THORLABS PM102 User manual

Optical Power Meter Interfaces
2019
PM102, PM102A, PM102U
Operation Manual

Version:
Date: 1.0 11-Dec-2019
Copyright © 2019 Thorlabs

Foreword
Contents
1 General Information 1
21.1 PM102x Model Comparison 31.2 Ordering Codes and Accessories 41.3 Requirements
2 Getting Started 5
52.1 Parts List
3 Operating Instructions 6
63.1 How To 63.1.1 PM102x Setup 63.1.2 Connecting a Power Sensor 83.2 Power Meter Interface Features 83.2.1 PM102x Sensor Connector 93.2.2 PM102 103.2.3 PM102A 113.2.4 PM102U 123.2.5 USB Operation 123.2.6 RS232 Operation 133.2.7 UART Operation 133.2.8 Reset Button 133.2.9 Baud Rate 133.2.10 Non-Volatile Memory 133.2.11 Auxiliary I/O Ports 143.2.12 Analog Output 143.2.13 Autonomous Operation to Analog Output 143.2.14 NTC Input 153.2.15 Power Supply 153.3 Software 153.3.1 Software Requirements 153.3.2 PM102x Specific Software Functions 153.3.2.1 PM102 Specific Software Functions 163.3.2.2 PM102A Specific Software Functions 163.4 Maintenance and Service
4 Appendix 17
174.1 Technical Data 194.2 Pin Assignment Output Connector 194.3 Pin Assignment of the Sensor Connector 204.4 Safety

214.5 Return of Devices 214.6 Manufacturers Address 224.7 Certifications and Compliances 234.8 Warranty 234.9 Copyright and Exclusion of Reliability 244.10Thorlabs Worldwide Contacts and WEEE Policy

© 2019 Thorlabs
We aim to develop and produce the best solutions for your
applications in the field of optical measurement techniques. To help
us to live up to your expectations and constantly improve our
products, we need your ideas and suggestions. 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

