THORLABS MCLS1-980-20 User manual

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4-CHANNEL FIBER-COUPLED LASER SOURCE
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Item # MCLS1
Display Power Accuracy ±10%
Current Set Point Resolution 0.01 mA
Temperature Adjust Range 20.00 to 30.00 °C
Temperature Set Point Resolution ±0.01 °C
Noise <0.5% Typical
(Source Dependent)
Rise/Fall Time <5 µs
Support Documents
Features
4 Laser Output Channels with FC/PC Connectors
Independent Temperature Control Gives High Temperature Stability
Low Noise Output
USB Interface
Low-Profile Package, 2.5" (64 mm) Tall
25 Wavelengths Available (See Table Below for Details)
Thorlabs' 4-Channel, Fiber-Coupled, Customizable Laser Source provides easy
coupling and simple control of laser-diode-driven fiber optics. The laser source is
configured to accept a wide range of fiber-pigtailed laser diodes with discrete
wavelengths in the spectral range from 405 - 1550 nm, in any combination. The laser
source allows more than one channel to be turned on simultaneously; however, it is only possible to adjust the power output of one at a time from the front
panel.
Each laser diode is operated from an independent, high-precision, low-noise, constant-current source and temperature control unit. An intuitive LCD interface
allows the user to view and set the laser current and temperature independently for each laser. The display indicates the channel number selected, the output
wavelength of the source, the operating power calculated from the laser diode monitor diode, and the actual temperature the laser is set to.
This device incorporates a microcontroller to fully control the laser's optical power and temperature as well as to monitor the system for fault conditions. The
laser source includes a USB connection that allows remote enabling, power adjustment, and temperature adjustment. On the rear panel, analog inputs are
OVERVIEW
4 Laser Output Channels with FC/PC Connectors
TEC and Controller for Each Channel
Stable, Low Noise Output
33 Power/Wavelength Options Available
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MCLS1
View of Back Panel
MCLS1-980-20 - January 11, 2016
Item # MCLS1-980-20 was discontinued on January 11, 2016. For informational purposes, this is a copy of
the website content at that time and is valid only for the stated product.

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available to modulate the laser diodes' outputs with an externally generated waveform. To prevent damage, the microcontroller will disable the output if the
sum of the analog input and internal set point exceeds the laser limits.
Safety
While most output sources fall within the class 3R laser rating, the system was fully designed to meet laser class 3B requirements. There is an interlock
located on the rear panel that must be shorted in order for any laser output to be enabled. This can easily be configured to be triggered by doors to disable the
lasers in unsafe conditions. The power switch is a keylock system to prevent accidental or unwanted use. Each source has its own enable button allowing the
user to choose the light source or sources he wishes to be active, as well as a master enable that must also be set. Each channel includes a green LED
indicator to easily determine its current state. There is a 3 second delay before the lasers turn on, and the user is warned by the LED rapidly blinking. The
laser must be turned off before connecting or disconnecting a fiber to the output ports, particularly for powers above 10 mW.
In the Box
The MCLS includes a universal power supply allowing operation over 100 - 240 VAC without the need for selecting the line voltage. The fuse access is
conveniently located on the rear panel. This unit is supplied with a U.S. line cord as well as a standard European line cord, the pre-configured MCLS1 with all
selected lasers installed, and the manual.
Below is a list of available lasers listed by wavelength and showing the corresponding minimum output power and pigtail fiber type. To discuss potential custom
wavelengths and configurations not available below, please contact Technical Support. Please use the configurator below to select the pigtails and locations
you would like. Note: An MCLS1 unit must be purchased with at least one pigtail installed. If you leave a channel blank, the unit will be shipped
without a laser in that channel. Thorlabs will fill the empty slot at a later date if you desire. Please contact Tech Support prior to sending your unit
back to us.
