is reproduced as a TTL signal.
16
15
12
8

© 2020 Thorlabs GmbH18
DC2200
3.3.5 Internal Modulation Mode
In this mode the DC2200 generates a signal that modulates the LED current.
·waveforms: sine, square and triangle
·modulation frequency range: 20 Hz to 100 kHz
·adjustable LED current maximum (% LED Cur-
rent Minimum to 100 %)
·adjustable LED current minimum (0 % to %
LED Current Maximum)
The amplitude results from the difference
between the LED current maximum and mini-
mum. The following time diagram illustrates that
for the above shown settings:
·Set the LED max and min current in % of the LED current limit stated at the top of the
panel.
·Select the waveform:
·Select the modulation frequency.
Note
In Internal Modulation Mode, at the SMA MOD IN/OUT connector (4) at the rear panel a TTL
signal is available that is synchronized with the zero-crossings of the internal modulation signal.
In above example, the monitor signal is triggered each time the LED current crosses the 50%
amplitude line.
8