THORLABS TLS001-635 User manual

TLS001-635
TLS001-1550
T-Cube Laser Source
User Guide
Original Instructions

2 HA0164T Rev F Feb 2018
Contents
Chapter 1 Safety ............................................................................................ 4
1.1 Safety Information .................................................................................. 4
1.2 General Warnings .................................................................................. 4
1.3 Warnings Relating To Laser Safety ........................................................ 5
1.4 Laser Markings ....................................................................................... 5
Chapter 2 Overview and Setup ..................................................................... 6
2.1 Introduction ............................................................................................. 6
2.2 T-Cube Controller Hub ........................................................................... 7
2.3 APT PC Software Overview ................................................................... 8
2.3.1 Introduction .........................................................................................................8
2.3.2 APTUser Utility ...................................................................................................9
2.3.3 APT Config Utility .............................................................................................10
2.3.4 APT Server (ActiveX Controls) .........................................................................11
2.3.5 Software Upgrades ...........................................................................................12
Chapter 3 Getting Started ............................................................................ 13
3.1 Install The APT Software ...................................................................... 13
3.2 Mechanical Installation ......................................................................... 14
3.2.1 Environmental Conditions ................................................................................14
3.2.2 Mounting Options .............................................................................................14
3.2.3 Removing the Baseplate ..................................................................................15
3.3 Electrical Installation ............................................................................. 16
3.3.1 Connecting a Laser Devicer .............................................................................16
3.3.2 Using the Safety Interlock and Key Switch .......................................................16
3.3.3 Using The TCH002 Controller Hub ..................................................................17
3.3.4 Supply Voltage and Current Requirements ......................................................17
3.3.5 Connecting To A Standalone Power Supply ....................................................18
3.4 Connect The Hardware 1........................................................................ 9
Chapter 4 Standalone Operation ................................................................ 20
4.1 Introduction 2........................................................................................... 0
4.2 Control Panel Buttons and Indicators .................................................. 20
4.2.1 Output Potentiometer Operation ......................................................................21
4.2.2 Mode Button Operation ....................................................................................21
4.2.3 Manual Operation Tutorial ................................................................................23
Continued...

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T-Cube Laser Source
Chapter 5 PC Operation - Tutorial 2 ............................................................. 4
5.1 Introduction ...........................................................................................24
5.2 Using the APT User Utility ....................................................................24
5.3 Creating a Simulated Configuration Using APT Config ........................26
Chapter 6 Software Reference .................................................................... 29
6.1 GUI Panel .............................................................................................29
6.2 Settings Panel ......................................................................................30
Appendices
Appendix A Preventive Maintenance ......................................................... 32
Appendix B Specifications and Associated Parts .................................... 33
Appendix C APTLaser Control Method Summary .................................... 34
Appendix D Regulatory ............................................................................... 36
Appendix E Thorlabs Worldwide Contacts ................................................ 39

4
Chapter 1 Safety
1.1 Safety Information
For the continuing safety of the operators of this equipment, and the protection of the
equipment itself, the operator should take note of the Warnings, Cautions and Notes
throughout this handbook and, where visible, on the product itself.
The following safety symbols may be used throughout the handbook and on the
equipment itself.
1.2 General Warnings
Shock Warning
Given when there is a risk of injury from electrical shock.
Warning
Given when there is a risk of injury to users.
Caution
Given when there is a risk of damage to the product.
Note
Clarification of an instruction or additional information.
Warnings
The unit must be connected only to an earthed fused supply of 5V.
The Equipment, as described herein, is designed for use by personnel
properly trained in the use and handling of laser equipment. Only
personnel trained in the servicing and maintenance of this equipment
should remove its covers or attempt any repairs or adjustments.
If this equipment is used in a manner not specified by the manufacturer,
the protection provided by the equipment may be impaired. Do not
operate the instrument outside its rated supply voltages or
environmental range. In particular, excessive moisture may impair safety.
This unit is intended for operation from a normal, single phase supply, in
the temperature range 5° to 40°C, 20% to 80% RH.

