1Overview
The PCX-7500-EX is a high-current pulsed current source built to drive laser diodes, bars, and arrays at peak currents up to 450 A. It runs from an external supply, which allows higher duty cycles than a self-contained unit and gives the system designer control over the available power.
The source delivers repetition rates up to 10 kHz with pulse widths from 4 µs to 5000 µs and a rise time of 10 µs. Compliance voltage is variable, so the unit can match the forward voltage of a range of diode loads. Directed Energy, Inc. is now a division of Berkeley Nucleonics, and the PCX-7500-EX ships from the same San Rafael, California build with one support path.
2How It Works
The PCX-7500-EX regulates current into a low-impedance load and takes its power from an external DC supply. Because the supply is external, the duty cycle available to the user is set by the chosen supply and the safe operating area of the source, rather than by a fixed internal supply.
The pulse timing is set by an external trigger, and the output current is set by a control input. Variable compliance lets the source hold regulation across diodes with different forward-voltage requirements.
3Specifications
The figures below are preliminary and reflect the product summary only. Values not listed are not yet confirmed.
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Peak output current | 450 A (verify) |
| Repetition rate | ≤ 10 kHz (verify) |
| Pulse width | 4 µs to 5000 µs (verify) |
| Rise time | 10 µs (verify) |
| Compliance voltage | Variable (verify) |
| Supply | External (higher duty cycles) |
4Output Protection & Safety
As with all Directed Energy Division current sources, the PCX-7500-EX must be operated within its safe operating area. The SOA defines the allowed combination of peak current, pulse width, and repetition rate that keeps the source and the connected diode within thermal and electrical limits.
5Control & Interfaces
The PCX-7500-EX uses an external trigger for pulse timing and a control input for output current, with the source powered from an external DC supply. Complete connector and control detail will be confirmed against the published datasheet.
6Applications
The PCX-7500-EX suits high-current, higher-duty-cycle pulsing of optical loads. Typical uses include:
- Laser diode bars and arrays. Peak currents to 450 A for high-power diode drive.
- QCW pumping. Quasi-CW current delivery with pulse widths from 4 µs to 5000 µs.
- Higher duty-cycle test. External-supply operation where sustained pulsing is required.
7Ordering Information
| Part number | Description |
|---|---|
| PCX-7500-EX | High-current pulsed current source, external supply (preliminary) |
Contact
For a quote, configuration help, or application support, reach the Berkeley Nucleonics team.
Email: info@berkeleynucleonics.com
Phone: 800-234-7858