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News Article

Keithley Instruments' New Photodiode Meter for Laser Diode Module Testing Leads the Industry in Performance, Versatility

Monday 17th July 2000

Cleveland, OH. Keithley Instruments, Inc. (NYSE:KEI) today introduced the Model 2500 Dual Photodiode Meter for testing of laser diode modules (LDMs). Laser diode modules are used in fiber-optic Internet and telecommunication networks, computer peripherals, and medical applications. With its capability for very fast low-level current measurement, optical power measurement, extended voltage output capability, and space-saving footprint, the Model 2500 provides more targeted functionality for testing and controlling LDMs than any comparable instrument.

A typical LDM includes a laser diode, a "back detector" photodiode (used to monitor the output of the laser diode), and a Peltier thermoelectric cooler with thermal sensor for control of the module s temperature. Developed in cooperation with leading LDM manufacturers, the Model 2500 Dual Photodiode Meter has been fine-tuned to provide the essential features, high speed, and repeatable performance needed for efficient production testing in the rapidly growing LDM industry:

  • The measurement capability of the Model 2500 is based upon Keithley s industry leadership in low-level measurement technology. The built-in picoammeter can resolve currents as low as 10 femtoamps, an order of magnitude better than competing units. This sensitivity supports more precise "dark current" measurement (essentially, the current flowing through a non-illuminated photodetector), which provides for more accurate LDM characterization.
  • The architecture of the Model 2500 Dual Photodiode Meter supports greater measurement flexibility than traditional LDM test instruments. The picoammeter can precisely measure photo current through the LDM s back detector, or optical power from the laser diode in conjunction with a user-selected optical test head. The user can also upload photodetector calibration constants to the Model 2500 for direct conversion of current to optical power in watts. Until now, manufacturers had to use multiple instruments to provide simultaneous front and back light intensity measurements. The Model 2500 Dual Photodiode Meter provides for tighter correlation of front and back light intensity measurements.
  • The Model 2500 Dual Photodiode Meter includes a built-in plus/minus 10V/plus/minus 100V voltage source that offers the extended range needed to power a wide variety of user-selected photodetectors, including increasingly popular large-area and avalanche types. Comparable instruments are either limited in voltage range, or lack a voltage source altogether.
  • The Model 2500 Dual Photodiode Meter is a dual-channel instrument. Channel 2 can be used as a separate, complete source/measure unit, or in conjunction with channel 1 to measure additional parameters such as coupling efficiency between a laser diode module and the pig-tailed fiber. Comparable LDM instruments are single-channel units. Thus, the Model 2500 s broad functionality and half-rack form factor make highly efficient use of space in increasingly crowded test racks. Further, the versatile source/measure architecture of the Model 2500 Dual Photodiode Meter is suitable for related applications, such as testing of LEDs and MR/GMR resistive devices used in computer disk drives. Software: Software drivers for LabVIEW(TM), and LabWindows(TM)/CVI are available with the Model 2500 for easier development of test programs using popular programming languages and test software packages. Additionally,
    a VisualBasic demo program for Keithley s total LIV test system (including the Model 2500) is available for use by customers as a starting point. Built-in IEEE-488 and RS-232 interfaces provide compatibility with the most popular instrumentation control protocols.

    Part of A Complete LDM Test and Measurement Solution: The Model 2500 Dual Photodiode Meter is part of Keithley s growing line of instrumentation for LDM production testing. These include the Model 2400 SourceMeter(R), the Model 2361 Trigger Control Module, the 7000-series switching and scanning mainframes, and Keithley s latest Model 2510 TEC SourceMeter(R). The Model 2510 TEC SourceMeter(R) was specifically designed for precise testing and control of the Peltier cooler used in LDMs. This array of instruments facilitates assembly of a compact, single-vendor system offering the benefits of easy integration and simplified programming. Keithley s low-level measurement expertise, multinational presence, and extensive product offerings assure comprehensive, global support and service from an established supplier of integrated test and measurement solutions.

    Pricing and Availability. The Model 2500 Dual Photodiode Meter is priced at $7995. Delivery is four to five weeks after receipt of order. The Model 2500 Dual Photodiode Meter is warranted against defects in materials and workmanship for one year, and carries the CE mark.

    For More Information. For more information on the Model 2500 Dual Photodiode Meter, or any of Keithley s measurement and data acquisition solutions, contact Keithley at:

    Telephone: 800-552-1115 or 440-248-0400; FAX: 440-248-6168; E-mail: product_info@keithley.com; Internet: www.keithley.com

    Address: Keithley Instruments, Inc. 28775 Aurora Road Cleveland, OH 44139-1891

    About Keithley Instruments.

    Keithley Instruments, Inc. provides measurement solutions to high-growth sectors of the electronics industry, including electronic components, telecommunications, and semiconductors. Engineers and scientists around the world use Keithley s precision test instruments, PC plug-in boards, and software for production test, process monitoring, and basic research.

    Products and company names listed are trademarks or trade names of their respective companies

    Contact: Keithley Instruments, Inc. Ellen Modock Tel: 440/498-2746 modock_ellen@keithley.com

     

    Keithley Instruments, Inc.
    Ellen Modock
    Tel: 440/498-2746
    modock_ellen@keithley.com
     
    E-mail: modock_ellen@keithley.com
    Web site: http://www.keithley.com
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