Item # Typicalλ Wavelength Range Minimum PoweraTypical Power Laser Type Fiber
MCLS1-405-30 405 nm 400 - 410 nm 24.0 mW 28 mW Fabry-Perot S405-XP
MCLS1-406 406 nm 395 - 415 nm 4.0 mW 6 mW Fabry-Perot S405-XP
MCLS1-473-20 473 nm 468 - 478 nm 15.0 mW 20 mW Fabry-Perot 460HP
MCLS1-488 488 nm 483 - 493 nm 18.0 mW 22 mW Fabry-Perot 460HP
MCLS1-520 520 nm 515 - 530 nm 8.0 mW 10.0 mW Fabry-Perot 460HP
MCLS1-635 635 nm 630 - 640 nm 2.5 mW 3.5 mW Fabry-Perot SM600
MCLS1-638 638 nm 628 - 648 nm 10.0 mW 15 mW Fabry-Perot SM600
MCLS1-642 642 nm 635 - 645 nm 15.0 mW 20 mW Fabry-Perot SM600
MCLS1-658 658 nm 648 - 668 nm 9.5 mW 14 mW Fabry-Perot SM600
MCLS1-660 660 nm 653 - 663 nm 15.0 mW 17 mW Fabry-Perot SM600
MCLS1-670 670 nm 660 - 680 nm 1.5 mW 2.5 mW Fabry-Perot SM600
MCLS1-670-4 670 nm 660 - 680 nm 4.0 mW 5 mW Fabry-Perot SM600
MCLS1-685 685 nm 675 - 695 nm 10.0 mW 13.5 mW Fabry-Perot SM600
MCLS1-705 705 nm 695 - 715 nm 10.0 mW 15 mW Fabry-Perot SM600
MCLS1-730 730 nm 720 - 740 nm 12.5 mW 15.0 mW Fabry-Perot SM600
MCLS1-785 785 nm 770 - 800 nm 6.0 mW 7.5 mW Fabry-Perot 780HP
MCLS1-785-25 785 nm 780 - 790 nm 20.0 mW 25 mW Fabry-Perot 780HP
MCLS1-808-20 808 nm 803 - 813 nm 20.0 mW 25 mW Fabry-Perot SM800-5.6-125
MCLS1-830 830 nm 820 - 840 nm 8.0 mW 10 mW Fabry-Perot SM800-5.6-125
MCLS1-850 850 nm 840 - 860 nm 7.5 mW 10.5 mW Fabry-Perot SM800-5.6-125
MCLS1-850-MM 850 nm 847 - 857 nm 45.0 mW 50 mW Fabry-Perot GIF625
MCLS1-852 852 nm 847 - 857 nm 20.0 mW 25 mW Fabry-Perot SM800-5.6-125
MCLS1-905-20 905 nm 900 - 910 nm 15.0 mW 20 mW Fabry-Perot SM800-5.6-125
MCLS1-940 940 nm 930 - 950 nm 25.0 mW 30 mW Fabry-Perot SM800-5.6-125
MCLS1-980 980 nm 965 - 995 nm 6.0 mW 9 mW Fabry-Perot 980HP
MCLS1-980-20 980 nm 975 - 985 nm 20.0 mW 25 mW Fabry-Perot 980HP
MCLS1-1064 1064 nm 1059 - 1069 nm 20.0 mW 25 mW Fabry-Perot HI1060
MCLS1-1310 1310 nm 1290 - 1330 nm 2.5 mW 3 mW Fabry-Perot SMF-28e+
MCLS1-1310-15 1310 nm 1290 - 1330 nm 13.0 mW 15.0 mW Fabry-Perot SMF-28e+

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MCLS1-1310DFB 1310 nm 1290 - 1330 nm 1.5 mW 2 mW DFB SMF-28e+
MCLS1-1550 1550 nm 1520 - 1580 nm 1.5 mW 2 mW Fabry-Perot SMF-28e+
MCLS1-1550-10 1550 nm 1530 - 1570 nm 8.0 mW 10.0 mW Fabry-Perot SMF-28e+
MCLS1-1550DFB 1550 nm 1540 - 1560 nm 1.5 mW 2 mW DFB SMF-28e+
a. This is the minimum guaranteed output power of the laser when the adjustment knob is set at the maximum.
