THORLABS LSK-GR08 User manual

LSK-GR08(/M)
8 kHz Galvo-Resonant
Scanner and Controller
User Guide

8 kHz Galvo-Resonant Scanner and Controller
Copyright May 20 , 2019 Thorlabs, Inc.Allrights reserved.
Information in this document is subject to change without notice. The software described in
this document is furnishe d under alicense agreement or nondis closure agreement. The
software may be used or copied only in accordance with the terms of those agreements. No
part of this publication maybe repro duced, stored in aretrieval system, or transmitted inany
form or any means electronic or mechanical, including photocopying and recording for any
purpose other than the purchaser's personal use without the written permission of
Thorlabs, Inc.
Thorlabs, Inc.
108 Powers Court
Sterling, VA 20166
703-651-1700

8 kHz Galvo-Resonant Scanner and Controller
Table of Contents
Chapter 1 Warning Symbol Definitions ...........................................1
Chapter 2 Safety.................................................................................2
Chapter 3 Description........................................................................3
3.1. Overview ....................................................................... 3
3.2. Connector Choices.......................................................... 3
Chapter 4 Getting Started .................................................................5
4.1. Unpacking and Inspection.............................................. 5
4.2. Setting Up the LSK-GR08(/M)......................................... 5
4.2.1. Preparation..................................................................................5
Chapter 5 Software ............................................................................7
5.1. LSK-GR Software Development Kit (SDK) Installation ..... 7
5.2. COM Port Number Configuration ................................. 12
5.3. GUI (Graphical User Interface) ..................................... 14
5.3.1. GUI Display Area.......................................................................14
5.3.2. GUI Menu ..................................................................................15
5.4. Updating the Firmware................................................ 16
Chapter 6 Maintaining the LSK-GR08(/M)......................................18
6.1. Cleaning ...................................................................... 18
6.2. Troubleshooting .......................................................... 19
6.2.1. Replacing the Fuse....................................................................20
Chapter 7 Specifications.................................................................22
7.1. General Specifications ................................................. 22
7.2. Scan Head Performance Specifications......................... 23
7.3. Galvo Mirror Specifications.......................................... 24
7.4. Resonant Mirror Specifications .................................... 25
7.5. Fuse Specifications....................................................... 25
7.6. Choosing a Scanner Lens .............................................. 26

8 kHz Galvo-Resonant Scanner and Controller
7.7. NIR Window ................................................................ 27
Chapter 8 NI PCIe 6321 Card Schematic .......................................28
Chapter 9 Mechanical Drawings.....................................................29
Chapter 10 Certifications and Compliance......................................32
Chapter 11 Warranty..........................................................................33
Chapter 12 Regulatory.......................................................................34
Chapter 13 Thorlabs Worldwide Contacts.......................................35

8 kHz Galvo-Resonant Scanner and Controller Chapter 1: Warning Symbol Definitions
Rev B, May 20, 2019 Page 1
Chapter 1 Warning Symbol Definitions
Below is a list of warning symbols you may encounter in this manual or on your
device.
Symbol
Description
Direct Current
Alternating Current
Both Direct and Alternating Current
Earth Ground Terminal
Protective Conductor Terminal
Frame or Chassis Terminal
Equipotentiality
On (Supply)
Off (Supply)
In Position of a Bi-Stable Push Control
Out Position of a Bi-Stable Push Control
Caution: Risk of Electric Shock
Caution: Hot Surface
Caution: Risk of Danger
Warning: Laser Radiation
Caution: Spinning Blades May Cause Harm

8 kHz Galvo-Resonant Scanner and Controller Chapter 2: Safety
Page 2 TTN118194-D02
Chapter 2 Safety
All statements regarding safety of operation and technical data in this user guide
will only apply when the unit is operated correctly. Please read the following
warnings and cautions carefully before operating the device.
WARNING
DO NOT use the device for anything other than its intended use. If the device is
used in a manner not specified by Thorlabs, the protection provided by the
equipment may be impaired.
CAUTION
DO NOT operate in a wet, damp, or explosive environment.