© 2019 Thorlabs1
PM102x
1 General Information
The PM102x Optical Power Meter Interfaces measure the optical power of laser light or other
monochromatic or near monochromatic light, detected by a connected sensor. The PM102x
power meter interfaces are compatible with all Thorlabs “C-Series” Thermal Power Sensors,
Thermal Position Sensors (S44xC Series) and respective custom sensors.
To flexibly integrate the PM102x into a setup, the PM102x models offer different electronic in-
terfaces for instrument control and output:
·PM102: USB port and DA-15 connector
·PM102A: USB port (Input and Output) and SMA analog interface (Output only)
·PM102U: USB port only
The USB port features a fixture for secure connection of the cable to the housing.
For the PM102U and PM102A power meters, instrument control and power supply are facilita-
ted via the USB port. The PM102 can alternatively use the DA-15 interface for instrument con-
trol and to connect a power supply. Further, the PM102 can even be controlled via an external
micro-controller, supplied by the customer. For more information on the special features of the
PM102x models, please see the table PM102x Model Comparison below.
For instrument control and data analysis through a connected PC, tablet or laptop, Thorlabs of-
fers the Optical Power Monitor (OPM) software, available for download. When connected to a
PM102x, thermal sensors can be calibrated using the OPM software. Alternatively, the user can
write custom made software. For information on driver and SCPI commands, please refer to the
manual WriteYourOwnApplication (WYOA) for the PM102x.
These features allow for maximum flexibility to integrate the instrument in test and measure-
ment systems and a wide range of industrial and scientific applications in Manufacturing, Qual-
ity Control, Quality Assurance, and R&D for stationary and field use.
Attention
Please find all safety information and warnings concerning this product in the chapter Safety
in the Appendix.
2
2
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© 2019 Thorlabs
1 General Information
2
1.1 PM102x Model Comparison
PM102
PM102A
PM102U
USB Connector and Operation
Ö
Ö
Ö
SMA Output Connectors
Ö
DA-15 Universal Connector
Ö
RS232 Operation
Ö
Analog Output Operation
Ö
Ö
Autonomous Operation to
Analog Output
Ö
Ö
Sensitivity Configurable
Analog Output
Ö
Ö
UART Operation
Ö
2 Auxiliary I/O ports
Ö
NTC Input
Ö
Power Supply +5V to +36V
Ö
Table 1
9 10 11
12
10
19
12
14
14
14
14
14
13
13
14
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PM102x
1.2 Ordering Codes and Accessories
PM102
Power Meter Interface with DA-15 Connector; USB, RS232, or UART Operation.
Digital or Analog Signal Output; Two Auxiliary I/O Ports; NTC Input; USB Interface
for Control and Power Supply.
PM102A
Power Meter Interface with SMA Connectors for Analog Output; USB Interface for
Control and Power Supply.
PM102U
Power Meter Interface with USB Connector and USB Operation for Control, Read
Out, and Power Supply.
Included Accessories:
The PM102x Power Meters include certain cables. Further cables are recommended in Op-
tional Accessories .
PM102: DA-15 Connector and Connector Housing
USB Cable, Type A to Mini B, with locking screw, 1.5m
PM102A: USB Cable, Type A to Mini B, with locking screw, 1.5m
PM102U: USB Cable, Type A to Mini B, with locking screw, 1.5m
Optional Accessories:
To run the PM102x power meter, additional cables or mounting devices may be required.
Cables
·PM102: Cable to attach to the provided DA-15 connector housing.
·PM102A: SMA cable: Please provide a cable with a SMA connector to operate the PM102A.
Thorlabs offers a variety of SMA connector cables.
Mounting
·Horizontal Mounting Clamp (ECM225) to mount the PM102x onto a post.
·Vertical Mounting Clamp (ECM100) to mount the narrow side of the PM102x onto a post.
·Double Sided Horizontal Mounting Clamp (EPS225) to securely mount two devices on top of
each other.
Please visit our homepage http://www.thorlabs.com for various accessories like power and
thermal sensors, fiber adapters, posts and post-holders.
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© 2019 Thorlabs
1 General Information
4
1.3 Requirements
Hardware Requirements
PM102: Please provide an appropriate cable to be attached to the DA-15 connector.
PM102A: Please provide appropriate cables to connect to the SMA ports.
Software Requirements
All models of the PM102x can be run with the Thorlabs' OPM software. Please see the require-
ments for the OPM on the website.
Sensor Requirements
Thorlabs C-Series Sensors
The PM102x supports all Thorlabs C-Series thermal power and position sensors. The C-Series
can be easily identified by the red connector-housing of the DE-9 connector, compared to older
versions of Thorlabs power sensors.
Please refer to the chapter Connecting a Power Sensor on how to use older Thorlabs
sensors or custom sensors.
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PM102x
2 Getting Started
Please inspect the shipping container for damage. Please do not cut through the cardboard.
You might need the box for storage or for returns.
If the shipping container seems to be damaged, inspect the contents for completeness and test
the PM102x mechanically and electrically. Keep the container for storage or in order to return
the product in case of future problems.
Verify that you have received the following items within the package:
2.1 Parts List
1. PM102x Optical Power Meter Interface
2. USB Cable, Type A to Mini B, with Locking Screw, 1.5 m
3. PM102: DA-15 Connector and Connector Housing
4. Quick Reference
5. Certificate of Calibration