Performance Specifications
Display Power Accuracy ±10%
Current Set Point Resolution 0.01 mA
Laser Drive Current per Channel (Max) 120 mA
Temperature Adjust Range 20.00 to 30.00 °C
Temp Set Point Resolution ±0.01 °C
Noise <0.5% Typical (Source Dependent)
Rise/Fall Time <5 µs
Modulation Input 0 - 5 V = 0 - Full Power
Modulation Bandwidth 80 kHz Full Depth of Modulation
General Specifications
AC Input 100 - 240 VAC, 50 - 60 Hz
Input Power 35 VA Max
Fuse Ratings 250 mA
Fuse Type IEC60127-2/III
(250V, Slow Blow Type 'T')
Fuse Size 5 mm x 20 mm
Dimensions (W x H x D) 12.6" x 2.5" x 10.6"
(320 mm x 64 mm x 269 mm)
Weight 8.5 lbs (3.9 kg)
Operating Temperature 15 to 35 °C
Storage Temperature 0 to 50 °C
Connections and Controls
Interface Control Optical Encoder with Pushbutton
Enable and Laser Select Keypad Switch Enable with LED Indication
Power On Key Switch
Fiber Ports FC/PC
Display LCD, 16x2 Alphanumeric Characters
Input Power Connection IEC Connector
Modulation Input Connector BNC (Referenced to Chassis)
Interlock 2.5 mm Mono Phono Jack
Communications
SPECS

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Communications Port USB 2.0
Com Connection USB Type B connector
Required Cable 2 m USB Type A to Type B Cable
(Replacement Part Number USB-A-79)
Front Panel
Click to Enlarge
Back Panel
Click to Enlarge
For in-depth operation instructions, please view the operating manual. A printed copy of this manual is included with each MCLS1 Laser Source.
Viewing Information
Thorlabs' Multi-Channel Laser Source (MCLS) uses a single four
quadrant LCD display to access the information for each output
channel (see photo to the right for details). Rotate the control
knob to the left of the display to scroll through the channels until
the desired channel is selected. The control knob is also a select
switch that allows access to the laser current and temperature
parameters (see below for more information).
Top Left:
Indicates the
selected
channel.
Top Right: Indicates the wavelength of the selected
channel.
Bottom Left: Indicates the power level of the laser diode
output. If disabled, the power level will read "0.00 mW." If
the selected diode does not include a monitor diode, this
will read "No PD."
Bottom Right: Indicates the actual temperature (in °C)
that the laser is stabilized to. The default temperature is
set to 25.00 °C and is user adjustable. The temperature
control is always active and requires 5 to 10 minutes to
properly stabilize.
Adjusting the Laser Output Power and
Temperature
After selecting a channel, the output power and temperature of
the selected laser can be adjusted. The control knob utilizes an
intelligent speed control. Turning the knob slowly corresponds to
fine adjustment while turning the knob quickly corresponds to coarse adjustment. The laser current adjustment translates to real-time adjustment of output
power. The default setting upon first turning on the unit is output power fully off. Note that lasing occurs at the threshold current value, which is different for
every source.
Once the desired channel is selected, the Laser Current and Temperature parameters can be adjusted by pressing the control knob in. Pressing in the knob
once will select the Laser Current, pressing it a second time will select the Temperature Set Point, and pressing it a third time will revert back to the display
mode and lock the selected parameters. The parameter to be adjusted is indicated with blinking text. The resolution is 0.1 mA for the current adjustment and
0.01 °C for the temperature adjustment.
Modulating the Laser Output
The Analog In input can be used to modulate the laser output or to set the laser output remotely using a 5 V power source. The 5 V maximum input
corresponds to the maximum calibrated power of each channel. The resulting actual output power is dependent on the set current and operating temperature.