8 kHz Galvo-Resonant Scanner and Controller Chapter 3: Description
Rev B, May 20, 2019 Page 3
Chapter 3 Description
3.1. Overview
Thorlabs’ Galvo-Resonant Scanner and Controller (LSK-GR08(/M)) is a key
component in building a customized laser scanning microscopy system. The LSK-
GR08(/M) consists of a scan head and a controller. The controller has a high
performance driver package, which consists of a power supply and driver for each
mirror. The scan head has a precision-aligned galvo mirror and a resonant mirror.
Each scan mirror has a protected silver coating that provides high reflectance in
the visible and NIR. A shielded DB-25 connector cable connects the scan head to
the controller. The removable NIR coated window on the input port of the scanner
reduces audible noise from the resonant mirror.
3.2. Connector Choices
A National Instruments (NI) 68-pin connector or a BNC cable can be used to control
and monitor the position of the galvo mirror. In addition, the NI connector can
monitor the galvo velocity, current, and error status. The LSK-GR Control software
(via USB cable) or a BNC cable can be used to control the scan range of the
resonant mirror. The software can also adjust the TTL clock synchronization. The
beam can be steered by supplying a DC signal to the resonant mirror and DC/sine
wave drive signals to the galvo mirror. This scanner is also compatible with Vidrio’s
ScanImage software.
The mounting features of the scan head are compatible with Thorlabs’
optomechanical product lines. The input face of thescan head has four 6 mm bores
for cage rods. Use a spanner wrench to remove the window holder and NIR
window on the input face to access the internal SM1 (1.035"- 40) and internal
SM05 (0.535"-40) threads. The output face has internal SM1 threads and four
4-40 tapped holes for our 30 mm cage system. Thorlabs’ Cage Plate Adapter can
be used to convert these ports to a 60 mm cage system that is capable of holding
a scan lens. Four 1/4"-20 tapped holes (M6 for metric) are located at the bottom of
the scan head.
The Galvo-Resonant Scan Head is ideal for high speed imaging. Add other
components, such as a scan lens, tube lens, and lasers, to build a customized
laser scanning path for confocal and multiphoton imaging.

8 kHz Galvo-Resonant Scanner and Controller Chapter 3: Description
Page 4 TTN118194-D02
Figure 1 Galvo-Resonant Controller Front Panel
Figure 2 Galvo-Resonant Controller Back Panel
Power and
Fault LEDs
BNC Control and
Monitor Signal Lines
DB-25 Connector
NI 68-Pin Connector
Ground Connector
Fuse Holder
USB Port
Power Input
Power
Switch

8 kHz Galvo-Resonant Scanner and Controller Chapter 4: Getting Started
Rev B, May 20, 2019 Page 5
Chapter 4 Getting Started
This section is provided for those interested in getting the Galvo-Resonant Laser
Scanning Kit up and running quickly.
4.1. Unpacking and Inspection
Open the package, and carefully remove the Galvo-Resonant Laser Scanning Kit
and additional items. The table below lists the standard parts shipped with the
device.
Name
Quantity
8 kHz Scan Head
1
Galvo/Resonant Controller
1
DB-25 Connector Cable
1
USB 2.0 Cable (Type A to Type B)
1
AC Power Cord
1
Galvo-Resonant Scanner Software CD
1
Inspect the package contents for any missing parts or damage. If there is a
problem, please contact our nearest office (see Chapter 13: Thorlabs Worldwide
Contacts for details).
4.2. Setting Up the LSK-GR08(/M)
The following additional items (not included with the device) are required for setting
up the LSK-GR08(/M):
Banana Plug
Four BNC Cables
NI 68-Pin Connector (Optional)
4.2.1. Preparation
1. Place the unit on a dry, level working surface. Make sure the vent on the
controller’s back panel is free from obstruction.
2. Connect a grounded banana plug (not included) to the Ground
Connector of the controller.
3. Connect the USB cable to the USB port of the controller and the other
end to a computer.
4. Connect the male end of the DB-25 connector cable to the Scanner port
of the controller and the other end to the scan head.

