SUPERK COMPACT

White Light Laser

PRODUCT GUIDE

Item: 800-629-01
Customer Revision: 1.3
NKTP Revision: 4.0
Release Date: 08-2022
PRODUCT GUIDE
This guide includes the following NKT Photonics Lasers:

SuperK COMPACT
model# S024-010-000 (FC/PC output connector)

SuperK COMPACT
model# S024-010-010 (FC/APC output connector)

SuperK COMPACT
model# S024-010-020 (Collimator output connector)

W-10456
 GUIDE OVERVIEW

This product guide is intended to provide functional, operational and installation

information for the SuperK COMPACT laser systems. The guide is divided into
three sections:

• SuperK COMPACT Description – introduces the laser’s theory and

functionality, its features and interfaces, and describes the safety labels and
their placement.

• Operating the Laser – provides information and procedures on how to setup

communications with the laser and manage its operation.

• Installing the Laser – includes the details on connecting a door safety switch,
AC power, laser accessories, optical outputs and custom external equipment.

Safety
Warning: Do not operate the laser before first reading and understanding all
warnings, cautions and handling information stated within the documents:

SuperK COMPACT Safety, Handling and Regulatory Information

Note: The paper copy of this document is included with your laser; however, it can
also be downloaded from:

https://www.nktphotonics.com/product-manuals-and-documentation/

Target Audience This guide is for technical personnel involved in the selection, planning and
deployment of lasers in laboratory and industrial settings. The guide assumes a
reasonable knowledge level of lasers, photonic principles and electrical interface
connectivity.

Chapters Inside This guide includes the following chapters:

• Chapter I “Laser Description” — Describes the SuperK COMPACT laser series

including its general operational principles, management and interfaces.

• Chapter 2 “Front Panel Controls” — Describes the laser’s front panel menu
and controls that directly operate the laser.

• Chapter 3 “Connecting and Turning ON the Laser” — Provides information

and procedures on how to connect to the laser’s management software and
use it to turn laser emission ON and OFF.

• Chapter 4 “CONTROL Interface” — Includes descriptions and procedures of

all other CONTROL menu and panel items.

3
 • Chapter 5 “Mechanical Installation” — This chapter provides information on
how to install the laser including installation surface, environment and cooling
requirements.

• Chapter 6 “Connecting the Laser” — This chapter provides the information on

how to physically connect the safety interlock, power, the optical collimator,
and the synchronization interfaces.

• Appendices — The guide includes multiple appendices including laser

specifications, support contact details, pinout information, fiber maintenance,
laser accessory descriptions and how to install the CONTROL management
platform.

Added information Lasers are highly dangerous devices that can cause serious injury and property
and Safety Notices damage. This guide use the following symbols to either highlight important safety
information or provide further information in relation to a specific topic.

Note: Highlights additional information related to the associated topic and/or pro-
vides links or the name of the NKT guides describing the additional information.

Caution: Alerts you to a potential hazard that could cause loss of data, or damage
the system or equipment.

Warning: The laser safety warning alerts you to potential serious injury that may
be caused when using the laser.

Revision The section records the document revision details.

Release date Release version and changes

2021-June 1.0 first release - Using an older manual version as a source,
completely updated the format, layout and added new
information obtained.

2022-March Revision 1.1 – updated the following:

• Updated language throughout to improve clarity.
• Changed the figure arrows and other figure highlights
throughout.
• Procedure “Installing CONTROL” on page 107
changed to show Windows 10 screenshots.

2022-April Revision 1.2 – updated the following:

• Updated text and figures in section “Connecting the
safety interlock” on page 75

2022-August Revision 1.3 – updated the following:

• Microsecond units shown in Figure 3 were incorrect
and are now updated to nanoseconds.

4
 CONTENTS

Guide overview .............................................................................................. 3

Safety ................................................................................................... 3

Target Audience ................................................................................... 3

Chapters Inside .................................................................................... 3

Added information and Safety Notices ................................................. 4

Revision ............................................................................................... 4

TABLES ........................................................................................................ 11

FIGURES ...................................................................................................... 13

PROCEDURES ............................................................................................ 17

Section 1 SUPERK COMPACT DESCRIPTION 19

1 Laser Description ......................................................................................... 21

Terminology ....................................................................................... 21

Accessories ........................................................................................ 22

CONTROL ......................................................................................... 22

Temperature regulation ...................................................................... 22

Safety ..................................................................................................... 22

Optical output ......................................................................................... 22

Supercontinuum ................................................................................. 22

Spectral output ................................................................................... 22

Output fiber ........................................................................................ 24

FC Connector ..................................................................................... 24

Collimator ........................................................................................... 24

Collimator beam properties ................................................................ 24

Factory test report .............................................................................. 25

Polarization spacer ............................................................................ 25

Output power ..................................................................................... 25

Front panel controls................................................................................ 26

5
 Optical output fiber ............................................................................. 26

LCD display menu ............................................................................. 26

Status LEDs ....................................................................................... 26

Emission button ................................................................................. 26

Navigation buttons ............................................................................. 26

Selection dial ..................................................................................... 27

ON/OFF switch .................................................................................. 27

Key switch .......................................................................................... 27

Rear panel interfaces ............................................................................. 27

AC input ............................................................................................. 28

RS-232 serial port .............................................................................. 28

Analog pulse output ........................................................................... 28

Logic pulse output .............................................................................. 28

USB connector ................................................................................... 28

Status LEDs ....................................................................................... 28

External bus ....................................................................................... 29

COAX trig input .................................................................................. 29

Industrial trig input ............................................................................. 29

Configuration and operation overview .................................................... 29

Advanced laser control ...................................................................... 29

Key switch and interlock safety .......................................................... 29

Laser accessory management ........................................................... 30

Status LEDs ............................................................................................ 30

Rear panel LEDs ............................................................................... 30

Front panel LEDs ............................................................................... 31

Chassis labels ........................................................................................ 32

Section 2 OPERATING THE LASER 33

2 Front Panel Controls .................................................................................... 35

Overview ................................................................................................. 35

General operation .............................................................................. 35

6
 Menu items ............................................................................................. 36

Top menu level .................................................................................. 36

Operating mode ................................................................................. 38

Frequency .......................................................................................... 40

Power % ............................................................................................. 40

Burst pulses ....................................................................................... 41

Coax trig level .................................................................................... 41

Watchdog timer .................................................................................. 42

Display backlight ................................................................................ 43

Serial Number .................................................................................... 43

Firmware versions .............................................................................. 44

Emission button ...................................................................................... 44

3 Connecting and Turning ON the Laser ........................................................ 45

CONTROL software ............................................................................... 45

Installing the software ........................................................................ 45

Connecting the laser to a CONTROL PC ............................................... 45

USB connection ................................................................................. 45

Controlling laser emission ...................................................................... 47

Safety ................................................................................................. 47

Preparation ........................................................................................ 47

Turning ON the laser .......................................................................... 47

Errors ................................................................................................. 48

Turning OFF the laser ........................................................................ 49

4 CONTROL Interface .................................................................................... 51

CONTROL overview ............................................................................... 51

Relocating panels .............................................................................. 52

Toggling the panels visible ................................................................. 53

Connecting to the laser ...................................................................... 53

Status panel............................................................................................ 54

Status indicators ................................................................................ 54

System info ........................................................................................ 56

7
 Emission button ................................................................................. 56

Control settings ....................................................................................... 56

CONTROL menu .................................................................................... 58

Key Updater tool ................................................................................ 58

Log downloader ................................................................................. 59

Extensions overview .......................................................................... 60

Trigger mode .......................................................................................... 62

Internal trigger .................................................................................... 62

External trigger .................................................................................. 63

Burst mode ........................................................................................ 63

Gated trigger ...................................................................................... 64

Gated trigger inverted ........................................................................ 65

Controls .................................................................................................. 66

Power or repetition rate selection ...................................................... 66

Repetition rate ................................................................................... 66

