The SMC-Series modules are the ideal instruments for controlling the current and the temperature of diodes laser for AMO physics. With an ultra-low current noise density  15pA/√Hz (SMC11) and sub-mK thermal control stability (SMC20 & SMC31), the SMC-Series is the right choice for the most demanding applications.

Because SMC-Series was first designed for frequency stabilization and OPLL applications, the SMC20 temperature controller provides both high-stability and analog setpoint control features to maintain a laser lock continuously. The SMC20 presents a typical stability less than 1mK/°C with respect to room temperature, and has a temperature control range from 17°C to 31°C.

When the temperature controller is used with the SMC31 TEC Driver, two modes of operation are supported: constant temperature mode (CT) and constant current mode (CC). A laser frequency control application normally operates in CT mode. In this case, the laser is temperature-tight controlled using a high-resolution thermistor bridge and an analog PID controller. The CC mode operates the TEC at fixed current, which is set using front panel trimmer or analog control. Because laser diodes usually come with
integrated TEC and such sensor, only 10-kΩ NTC thermistors are supported.

Like all SM-Series modules, the SMC20 is shipped with the schematic diagrams of its electronic circuitry providing all required information for advanced users.