THORLABS TLX3 User manual

TLX3
O-Band Tunable
Laser Source
User Guide

O-Band Tunable Laser Source
Table of Contents
Introduction..........................................................................................................................2
Safety and Compliance......................................................................................................3
TLX3 Specifications............................................................................................................5
TLX3 Front and Rear Panel Functions.............................................................................6
TLX3 Quick Start Guide......................................................................................................7
TLX3 Full Operating Instructions......................................................................................8
6.1.Manual Mode....................................................................................................................8
6.2.Stepped Sweep Mode .....................................................................................................9
6.3.Continuous Sweep Mode..............................................................................................10
6.4.Additional Utility Functions..........................................................................................11
Trigger and Sync Clock Outputs......................................................................................14
7.1.Trigger Output ...............................................................................................................14
7.2.Sync Clock Output ........................................................................................................15
Remote Control Features..................................................................................................16
Mechanical Drawings.........................................................................................................17
Maintenance, Repair, & Fuses..........................................................................................18
10.1.Replacing the Main Fuses ............................................................................................19
10.2.Replacement Parts ........................................................................................................19
Troubleshooting.................................................................................................................20
Regulatory...........................................................................................................................21
Thorlabs Worldwide Contacts..........................................................................................22

O-Band Tunable Laser Source Chapter 1: Introduction
Rev B, April 20, 2022 Page 2
Introduction
The TLX3 is a turn-key, self-contained, tunable laser for the O-Band (1250 nm to 1350 nm) based on the use of a
fiber-coupled, semiconductor gain module and an intracavity tunable filter. It has no moving parts, which enables
fast, continuous tuning of wavelength. With output power in the 10 mW to 40 mW range, and PM single-mode
output, it is an ideal source for communication applications and manufacturing testing. The output connection uses
PM fiber with an FC/APC connector. BNC connectors on the back panel provide analog output signals for
synchronizing the operation of the laser to external instrumentation.
The laser has three main modes it can operate in: Manual, Stepped Sweep, and Continuous Sweep. These are
easily selected and controlled by the supplied Windows GUI (see sample window below) which connects to the
TLX3 via USB or RS-232 connections. The GUI also provides direct readout of wavelength and power.
The user can also control the laser using their own software via a full command set. All documentation for this
product is available for download on the Thorlabs website at www.thorlabs.com/manuals. A separate
Programming Guide provides detailed information about how to connect and control the TLX3 via external user
programs.

O-Band Tunable Laser Source Chapter 2: Safety and Compliance
Page 3 TTN220723-D02
Safety and Compliance
The safety of any system incorporating this equipment is the responsibility of the assembler of the system. If
equipment is used in a manner not specified by the manufacturer, the protection provided by the equipment may
be impaired. Only with written consent from Thorlabs may changes to single components be carried out or
components not supplied by Thorlabs be used. There are no user serviceable components inside this device.

Warning: Risk of Electrical Shock
Before applying power to the instrument, 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 damage to your health or even death. Only use mains cable
with sufficient current and voltage ratings for this instrument. The local supply voltage must be in the
range specified on the rear panel, and the correct fuse must be installed in the fuse holder. If not, please
replace the main fuse (see Maintenance Section). Do not position equipment in a way that makes it
difficult for the user to operate the disconnecting device. Do not remove covers. Refer servicing to
qualified personnel.
Warning: Risk of Explosion
The instrument must not be operated in explosion endangered environments.
Warning: Laser Radiation
Avoid Exposure – Radiation emitted from apertures. Do not look into the
laser aperture while the laser is on. Injury to the eye may result. Laser
should not be turned on unless there is an optical fiber connected to the
laser output port.
Caution – Use of controls or adjustments or performance of procedures
other than those specified herein may result in hazardous radiation exposure.
Caution: ESD Sensitive Component
The components inside this instrument are ESD sensitive. Take all appropriate precautions to discharge
personnel and equipment before making any connections to the unit.
Caution: Components not Water Resistant
This instrument should be kept clear of environments where liquid spills or condensing moisture are
likely. It is not water resistant. To avoid damage to the instrument, do not expose it to spray, liquids, or
solvents.
Caution: Follow Intended Usage Guidelines
Inputs and outputs must only be connected with shielded connection cables.
Do not obstruct the air ventilation slots in housing.
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.