Power ................................................................................................. 66

Trigger level ....................................................................................... 67

Burst count ......................................................................................... 67

Application log panel .............................................................................. 68

Device monitor ........................................................................................ 68

Section 3 INSTALLING THE LASER 71

5 Mechanical Installation ................................................................................. 73

General installation ................................................................................. 73

Installation surface ............................................................................. 73

Environment ....................................................................................... 73

Air cooling .......................................................................................... 73

Output fiber ........................................................................................ 73

6 Connecting the Laser ................................................................................... 75

Connecting the safety interlock .............................................................. 75

Interlock operation description ........................................................... 75

8
 Connecting power ................................................................................... 77

Connecting the optical output ................................................................. 78

Back reflection ................................................................................... 78

FC connector installation .................................................................. 78

Collimator installation ......................................................................... 79

Connecting accessories with the external bus ....................................... 80

External bus ....................................................................................... 80

Connecting the external bus .............................................................. 80

Trigger input ports .................................................................................. 83

Coax trigger input ............................................................................... 83

Industrial trigger input ........................................................................ 84

Synchronization output ports .................................................................. 84

Analog pulse output ........................................................................... 84

Logic pulse output .............................................................................. 85

Example synchronization circuit ......................................................... 87

Appendices
A Specifications ............................................................................................... 91

B Service and Support Information ................................................................. 93

Servicing the laser .................................................................................. 93

Opening the laser chassis .................................................................. 93

WARRANTY VOID IF REMOVED label ............................................. 93

Support contact details ........................................................................... 94

Support website ................................................................................. 94

Shipping address ............................................................................... 94

C External Bus Pinout ..................................................................................... 95

D Fiber Maintenance ....................................................................................... 97

Fiber tip cleaning .................................................................................... 97

Signs of damage ................................................................................ 97

Damaged facet ................................................................................... 98

Polishing ................................................................................................. 98

9
E Accessories .................................................................................................. 99

SuperK VARIA...................................................................................... 100

SuperK SELECT................................................................................... 101

SuperK LLTF ........................................................................................ 103

SuperK SPLIT....................................................................................... 104

SuperK CONNECT and Fiber Deliver System ..................................... 105

F Control Software ........................................................................................ 107

Installing CONTROL............................................................................. 107

G Collimator Output Beam Properties ........................................................... 113

Beam parameter definitions .................................................................. 113

Definitions: ....................................................................................... 113

Waist location .................................................................................. 113

Beam diameters in the visible range .................................................... 114

Full angle beam divergence θ1 ........................................................ 114

Beam diameter at waist location W01 ............................................. 114

Waist location from collimator Z01 ................................................... 114

10
TABLES

Table 1: RS-232 serial COM port settings........................................................ 28

Table 2: Status LEDs........................................................................................ 31

Table 3: Front panel LEDs................................................................................ 31

Table 4: Chassis labels .................................................................................... 32

Table 5: Front panel LCD menu items.............................................................. 35

Table 6: External gate modes – pulse emission truth table.............................. 40

Table 7: Gated modes – pulse emission truth table ......................................... 66

Table 8: Device Monitor parameters ................................................................ 68

Table 9: External Bus port – connecting accessories....................................... 81

Table 10: Coax trigger input specifications ...................................................... 83

Table 11: Industrial trigger input specifications ............................................... 84

Table 12: Analog pulse output ......................................................................... 85

Table 13: Logic pulse output ........................................................................... 86

Table 14: Optical ............................................................................................. 91

Table 15: Interfaces ......................................................................................... 91

Table 16: Mechanical dimensions and environment ....................................... 91

Table 17: Electrical ........................................................................................... 92

Table 18: External bus pinout........................................................................... 95

Table 19: SuperK COMPACT accessories ...................................................... 99

Table 20: VARIA specifications ...................................................................... 100

Table 21: SELECT AOTF types ..................................................................... 102

Table 22: LLTF Contrast model specifications ............................................... 103

Table 23: SPLIT wavelength ranges .............................................................. 104

Table 24: Fiber Delivery System specifications.............................................. 105

11
12
FIGURES

Figure 1: SuperK COMPACT general view ..................................................... 21

Figure 2: Supercontinuum output of the laser ................................................. 23

Figure 3: Approximation of the SuperK COMPACT output pulse .................... 23

Figure 4: SuperK COMPACT collimator .......................................................... 24

Figure 5: Front panel features ......................................................................... 26

Figure 6: Rear panel features and connectors ................................................ 27

Figure 7: SuperK COMPACT rear panel status LEDs ..................................... 30

Figure 8: SuperK COMPACT side panel labels ............................................... 32

Figure 9: Top level menu – Internal trigger mode ............................................ 36

Figure 10: Top level menu - Software burst mode .......................................... 36

Figure 11: Interlock circuit open notification .................................................... 37

Figure 12: Key switch off notification ............................................................... 37

Figure 13: Reset interlock request ................................................................... 38

Figure 14: Operating mode sub-menu ............................................................. 38

Figure 15: Frequency sub-menu ..................................................................... 40

Figure 16: Power sub-menu ............................................................................ 41

Figure 17: Burst pulses sub-menul .................................................................. 41

Figure 18: Coax trig level sub-menu ................................................................ 42

Figure 19: Watchdog timer sub-menu ............................................................. 42

Figure 20: Display backlight sub-menu ........................................................... 43

Figure 21: Serial number sub-menu ................................................................ 43

Figure 22: Firmware version sub-menu ........................................................... 44

Figure 23: CONTROL panel navigation ........................................................... 51

Figure 24: Dragging panels to a new location in the main window .................. 52

Figure 25: Dragging panels outside the main window ..................................... 52

Figure 26: Toggling panel visibility .................................................................. 53

Figure 27: Quick connect ................................................................................. 53

Figure 28: Status Panel ................................................................................... 54

13
Figure 29: CONTROL settings ........................................................................ 56

Figure 30: Watchdog ....................................................................................... 57

Figure 31: View ............................................................................................... 57

Figure 32: Menu items ..................................................................................... 58

Figure 33: Extensions Overview ...................................................................... 61

Figure 34: Trigger mode .................................................................................. 62

Figure 35: External trigger mode ..................................................................... 63

Figure 36: Burst mode ..................................................................................... 64

Figure 37: Gated trigger mode ........................................................................ 64

Figure 38: Gated trigger inverted mode ........................................................... 65

Figure 39: Set power or repetition rate slider selection ................................... 66

Figure 40: Repetition rate slider and text input field ........................................ 66

Figure 41: Repetition rate slider and text input field ........................................ 67

Figure 42: Trigger level slider and text input field ............................................ 67

Figure 43: Burst count slider and text input field ............................................. 67

Figure 44: Application Log window .................................................................. 68

Figure 45: Interlock connected to a door switch - Laser ON1 ......................... 76

Figure 46: Interlock connected to a door switch – laser SHUTDOWN1 .......... 76

Figure 47: Inserting the Collimator into a Holder1 ........................................... 79

Figure 48: Collimator Installed into a SuperK Accessory Receptacle ............. 80

Figure 49: Collimator Installed in a Holder Receptacle ................................... 80

Figure 50: Bus defeater ................................................................................... 81

Figure 51: External Bus circuit - with no accessories used ............................. 81

Figure 52: External Bus circuit - with multiple accessories in a daisy chain .... 82

Figure 53: Optical output delay and jitter vs. the COAX trig input port ............ 83

Figure 54: Analog trigger output timing advance ............................................. 85

Figure 55: Logic pulse output vs. Analog pulse output .................................... 86

Figure 56: Example Pulse Circuit .................................................................... 87

Figure 57: Synchronization with single pulse illumination ............................... 87

Figure 58: Synchronization with pulse burst illumination ................................. 88

Figure 59: Mechanical dimensions .................................................................. 92

14
 Figure 60: WARRANTY VOID LABEL ............................................................. 93

Figure 61: WARRANTY VOID IF REMOVED - Collimator .............................. 93

