The SMC11 is the current source module of our SMC-Series modules. It is intended for anode-grounded [1,4] lasers diodes (e.g. most of telecom devices). Because the SMC11 is a minimalistic [5] module designed to be used in different situations [2], some external control signals are necessary to operate the current source. For this purpose, 2 optional modules – SMC111 and SMC121 – are provided to manually access and control these I/O signals. The SMC111 module is a 11-toggle switch interface used to control the status of one SMC11 current source and one thermal stabilization (SMC20 & SMC31 modules) while the SMC121 BNC interface module allows the user to access the I/O signals of the current source (Interlock, Current Monitor, Remote Control etc).

Since noise is a primary concern, the SMC11 current source does not include any power supply generator on its board. The required DC power supply voltages (+/-15V and +5V) must be fed to the current source through its stacking connectors. The SMZ00 power interface module has been designed to provide a safe and reliable way to connect the power supplies to the stacked modules. It features both reverse voltages protections and surge currents limitations. In addition, the SMZ00 module includes passive filter stages to remove the conducted noise from power supply sources. The SMZ00 power interface module is connected to the power sources via a 10-conductor cable.

The laser diode is connected to the SMC11 current controller using an SMA coaxial connector located on its front panel. This connection provides the users a convenient way to apply an RF-current modulation without any external bias-tee. Nevertheless, some users just want to replace their noisy current controller with our ultra low-noise source without changing the laser connections. For this purpose, the optional SMC051 module has been designed : it provides both female DSUB9 and DSUB15 connectors to connect the laser using the ILX™ industry standard’s wiring scheme [3].

The laser can be also connected to the SMC11 Current Source without any cables. Indeed, the SMC41 Valescure  is a laser mount module dedicated to telecom laser packaged in butterfly 14-pin cases. With the SMC41 no cable are required to connect the laser to its curent source since the module is connected to the source via the stacking connectors. RF modulation is still preserved.

All these modules are optional but they are recommended since you will have to make your own assembly otherwise. The optional modules can be ordered grouped or separately. Some R&D customers just buy the SMC11 current source and use the board as a sub-system in their designs.

Note that ready-to-use current controllers are provided by the SR300-Series solutions.