THORLABS DC3100 Series User manual

Operation Manual
Thorlabs Instrumentation
LED Illumination System for Fluorescence Lifetime Imaging
(FLIM)
DC3100
2009

Version:
Date: 1.3 04.09.2009
© 2009 Thorlabs

Contents
Foreword 3
1 General Information 4
................................................................................................................................... 4
1.1 Safety
................................................................................................................................... 7
1.2 Ordering Codes and Accessories
2 Getting Started 8
................................................................................................................................... 8
2.1 Unpacking
................................................................................................................................... 8
2.2 Preparation
................................................................................................................................... 9
2.3 Operating Elements
......................................................................................................................................................... 9
Operating Elements on the Front Panel2.3.1 ......................................................................................................................................................... 10
Operating Elements on the Rear Panel2.3.2 ......................................................................................................................................................... 10
Operating Elements on the LED Head2.3.3
3 Operating the DC3100 11
................................................................................................................................... 11
3.1 Operation and Settings
......................................................................................................................................................... 11
Navigating the Menus3.1.1 ......................................................................................................................................................... 12
Operation Modes3.1.2
3.1.2.1 .................................................................................................................................................. 12
Constant Current Mode
3.1.2.2 .................................................................................................................................................. 12
Internal Modulation Mode
3.1.2.3 .................................................................................................................................................. 14
External Control Mode
......................................................................................................................................................... 15
Settings and Configuration3.1.3
3.1.3.1 .................................................................................................................................................. 15
User Limit
3.1.3.2 .................................................................................................................................................. 15
LED Configuration
3.1.3.3 .................................................................................................................................................. 16
System Settings
3.1.3.4 .................................................................................................................................................. 17
About
................................................................................................................................... 17
3.2 Remote Application
......................................................................................................................................................... 17
Installation3.2.1
3.2.1.1 .................................................................................................................................................. 17
The Installation Menu
3.2.1.2 .................................................................................................................................................. 18
Installing VISA Runtime Engine
3.2.1.3 .................................................................................................................................................. 19
Installing the Remote Application
3.2.1.4 .................................................................................................................................................. 20
Driver Installation
......................................................................................................................................................... 20
Operating the DC3100 by the Remote Application3.2.2
3.2.2.1 .................................................................................................................................................. 21
Connecting a Device
3.2.2.2 .................................................................................................................................................. 21
Constant Current Mode
3.2.2.3 .................................................................................................................................................. 22
Internal Modulation Mode
3.2.2.4 .................................................................................................................................................. 22
External Control Mode
3.2.2.5 .................................................................................................................................................. 23
User Limit Current
3.2.2.6 .................................................................................................................................................. 24
Configuring a new LED
................................................................................................................................... 25
3.3 Changing the LED
4 Computer Interface 26
................................................................................................................................... 26
4.1 Connecting a Computer
................................................................................................................................... 26
4.2 DC3100 Utility Software
................................................................................................................................... 27
4.3 Command Reference
......................................................................................................................................................... 27
Command List4.3.1
4.3.1.1 .................................................................................................................................................. 27
Description

................................................................................................................................... 31
4.4 Status Reporting
5 Maintenance and Repair 32
................................................................................................................................... 32
5.1 Maintenance
................................................................................................................................... 32
5.2 Firmware Update
................................................................................................................................... 32
5.3 Troubleshooting
6 Application Note 34
................................................................................................................................... 34
6.1 Fluorescence Lifetime Imaging (FLIM)
......................................................................................................................................................... 34
Time Domain FLIM6.1.1 ......................................................................................................................................................... 35
Frequency Domain FLIM6.1.2
7 Appendix 36
................................................................................................................................... 36
7.1 Warranty
................................................................................................................................... 37
7.2 Certifications and Compliances
................................................................................................................................... 39
7.3 Technical Data
......................................................................................................................................................... 39
Common Data7.3.1 ......................................................................................................................................................... 39
Technical Data7.3.2 ......................................................................................................................................................... 40
LED for Frequency Domain FLIM7.3.3
7.3.3.1 .................................................................................................................................................. 40
LED @ 365nm
7.3.3.2 .................................................................................................................................................. 41
LED @ 405nm
7.3.3.3 .................................................................................................................................................. 42
LED @ 470nm
7.3.3.4 .................................................................................................................................................. 42
LED @ 630nm
................................................................................................................................... 44
7.4 Letter of Volatility
................................................................................................................................... 45
7.5 Thorlabs 'End of Life' Policy (WEEE)
......................................................................................................................................................... 45
Waste Treatment on your own Responsibility7.5.1 ......................................................................................................................................................... 45
Ecological Background7.5.2
................................................................................................................................... 46
7.6 List of Acronyms
................................................................................................................................... 46
7.7 List of Figures
................................................................................................................................... 47
7.8 Copyright
................................................................................................................................... 48
7.9 Addresses
Index 49