Figure 62: Lens cleaning tissue - lint free ........................................................ 97

Figure 63: Optical fiber cleaning tool ............................................................... 97

Figure 64: Correct vs incorrect beam profile ................................................... 98

Figure 65: VARIA ........................................................................................... 100

Figure 66: SELECT ....................................................................................... 101

Figure 67: SELECT AOTF example output - 640 nm central wavelength ..... 102

Figure 68: SuperK LLTF Contrast ................................................................. 103

Figure 69: SuperK SPLIT .............................................................................. 104

Figure 70: SuperK Fiber Delivery System using a CONNECT ...................... 105

Figure 71: Beam parameters ......................................................................... 113

Figure 72: Beam waist location ..................................................................... 113

Figure 73: Full angle beam divergence θ1 .................................................... 114

Figure 74: Beam diameter at waist location W01 .......................................... 114

Figure 75: Waist location from collimator collar face Z01 .............................. 114

white

15
16
PROCEDURES

Procedure 1: Connecting a PC to the laser using a USB cable ...................... 46

Procedure 2: Turning ON the laser.................................................................. 48

Procedure 3: Turning OFF the laser................................................................ 49

Procedure 4: Relocating panels ...................................................................... 52

Procedure 5: Using the Key Updater tool ........................................................ 58

Procedure 6: Using the Log Downloader......................................................... 59

Procedure 7: Connecting the door interlock circuit.......................................... 77

Procedure 8: Connecting power ...................................................................... 78

Procedure 9: Installing the Collimator.............................................................. 79

Procedure 10: Installing CONTROL ............................................................... 107

17
18
SECTION 1

SUPERK COMPACT DESCRIPTION

This section provides a description of the laser and its features.

• “Laser Description” on page 21

• “Optical output” on page 22

• “Front panel controls” on page 26

• “Rear panel interfaces” on page 27

• “Configuration and operation overview” on page 29

• “Status LEDs” on page 30

• “Chassis labels” on page 32

19
20
 1 Laser Description

A SuperK COMPACT laser is a white light lasers (WLL) system that can generate a
pulsed supercontinuum as a class 3B laser source.

Using a seed laser, light frequencies from 450 to 2400 nanometers (typical) are
emitted in a single spatially coherent beam with a pulse rate that is customizable
according to application requirements. To synchronize external equipment with
the laser pulse repetition rate, the laser is equipped with both analog and logic
ports that output synchronization signals at the laser pulse rate. Further, the
output laser pulse can be triggered using either internal software settings or an
external signal connected to one of its trigger input ports.

Figure 1 SuperK COMPACT general view

Terminology The SuperK COMPACT series includes the models listed in the “PRODUCT
GUIDE” on page 2. This guide uses the term, “laser” to refer to all SuperK
COMPACT laser variants. When information related to any specific variant is
noted, the model name is specified. The guide may also refer to NKT Photonics
as simply NKTP, the two are one and the same.

21
Safety

Accessories A series of accessories are optionally used with the laser to modify the output
beam. For specific application requirements, accessories can deliver or filter the
laser’s beam to obtain a desired narrow band, wide band, or extended spectrum.
An overview of the accessories is described in Appendix E.

CONTROL The laser and its accessories are managed and configured using the NKTP
CONTROL application from an external PC. The PC can connect to the laser over
either RS-232 or USB serial links. To configure accessories using the same PC,
the laser is equipped with an external bus interface which can connect up to
eight accessories in a daisy chain configuration. Connecting and managing the
laser with CONTROL is described in “Connecting and Turning ON the Laser” on
page 45.

Temperature The temperature of the laser is regulated by the use of cooling fans. To dissipate
regulation the laser’s heat, the fans draw cool air into the laser through the front panel vent
grills. The heated air is then blown out through the rear exhaust vent. The fan
speed is automatically adjusted to maintain a stable laser temperature. To
maintain adequate air flow, ensure to install the laser with proper clearance as
described in “Mechanical Installation” on page 73.

Safety

Warning: SuperK COMPACTs are rated as Class 3B lasers and are therefore haz-
ardous. Before turning on the laser, ensure to read and understand all safety
statements of the NKT Photonics document:

SuperK COMPACT Safety, Handling and Regulatory Information

A paper copy of this document is included with your laser. If you do not have access
it, you can download a copy from:

https://www.nktphotonics.com/product-manuals-and-documentation/

Optical output 2

Supercontinuum The term supercontinuum does not cover a specific phenomenon, but rather
numerous non-linear effects leading to a considerable spectral broadening of the
seed pulses. As spectral broadening is caused by non-linear effects, it increases
with the input pulse power. Accordingly, the width of the spectral output
increases with the output power.

Spectral output The Figure 2 shows the output spectrum (limited to 2400nm by the
measurement equipment) of a SuperK COMPACT. The spectral power density is

Laser Description 22
 Optical output

distributed such that it is approximately >20% in the visible spectrum and <80% in
the IR spectrum.

Note: Performance may vary between individual lasers, always refer to the factory
test report for your SuperK COMPACT for specific information on its output perfor-
mance.

Figure 2 Supercontinuum output of the laser

Output pulse
The output pulse of a SuperK COMPACT is a dispersed pulse made up of the
supercontinuum with a pulse length of less than 2 ns. The pulse shape is
independent of the laser repetition rate and the spectral distribution of the output
spectrum does not change upon a change in repetition rate but remains constant
at any set rate. An approximation of the pulse is depicted in Figure 3 below.

Figure 3 Approximation of the SuperK COMPACT output pulse

Optical pulse out

FWHM
1.6 ns ± 0.1 ns
Rise time:
0.7 ns ± 0.1 ns

time

23 Laser Description
Optical output

Output fiber The output fiber is a non-linear crystal fiber with a 0.20 numerical aperture1 The
fiber is terminated with either an FC/PC connector, an FC/APC connector, or a
collimator unit. Note that the fiber is sheathed in an armored jacket.

FC Connector The optical output of both the S024-010-000 and S024-010-010 lasers are
equipped with either an FC/PC or FC/APC connector at the end of a standard
plastic-sheathed optical fiber cord. Either connector provide a convenient means
of terminating the fiber and allow the use of standard receptacles or holders to
launch the light through free space into other optical components or equipment.

Note: A black fiber boot indicates an FC/PC connector and a green fiber boot in-
dicates an FC/APC connector.

Collimator The optical output of the S024-010-020 laser is equipped with a collimator at the
end of an armored cable (see Figure 4). A collimated beam exits the collimator
from a tube within a steel barrel that can be inserted into a receptacle of a target
optical device such as for example, a SuperK accessory or an optical power
meter – see “Collimator installation” on page 79.

Figure 4 SuperK COMPACT collimator

mm
44

Polarization spacer
12 mm
Polarization alignment key

3.5 mm

Caution: Avoid scratching the collimator as it may prevent it fitting properly into
an optical input receptacle.

Note: It is recommended to fix the collimator using plastic screws instead of metal
screws to minimize scratches or other damage to it.

Collimator beam Within the collimator, an achromatic lens collimates the output beam to maximize
properties and subsequent coupling. However, using a single lens prevents the
simultaneous maximum coupling efficiency across all wavelengths of the beam.
The laser and collimator are designed so that the coupling is optimized for
maximum average coupling across the visible spectrum. This results in the beam
1. @ 1060 nm

Laser Description 24
 Optical output

being slightly wider for infrared wavelengths when compared to the visible
wavelengths. Note that in Appendix G, beam measurement examples are
included for reference.

Factory test report The laser’s actual spectral performance is described in a factory created test and
measurement report included with your laser.

Polarization spacer A polarization spacer (see Figure 4) must be fitted with the collimator when it is
inserted into the optical input of a SuperK accessory. The spacer has an
alignment key to correctly orient beam polarization with the accessory. The
spacer also ensures that the optical input interlock switch of the accessory is
correctly engaged when the collimator is in the locked position. When the switch
is engaged the interlock circuit is closed; an open interlock circuit disables
emission.