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T-Cube Laser Source
1.3 Warnings Relating To Laser Safety
1.4 Laser Markings
The TLS001-1550 is a Class 1 laser product. The TLS001-635 is a Class 3R laser
product. The units are marked as follows::
Fig. 1.1 Laser Markings
Warning
Inappropriate use of any Laser product could result in permanent eye
damage.
To prevent injury, all personnel in the vicinity of the laser source should
wear appropriate eye protection.
LASER APERTURE
COMPLIES WITH IEC 60825-1 ED 1.2 2001-01
AND 21 CFR 1040.10 AND 1040.11 EXCEPT
FOR DEVIATIONS PERSUANT TO LASER
NOTICE NO. 50 DATED 5/27/01
INVISIBLE LASER
RADIATION
CLASS 1 LASER PRODUCT
1550nm <10mW
IEC 60825-1 EDITION 1.2 2001
LASER APERTURE
COMPLIES WITH IEC 60825-1 ED 1.2 2001-01
AND 21 CFR 1040.10 AND 1040.11 EXCEPT
FOR DEVIATIONS PERSUANT TO LASER
NOTICE NO. 50 DATED 5/27/01
LASER RADIATION
CLASS 3R LASER PRODUCT
543 - 700nm <5mW
IEC 60825-1 EDITION 1.2 2001
TLS001-1550 TLS001-635

6
Chapter 2 Overview and Setup
2.1 Introduction
The TLS001 T-Cube is a Fiber Coupled Laser source for stand alone operation or use
with the T-Cube Controller Hub. It uses an internally-pigtailed Fabry-Perot laser diode
that is connected to the rear panel FC feedthrough via a single mode fiber. By
connecting a fiber to fiber connection at the output, these devices deliver more useful
optical power than systems that use a receptacle with embedded optics.
This laser source is a fully functional yet highly compact controller, incorporating
driver electronics and FC/PC connected pigtailed laser diode in both 635nm and
1550nm variants. It is provided with a USB interface for easy PC control and also a
manual interface panel containing a 5 digit 7 Segment display, adjustment
potentiometer, Mode button and safety keyswitch.
The laser source operates in ‘constant optical power’ mode. The output power of the
lasr diode is monitored continuously. A feedback circuit adjusts the laser power to
achieve a constant output power.
For convenience the footprint of this unit has been kept to a minimum, measuring only
120mm x 60mm x 47mm (4.8" x 2.4" x 1.8") and with the facility to directly mount to
the optical table. The manual controls for this unit are conveniently located on the
upper surface. The Mode and Enable buttons allow the various operating modes to
be selected easily. There is also a key switch and interlock plug fitted to this compact
unit for use in laser applications requiring such functionality.
Fig. 2.1 T-Cube laser Source (TLS001)
USB connectivity provides easy 'Plug and Play' PC controlled operation - multiple T-
Cube units can be connected to a single PC via standard USB hub technology, or by
using the new K-Cube Controller Hub (see over). Coupling this with the user friendly

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T-Cube Laser Source
apt™ software (supplied) allows the user to get up and running in a short space of
time. Advanced custom applications and sequences are also possible using the
extensive ActiveX® programming environment also supplied. This programming
library is compatible with many development tools such as LabView, Visual Basic,
Visual C++, C++ Builder, LabWindows/CVI, Matlab and Delphi.
See Section 2.3. for a full description of the APT system software.
In the remainder of this handbook, the Tutorial section (Chapter 5) provides a good
initial understanding on using the unit, and the reference section (Chapter 6) covers
all operating modes and parameters in detail.
2.2 T-Cube Controller Hub
As a further level of convenience when using these controllers, Thorlabs also offers
the new K-Cube Controller Hubs (KCH301 and KCH601). This product has been
designed specifically with multiple T-Cube operation in mind in order to simplify issues
such as cable management, power supply routing, multiple USB device
communications and different optical table mounting scenarios.
The Controller Hub comprises a slim base-plate type carrier (375mm x 86mm x
21.5mm, 14.75” x 3.4” x 0.85”) with electrical connections located on the upper
surface to accept up to six T-Cubes.
Internally the Controller Hub contains a fully compliant USB 2.0 hub circuit to provide
communications for all six T-Cubes – a single USB connection to the Controller Hub
is all that is required for PC control. The Controller Hub also provides power
distribution for up to six T-Cubes, requiring only a single power connection.