We aim to develop and produce the best solution for your application
in the field of optical measurement technique. To help us to come up
to your expectations and develop our products permanently 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
This part of the instructionmanual contains everyspecific informationonhow
to handle and use the DC3100 - FLIM LED Driver.
WARNING
This symbol in the manual explains dangers that might result in
personal injury or death. Always read carefully the associated
information before performing the indicated procedure.
ATTENTION
This symbol in the manual explains hazards that could damage the
instrument and connected equipment or may cause data loss.
NOTE
This manual also contains "NOTES" and "HINTS" written in this form.
Please read these advices carefully!

1 General Information
DC31004
1General Information
The LED modulating system (DC3100 series) is designed for frequency domain
Fluorescence Lifetime Imaging (FLIM) and other microscopy applications that
require modulated high-power LED illuminationsources.
The compact LED driver in the DC3100 series can supply a high current (up to 1A)
to high-power LEDs. The DC3100 series system includes an optical head,
modulating electronics, and a heat sink designed to dissipate the heat generated by
high-power LEDs. The design of the head allows the user to mount any compatible
star-shaped PCB packaged LED.
Please refer to chapter Fluorescence Lifetime Imaging for applicationnotes.
1.1 Safety
ATTENTION
All statements regarding safety of operation and technical data in this
instruction manual will only apply when the unit is operated correctly.
Before applying power to your DC3100 system, make sure that the
protective conductor of the 3 conductor mains power cord is correctly
connected to the protective earth contact of the socket outlet!
Improper grounding can cause electric shock with damages to your health
or even death!
The DC3100 must not be operated in explosion endangered environments!
The LED head, control inputs and outputs must only be connected with duly
shielded connection cables.
Only with written consent from Thorlabs may changes to single components
be carried out or components not supplied by Thorlabs be used.
Do not obstruct the air ventilation slots in housing!
Do not remove covers!
Refer servicing to qualified personal!
This precision device is only dispatchable if duly packed into the complete
original packaging including the plastic form parts. If necessary, ask for a
replacement package.
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 General Information
DC3100 5
CAUTION
The head of DC3100 can contain an UV light LED! In this case the LED
radiates intense UV light during operation. Precautions must be taken to
prevent looking directly at the UV light with unprotected eyes.
Do not look directly into the UV light or look through the optical system
during operation of the device. This can be harmful to the eyes even for brief
periods due to the high intensity of the UV light.
If there is the possibility to receive a reflection of the UV light, UV light
protective glasses have to be used to prevent that UV light can catch one's
eye directly.
If viewing the UV light is necessary, use UV light protective glasses to avoid
damage by the UV light.
CAUTION
The head of the DC3100 is also a heat sink for the LED and will be heated up
to more than 50°C!
ATTENTION
The following statement applies to the products covered in this manual,
unless otherwise specified herein. The statement for other products will
appear in the accompanying documentation.

1 General Information
DC31006
Note: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits
for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules and meets
all requirements of the Canadian Interference-Causing Equipment Standard
ICES-003 for digital apparatus. These limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential
installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio
frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the
instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications.
However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular
installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or
television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off
and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or
more of the following measures:
·Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
·Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
·Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to
which the receiver is connected.
·Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/T.V. technician for help.
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 unauthorized
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 optional peripheral or host devices. Failure to do so may
violate FCC and ICES rules.

1 General Information
DC3100 7
1.2 Ordering Codes and Accessories
Ordering code Short description
DC3100-365 DC3100 - FLIM LED Driver with LED Head @ 365nm
DC3100-405 DC3100 - FLIM LED Driver with LED Head @ 405nm
DC3100-470 DC3100 - FLIM LED Driver with LED Head @ 470nm
DC3100-630 DC3100 - FLIM LED Driver with LED Head @ 630nm
Other wavelengths on request ranging from 365nm up to 940nm.
Please visit our homepage http://www.thorlabs.com for further information.