Caution: Inserting a collimator without a spacer into an accessory optical input, re-
sults in a gap between collar face of the collimator and the interlock switch of the
accessory. When the switch is not engaged, emission is disabled.

Note: See “Polarization spacer” on page 106

Output power Output power from the laser is controlled by changing the pulse repetition rate.
Increasing the repetition rate increases the output power level. For example, if
the repetition rate is changed from 1 kHz to 20 kHz, the output power increases
by a factor of 20, as twenty times the number of pulses are emitted within the
same time span.

Note: The actual output power or spectral form of the output pulse remains
constant but by changing the repetition rate, the average power of the beam is
modified.

25 Laser Description
Front panel controls

Front panel controls

The front panel features are highlighted in Figure 5. The panel includes user
controls and a display to operate the laser.

Figure 5 Front panel features

1 2 3 4 5 6

7 8

1 Optical output fiber (laser aperture) 5 Navigation buttons

2 LCD display menu 6 Selection dial
3 Status LEDs 7 ON/OFF switch
4 Emission button 8 Key Switch

Optical output fiber Laser output – This is a standard (FC connector) or armored fiber cord
(collimator)– see “Optical output” on page 22 for further details.

LCD display menu The LCD display menu provides an interactive menu to operate the laser in
conjunction with the operation dial and return/enter buttons. The menu items
shown on the display included laser status, configuration and operation.

Status LEDs Power LED

When lit ON Green, this LED indicates AC mains power is connected and the
laser is switched on.

Emission LED
When lit ON Red, this LED indicates laser emission is enabled.

Emission button Button used to enable or disable laser emission.

Navigation buttons Return button

This button confirms and enters settings made with the operation dial.

Laser Description 26
 Rear panel interfaces

Enter button
When pressed, this button either enters a selected menu sub-level or confirms a
setting or function within the menu system.

Selection dial The dial is used with both the display and return button to configure, operate and
view the laser status.

ON/OFF switch Turns power ON or OFF.

Key switch Key access control of laser emission, when set to OFF, emission is not permitted.
The switch also resets the interlock alarm when cycled from ON to OFF and back
to ON, see “Connecting the safety interlock” on page 75.

Note: Remove and secure the key to help prevent unauthorized access.

Rear panel interfaces

The rear panel includes electrical ports, status LEDs, and the laser’s exhaust vent.
The panel and its components are depicted in Figure 6.

Figure 6 Rear panel features and connectors

1 2 3 4 5

6 7 8 9 10 11

1 AC input – IEC C14 7 USB serial port – type B USB

2 RS-232 serial port – 9 pin female D-sub 8 USB port Status LEDs
3 Analog pulse output – BNC 9 External bus – 15 pin female D-sub
4 Logic pulse output – BNC 10 Coax trig input – BNC
5 Exhaust vent – cooling fan 11 Industrial trig input – 2 pin 5.08 mmi
6 Interlock connector – LEMO 2-pinii
i. 5.8 mm pitch pluggable terminal block
ii. See Connecting the safety interlock on page 75

27 Laser Description
Rear panel interfaces

AC input Connects to AC mains (100 to 240 VAC @ 50-60 Hz) with the included power
cord or a suitable and approved power cord for your region. Power consumption
for the laser is as follows:

• Typical power consumption (emission ON) – 20 to 30 W

• Maximum power consumption (emission ON) – 50 W

• Maximum power consumption (with an accessory) – 100 W

RS-232 serial port The RS-232 management port follows the TIA/EIA-232-F standard. To connect a
management PC or other control device, set its Serial COM port to the
parameters in Table 1.

Table 1 RS-232 serial COM port settings

Setting Value

Baud rate 115.2 kbps

Data bits 8

Parity None

Stop bit 1

Flow control None

TX & RX text Append LF

RX text Mono-spaced

Analog pulse output You can synchronize an external device to the laser’s optical pulse from this BNC
port. The signal from the port represents the optical pulses from the laser. An
external device connected to the port, can detect when a pulse is emitted with
minimum timing jitter.

Logic pulse output You can trigger an external device or count optical pulses from this port. The
logic signal from the port is a digital version of the Analog output pulse signal.
The signal is created from the analog signal and transmits a positive logic signal
when an optical pulse is emitted.

USB connector Connect a PC to this port in order to manage the laser using NKT Photonics
CONTROL software.

Note: To connect to the port, the PC must have NKTP USB port drivers installed.
You can find the driver installation software at:

https://www.nktphotonics.com/support/

Status LEDs Status LEDs are described in “Status LEDs” on page 30.

Laser Description 28
 Configuration and operation overview

External bus This 15 pin port connects power, communications and the interlock circuit to any
external accessories used with the laser. When no accessories are used with the
laser, connect the interlock defeater plug onto this port – see “External bus” on
page 80.

COAX trig input You can trigger emission of output pulses from the laser using this BNC coaxial
input. The input accepts logic level trigger signals terminated with a 50 Ω
impedance. See “Trigger input ports” on page 83 for further information.

Industrial trig input Similar to the COAX trig input port, you can trigger emission of output pulses
from the laser using this two pin connector input. This port has a higher
impedance and wider voltage range and is electrically isolated from the laser.
However, the actual trigger thresholds set pulse emission ON and OFF are fixed
within the input voltage range. See “Trigger input ports” on page 83 for further
information.

Configuration and operation overview

The laser is operated by using either NKTP’s CONTROL application on an
external PC or your own custom application, using NKTP’s Software
Development Kit (SDK), connected to the laser over one of the laser’s rear panel
serial interfaces shown in Figure 6. To help prevent accidental exposure to
emission, a key switch and door interlock circuit provides overriding control of
the laser.

Note: If both serial ports are connected, the USB port has priority.
Note: You can manage multiple laser from the same PC using CONTROL. The
application automatically detects connected NKTP lasers and their accessories.
Note: Once connected, you can use CONTROL to manage the laser’s emission
and power settings. Additionally, CONTROL can be used to upload firmware or
download the laser’s log file.
Note: The Chapter “Connecting and Turning ON the Laser” on page 45 provides
the details and procedures on how to connect CONTROL to the laser.

Advanced laser As mentioned previously, you can control the laser from a custom platform
control connected to either the USB or serial port. To build your own custom control
application, NKTP provides an SDK Kit which can be downloaded from:

https://www.nktphotonics.com/support/

Key switch and To enhance safety, the laser is equipped with an interlock interface and a keyed
interlock safety switch. The two components work together to safely control laser emission. Both
an interlock safety switch (door closed position - switch not supplied) and the
laser key switch must be in the ON position to permit laser emission using
management commands.

The interlock interface is connected to a switch which is activated by an access

door in the enclosure surrounding the laser emission area. If the door

29 Laser Description
Status LEDs

unexpectedly opens, the door switch circuit also opens and laser emission is
immediately shut down. “Connecting the safety interlock” on page 75 describes
the details on how to connect the interlock.

Interlock Safety Reset

When a door switch is properly connected and the enclosure door opens and
closes, the laser is shut down by the interlock. Despite the door being closed
again, the laser cannot be started until the key lock is first cycled to the OFF
position and back to the ON position. Only after the key is cycled, the interlock is
reset and emission is permitted.

Laser accessory The External bus port connects optional SuperK accessories. The port provides a
management communications interface, 12V DC power and interlock signal to optional smart
accessories. When multiple smart accessories are utilized with the laser, the bus
supports daisy chain connectivity. Smart accessories connected to the External
bus are recognized and managed by the CONTROL PC connected to the laser.
Since this bus connection includes the interlock signal, the bus defeater must
always be on the last open External Bus output port to loop back the interlock
signal. For information on connecting the bus, see "Connecting accessories with
the external bus".

Status LEDs

Rear panel LEDs The rear panel houses four status LEDs shown in Figure 7 and described in
Table 2.