In addition, in order to eliminate a dead zone in the power control knob, the output of the unit is offset to the threshold current of the coupled laser diode.
Adjusting the knob below threshold will immediately set the current to 0.0 mA (i.e., Standby mode). Therefore, there are two modes of modulation available.
Setting the control to "Standby" first allows the analog modulation to utilize the full 0 to 5 V input range. The drawback to this modulation mode is that a
minimum voltage is needed to operate above the threshold current. The second mode is to adjust the control knob so that the laser is at or above threshold.
The analog modulation voltage will be limited to less than 5 V, but a DC offset will not be required. This DC offset should be kept in mind when using the
modulation input since it will limit the actual input voltage range.
OPERATION

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Interlock Mating
Connector
Specification Value
Type of Mating Connector 2.5 mm Mono Phono Jack
Open Circuit Voltage +5 VDC with Respect to Chassis Ground
Short Circuit Current ~8 mA DC
Connector Polarity Tip is +5 V, Barrel is Ground
Interlock Switch RequirementaMust be Normally Open Dry Contacts
a. Under no circumstances should any external voltages be applied to the Interlock input
Making the Safety Interlock Connections
The MCLS series of laser sources are equipped with a remote interlock connector located on the rear panel. All units have this feature regardless of their FDA
and IEC classifications. In order to enable the MCLS source, a short circuit must be applied across the terminals of the Remote Interlock connector. In practice
this connection is made available to allow the user to connect a remote-actuated switch to the connector (i.e., an open door indicator). The switch (which must
be normally open) has to be closed in order for the unit to be enabled. Once the switch is in an open state, the MCLS source will automatically shut down. If
the switch returns to a closed condition, the MCLS source must be re-enabled at the unit by pressing the "Master Enable" switch.
SOFTWARE
Software
Version 2.0.0
Software package to operate Thorlabs' MCLS1 4-Channel Laser
Source, including a GUI, drivers, and LabVIEW/C++ SDK for
secondary development.
Laser Safety and Classification
Safe practices and proper usage of safety equipment should be taken into consideration when operating lasers. The eye is susceptible to injury, even from very
low levels of laser light. Thorlabs offers a range of laser safety accessories that can be used to reduce the risk of accidents or injuries. Laser emission in the
visible and near infrared spectral ranges has the greatest potential for retinal injury, as the cornea and lens are transparent to those wavelengths, and the lens
can focus the laser energy onto the retina.
Safe Practices and Light Safety Accessories
Thorlabs recommends the use of safety eyewear whenever working with laser
beams with non-negligible powers (i.e., > Class 1) since metallic tools such
as screwdrivers can accidentally redirect a beam.
Laser goggles designed for specific wavelengths should be clearly available
near laser setups to protect the wearer from unintentional laser reflections.
Goggles are marked with the wavelength range over which protection is
afforded and the minimum optical density within that range.
Laser Barriers and Blackout Materials can prevent direct or reflected light
from leaving the experimental setup area.
Thorlabs' Enclosure Systems can be used to contain optical setups to isolate
or minimize laser hazards.
A fiber-pigtailed laser should always be turned off before connecting it to or
disconnecting it from another fiber, especially when the laser is at power
levels above 10 mW.
LASER SAFETY

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Part Number Description Price Availability
MCLS1 4-Channel Laser Source, TEC Stabilized, USB, Controller Only $3,710.00 Lead Time
MCLS1-1310-15 1310 nm, 13.0 mW (Min), Fabry-Perot Laser Pigtail for MCLS1 $857.00 Lead Time
All beams should be terminated at the edge of the table, and laboratory doors
should be closed whenever a laser is in use.
Do not place laser beams at eye level.
Carry out experiments on an optical table such that all laser beams travel horizontally.
Remove unnecessary reflective items such as reflective jewelry (e.g., rings, watches, etc.) while working near the beam path.