1 General Information
DC31008
2Getting Started
2.1 Unpacking
Inspect the packaging for damage.
If the shipping container seems to be damaged, keep it until you have inspected the
contents and youhave inspected the DC3100 mechanicallyand electrically.
Verifythat youhave received the following items:
1. 1 DC3100 (mainunit and LED head)
2. 1 Power cord, connector according to ordering country
3. 1 Power supply12V / 3.75A
4. 1 USB cable
5. 1 Operationmanual
6. 1 Applications and driver CD
2.2 Preparation
1.Connect LED head cable with socket labeled "LED" at the back of the main
controlunit, see figure 1
2.Connect power supply cable with main control unit, use only the power supply
supplied withyour DC3100 unit
3.Plug in power supply
Figure 1 Connecting the LED Head
ATTENTION
Prior to switching on your DC3100 please check if the line voltage
corresponds to the input voltage range of the power supply!
Turnthe unit onbypressing the power switchonthe rear side of the unit.

2 Getting Started
DC3100 9
After the device is powered up, the graphics display will show a 'Welcome' screen
for a few seconds.
The DC3100 is immediately ready to use after turning on. The rated accuracy is
reached, however, after a warming-up period of approximately10 minutes.
2.3 Operating Elements
2.3.1 Operating Elements on the Front Panel
Figure 2 Display and Operating Elements on the Front Panel

2 Getting Started
DC310010
2.3.2 Operating Elements on the Rear Panel
Figure 3 Operating Elements on the Rear Panel
2.3.3 Operating Elements on the LED Head
Figure 4 Operating Elements on the LED Head

2 Getting Started
DC3100 11
3Operating the DC3100
The DC3100 caneither be controlled via the front panelof the mainunit (see chapter
Operation and Settings) or by a remote application (see chapter Remote
Application).
3.1 Operation and Settings
The following sub chapters contain the description about the operation of the
DC3100.
3.1.1 Navigating the Menus
The DC3100 is controlled by three buttons and the multi-control knob on the front
panel. The two buttons below the graphics display have an Enter and Escape
functionality. The button with LED indicator is used to switch the LED on or off. The
multi-control is used to select the desired menuor to change the settings.
After switching onthe DC3100 a 'Welcome' screenappears for a fewseconds.
Figure 5 Welcome Screen
In case no LED head is connected you will be prompted to switch off the main unit,
connect the LED head and switchonthe device.
The display will show the screen of one of the 3 LED operation modes (Constant
Current, Internal Modulation or External Control Mode). The 'MainMenu' canbe
accessed via the 'ESC' button.
Figure 6 Main Menu
To select an operation mode or a configuration display the multi-control knob is
used. Press the 'Ok' buttonto enter the selected item.

3 Operating the DC3100
DC310012
3.1.2 Operation Modes
Only if one of the three operation modes (Constant Current, Internal Modulation or
External Control) is selected the LED canbe enabled /switched on.
It is possible to leave the active mode when the LED is switched on and enter the
main menu. However, the LED has to switch off before you can enter another
operationmode. This can be done while the main menu is selected by pressing the
LED button.
3.1.2.1 Constant Current Mode
The 'Constant Current Mode' provides a constant non-modulated LED current. The
current can be set directly with the multi-control knob. No confirmation is necessary.
The 'Ok' button has no functionality within this mode. The LED is switched on or off
with the LED button. The LED current can be changed whenthe LED is offas well as
whenit is in operation. This allows to increase or reduce the brightness of the LED.
The current limit is displayed at the bottom of the screen.
Returnto the mainmenu withthe 'ESC' button.
Figure 7 Constant Current Mode
3.1.2.2 Internal Modulation Mode
This mode can be used to apply a sine wave modulation to the LED with a defined
frequency.
The 'Internal Modulation Mode' features three settings: current, frequency and
modulation depth. The first parameter is the DC component. The frequency can be
set between 10MHz and 100MHz in steps of 0.1MHz. The modulation depth
describes the relationbetweenconstant and variable component.
Figure 8 Internal Modulation Mode

3 Operating the DC3100
DC3100 13
To change the settings select one of the parameters using the multi-control knob and
press the 'Ok' button. The corresponding screen appears and the value for the
current,the frequency or the modulation depth can be adjusted with the multi-control
knob. Changing the value will take effect immediately. However, since the editing
mode is active the value has to be confirmed withthe 'Ok' button or can be canceled
with the 'ESC' button.
Figure 9 Internal Modulation - Current Adjustment
Figure 10 Internal Modulation - Frequency Adjustment
Figure 11 Internal Modulation - Modulation Depth Adjustment
See the chapter Technical Data for information about cut-off frequencies for certain
LEDs.
The following diagram illustrates the definitionof current and modulationdepth:

3 Operating the DC3100
DC310014
Figure 12 Definition of the Parameter Current and Modulation Depth
3.1.2.3 External Control Mode
This mode allows to control the DC3100 byanexternal signal.
The 'External Control Mode' has no parameter settings. The LED can only be
controlled via the BNC connector at the rear panel of the DC3100. The applied
voltage corresponds to the LED current. 1V is equivalent to a LED current of
100mA. A maximum voltage of 10V can be applied, which results in a current of
1000mA.
Please note: The maximum current is limited by the user defined current limit set in
the 'Adjust Limit' menu.
Figure 13 External Control Mode
The ModulationFrequencyrange is 0 to 100kHzand valid for sine wave modulation.