Figure 7 SuperK COMPACT rear panel status LEDs

1 2

3 4

Laser Description 30
 Status LEDs

Table 2 Status LEDs

LED Condition Description

1 5V ON Green Correct +5 VDC is supplied to the main controller board.

ON Red The DC supply voltage to the main controller is too low/

high.

OFF No power is connected.

2 Tx Flashing Green The SuperK COMPACT is transmitting serial data to a

connected PC.

OFF No transmitted data detected

3 USB ON Green USB serial port is connected and the driver is installed and
configured correctly.

ON Amber USB serial port is connected but the driver is incorrectly

configured or not installed.

OFF No USB serial connection detected

4 Rx Flashing Amber The SuperK COMPACT is receiving serial data from a

connected PC.

OFF No received data detected

Front panel LEDs The three LEDs on the front panel are described in Table 3.

Table 3 Front panel LEDs

LED Condition Description

1 Power ON Green AC power is connected and the laser is switched ON.

OFF The laser is OFF or AC power is disconnected.

2 Emission ON Red Laser emission is enabled.

OFF Laser emission is disabled.

3 Pulse overrun Amber ON Unable to support the current pulse width for the
configured frequency.

OFF Pulse width and frequency operating within nominal

conditions.

31 Laser Description
Chassis labels

Chassis labels
The SuperK COMPACT chassis includes multiple labels that indicate hazards and
regulatory or manufacturing information. The labels are located on the rear
panel, the armored fiber cable, and the collimator as described in Table 4 with
their rear panel locations shown in Figure 8.

Table 4 Chassis labels

Label Panel Description

Classification Side Safety information stating the laser

emission hazards and the laser’s class
WARNING - VISIBLE AND INVISIBLE
rating. LASER RADIATION, AVOID
EXPOSURE TO BEAM
CLASS 3B LASER PRODUCT

Manufacturing Side Manufacturing information including

address, part and serial number, date
manufactured and regulatory
compliance.

Laser Side & Safety information alert indicating this

Radiation Collimator area of the laser is near a source of
Warning dangerous laser emission.

Laser Aperture Collimator Safety information alert indicating the

location of the aperture where laser LASER
radiation is emitted from the laser.B APERTURE

Product Side Safety information alert indicating the

Information location of the aperture where laser
radiation is emitted from, safety MAXIMUM OUTPUT POWER: 200 mW
WAVELENGTH RANGE: 450 - 2500 nm
compliance information, and key PULSE DURATION: <2 ns
emission specifications.

Figure 8 SuperK COMPACT side panel labels

Laser Description 32
 SECTION 2

OPERATING THE LASER

This section describes how to manage and operate the laser and includes the
chapters:

• “Front Panel Controls” on page 35

• “Connecting and Turning ON the Laser” on page 45

• “CONTROL Interface” on page 51

33
34
 2 Front Panel Controls

Overview
The front panel features an LCD operations menu and controls to configure,
monitor and operate the laser. The menu items available are listed in Table 5.

Table 5 Front panel LCD menu items

Menu Item Function See
Top menu level Displays the trigger mode, laser pulse Top menu level on page 36
frequency and any faults.
Operating mode Sets the trigger mode of the laser. This Operating mode on page 38
–––––––––––Sub-menu levels –––––––––––

determines when pulses are emitted.

Frequency Configures the output optical pulse Frequency on page 40
frequency, also known as the lasers
repetition rate or rep.rate.
Power % Adjusts the laser’s output power by Power % on page 40
percentage.
Burst pulses Sets the number of pulses the laser emits Burst pulses on page 41
upon a trigger event.
Coax trig level Sets the voltage level that when detected Coax trig level on page 41
on the Coax trig input port, triggers pulse
emission.
Watchdog timer Timer that when set, disables emission Watchdog timer on page 42
when CONTROL communications is lost.
Display Backlight Sets the LCD menu display brightness. Display backlight on page 43
Serial Number Sub-menu to display the serial numbers of Serial Number on page 43
the laser modules and accessories.
Firmware versions Sub-menu to display the firmware Firmware version sub-menu
revisions of the laser modules and on page 44
accessories.

General operation Accessing

If the panel is off – press the Enter button.

Menu selection and parameter adjustment

Turn the Selection dial any direction to scroll through the available sub-menus or
adjust a selected parameter. Press the Enter button to select and access the sub-
menu system and the parameter setting for each sub-menu level.

Exiting menus
Press the Return button to exit a sub-menu level and return to the menu above it.

35
Menu items

Menu items

Top menu level The top menu level (Figure 9) displays the following:

• Trigger mode (Operating mode)

• Pulse Frequency

• Number of burst pulses (count)

At the bottom of the top menu level screen, the laser’s status is displayed. Status
messages include the:

• Emission state

• Alarms

• Notifications

Access the top menu

To access the top menu, press the return button once or twice until the display
exits the sub-menus.

Figure 9 Top level menu – Internal trigger mode

Top level menu - Operating mode setting

In the top level menu, the currently set operating mode is shown at the top. The
mode can be any of the operation modes configurable using the Operating
mode sub-menu. Figure 10 shows an example of the top level menu with the
laser set to the Software burst operating mode.

Figure 10 Top level menu - Software burst mode

Note: You can also use CONTROL to set the operating mode. In CONTROL the
modes are configured as Trigger modes - see “Trigger mode” on page 62.

Front Panel Controls 36

 Menu items

Top level menu - Interlock notification

If the interlock circuit (See “Key switch and interlock safety” on page 29) is open
or shorted to ground, the LCD menu displays one of the following alarms:

• External interlock (Figure 11) – the external bus interlock circuit is open or
shorted.

• Door interlock – the door interlock circuit is open or shorted.

Figure 11 Interlock circuit open notification

Top level menu - Key switch notification

If the laser key switch is set in the OFF position, a notification that the key switch
is OFF is displayed as shown in Figure 12.

Figure 12 Key switch off notification

Note: When the key switch is in the OFF position, laser emission cannot be start-
ed. Emission is disabled if the switch is turned from ON to OFF.

Top level menu

This menu notification (Figure 13) appears when the laser is restarted or the
interlock circuit has been closed again after a previous open or shorted state has
been repaired. The display shows:

Reset interlock:

To reset the interlock to permit laser emission, press either the

• front panel Return button

– or –

• the Interlock – RESET button in the status panel of CONTROL – see

Figure 28 on page 54.

37 Front Panel Controls

Menu items

Figure 13 Reset interlock request

Operating mode The operating mode determines when and how often the light source emits an
optical pulse and is also referred to as the trigger mode.

To set the operating mode:

1. Press the enter button to enter the laser’s sub-menus.

2. Turn the selection dial until the menu displays, System menu - Operating
Mode

3. Press the enter button to enter the Operating Mode selection menu.

4. Use the selection dial to choose an operating mode

5. Press the return button twice to return to the top level menu.

The operating modes available are described in the following.

Figure 14 Operating mode sub-menu

Internal trigger
The laser emits continuous pulses at the set repetition rate. The rear panel
trigger inputs are not used. The repetition rate is set using the Frequency sub-
menu.

External trigger
One pulse is emitted each time the leading edge (low to high transition) of a
trigger signal is detected at one of the external trigger input ports. The rising
edge of the trigger signal must reach the detection threshold level for the port.

Software burst
A burst of pulses at the set repetition rate is emitted each time the laser receives
a telegram to initiate the burst. To send telegrams to the laser over it’s RS-232
serial or USB interface, you must implement the NKT Photonics Software
Development Kit (SDK). The SDK can be downloaded from:

https://www.nktphotonics.com/lasers-fibers/support/software-drivers/

Front Panel Controls 38

 Menu items

Note: The telegram to initiate the burst is sent to register 0x34 (Burst pulses). Burst
number (Burst pulses) and repetition rate (Frequency) can be set with either the
front panel sub-menus or with registers 0x34 and 0x33 respectively.

Note: Software burst mode is not supported using CONTROL.