© 2019 Thorlabs
3 Operating Instructions
6
3 Operating Instructions
3.1 How To
This chapter describes how to install the PM102x for standard measurements.
3.1.1 PM102x Setup
·Download and install the Optical Power Monitor software on the device that will be used to
control the power meter interface (PC, laptop or tablet).
Note
Install the software prior to connecting the power meter interface to the PC (see Soft-
ware ).
·Connect the PM102x to a PC or other power source via the USB port.
oThe PM102 accepts external power supplies with 5 V to 36 V via the DA-15 interface.
When connecting the USB port while using an external power supply via the DA-15
port, connecting the USB port will automatically switch to the 5 V power supply via
USB.
oThe status LED for the power supply is yellow in USB mode and green when connected
to an external power supply via the DA-15 connector.
·Connect the PM102x to a readout instrument (PC) using the USB cable or a matching
cable for the respective output port (SMA or DA-15). For PM102A and PM102, please
provide cables.
·Connect a suitable sensor to the PM102x.
The sensor status LED indicates, when a sensor has been detected (green) or when no
sensor or no recognizable sensor is connected (red).
The Power Meter is now ready for operation and is recognized by the OPM software.
Note
For detailed instructions on controlling the PM102x through the OPM software, please down-
load the OPM manual.
3.1.2 Connecting a Power Sensor
The PM102x supports all Thorlabs C-Series thermal power and position sensors, that can be
identified by the red connector-housing of the DE-9 connector, compared to older versions of
Thorlabs power sensors. Sensor type and calibration data are saved in the non-volatile memory
of the DE-9 connector. Upon connection, this information is automatically sent to the PM102x
and to the control device and software. The software will automatically recognize the sensor.
To plug-in or remove a sensor, slightly press on the two bolts in the connector housing, that fix
it by tension.
15
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PM102x
DE-9 connector
Sensors can be hot-swapped to the power meter interface. After recognizing a new valid
sensor, the type and calibration data will be downloaded to the power meter interface in ap-
proximately 2 seconds and the unit is ready to operate with the new sensor.
Note
Older Thorlabs Sensors without a DE-9 connector
The PM102x will NOT automatically recognize sensors lacking a DE-9 connector, as for the
case of the 'A' and 'B' series. Please contact Thorlabs for an upgrade of old sensors with DE-9
connectors.
Note
Custom Sensors
To use sensors without a DE-9 connector, manufactured by Thorlabs or else, the user may
provide an appropriate adapter. To build the adapter, refer to the Pin-out of the DE-9 connector
shown in the Appendix . The adapter will per default automatically be recognized by the ap-
plication Optical Power Monitor as "Photodiode adapter". The sensor type can then be adjusted
in the software.
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© 2019 Thorlabs
3 Operating Instructions
8
3.2 Power Meter Interface Features
PM102x optical power meters offer full functionality to process signals from compatible thermal
power or position sensors to be displayed and analyzed on a connected PC.
PM102x general features
·All PM102x models have a non-volatile memory which prevents power meter settings from
being lost upon shutting down or rebooting.
·A fast readout rate of 1 kilo-sample per second permits online signal monitoring.
·Finely graduated thermal power ranges permit optimal resolution for thermal power measure-
ments.
·A Reset Button allows quick rebooting of the micro controller.
·The PM102x is powered either via the USB interface or via the DA-15 interface. A status LED
indicates appropriate connection to a power supply.
·All PM102x models support the thermal position sensors S440C and S442C.
Beyond the above functions, the group of PM102x models offer individual electrical interfaces
for integration into different systems in industrial and scientific applications. The different elec-
trical interfaces come with further functions , described in the following chapters.
3.2.1 PM102x Sensor Connector
All models of the PM102x have the same connector shown here to the left side. The Pin as-
signment is engraved on the front of the PM102x.
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13
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2
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PM102x
3.2.2 PM102
PM102 Special Features
The PM102 features a number of additional options, due to the DA-15 output connector.
The PM102 is per default configured to RS232 configuration (+/- 5 V voltage level). This can be
changed to a UART configuration (0/5 V voltage level) so that the PM102 can be accessed by
external micro-controllers for instrument control and data export. The PM102 can also be adjus-
ted to accommodate micro-controllers using 3.3 V.
1. DA-15 Interface
2. Two Auxiliary I/O ports
3. NTC input
4. Three Analog Output Ports
5. Autonomous Operation to Analog Output
6. Optional Use of 5 V - 36 V Power Supply
7. RS232 Operation
8. Adjustable Baud Rate via USB or Serial Communication (SCPI commands); The default
BAUD Rate is 115200 Bit/s.
9. UART Operation (i.e. for Control via an External Micro-Controller)
10.Instrument Control using SCPI commands (Serial Communication)
11.Power Meter Control and Output via USB
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3 Operating Instructions
10
3.2.3 PM102A
PM102A Special Features
1. Autonomous Operation to analog output
2. Three Analog Output Ports: POWER for the sensor signal, X POS and Y POS for the posi-
tion of the signal in X and Y on thermal position sensors.
3. Configurable Analog Output
4. Power Meter Control and Output via USB
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PM102x
3.2.4 PM102U
PM102U Special Features
·Power Meter Control and Output via USB