Be aware that lenses and other optical devices may reflect a portion of the incident beam from the front or rear surface.
Operate a laser at the minimum power necessary for any operation.
If possible, reduce the output power of a laser during alignment procedures.
Use beam shutters and filters to reduce the beam power.
Post appropriate warning signs or labels near laser setups or rooms.
Use laser sign lightboxes if operating Class 3R or 4 lasers (i.e., lasers requiring the use of a safety interlock).
Do not use Laser Viewing Cards in place of a proper Laser Barrier or Beam Trap.
Laser Classification
Lasers are categorized into different classes according to their ability to cause eye and other damage. The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is a
global organization that prepares and publishes international standards for all electrical, electronic, and related technologies. The IEC document 60825-1
outlines the safety of laser products. A description of each class of laser is given below:
Class Description Warning Label
1
This class of laser is safe under all conditions of normal use, including use with optical instruments for intrabeam viewing. Lasers in
this class do not emit radiation at levels that may cause injury during normal operation, and therefore the maximum permissible
exposure (MPE) cannot be exceeded. Class 1 lasers can also include enclosed, high-power lasers where exposure to the radiation is
not possible without opening or shutting down the laser.
1M
Class 1M lasers are safe except when used in conjunction with optical components such as telescopes and microscopes. Lasers
belonging to this class emit large-diameter or divergent beams, and the MPE cannot normally be exceeded unless focusing or
imaging optics are used to narrow the beam. However, if the beam is refocused, the hazard may be increased and the class may be
changed accordingly.
2Class 2 lasers, which are limited to 1 mW of visible continuous-wave radiation, are safe because the blink reflex will limit the
exposure in the eye to 0.25 seconds. This category only applies to visible radiation (400 - 700 nm).
2M Because of the blink reflex, this class of laser is classified as safe as long as the beam is not viewed through optical instruments. This
laser class also applies to larger-diameter or diverging laser beams.
3R
Lasers in this class are considered safe as long as they are handled with restricted beam viewing. The MPE can be exceeded with
this class of laser, however, this presents a low risk level to injury. Visible, continuous-wave lasers are limited to 5 mW of output
power in this class.
3B
Class 3B lasers are hazardous to the eye if exposed directly. However, diffuse reflections are not harmful. Safe handling of devices in
this class includes wearing protective eyewear where direct viewing of the laser beam may occur. In addition, laser safety signs
lightboxes should be used with lasers that require a safety interlock so that the laser cannot be used without the safety light turning
on. Class-3B lasers must be equipped with a key switch and a safety interlock.
4
This class of laser may cause damage to the skin, and also to the eye, even from the viewing of diffuse reflections. These hazards
may also apply to indirect or non-specular reflections of the beam, even from apparently matte surfaces. Great care must be taken
when handling these lasers. They also represent a fire risk, because they may ignite combustible material. Class 4 lasers must be
equipped with a key switch and a safety interlock.