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Chapter 2
2.3 APT PC Software Overview
2.3.1 Introduction
As a member of the APT range of controllers, the TLS001 Laser Source shares many
of the associated software benefits. This includes USB connectivity (allowing multiple
units to be used together on a single PC), fully featured Graphical User Interface
(GUI) panels, and extensive software function libraries for custom application
development.
The APT software suite supplied with all APT controllers provides a flexible and
powerful PC based control system both for users of the equipment, and software
programmers aiming to automate its operation.
For users, the APTUser (see Section 2.3.2.) and APTConfig (see Section 2.3.3.)
utilities allow full control of all settings and operating modes enabling complete ‘out-
of-box’ operation without the need to develop any further custom software. Both
utilities are built on top of a sophisticated, multi-threaded ActiveX ‘engine’ (called the
APT server) which provides all of the necessary APT system software services such
as generation of GUI panels, communications handling for multiple USB units, and
logging of all system activity to assist in hardware trouble shooting. It is this APT
server ‘engine’ that is used by software developers to allow the creation of advanced
automated positioning applications very rapidly and with great ease. The APT server
is described in more detail in Section 2.3.4.
Aside
ActiveX®, a Windows®-based, language-independent technology, allows a user
to quickly develop custom applications that automate the control of APT system
hardware units. Development environments supported by ActiveX® technology
include Visual Basic®, LabView™, Borland C++ Builder, Visual C++, Delphi™,
and many others. ActiveX® technology is also supported by .NET development
environments such as Visual Basic.NET and Visual C#.NET.
ActiveX controls are a specific form of ActiveX technology that provide both a user
interface and a programming interface. An ActiveX control is supplied for each
type of APT hardware unit to provide specific controller functionality to the
software developer. See Section 2.3.4. for further details.

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T-Cube Laser Source
2.3.2 APTUser Utility
The APTUser application allows the user to interact with a number of APT hardware
control units connected to the host PC. This program displays multiple graphical
instrument panels to allow multiple APT units to be controlled simultaneously.
All basic operating parameters can be altered and, similarly, all operations (such as
laser intensity adjustment) can be initiated. Settings and parameter changes can be
saved and loaded to allow multiple operating configurations to be created and easily
applied.
For many users, the APTUser application provides all of the functionality necessary
to operate the APT hardware without the need to develop any further custom
software. For those who do need to further customise and automate usage of the
controller (e.g. to implement a positioning algorithm), this application illustrates how
the rich functionality provided by the APT ActiveX server is exposed by a client
application.
Use of the APT User utility is covered in the PC tutorial (Chapter 5) and in the
APTUser online help file, accessed via the F1 key when using the APTUser utility.

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Chapter 2
2.3.3 APT Config Utility
There are many system parameters and configuration settings associated with the
operation of the APT Server. Most can be directly accessed using the various
graphical panels, however there are several system wide settings that can only be
made 'off-line' before running the APT software. These settings have global effect;
such as switching between simulator and real operating mode and incorporation of
calibration data.
The APTConfig utility is provided as a convenient means for making these system
wide settings and adjustments. Full details on using APTConfig are provided in the
online help supplied with the utility.
Use of the APT Config utility is covered in the PC tutorial (Chapter 5) and in the
APTConfig online help file, accessed via the F1 key when using the APTConfig utility.

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T-Cube Laser Source
2.3.4 APT Server (ActiveX Controls)
ActiveX Controls are re-usable compiled software components that supply both a
graphical user interface and a programmable interface. Many such Controls are
available for Windows applications development, providing a large range of re-usable
functionality. For example, there are Controls available that can be used to
manipulate image files, connect to the internet or simply provide user interface
components such as buttons and list boxes.
With the APT system, ActiveX Controls are deployed to allow direct control over (and
also reflect the status of) the range of electronic controller units, including the TLS001
laser source. Software applications that use ActiveX Controls are often referred to as
'client applications'. Based on ActiveX interfacing technology, an ActiveX Control is a
language independent software component. Consequently ActiveX Controls can be
incorporated into a wide range of software development environments for use by
client application developers. Development environments supported include Visual
Basic, Labview, Visual C++, C++ Builder, HPVEE, Matlab, VB.NET, C#.NET
and, via
VBA, Microsoft Office applications such as Excel and Word.
Consider the ActiveX Control supplied for a TLS001 APT Laser Source unit
This Control provides a complete user graphical instrument panel to allow the Laser
Source to be manually operated, as well as a complete set of software functions (often
called methods) to allow all parameters to be set and laser control operations to be
automated by a client application. The instrument panel reflects the current operating
state of the controller unit to which it is associated. Updates to the panel take place
automatically when a user (client) application is making software calls into the same
Control. For example, if a client application instructs the associated Laser Control to
move to set a particular output power, progress is monitored automatically by

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Chapter 2
changing power readout on the graphical interface, without the need for further
programming intervention.
The APT ActiveX Controls collection provides a rich set of graphical user panels and
programmable interfaces allowing users and client application developers to interact
seamlessly with the APT hardware. Each of the APT controllers has an associated
ActiveX Control and these are described fully in system online help. Note that the
APTUser and APTConfig utilities take advantage of and are built on top of the
powerful functionality provided by the APT ActiveX Server (as shown in Fig. 2.2).
Fig. 2.2 System Architecture Diagram
Refer to the main APT Software online help file, APTServer.hlp (available from the
Windows Start menu), for a complete programmers guide and reference material on
using the APT ActiveX Controls collection. Additional software developer support is
provided by the APT Support pages included on the software installation CD supplied
with every APT controller. This CD contains a complete range of tutorial samples and
coding hints and tips, together with handbooks for all the APT controllers.
2.3.5 Software Upgrades
Thorlabs operate a policy of continuous product development and may issue software
upgrades as necessary.
Detailed instructions on installing upgrades are included on the APT Software
CD ROM.