8 kHz Galvo-Resonant Scanner and Controller Chapter 4: Getting Started
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5. Connect either an NI 68-pin connector to the DAQ port or a BNC cable to
the GALVO IN port to control the galvo mirror.
1
If using an NI 68-pin
connector, connect the other end to an NI breakout box or NI card. If
using a BNC cable, connect the other end to a voltage generator. The
analog input pin 21 controls the position of the galvo mirror. We
recommend a high-density shield NI connector (NI SH68-68 cable to
connect to the NI breakout box or NI SHC68-68-EPM cable to connect to
the NI card).
6. Connect a BNC cable to the RES IN port to control the resonant mirror.
Connect the other end of the BNC cable to any DC voltage generator
(0 - 5 V).
7. Connect one end of the AC power cord to the LSK-GR08(/M) and the
other end to a standard power outlet.
8. Turn on the power switch located on the back panel of the controller.
The FAULT LEDs may turn on for few seconds. This is normal as the
scanner is ramping up.
9. Install the LSK-GR software on your computer (see Chapter 5: Software
for details).
10. After the software installation is complete, open the LSKGR_Control
application. Make sure the serial number and firmware version appears
on the LSK-GR window.
11. Move the Field Size slider to control the scan range of the resonant
mirror. Move the slider to the right to increase the scan angle and to the
left to decrease the scan range.
Note: When the scan range is almost zero (Field Size value of 5 or analog
signal of 0 - 0.02 V), the processor turns off the resonant scanner. You
can control the scan range using the software or RES IN (0 - 5 VDC)
input. RES OUT (Sync Trigger Offset) can only be controlled using the
software.
12. To monitor the galvo mirror’s position and resonant mirror’s Sync Trigger
Offset, connect the BNC cables (RES OUT/GALVO OUT) to an
oscilloscope for feedback signals.
Note: RES OUT is a TTL output sync signal from the resonant scanner to
indicate zero crossing (the turnaround points). The output signal is a
square wave that goes from 0 V to 5 V at the start of the scan movement,
and then back to 0 V during the return movement. GALVO OUT is a
voltage (±4 V) proportional to the position of the mirror.
1
For more information on connection choices, see Section 3.2: Connector Choices.

8 kHz Galvo-Resonant Scanner and Controller Chapter 5: Software
Rev B, May 20, 2019 Page 7
Chapter 5 Software
The resonant scan angle can be controlled via LSK-GR software.
5.1. LSK-GR Software Development Kit (SDK) Installation
1. Insert the LSK-GR08 Software CD into the computer, and open 70-0058 -
LSK-GR SDK folder.
2. Double click the Installer (.exe) application to open the LSKGR Setup
window.
3. Click Next to continue.
Figure 3 LSKGR Setup Window
4. In the Scanner selection window, select the 8 KHz scanner from the drop-
down list then click Next.
Figure 4 Scanner Selection Window

8 kHz Galvo-Resonant Scanner and Controller Chapter 5: Software
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5. In the Choose Components window, select SDK if you want the software
development kit files installed, then click Next.
Figure 5 Choose Components Window
6. In the Choose Install Location window, select the destination folder you
like the files installed, then click Install.
Figure 6 Choose Install Location Window

8 kHz Galvo-Resonant Scanner and Controller Chapter 5: Software
Rev B, May 20, 2019 Page 9
7. The LSKGR setup will begin installation.
Figure 7 Installing Window
8. During installation, the Device Driver Installation Wizard window will
appear. Click Next to begin installing the software drivers that some
computer devices need in order to work.
Figure 8 Device Driver Installation Wizard Window

8 kHz Galvo-Resonant Scanner and Controller Chapter 5: Software
Page 10 TTN118194-D02
9. Once drivers are installed, click Finish to complete drivers installation.
Figure 9 Completing the Device Driver Installation Wizard Window
10. The installer will automatically search your computer for Microsoft Visual
C++ 2012 Redistributable (x64) –11.0.61030 and Microsoft .NET 4.5.2. It
will download and install them if they are not found on your computer.
Figure 10 Microsoft .Net Framework 4.5.2 Window

8 kHz Galvo-Resonant Scanner and Controller Chapter 5: Software
Rev B, May 20, 2019 Page 11
11. Once done installing the necessary software, select Reboot now and click
Finish in the Completing Thorlabs LSKGR Setup window to close Setup
window and restart your computer.
Figure 11 Completing Thorlabs LSKGR 4.0 Setup Window
12. LSKGR setup is now complete and a new Windows shortcut is added to
your desktop.
Figure 12 LSKGR 4.0 Shortcut Icon