O-Band Tunable Laser Source Chapter 2: Safety and Compliance
Rev B, April 20, 2022 Page 4
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. 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.
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).
Thorlabs is not responsible for any radio or television interference caused by modifications of this equipment or the
substitution or attachment of connecting cables and equipment other than those specified by Thorlabs. 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.
The EU Declaration of Conformity as also available as part of the documentation library for the TLX3.

O-Band Tunable Laser Source Chapter 3: TLX3 Specifications
Page 5 TTN220723-D02
TLX3 Specifications
All specifications are typical at 25 °C after 1-hour warm-up time.
Parameter Specification Note
Wavelength Range 1250 - 1350 nm
Output Power 10 - 40 mW Depends on Wavelength (See
Graph
)
Power Stability ±0.02 dB -
Power Repeatability ±0.05 dB -
Wavelength Accuracy ±50 pm -
Wavelength Stability ±30 pm -
Wavelength Repeatability ±20 pm -
Tuning Resolution 10 pm -
ASE Ratio >60 dB 0.1 nm Bandwidth, 1 nm from Center
RIN Noise -145 dB/Hz -
Linewidth <100 kHz -
Tuning Time (Manual Mode) 100 ms Between Any Two Wavelengths
Transition Time (Step Mode) 300 ms In Stepped Mode
Dwell Time (Step Mode) 100 ms - 60 s Does Not Include Transition Time
Sweep Speed Range 50 - 400 nm/s Continuous Sweep Mode
Output Connector (PM) FC/APC Polarization-Maintaining Fiber
Output Fiber Single-Mode PM Aligned to Slow Axis and Key
Polarization Extinction Ratio >15 dB -
Operating Conditions 10 - 35 °C, 5 - 85% RH -
Housing Size 19.0" x 16.9" x 3.4"
483 mm x 429 mm x 86 mm 2U Rack Mount Chassis
Supply Voltage 100 - 250 VAC 50/60 Hz
Trigger Out Levels (Digital) 0 - 4.1 V See Rear Panel
Clock Out Levels (Digital) 0 - 3.3 V See Rear Panel
1240 1260 1280 1300 1320 1340 1360
0
3
6
9
12
15
18
1
2
4
8
16
32
63
Typical Spectral Response
Power (mW)
Power (dBm)
Wavelength (nm)

O-Band Tunable Laser Source Chapter 4: TLX3 Front and Rear Panel Functions
Rev B, April 20, 2022 Page 6
TLX3 Front and Rear Panel Functions
The TLX3 comes in a 2U height rack-mount sized box with rack-mount hardware as shown here. Screw-on feet for
the bottom of the box are also available for bench placement.
Callout Description
A Power Switch
B Indicator Light for Laser Power
C Indicator Light for Laser Output
D PM FC/APC Fiber Output
Callout Description
A Main Power Connection
B RS-232 Port (DB9 Female Connector)
C USB Port (USB Type B Connector)
D Clock Output (BNC Female Connector)
E Trigger Signal (BNC Female Connector)
F Boot Mode Button
a
G Indicator LED for Firmware Upgrades
a. The Boot Mode button is NOT a “Reset” button
C
G
A
C
D
A
B
DE
F
B

O-Band Tunable Laser Source Chapter 5: TLX3 Quick Start Guide
Page 7 TTN220723-D02
TLX3 Quick Start Guide
1. Plug the TLX3 laser into the wall supply and turn on the front panel switch.
2. Install the GUI software onto a PC. The software is available here: https://www.thorlabs.com/Software
The software is also supplied on a memory stick in the shipping box. Note that the software also installs
the Windows driver required for programming the TLX3 via USB.
A desktop shortcut should appear that looks like this:
3. Connect the PC to the TLX3 laser via standard USB cable.
4. Run the GUI application by clicking on the desktop shortcut.
5. First, select the COM port associated with the TLX3 laser and press OK.
6. The GUI window will open in the OFF state as shown below. You can resize it as you prefer.
The laser is now ready to be turned ON and operated.
7. Connect a clean PM FC/APC patch cord to the laser output on the front panel.
NOTE: Cleaning the patch cord is essential to avoid damage to the connectors.
8. Click on the ON/OFF button to enable laser output and check the power output.
9. Make sure to observe all laser safety procedures.