Ext. trigged burst:

A burst of pulses at the set repetition rate is emitted each time the leading edge
(low to high transition) of a trigger signal is detected on one of the external
trigger input ports. The rising edge of the trigger signal must reach the detection
threshold level for the port. The number of pulses in the burst is set using Burst
pulses sub-menu and the repetition rate is set using the Frequency sub-menu.

When the light source senses a positive edge at one of the trig inputs, the light
source emits a specified number of pulses (Burst count) at the specified
repetition rate.

External gate on
When a logic high level signal is detected at one of the trigger input ports, pulses
are continuously emitted at the set repetition rate. When the signal at both trigger
inputs is at a logic low level, no pulses are emitted. An output pulse truth table of
trigger inputs for External gate on and External gate off modes is shown in
Table 6.

Note: Typically, an additional pulse is emitted after the external signal drops to a
logic low level. The repetition rate is set using the Frequency sub-menu.

Note: When using the CONTROL interface, the External gate on mode is set using
the “Gated trigger mode” described on page 64. Refer also to Figure 37 showing
the input trigger signal levels and their effect on the optical output set in this
mode.

External gate off:

When a logic low level signal is detected at both of the trigger input ports, pulses
are continuously emitted at the set repetition rate. When the signal at one of the
trigger inputs changes to a high logic level, no pulses are emitted. An output
pulse truth table of trigger inputs for External gate on and External gate off
modes is shown in Table 6.

Note: Typically, an additional pulse is emitted after the external signal rises to a
logic high level. The repetition rate is set using the Frequency sub-menu.

Note: When using the CONTROL interface, the External gate off mode is set using
the “Gated trigger inverted mode” described on page 65. Refer also to Figure 38
showing the input trigger signal levels and their effect on the optical output in this
mode.

Warning: Although some operating modes can stop pulses from being generated,
the laser must still be regarded as having emission on. Stopping pulses by using
the input trigger signals in a certain combination, is considered an unsafe method
to disable emission.

39 Front Panel Controls

Menu items

Table 6 External gate modes – pulse emission truth table

Operating mode COAX trig input Industrial trig input Output pulses

Low Low Disabled

High Low Continuous pulses

External gate ON
Low High Continuous pulses

High High Continuous pulses

Low Low Continuous pulses

High Low Disabled

External gate OFF
Low High Disabled

High High Disabled

Frequency To set the laser pulse frequency (repetition rate):

1. Press the enter button to enter the laser’s sub-menus.

2. Turn the selection dial until the menu displays System menu - F.requency

3. Press the enter button to enter the Frequency setting menu.

4. One position of the frequency digits flashes. This indicates the selection dial
can modify the frequency digit.

5. Turn the selection dial to set the digit(s).

6. Press enter to select another digit position and repeat steps 4 and 5 to
modify any remaining digits of the frequency

7. Press the return button twice to return to the top level menu.

Figure 15 Frequency sub-menu

Warning: When increasing the frequency, the output power increases proportion-
ately.

Power % To set the output emission power level in percent:

1. Press the enter button to enter the laser’s sub-menus.

2. Turn the selection dial until the menu displays System menu - Power %

Front Panel Controls 40

 Menu items

3. Press the enter button to enter the Power % setting menu.

4. Turn the selection dial to set the power level.

5. Press the return button twice to return to the top level menu.

Note: The laser’s frequency is directly proportional to its output power and hence
automatically adjusts as the power level setting is changed.

Figure 16 Power sub-menu

Burst pulses To set the number of burst pulses emitted when a trigger signal detects a leading
edge:

1. Press the enter button to enter the laser’s sub-menus.

2. Turn the selection dial until the menu displays System menu - Burst pulses

3. Press the enter button to enter the Burst pulses setting menu.

4. One position of the number of pulses in a burst digits flashes. This indicates
the selection dial can modify them.

5. Turn the selection dial to set the digit(s).

6. Press enter to select another digit position and repeat step 4 and 5 to modify
any remaining digits of the number of pulses in the burst.

7. Press the return button twice to return to the top level menu.

Figure 17 Burst pulses sub-menul

Coax trig level To set the voltage level at the Coax trig input that triggers emission of a pulse or
burst:

1. Press the enter button to enter the laser’s sub-menus.

2. Turn the selection dial until the menu displays System menu - Coax trig level

41 Front Panel Controls

Menu items

3. Press the enter button to enter the Coax trig level setting menu.

4. One position of the trigger detection voltage level digits flashes. This
indicates the selection dial can modify them.

5. Turn the selection dial to set the digit(s).

6. Press enter to select another digit position and repeat step 4 and 5 to modify
any remaining digits of the voltage level.

7. Press the return button twice to return to the top level menu.

Figure 18 Coax trig level sub-menu

Watchdog timer The watchdog timer disables emission when it expires. The counter starts to
count down when the laser is disconnected from CONTROL. To set the
watchdog timer:

1. Press the enter button to enter the laser’s sub-menus.

2. Turn the selection dial until the menu displays System menu - Watchdog
timer.

3. Press the enter button to enter the Watchdog timer setting menu.

4. Turn the selection dial to set the digits from OFF, 1-255 seconds.

5. Press the return button twice to return to the top level menu.

Figure 19 Watchdog timer sub-menu

Front Panel Controls 42

 Menu items

Display backlight The brightness of the display backlight can be adjusted in percent, to set it:

1. Press the enter button to enter the laser’s sub-menus.

2. Turn the selection dial until the menu displays System menu - Display
backlight.

3. Press the enter button to enter the Display backlight setting menu.

4. Turn the selection dial to set brightness percentage.

5. Press the return button twice to return to the top level menu.

Figure 20 Display backlight sub-menu

Serial Number Select this sub-menu to view the laser serial numbers. The serial numbers of the
laser and its connected accessories are displayed.

To display the serial numbers:

1. Press the enter button to enter the laser’s sub-menus.

2. Turn the selection dial until the menu displays System menu - Display
backlight.

3. Press the enter button to enter the Display backlight setting menu.

4. Press the enter button to scroll through the serial numbers of the laser and its
connected accessories.

5. Press the return button twice to return to the top level menu.

Figure 21 Serial number sub-menu

43 Front Panel Controls

Emission button

Firmware versions Select this sub-menu to view the laser firmware revisions. The firmware revisions
of the laser and its connected accessories are displayed.

To display the firmware revisions:

1. Press the enter button to enter the laser’s sub-menus.

2. Turn the selection dial until the menu displays System menu - Firmware
versions.

3. Press the enter button to enter the Firmware versions setting menu.

4. Press the enter button to scroll through the firmware versions of the laser and
its connected accessories.

5. Press the return button twice to return to the top level menu.

Figure 22 Firmware version sub-menu

Emission button
Press the Emission button to turn laser emission ON and OFF. The Emission LED
on the front panel is lit Red when emission is enabled.

Warning: You must follow all safety regulations required for the location where
the laser is operated.

Warning: Turning on the laser emits laser Class 3B emission. Ensure to observe
and implement all safety regulations, warnings and cautions in this guide and the
SuperK COMPACT Safety, Handling and Regulatory Information document be-
fore continuing.

Caution: Do not turn on the laser if it has been exposed to temperature and hu-
midity beyond the operating specifications. The SuperK COMPACT is designed to
operated in a non-condensing environment from +18 to +30°C (or 35°C). Before
turning on the laser, allow it at least 30 minutes to reach room temperature. Turn-
ing on a laser that is too cold or hot may lead to the system being damaged.

Further ensure the laser is securely installed and connected according to the
procedures in “Mechanical Installation” on page 73 and “Connecting the Laser”
on page 75. This means the laser should be installed in the recommended
environment with power applied and at the very minimum, the door switch
interlock connected.