8 kHz Galvo-Resonant Scanner and Controller Chapter 5: Software
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5.2. COM Port Number Configuration
1. Check Device Manager>Port (COM & LPT) on your computer to verify the
COM port of Thorlabs LSK-GR08 Galvo Res Scanner driver. Make sure
the COM Port Number is set to COM48.
To change the COM Port Number to COM48:
a. Right click on Thorlabs LSK-GR08 Galvo Res Scanner driver, then
click on Properties to open the LSK-GR08 Galvo Res Scanner
Properties window.
Figure 13 Device Manager Window
b. On the Port Settings tab, click Advanced to open the Advanced
Settings window.
Figure 14 Properties Window

8 kHz Galvo-Resonant Scanner and Controller Chapter 5: Software
Rev B, May 20, 2019 Page 13
c. Select COM48 from the drop-down menu next to COM Port Number,
then click OK.
Figure 15 Advanced Settings Window
d. Click OK on the LSK-GR08 Galvo Res Scanner Properties window.
2. Unplug and reinsert the USB cable into the computer.
Note: The COM Port Number for LSK-GR08 Galvo Res Scanner must
appear as COM48 on the Device Manager.

8 kHz Galvo-Resonant Scanner and Controller Chapter 5: Software
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5.3. GUI (Graphical User Interface)
The GUI consists of the menu and the display area.
Figure 16 LSK-GR Control Window
5.3.1. GUI Display Area
The display area shows the serial number, firmware version, field size, and
alignment controls.
Figure 17 GUI Display Area
Field Size controls the scan range of the resonant mirror. The maximum scan
range for the resonant mirror is divided into 256 values through software USB
control. These accepted values are spaced linearly and may vary from system to
system. For example, a Field Size of 255 corresponds to a full width scan if the
resonant scan mirror can scan to ±10range. A Field Size value of 127 would then
correspond to a scan angle of ±5. The minimum field size threshold is 5.
Alignment is the trigger offset for the resonant scanner. Alignment adds or
subtracts a delay to the line trigger sync signal (RES OUT BNC output). This delay
is used to account for µs-scale jitter that may occur in the scanner from line to line;
delay in digitization or other electronics; and slight changes in resonator behavior
with respect to temperature, humidity, etc. Adjust the alignment so that the rising
edge of the TTL signal is coincident with the data from each new line being
digitized.
Activate Button : activates the resonant scanner. Click the button to start
scanner and use the sliders to change parameters like Field Size and Alignment.
Menu
Display
Area

8 kHz Galvo-Resonant Scanner and Controller Chapter 5: Software
Rev B, May 20, 2019 Page 15
Stop Button : deactivates the resonant scanner. The button appears
after activating the button.
Figure 18 GUI Display Area with Activated Resonant Scanner
5.3.2. GUI Menu
The menu consists of the File menu. Use the File menu to refresh connection,
update the firmware or to exit from the LSK-GR Control window.
Figure 19 Menu Options
Click File>Refresh Connection if you lose connection or if nothing shows
up in the display area.
Click File>Update Firmware to open the file path for the .hex file (provided
by Thorlabs). Select the .hex file, and click Open to update the firmware.
See Section 5.4: Updating the Firmware if you are updating the
firmware for the first time.
Click File>Exit to close the LSK-GR Control window.

8 kHz Galvo-Resonant Scanner and Controller Chapter 5: Software
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5.4. Updating the Firmware
Make sure to update your firmware immediately if you receive a newer version of
LSK-GR firmware from Thorlabs.
1. Save the latest firmware (.hex file) on your computer.
2. Open the LSK-GR Control window, and click File>Update Firmware.
Make sure you have the controller box plugged into your computer via
USB.
Figure 20 Update Firmware
3. Browse the .hex file on your computer then click Open. A Confirmation
window appears; click Yes to continue.
Figure 21 Confirmation Window
4. Click Start Firmware Update to install the new firmware.
Figure 22 Start Firmware Update
Note: If bootloader could not be found because Windows was
discovering the device, check Device Manager for bootloader and try
Update Firmware again (step 2).