O-Band Tunable Laser Source Chapter 6: TLX3 Full Operating Instructions
Rev B, April 20, 2022 Page 8
TLX3 Full Operating Instructions
Follow the Quick Start Guide to get the laser connected to a PC and turned ON. The GUI should appear as shown
in this image (in Manual Mode). The laser can always be turned ON and OFF using the button in the top right. The
indicator light on the front panel of the actual laser should also confirm the ON/OFF state.
There are three operating modes described below: Manual, Stepped Sweep, and Continuous Sweep. These are
selected by clicking on the radio buttons as shown in the image above.
6.1. Manual Mode
This mode (as shown in the image above) allows you to simply set the operating wavelength and step it manually
using on-screen buttons. The wavelength can be set directly by typing into the “Wavelength Target” box at the lower
left or by clicking and dragging the wavelength indicator label above the wavelength scale. Specific step sizes can
also be entered in the “Wavelength Step” box. In that case, the wavelength can be precisely stepped up or down
by clicking on the + or – indicators. The actual wavelength and output power are always reported near the top of
the GUI window in large, yellow font. The units of the power measurement can be set (either mW or dBm) via the
Options menu button.

O-Band Tunable Laser Source Chapter 6: TLX3 Full Operating Instructions
Page 9 TTN220723-D02
6.2. Stepped Sweep Mode
This mode allows you to program the laser to automatically step across a wavelength range at a user-defined step
size. Click on the Stepped Sweep Mode button to enter this mode. The GUI should appear similar to the image
below. Note that the “Start Sweep” button has appeared on the right.
The wavelength range can be set by typing the start and stop wavelengths in the boxes at the lower left of the GUI.
Alternately, the start and stop wavelengths can be set by simply dragging the wavelength indicator labels on the
wavelength scale. The step size and dwell time at each step can be specified in the boxes at the bottom of the GUI.
You can also select the number of cycles to sweep in the box at the bottom right of the GUI. If you want to sweep
continuously, then clicking on the “Repeat” menu will allow you to select “Counted” or “Infinite” sweeps.
Once the parameters are set, the sweeps are initiated by clicking the “Start Sweep” button. The button will then
change to “Stop Sweep”. Clicking on “Stop Sweep” will terminate the sweep function and reset the controls to the
start wavelength. (Note, the laser will still finish its last sweep before resetting).
Note that if the wavelength range is not set to be an integer of steps, then the laser will end its sweep at the last
integral number of steps and return to the Start wavelength.
Note also that each step is comprised of a transition time followed by a dwell time. The transition time allows for the
laser wavelength to stabilize after tuning. It is the same for all dwell times. Please see the Trigger section of this
guide for more details about how to use the Trigger Output function in the Stepped Sweep Mode.
Note that the Power readout will be blanked during this sweep mode because it’s changing too rapidly to be read
accurately.

O-Band Tunable Laser Source Chapter 6: TLX3 Full Operating Instructions
Rev B, April 20, 2022 Page 10
6.3. Continuous Sweep Mode
This mode allows you to program the laser to automatically sweep continuously across a user-defined wavelength
range. Click on the Continuous Sweep Mode button to enter this mode. The GUI should appear similar to the image
below. Note that the “Start Sweep” button appears on the right.
The wavelength range can be set by typing the start and stop wavelengths in the boxes at the lower left of the GUI.
Alternately, the start and stop wavelengths can be set by simply dragging the wavelength indicator labels on the
wavelength scale. The sweep speed and number of cycles to sweep can also be specified at the bottom of the GUI.
Similar to the Stepped Sweep Mode, you can select whether the number of sweeps is a fixed number or infinite. In
this image, it shows the “Infinite” selection.
Once the parameters are set, the sweeps are initiated by clicking the Start button. To stop or reset the sweep
function, simply click on the Stop Sweep button that appears. The sweeping will stop, and the laser will return to
the start wavelength.
See the Trigger and Synchronization sections for more information about how to synchronize external equipment
with the TLX3 in the Continuous Sweep Mode.
Note that the Power readout will be blanked during this sweep mode because it’s changing too rapidly to be read
accurately.

