PNNL

Abstract

Chemical sensing in the mid-infrared has been revolutionized by the advent of quantum cascade lasers. Their higher current and voltage demands compared to laser diodes however, negatively impact size, weight and power footprint for fieldable systems, particularly in hot environments. This letter presents a switch-mode/linear hybrid controller design, furnishing low-noise drive current up to 2 amperes at compliance voltages up to 15 volts, with noise levels close to the Johnson noise of the internal resistors. Current modulation from near zero to 1.8 Amps is also demonstrated at frequencies up to a kilohertz.