© 2019 Thorlabs
3 Operating Instructions
12
3.2.5 USB Operation
All PM102x models can be run via the USB port. The USB interface on all PM102x models also
serves to connect the power meter to a power supply and to update firmware of the PM102x.
The PM102U uses the USB interface as the only port for control and output.
Note
In case a USB communication is established in addition to the DA-15 connection, PM102
switches to USB-Mode and the DA-15 serial interface becomes inactive. Only after actively
closing the USB connection, the serial communication is reestablished.
When switching the PM102 from USB to RS232 operation or UART operation, the PM102 uses
the DA-15 interface for control and output.
3.2.6 RS232 Operation
The PM102 can be operated with serial communication via RS232.
Please use a RS232 standard protocol for RS232 communications. For questions, please con-
tact our engineers at Thorlabs.
Please set up the port as follows:
Parameter
Setting
Baud Rate
115.200 Bit/s (default)
Supported range of Baud Rate: 9.600 and 230400 Bit/s
Data Bits
8
Parity
None
Stop Bits
1
Flow Control
None
Termination Character
LF (x0A; \n). The termination character needs to be enabled.
Note
PM102:
To operate the PM102 via RS232, RxD, TxD, and GND need to be wired from the DA-15 con-
nector to a 9 Pin female connector to perform the connections.
PM102 DA-15 Pin
Female DE-9 Pin (PC)
Pin7: TxD
Pin2: RxD
Pin8: RxD
Pin3: TxD
Pin15: GND
Pin5: GND