3 Operating the DC3100
DC3100 15
The last selected operation mode will be saved. After switching on the DC3100
again this operation mode will be automatically the active mode. All settings are
saved and validated after a shut off. The current settings in the 'Constant Current
Mode' and inthe 'Internal ModulationMode' are two separate parameters and will be
handled individually.
3.1.3 Settings and Configuration
There are settings and system configurations, which can be accessed via the main
menu. To enter the main menu from one of the operation modes press the 'ESC'
button.
Figure 14 Main Menu
Select an item with the multi-control knob and press the 'Ok' button to access the
desired setting or configurationpanel.
3.1.3.1 User Limit
The current limit can be changed by selecting 'User Limit'. The following screen
appears and the LED current limit can be set using the multi-control knob. The new
value has to be confirmed withthe 'Ok' buttonor canceled with the 'ESC' button. The
LED current limit canbe set up to the maximum LED current limit (LED Imax), which
is defined inthe EEPROM of the LED head. See next sectionfor more information.
Figure 15 LED Current Limit Setting
3.1.3.2 LED Configuration
Incase a new LED was installed the LEDs maximum current and frequency need to
be configured. These values are saved inthe EEPROM of the LED head and can be
changed in the 'LED Configuration' menu.

3 Operating the DC3100
DC310016
This menu entry is hidden in normal operation mode. Go to the 'User Limit' screen
described above and hold the "LED" buttonfor about three seconds.
A sub menu appears and the LEDs maximum current (LED Imax) and frequency
(LED fmax) canbe set. Press the 'Ok' button to select one of these limits. The multi-
controlknob is used to change the value and has to be confirmed withthe 'Ok' button
or canceled withthe 'ESC' button.
Figure 16 LED Maximum Current
Figure 17 LED Maximum Frequency
ATTENTION
A wrong and too high LED maximum current limit can cause damage to the
LED. Prior to changing the LED maximum current limit of the LED head
check if the LED can handle this current!
3.1.3.3 System Settings
Within the system configuration the LCD backlight brightness can be set. Select
'Configuration' from the main menu via the multi-control knob and press 'Ok'. A sub
menu appears and the 'Brightness' setting can be accessed by pressing the 'Ok'
button. The multi-control knob is used to change the brightness of the LCD backlight
between0 and 100%. Confirm your setting with'Ok' or cancel it with'ESC'.

3 Operating the DC3100
DC3100 17
Figure 18 LCD Backlight Brightness Setting
3.1.3.4 About
The item 'About' gives information about the firmware version and serial number of
the DC3100 and the connected LED head.
Figure 19 About Panel
3.2 Remote Application
The DC3100 remote software can be used to operate the DC3100 - FLIM LED
Driver via the PC. The device has to be connected to the PC byan USB cable.
3.2.1 Installation
3.2.1.1 The Installation Menu
Before installing the DC3100 remote application, please make sure that no Thorlabs
DC3100 - FLIM LED Driver is connected. After you inserted the DC3100 installation
CD an autorun menu will appear. If autorun is disabled on your system please
browse the installationCD and run"CD-Drive:\Autorun\Autorun.exe".

3 Operating the DC3100
DC310018
Figure 20 Autorun Menu
NOTE
Please be aware that you need a VISA engine installed on your system to operate
the DC3100 remote application.
3.2.1.2 Installing VISA Runtime Engine
A VISA runtime 4.3.0 or higher has to be installed on your system to operate the
DC3100 remote application.
You may install the National Instruments©® VISA runtime engine provided on the
installation CD. You may also download the latest NI-VISA runtime engine from the
National Instruments©® web site (www.ni.com/visa).
In case you want to use the VISA engine provided on the installation CD select "NI-
VISA Engine". An installation wizard will be started. If you are running Windows
VISTA©® you might be prompted to change to the "elevated mode". Please ask
your administrator for help whenyou do not have administrator privileges.
Follow the instructions of the installation wizard.