Front Panel Controls 44

 3 Connecting and Turning ON the Laser

You can manage the laser using NKTP CONTROL software installed on a PC. This
chapter focuses on:

• How to obtain and install the CONTROL software

• Connect a PC using USB connectivity

• Turning the laser emission ON and OFF

CONTROL software
The laser is shipped with the CONTROL software installer on a USB key. You can
also download the most recent CONTROL software from the following link:

https://www.nktphotonics.com/support/

CONTROL software is capable of managing, configuring and monitoring NKT

Photonics products including this laser and associated accessories. Both 32 and
64 bit versions are available and must be installed on a PC running Microsoft
Windows 7, 8, or 10.

Installing the After downloading the CONTROL installer software on to your PC, double click
software the installer and follow the built-in wizard. Further details on installing the
software is available in Appendix F .

Connecting the laser to a CONTROL PC

You can connect a PC with CONTROL software using either a convenient USB
serial connection. USB connectivity provides a simple connection option within
the maximum USB cable length of less than 3m.

After the PC is connected, use CONTROL’s Connect button feature to find the
laser or its connected accessories.

Note: It is also possible to connect a CONTROL PC to the RS-232 serial connec-

tion of the laser.

USB connection Connect a PC directly to the laser using either the supplied USB cable or any
USB Type A-B cable 3 meters or less in length and follow the instructions in
Procedure 1.

45
Connecting the laser to a CONTROL PC

Procedure 1 Connecting a PC to the laser using a USB cable

Action

1 Using a USB Type A-B cable, connect an available USB Type A port of the CONTROL PC
to the laser’s USB Type B port. i

2 Connect power to the Laser – see Connecting power on page 77.

3 If necessary, wait for the Windows device manager to install the USB drivers for the
connection.

4 Launch the CONTROL software by either:

• clicking on Windows – Start – Programs – NKT Photonics –CONTROL

– or –

• double clicking the CONTROL shortcut on the desktop

5 The CONTROL window opens.

Click on the Connect button in

the upper left region of the
window.

6 CONTROL automatically scans

for any connect lasers and
accessories available on both
COM and configured Ethernet
ports.

NOTE: SuperK COMPACT

lasers only support serial
connections.

7 To manage the laser, click on

the SuperK COMPACT laser
icon from the Device Selector
list.

i. You can also connect a PC serial port to the RS232 port on the laser using a standard RS232
serial cable.

Connecting and Turning ON the Laser 46

 Controlling laser emission

Controlling laser emission

Safety Before you turn on the laser, ensure that you are completely familiar and follow all safety
information and recommendations stated within this document and the document:

SuperK COMPACT Safety, Handling and Regulatory Information

Warning: You must follow all safety regulations required for the location where the laser
is operated.

Preparation The laser is ready to be turned on when the following steps are completed.

1. The laser is securely installed and connected according to the procedures in

“Mechanical Installation” on page 73 and “Connecting the Laser” on page 75. This
means the laser should be installed in the recommended environment with power
applied and at the very minimum, a door switch interlock and CONTROL PC
connected.

2. The laser is communicating with the CONTROL application according to the

procedures in “Connecting and Turning ON the Laser” on page 45.

Warning: Turning on the laser emits hazardous laser Class 3B radiation. Ensure to ob-
serve and implement all safety regulations, warnings and cautions in this guide and the
SuperK COMPACT Safety, Handling and Regulatory Information document before con-
tinuing.

Caution: Do not turn on the laser if it has been exposed to temperature and humidity be-
yond the operating specifications. The SuperK COMPACT is designed to operated in a
non-condensing environment from +18 to +30°C (or 35°C). Before turning on the laser, al-
low it at least 30 minutes to reach room temperature. Turning on a laser that is too cold
or hot may lead to the system being damaged.

Turning ON Follow the steps in Procedure 2 to enable laser emission using CONTROL.
the laser

47 Connecting and Turning ON the Laser

Controlling laser emission

Procedure 2 Turning ON the laser

Action

1 On the front panel of the laser, turn the key

switch on the laser’s front panel to the ON
position.

When the key is in the ON position, laser

emission can be enabled from CONTROL
software. ON position

NOTE: The connected interlock circuit must

also be closed i.e. the door (switch) closed to
permit emission.

2 In the CONTROL application, set the Trigger

mode drop down setting to Internal trigger.

NOTE: Internal trigger mode sets the laser to

emit a continuous pulse train.

NOTE: Other trigger modes require an exter-

nal trigger signal to control emission of laser
pulses.

2 In the Control application, adjust the laser’s

repetition rate by using the slider marked Rep.
rate. (The Rep. rate. slider control may also be
set as a Set Power slider, both controls adjust
the repetition rate of the output pulses.)

NOTE: External trigger mode does not sup-

port Rep. rate or Set Power sliders.

3 If the RESET (interlock) button is visible in the

status panel, click it to clear the interlock
alarm “Interlock waiting for reset”.

NOTE: Clicking the button acknowledges to

the laser that you have correctly connected all
interlock and door switch circuits.

3 Turn ON laser emission by clicking on the

software Emission button. OFF ON
The Emission button light turns from green
(OFF) to Red (ON).

Errors If the laser does not turn on or is unexpectedly disabled, an error condition may
have occurred. Errors occur when the laser controller detects one or more
operation conditions not within the normally expected range. When an alarm is
raised, the laser is disabled.

For a list of errors and their appropriate responses see Appendix G .

Connecting and Turning ON the Laser 48

 Controlling laser emission

Turning OFF the Follow the steps in Procedure 3 to turn off or disable laser emission.
laser
Procedure 3 Turning OFF the laser
Action

1 Turn OFF laser emission by clicking on the software

Emission button. ON OFF

The Emission button light turns from Red (ON) to

green (OFF).

2 Turn the key switch to the 0 position to disable the

laser.

Note: If you plan to leave the laser unattended, it is

recommended to remove and store the key in a OFF position
secure location.

49 Connecting and Turning ON the Laser

Controlling laser emission

Connecting and Turning ON the Laser 50

 4 CONTROL Interface

CONTROL overview
The CONTROL user interface includes multiple panels and a selection of menu
drop down items in the upper left corner. Using the drop down menu, you can
add or remove panels. You can also repositioned the panels within the main
window or into separate windows. Figure 23 shows the panels and menu items;
their functions are briefly described in the table below.
Panel Function See
Device Selectable list of connected devices (lasers and Connecting the laser to a
Selector accessories) sorted by the PC port they are CONTROL PC on page 45.
connected to.
Quick Connect Provides a button when clicked, scans all Connecting to the laser on
available PC ports for connected NKTP products. page 53

Status Panel This panel displays the selected device status, Status panel on page 54
emission control and a CONTROL settings drop
down menu.
Menu Items Five drop down menus with multiple functions. CONTROL menu on page 58
Control Panel Includes trigger mode settings and slider Trigger mode on page 62
controls for output control.
Controls on page 66
Application This panel displays a debugging log that can be Application log panel on
Log saved to a file. page 68
Device Monitor To also help debugging issues, this panel Device monitor on page 68
displays multiple port and device module
parameters.

Figure 23 CONTROL panel navigation

Menu
items Application
Control panel Status panel log

Device
selector list

Quick
connect

Device monitor

51
CONTROL overview

Relocating panels You can drag the different panels of CONTROL to any location within the main
interface or into a separate floating panel. Procedure 4 describes how to relocate
a panel within the main window:

Procedure 4 Relocating panels

Action

1 Left click and hold the top title bar of the panel.

2 While holding the left mouse button down, drag the panel to another location in the main
window.

3 In the new location. when the background turns blue, release the mouse button – see
Figure 24.

4 Alternatively, drag the panel out from the main window and release the mouse button. A
separate window for the panel is created. (see Figure 25)

Figure 24 Dragging panels to a new location in the main window

Left hold click

Release the mouse and drag the panel
when the background
turns blue

Figure 25 Dragging panels outside the main window

Panels dragged outside

the main window

CONTROL Interface 52
 CONTROL overview

Toggling the panels Click Menu > Window and check or uncheck the items in the drop down menu.
visible Checking (clicking it) an item shows the panel and unchecking the item (clicking it
again) removes it from view.