All class 2 lasers (and higher) must display, in addition to the corresponding sign above, this triangular warning sign

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MCLS1-1550-10 1550 nm, 8.0 mW (Min), Fabry-Perot Laser Pigtail for MCLS1 $857.00 Lead Time
MCLS1-520 520 nm, 8.0 mW (Min), Fabry-Perot Laser Pigtail for MCLS1 $901.00 Lead Time
MCLS1-660 660 nm, 15.0 mW (Min), Fabry-Perot Laser Pigtail for MCLS1 $346.00 Lead Time
MCLS1-670-4 670 nm, 4.0 mW (Min), Fabry-Perot Laser Pigtail for MCLS1 $474.00 Lead Time
MCLS1-685 685 nm, 10.0 mW (Min), Fabry-Perot Laser Pigtail for MCLS1 $355.00 Lead Time
MCLS1-730 730 nm, 12.5 mW (Min), Fabry-Perot Laser Pigtail for MCLS1 $609.00 Lead Time
MCLS1-830 830 nm, 8.0 mW (Min), Fabry-Perot Laser Pigtail for MCLS1 $436.00 Lead Time
MCLS1-850-MM 850 nm, 45.0 mW (Min), Fabry-Perot Laser Pigtail for MCLS1 $442.00 Lead Time
MCLS1-905-20 905 nm, 15.0 mW (Min), Fabry-Perot Laser Pigtail for MCLS1 $847.00 Lead Time
MCLS1-940 940 nm, 25.0 mW (Min), Fabry-Perot Laser Pigtail for MCLS1 $419.00 Lead Time
MCLS1-405-30 405 nm, 24.0 mW (Min), Fabry-Perot Laser Pigtail for MCLS1 $1,430.00 Lead Time
MCLS1-406 406 nm, 4.0 mW (Min), Fabry-Perot Laser Pigtail for MCLS1 $668.00 Lead Time
MCLS1-473-20 473 nm, 15.0 mW (Min), Fabry-Perot Laser Pigtail for MCLS1 $5,360.00 Lead Time
MCLS1-488 488 nm, 18.0 mW (Min), Fabry-Perot Laser Pigtail for MCLS1 $4,940.00 Lead Time
MCLS1-635 635 nm, 2.5 mW (Min), Fabry-Perot Laser Pigtail for MCLS1 $422.00 Lead Time
MCLS1-638 638 nm, 10.0 mW (Min), Fabry-Perot Laser Pigtail for MCLS1 $474.00 Lead Time
MCLS1-642 642 nm, 15.0 mW (Min), Fabry-Perot Laser Pigtail for MCLS1 $670.00 Lead Time
MCLS1-658 658 nm, 9.5 mW (Min), Fabry-Perot Laser Pigtail for MCLS1 $315.00 Lead Time
MCLS1-670 670 nm, 1.5 mW (Min), Fabry-Perot Laser Pigtail for MCLS1 $352.00 Lead Time
MCLS1-705 705 nm, 10.0 mW (Min), Fabry-Perot Laser Pigtail for MCLS1 $783.00 Lead Time
MCLS1-785 785 nm, 6.0 mW (Min), Fabry-Perot Laser Pigtail for MCLS1 $330.00 Lead Time
MCLS1-785-25 785 nm, 20.0 mW (Min), Fabry-Perot Laser Pigtail for MCLS1 $592.00 Lead Time
MCLS1-808-20 808 nm, 20.0 mW (Min), Fabry-Perot Laser Pigtail for MCLS1 $464.00 Lead Time
MCLS1-850 850 nm, 7.5 mW (Min), Fabry-Perot Laser Pigtail for MCLS1 $397.00 Lead Time
MCLS1-852 852 nm, 20.0 mW (Min), Fabry-Perot Laser Pigtail for MCLS1 $484.00 Lead Time
MCLS1-980 980 nm, 6.0 mW (Min), Fabry-Perot Laser Pigtail for MCLS1 $391.00 Lead Time
MCLS1-980-20 980 nm, 20.0 mW (Min), Fabry-Perot Laser Pigtail for MCLS1 $510.00 Lead Time
MCLS1-1064 1064 nm, 20.0 mW (Min), Fabry-Perot Laser Pigtail for MCLS1 $1,120.00 Lead Time
MCLS1-1310 1310 nm, 2.5 mW (Min), Fabry-Perot Laser Pigtail for MCLS1 $314.00 Lead Time
MCLS1-1310DFB 1310 nm, 1.5 mW (Min), DFB Laser Pigtail for MCLS1 $793.00 Lead Time
MCLS1-1550 1550 nm, 1.5 mW (Min), Fabry-Perot Laser Pigtail for MCLS1 $330.00 Lead Time
MCLS1-1550DFB 1550 nm, 1.5 mW (Min), DFB Laser Pigtail for MCLS1 $908.00 Lead Time
Visit the 4-Channel Fiber-Coupled Laser Source page for pricing and availability information:
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