13
Chapter 3 Getting Started
3.1 Install The APT Software
DO NOT CONNECT THE CONTROLLER TO YOUR PC YET
1) Go to Services/Downloads at www.thorlabs.com and download the APT software.
2) Run the .exe file and follow the on-screen instructions.
Note
When operating via a PC, direct user interaction with the unit is
accomplished through intuitive graphical user interface panels (GUIs),
which expose all key operating parameters and modes. The user can
select multiple panel views displaying different information about a
particular hardware unit. The multitasking architecture ensures that the
graphical control panels always remain live, showing all current
hardware activity.
Caution
Some PCs may have been configured to restrict the users ability to load
software, and on these systems the software may not install/run. If you are
in any doubt about your rights to install/run software, please consult your
system administrator before attempting to install.
If you experience any problems when installing software, contact Thorlabs on
[phone] and ask for Technical Support.

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Chapter 3
3.2 Mechanical Installation
3.2.1 Environmental Conditions
Location Indoor use only
Maximum altitude 2000 m
Temperature range 5oC to 40oC
Maximum Humidity Less than 80% RH (non-condensing) at 31°C
To ensure reliable operation the unit should not be exposed to corrosive agents or
excessive moisture, heat or dust.
If the unit has been stored at a low temperature or in an environment of high humidity,
it must be allowed to reach ambient conditions before being powered up.
3.2.2 Mounting Options
The T-Cube Laser Source is shipped with a baseplate fitted, ready to be bolted to a
breadboard, optical table or similar surface.
If desired, the baseplate can be removed and the unit can be stood on rubber feet -
see Section 3.2.3.
For multiple cube systems, a USB controller hub (TCH002) is available - see Section
2.2. for further details. Full instructions on the fitting and use of the controller hub are
contained in handbook ha0146T T-Cube Controller Hub, shipped with the product.
Warning
Operation outside the following environmental limits may adversely
affect operator safety.
Caution
When siting the unit, it should be positioned so as not to impede the
operation of the control panel buttons.

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T-Cube Laser Source
3.2.3 Removing the Baseplate
The baseplate must be removed before the rubber feet (supplied) can be fitted, or the
unit is connected to the USB controller hub..
Fig. 3.1 Removing The Baseplate
1) Using a hexagon key, remove the bolts securing the unit to the baseplate. Retain
the bolts for future use if the baseplate is refitted.
2) Turn the unit upside down.
3) Remove the backing paper from the rubber feet (supplied) taking care not to touch
the exposed adhesive surface.
4) Position the feet as desired, then press and hold for a few seconds until the
adhesive has bonded.
5) The unit may now be used freestanding, sitting on its rubber feet.
Detail A
Detail B
Baseplate removed and rubber feet fitted
Baseplate attachment screws

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Chapter 3
3.3 Electrical Installation
3.3.1 Connecting a Laser Devicer
Fig. 3.2 Rear Panel Connections
INTERLOCK – The interlock must be fitted before the laser output can be enabled.
The INTERLOCK LED on the GUI panel is lit green when the ‘Interlock’ jack plug is
fitted, red when open circuit - see Section 6.1.
LASER OUT (FC connector) – Provides connection of the output fiber.
EXT IN (SMA connector) – Used to control the intensity of the laser output from an
external source. This input can be driven from a 0 to 10V voltage source. The input
impedence is 13kΩ.
3.3.2 Using the Safety Interlock and Key Switch
The TLS001 T-Cube Laser Source is a class 1 (1550 nm) / class 3R (635 nm) laser
device and therefore is not required to have a safety interlock and/or key switch.
However, a functional interlock (see Fig. 3.2) and key switch (see Fig. 4.1) is provided
on these products. The key switch must be turned on, and a short circuit must be
applied across the terminals of the interlock before the unit can be enabled.
An INTERLOCK jack plug (3.5mm stereo phono jack plug) is supplied with the unit to
close this connection. Alternatively, the contact can be controlled externally; the user
can use a custom 3.5mm jackplug connected to a remote actuated (normally open)
switch (e.g. an open door indicator), which must be closed before the unit can
operate.
Note
Thorlabs supply a variety of SMA to BNC and SMC to BNC adaptor and extension
cables. Please see our catalog, or visit www.Thorlabs.com for further details.
Note
When open circuit, the INTERLOCK jack centre pin is at about +3.7V.
When shorted, the current is typically 1mA.
EXT IN
INTERLOCK
LASER APERTURE