O-Band Tunable Laser Source Chapter 6: TLX3 Full Operating Instructions
Page 11 TTN220723-D02
6.4. Additional Utility Functions
Additional Functions are available using the buttons across the top of the GUI as shown here:
Disconnect:
This button is used to disconnect any communication between the laser and the PC. Communication can be
established again by pressing the “Connect” button and selecting the correct COM port again.
Save & Load:
The Save & Load buttons can be used to store and recall the complete instrument settings for any particular mode
of operation. The settings are stored in a local directory on your PC as .XML files that can be named according to
standard Windows OS conventions. There is no limit to the number of set-ups that can be stored and recalled.
The Options Window
1. Select a Light or Dark theme for the GUI (image is a sample of Light theme)
2. Select the language preferred (Chinese or English)
3. Select the Power Units to be displayed: linear (mW) or logarithmic (dBm)
Figure 1 Options Window
Figure 2 Light Theme for the GUI

O-Band Tunable Laser Source Chapter 6: TLX3 Full Operating Instructions
Rev B, April 20, 2022 Page 12
Update:
The Update button provides a window for automatically checking the current version of the software. If it is current,
then the Installed Version will be the same as the Latest Version and nothing else needs to be done. If the Latest
Version is newer then the Installed Version, then the Download Update button will become active. Simply press the
button and follow the instructions.
Support:
The Support button provides an email address should you need technical support. Use the “Copy to Clipboard”
button to capture the logfile information and then paste it into an email to [email protected]. They will
get back to you promptly to follow up with any problem you might have.

O-Band Tunable Laser Source Chapter 6: TLX3 Full Operating Instructions
Page 13 TTN220723-D02
Help:
The Help button provides system information as well as several useful links to the TLX3 laser webpage, the User
Manual, the Programming Guide, and any License Documentation.
The TLX3 webpage provides complete specifications as well as all other documentation.

O-Band Tunable Laser Source Chapter 7: Trigger and Sync Clock Outputs
Rev B, April 20, 2022 Page 14
Trigger and Sync Clock Outputs
These BNC (Female) outputs are found on the back of the unit as shown here:
7.1. Trigger Output
The Trigger Out connector (BNC) provides a signal for synchronizing the sweep functions with external
equipment. The port normally is held at 0 V. It is used for both Stepped Sweep and Continuous Sweep modes.
Stepped Sweep Mode:
In this mode, the Trigger Output provides a 4.1 V pulse when the laser steps to the next wavelength. The rising
edge indicates the beginning of the transition to the next wavelength, then 300 ms later, the falling edge indicates
the laser is stable at the new wavelength. In the example shown below, the laser is set to step from 1300 nm to
1304 nm in 1 nm increments and 1 sec dwell times. Note that the transition times (300 ms) are not included in the
dwell times.
Continuous Sweep Mode:
In this mode, the Trigger Output provides a 4.1 V rising edge at the beginning of the sweep, and a falling edge back
to 0 V at the end of the sweep. The signal stays at 0 V while the laser resets to the starting wavelength. See the
next section on Clock Sync Output for a more detailed description of the signals.

O-Band Tunable Laser Source Chapter 7: Trigger and Sync Clock Outputs
Page 15 TTN220723-D02
7.2. Sync Clock Output
The Sync Clock Output provides a series of 3.3 V pulses that can be used to synchronize external instruments to
the continuous sweep of the laser. The pulses are produced at a rate that depends on the sweep speed setting,
and thus can also be specified in terms of picometers per pulse period. Note that it is the rising edge of the pulse
that should be used for timing. The rising edge signifies the laser is stable and external measurements can be
reliably made. The pulse width is variable and should be ignored.
The graph below shows the relationship between the Trigger and Sync outputs for the Continuous Sweep Mode.
The Trigger goes high (4.1 V) at sweep start and stays high until sweep end. The table below the graph shows the
values of these parameters as a function of sweep speed.