© 2019 Thorlabs13
PM102x
3.2.7 UART Operation
The PM102 is delivered in RS232 operation but can be switched to UART operation.
UART dependent PM102 functions:
The PM102 may need to be switched from RS232 to UART operation when using an external
micro controller for PM102 control. In RS232 operation the PM102 uses voltage levels of +/-5
V, while in UART mode the voltage level is shifted to 0/5 V. The PM102 can also be adjusted to
accommodate micro-controllers using 3.3 V. When switched to 3.3 V, UART operation is toler-
ant for 5 V input signal.
For instructions on how to change the voltage level for UART operation, please refer to the doc-
ument Write-Your-Own-Applications (WYOA) for PM102x.
For UART operation, please use standard protocols for UART communication and the SCPI
commands listed in WYOA for PM102x.
3.2.8 Reset Button
This button reboots the internal micro controller of the PM102x. To press the button, please use
a small device that will not break inside the instrument. All settings are saved due to the in-
ternal non-volatile memory.
3.2.9 Baud Rate
For PM102, the Baud rate can be adjusted from 9600 to 230400 Bit/s. This can be done either
via the USB interface or via the serial interface using SCPI commands or driver functions.
Please see the document Write-Your-Own-Applications (WYOA) for PM102x. The default baud
Rate is 115200.
Note
After adjusting the Baud Rate via RS232 or UART, close the RS232 or UART connection and
reconnect with the desired Baud Rate in order for the Baud Rate to communicate it via
RS232/UART. This is not required for operation via USB.
3.2.10 Non-Volatile Memory
All PM102x models have an internal non-volatile memory for all settings (i.e. wavelength set-
ting, ranging, analog output configuration). The PM102x will start in the same configuration as
prior to shut-down.
3.2.11 Auxiliary I/O Ports
PM102 with its DA-15 connector gives access to two configurable general purpose input/output
(I/O) Pins (DA-15 Pins 2 and 3). Please see the Pin assignment in the appendix. These aux-
iliary I/O ports use 3 V logic for output and are tolerant for 5 V input signal.
The I/O port can be controlled or monitored via the instrument driver or through SCPI com-
mands in custom made software.
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3 Operating Instructions
14
3.2.12 Analog Output
PM102A
The PM102A has three analog output ports with SMA output connectors: POWER, X POS, and
Y POS.
The analog output POWER, delivers a range independent voltage which is DAC controlled. The
output voltage is proportional to a configured value in V/W. This constant can be adjusted via
the OPM software or the SCPI/driver commands for custom made software. The constant can
be set in the OPM software under the Settings tab: POWER AO Responsivity. The analog sig-
nal is generated with a 16-bit DAC with an update rate of 1 kHz. The analog output voltage can
range from -0 V to +2.5 V.
The output signal is wavelength corrected and corrected regarding the sensor calibration data.
The ports X POS and Y POS deliver a signal that is proportional to the position of the light sig-
nal on the sensor. X POS delivers the x-axis signal and Y POS the y-axis signal. The analog
output voltage can range from -2.5 V to +2.5 V. The ports X POS and Y POS are soley used for
the positional information from thermal position sensors.
PM102
The PM102 has three analog outputs, POWER, X POS, and Y POS. The Analog Output ports
provide the amplified thermal sensor voltage.
POWER: The port POWER (DA-15 Pin 4) delivers a range independent voltage which is DAC
controlled. The output voltage is proportional to a configured value in V/W. This constant can
be adjusted via the OPM software or the SCPI/driver commands for custom made software.
The constant can be set in the Thorlabs software OPM under the Settings tab: POWER AO
Responsivity. The signal of the port POWER is generated with a 16-bit DAC with an update
rate of 1 kHz. The analog output voltage can range from -0 V to +2.5 V.
X POS and Y POS deliver a range independent voltage which is DAC controlled. The signal is
proportional to the position of the light signal on the sensor. X POS delivers the x-axis signal
and Y POS the y-axis signal. The analog output voltage can range from -2.5 V to +2.5 V.
The ports X POS and Y POS are soley used for the positional information from thermal position
sensors.
3.2.13 Autonomous Operation to Analog Output
Power meters PM102 and PM102A can be run autonomously by only connecting a power sup-
ply and using analog output. In that case, no control device is required. Either one of the three
analog ports needs to be connected for autonomous operation. By choosing the respective
port, the user selects the output of the signal (POWER) or the X or Y positions ( X-POS, Y-
POS).
3.2.14 NTC Input
To monitor the temperature in a test environment, the PM102 has an NTC Input (DA-15 Pin 14)
which allows connection of an NTC thermistor. The measurement range is 0.1 – 100 kW. The
set range R0 and the bandwidth B for the NTC thermistor can be adjusted in the OPM software
or through SCPI commands. The default settings are 10 kWand 3988 K to directly access the
TSP-TH temperature probe. The measurement range with the PM102 is then -10 °C to 80 °
C with the TSP-TH.
Note
Connection of the NTC to the DE-9 Pin 7 of the Sensor Connector requires a resistance of 0.2
kWto 40 kW.
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© 2019 Thorlabs15
PM102x
3.2.15 Power Supply
All PM102x models use the USB port for power supply. Please provide an appropriate connec-
tion to a PC or power bank.
Note
When operating the PM102 via the RS232 interface or completely autonomously via the analog
output POWER, the unit can either be powered with 5 V via the USB connector or with any sup-
ply in the range from +5 V to +36 V via the DA-15 connector (Pin 1 and Pin 9 (GND)). As an ex-
ternal power supply, we recommend the DS5 5 VDC regulated power supply.
3.3 Software
The PM102x is operated remotely from a PC, laptop or tablet.
Thorlabs Optical Power Monitor (OPM) Software
The Thorlabs OPM software provides a Graphical User Interface to view, log, and analyze mea-
surement data. Download the OPM software package from the Thorlabs website, via this link,
through the software tab on the product website, or through searching for the product name
within the Thorlabs software website.
All information on software installation, device control and data management software can be
found in the software manual directly downloaded here.
Note
Do not connect the PM102x prior to software installation!
Attention
Exit all running applications on your PC as the installer may require a reboot of your PC during
installation!
Custom Made Software
The PM102x can also be run using custom made software. For this, please refer to the docu-
ment Write-Your-Own-Application (WYOA) for PM102x.
3.3.1 Software Requirements
All models of the PM102x can be run with the Thorlabs' OPM software.
Please find the requirements for the PC intended to be used for operation of the PM102x on
the OPM website.
3.3.2 PM102x Specific Software Functions
When using a PM102 power meter interface, the latest version of the OPM software shows
several power meter specific functions. To see details, please also visit the OPM manual.
3.3.2.1 PM102 Specific Software Functions
1. When a PM102x power meter is connected, the OPM software recognizes NTCs in the
devices section. The OPM now allows users to adjust settings, view measurement results
and to integrate the NTC measurements results in long-time monitoring experiments. For
more information, please see the OPM manual.