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T-Cube Laser Source
3.3.3 Using The TCH002 Controller Hub
The TCH002 USB Controller Hub provides power distribution for up to six T-Cubes,
and requires only a single power connection (from a separate supply unit TPS006
supplied by Thorlabs). Further details are contained in handbook ha0146T T-Cube
Controller Hub, supplied with the unit.
3.3.4 Supply Voltage and Current Requirements
The TLS001 is fitted with a 2.1mm DC connector. Thorlabs offers a compact, 5V
single way power supply (TPS101) for use with a single laser source cube.
Alternatively, an external regulated 5V power supply can be used.
Warning
DO NOT PLUG A POWERED UP T-CUBE INTO THE TCH002 USB
CONTROLLER HUB. Always ensure that all power is disconnected from
the laser source T-Cube AND the hub before the T-Cube is plugged into
the hub. Failure to observe this precaution will seriously damage the T-
Cube unit and could result in personal injury.
Warning
Exceeding the power supply maximum voltage, or connecting a reverse
polarity voltage can cause permanent damage to the unit and could result
in personnal injury.
Table 3.1 Power Supply Ratings
Supply Minimum Maximum Max Operating Current
+5V +4.9V +5.1V 500 mA

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Chapter 3
3.3.5 Connecting To A Standalone Power Supply
Fig. 3.3 Front Panel Power Supply Connector
1) Using the front panel connector as shown above, connect the unit to a regulated
DC power supply of the rating detailed in Section 3.3.4.
2) Switch on the Power Supply unit.
3) The Version number of the embedded software is displayed for a few seconds.
Thorlabs offers a compact, 5V single way power supply (TPS101) for use with a single
laser source cube. Alternatively, the USB controller hub (TCH002) provides power
and USB comms for up to 6 T-Cubes (see Section 3.3.3.). However, if an external
supply is to be used, see Section 3.3.4. for power supply requirements.
Warning
The unit must be connected only to a DC supply as detailed in Section 3.3.
Connection to a supply of a different rating may cause damage to the unit
and could result in injury to the operator.
USB
DC 5V 500mA
_
+

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T-Cube Laser Source
3.4 Connect The Hardware
1) Perform the mechanical installation as detailed in Section 3.2.
2) Connect the connectorized output fiber to the unit - see Section 3.3.1.
3) Connect the laser source unit to the power supply - see Section 3.3.5.
4) Connect the INTERLOCK jack plug - see Section 3.3.2.
5) Connect the PSU to the main supply and switch ‘ON’. The version number of the
embedded software is displayed while the unit boots up. If the unit is being used
with the TCH002 USB Controller hub, the bay ident number is also displayed. The
software version is useful when requesting technical support.
6) Connect the laser source unit to your PC.
7) WindowsTM should detect the new hardware. Wait while WindowsTM installs the
drivers for the new hardware - see the Getting Started guide for more information.
8) For best accuracy, wait approximately 30 mins for the unit to thermally stabilize to
the environment.
Note
The USB cable should be no more than 3 metres in length.
Communication lengths in excess of 3 metres can be achieved by using
a powered USB hub).

20
Chapter 4 Standalone Operation
4.1 Introduction
The control panel of the TLS001 Laser Source T-Cube contains a 5 digit 7 Segment
display, adjustment potentiometer, Mode button and safety keyswitch.
The following brief overview explains how the front panel controls can be used to
perform a typical series of operations.
4.2 Control Panel Buttons and Indicators
Fig. 4.1 Panel Controls and Indicators
Main Display - Shows the laser optical output power in mW or dBm, or the laser
diode current in mA.
OUTPUT Potentiometer - Used to set the output intensity (power) of the laser.
MODE Button - Switches the display between mW, mA and dBm modes - see
Section 4.2.2.
ENABLE Button - Turns the laser output ON and OFF.
POWER LED - Lit when power is applied to the unit.
KEYSWITCH - Turns the laser output ON and OFF. The KEYSWITCH LED on the
GUI panel is lit green when the key switch is turned ON and red when the switch
is OFF - see Section 6.1.
Note
The main display and the POWER LED will flash when the ‘Ident’ button
is clicked on the APT Software GUI panel - see Section 6.1. for further
details.
KEYSWITCH
Class 1 Laser Product
POWER
mW
mA
dBm
MODE
ENABLE
OUTPUT
apt - laser source