Sweep Speed Pulse
Frequenc
y
Wavelength Shift
per Pulse Period
50 nm/sec 12.5 kHz 4 pm
60 nm/sec 12 kHz 5 pm
80 nm/sec 20 kHz 4 pm
100 nm/sec 20 kHz 5 pm
120 nm/sec 12 kHz 10 pm
150 nm/sec 15 kHz 10 pm
160 nm/sec 16 kHz 10 pm
200 nm/sec 20 kHz 10 pm
300 nm/sec 15 kHz 20 pm
400 nm/sec 20 kHz 20 pm

O-Band Tunable Laser Source Chapter 8: Remote Control Features
Rev B, April 20, 2022 Page 16
Remote Control Features
The TLX3 provides two communication methods for remote control, USB and RS-232. Note that a custom
Windows driver is required for programming via the USB interface. This driver is installed automatically with the
GUI software package included with the TLX3.
Both the RS-232 and the USB connections can be used for remotely controlling the TLX3 laser via SCPI type serial
commands. Which connector to choose for remote control operation depends on the demands of the application and
the user’s preference. See the Programming Guide for information about the commands and connecting the laser to
a PC. (https://www.thorlabs.com/manuals)
Pin Description
1 N/C
2 Transmit
(
Output
)
3 Receive
(
Input
)
4 N/C
5 Di
g
ital Ground
6 N/C
7 N/C
8 N/C
9 N/C
Boot Mode Indicator
In normal operation mode, the indicator LED will glow a steady green color. The recessed “Boot Mode” button is
never used in normal operation. It is not a “RESET” button. It is used to place the instrument into special modes to
allow installation of firmware updates.
Documentation explaining how to use these modes will be included with any future firmware update files, which will
be made available as needed on the Thorlabs web site. Please contact Thorlabs technical support if you have any
questions.
1
5
6
9

O-Band Tunable Laser Source Chapter 9: Mechanical Drawings
Page 17 TTN220723-D02
Mechanical Drawings

O-Band Tunable Laser Source Chapter 10: Maintenance, Repair, & Fuses
Rev B, April 20, 2022 Page 18
Maintenance, Repair, & Fuses
The instrument should not need regular maintenance by the user. If necessary, the display, housing, and front panel
can be cleaned using a soft cloth moistened with normal, mild glass cleaner. Do not use any chemical solvents or
harsh cleaners on the display. Do not spray any cleaning solutions directly onto any part of the unit.
The instrument does not contain any modules that can be repaired by the user. If a malfunction occurs, please
contact Thorlabs Technical Support and arrangements will be made to investigate the problem. Do not remove the
cover. There are no user serviceable components inside.
Optical patch cords used to connect to the front panel of the instrument should have their end faces cleaned every
time a new connection is made. The end faces of the internal fiber connectors can easily be damaged by the use
of dirty fiber ends. If damage occurs, the instrument will need to be sent back for repair. We suggest using a fiber
end-face cleaning product such as the Thorlabs FCC-7020 shown below. Alternatively, a lint-free cloth moistened
with isopropyl alcohol or methanol can be used. Never use acetone.
The optical connectors on the front panel may be cleaned using a 2.5 mm bulkhead cleaner such as the Thorlabs
FBC250. This allows the user to clean the fiber end-face without removing it from the internal bulkhead adapter.
Figure 3 (a) FCC-7020 Fiber Connector Cleaner and FCC-7021 (b) FBC250 2.5 mm Bulkhead Cleaner

(
a
)
(
b
)

O-Band Tunable Laser Source Chapter 10: Maintenance, Repair, & Fuses
Page 19 TTN220723-D02
10.1. Replacing the Main Fuses
The system is protected by a main fuse block located in the power entry module where the main power cable plugs
into the back panel of the instrument. If the instrument does not appear to power-up, especially after a power outage
or storm, you can check the condition of the main power fuse without removing the cover of the instrument by
following the following steps.
1. Turn the instrument OFF using the front panel switch
2. Unplug the main power cable.
3. Carefully remove the fuse holder slide from the power entry module (use a flat screwdriver) and remove
the fuses.
4. Check the fuses for continuity. If in doubt, replace both fuses. Additional replacement fuses can be
purchased from Thorlabs or an electronics supply house. Always use fuses of the same type as the
original.
5. Reinstall the fuse holder slide into the power entry module, taking care that it fully seats until the top is flush
with the rest of the power entry module.
6. Plug the main power cable back into the unit and power up using the front panel switch.
If the fuse blows repeatedly, it is likely that an internal failure has occurred. Do not attempt to bypass the fuse as
this can create a dangerous situation that could further damage the instrument or harm personnel. In this case,
please contact Technical Support for directions.
10.2. Replacement Parts
The following parts can be obtained by contacting Thorlabs Technical Support
 1.25 A, Type T, 250 VAC fuse for main power
 Instrument IEC main power cord