High-Power, Wideband Laser-Diode Transmitter Module

A prototype compact, rugged optomechanical module contains a high-power, wideband laser-diode transmitter. The laser diode is of a commercial single-quantum-well AlGaAs type. Each laser diode of this type is manufactured for a specific nominal wavelength in the range from 810 to 860 nm; the one in the prototype module lases at a nominal wavelength of 824 nm. The laser diode can be operated to emit continuous-wave power of 150 mW or with amplitude modulation at average and peak powers of 150 and 300 mW, respectively. The power consumption of the entire module in dc operation is 400 mW. The laser diode is mounted on a copper plate, which conducts heat from the laser to a cold plate on which the module is mounted. The cold plate is maintained at a temperature of 15 °C.