Figure 26 Toggling panel visibility

Check the panels to

display them

Note: Clicking the X in the upper right corner of any panel also closes it.

Connecting to the When CONTROL is launched, the Welcome panel is displayed as in Figure 27.
laser On the left is the Quick Connect panel. Click the CONNECT button and
CONTROL scans all available ports for NKTP devices that it can connect to. Once
CONTROL finishes the scan, a list of the devices is presented.

See either “Connecting a PC to the laser using a USB cable” on page 46

Figure 27 Quick connect

Click

CONTROL scans for

connected devices

Note: Devices must already be connected to the CONTROL PC for quick connect
to find them. A connected device means the laser USB connector is connected
and a Windows COM port is assigned to it.

53 CONTROL Interface
Status panel

Status panel
The Status Panel provides status indicators, error messages, emission control
function and a CONTROL settings menu.

Figure 28 Status Panel

Status indicators The panel displays the following indicators:

Trigger
The ▲ (up) and a ▼ (down) arrow indicators display the status of the trigger signal
measured at a trigger input. You can use the indicators when setting the trigger
level control (see “Trigger level” on page 67) or the actual trigger input signal
level.

• ▲ ON – Trigger input signal level too high versus the set trigger threshold.
• ▼ ON – Trigger input signal level too low versus the set trigger threshold.

• ▲ / ▼ ON – Trigger input signal level and trigger threshold are correctly set
(matched) to trigger a pulse or burst. When a trigger event is detected, both
indicators stay ON for approximately 100 ms indicating a recent trigger event.

Using the arrows: The arrows indicate if the trigger signal voltage is either too
high, too low, or set correctly when compared to the set trigger threshold. For
example, a trigger signal at 1 kHz is connected and the ▼ down arrow is ON and
the ▲ up arrow is steady OFF. In this case, the trigger signal voltage is too low for
the set threshold. Either set the trigger threshold lower or increase the signal
level until both arrows (▲ / ▼) are lit. Likewise, if the ▲ up arrow is ON, and the ▼
down arrow is OFF, then the trigger signal level is too high; either the threshold
needs to be increased or the signal level decreased.

CONTROL Interface 54
 Status panel

Note: If the frequency of the input trigger signal is very low i.e. 10 Hz, then the ar-
row states change at roughly the rate of the trigger signal pulses. At higher trigger
signal frequencies, the arrows appear steady ON.

Note: Visible flashing of the arrows may also indicate that the trigger signal level
is slightly low, such that only a few of the trigger signal pulses are detected. If the
signal level cannot be increased, decrease the trigger threshold level slightly
(Coax trig input only).

Pulse overrun
When operating at low repetition rate and the repetition rate is increased, a Pulse
overrun state may occur. For example, changing from 1 kHz to 20 kHz could
momentarily trigger a Pulse overrun state due to the sudden change in pulse
acquisition. When this occurs, increase the repetition rate in smaller steps of for
example, 5 kHz. Whenever a Pulse overrun state is encountered, turn down the
repetition rate until the Pulse overrun warning disappears.

A Pulse overrun state can also occur when set to burst mode. To avoid this,
either lower the number of pulses or lower the repetition rate.

When operating in Internal Trigger mode and a continuous Pulse overrun

warning is observed, contact support – see “Support contact details” on
page 94.

Interlock
Indicates the status of the Interlock circuit and whether emission can be turned
ON or not. The indicator is either:

• ON Red – the interlock circuit is open or shorted to ground – No emission

permitted

• OFF Grey – the interlock circuit is closed and reset – emission permitted

To clear the ON Red indicator, the interlock circuit must be closed and reset. Any
shorts to ground must be removed.

Status
Indicates the operational status of the laser. The indicator has the following
states:

• ON Green – The laser emission can be enabled.

• ON Red – There is a fault and a fault message is displayed; laser emission is

shutdown and cannot be enabled.

Fault Message Action

Interlock opened while emission on a) Cycle the key switch to OFF and then ON

b) Close the external interlock circuit

Watchdog timeout Reconnect NKTP CONTROL and reset the interlock

by cycling the key switch.

See “Connecting the safety interlock” on page 75.

55 CONTROL Interface
Control settings

System info The System Info section displays the following:

• Laser Serial Number

• Laser Firmware Revision

Note: System info is only displayed when the option is checked in “View” on
page 57.

Emission button The emission button turns the laser emission ON or OFF – See “Controlling the
laser emissions” on page 53. The button indicator turns ON Red when laser
emission is generated. Otherwise, it is OFF Grey.

Control settings

The CONTROL settings are accessible by clicking the gear icon in the upper
right corner of the Status panel. Clicking the gear icon displays a menu of setting
items as shown in Figure 29.

Figure 29 CONTROL settings

Click the gear icon

to access the menu

Setting Item Function See

Watchdog Enables or disables a watchdog between Watchdog on page 56

CONTROL and the connected devices.

View Enables and disables items displayed in the View on page 57

Status panel.

Watchdog
As an added safety feature, the watchdog automatically turns OFF laser emission
if communications with CONTROL is lost. You can enabled or disabled the
feature and set an adjustable timeout. When CONTROL loses communication
with the laser, the watchdog timer counts down from the timeout setting value (1
to 255 seconds). Upon expiry, the watchdog shuts down laser emission by
internally opening the interlock circuit.

Note: Setting the timeout to 0 seconds turns OFF the watchdog function.

CONTROL Interface 56
 Control settings

Figure 30 Watchdog

1 to 255 seconds
0 is OFF

View
The View settings control the display items in the status panel and the front LCD
panel:

System info – check the box to toggle on displaying the system’s serial number
and firmware version within the status panel.

User text – enter a text string of up to 240 characters. The string is displayed
next to the device icon in the Device selection window.

Figure 31 View

Check to display

Input text to display

57 CONTROL Interface
CONTROL menu

CONTROL menu
There are five drop down menus in the main control window as highlighted in
Figure 32. Click on the items in the menu to reveal the drop down menus.

Figure 32 Menu items

Menu Item Function See

File Exits the CONTROL program N/A

Disconnect Disconnects the currently connected device from N/A

CONTROL.

Tools Select from one of three special tools to use with

your laser. Tools available are:
• Key Updater Tool Key Updater tool on page 58

• Log Downloader Log downloader on page 59

• Extensions Overview Extensions overview on
page 60

Window Controls (toggles) which panels are displayed. Toggling the panels visible
on page 53

Help Displays the current version of CONTROL and N/A

provides access to the included CONTROL user
help.

Key Updater tool The Key Updater tool is used to apply special features and corrections to
modules and systems of the laser.

To use the Key Updater tool follow Procedure 5.

Procedure 5 Using the Key Updater tool

Action

1 Enter the key code in the field

Enter key code.

2 In the list of modules, check the

box on the right of each applicable
module.

3 Click Apply

CONTROL Interface 58
 CONTROL menu

Note: Certain keys generate a new locally generated key code. Locally generated
keys are usually required during a support session and are emailed back to the
NKT Photonics support personnel.

Log downloader If your laser requires support from NKT Photonics, our support engineers may
request that you send the log files collected by the laser. You can use the log
downloader tool to save the laser log files to your CONTROL PC.

NKTP CONTROL automatically downloads log files from the modules of any
connected devices. The log files are stored in a local file on the CONTROL PC.
However, certain NKTP modules, including the SuperK COMPACT main board do
not support automatic download of log files. For these modules. you can use the
log downloader tool to put the device into dedicated log download mode by
enabling a collect log function.

Note: When the collect log function is enabled, it temporarily disables automatic
log collection from all other devices. The CONTROL interface turns grey (gray),
and communication with the laser and log collection with all other modules is dis-
abled.

To download log files use the Log Downloader as described in Procedure 6.

Procedure 6 Using the Log Downloader

Action

1 Open the Tools menu and click on Log Download to start

the log downloader tool.

2 The tool displays all connected

modules with log capability. To
decrease the download time of
the module log files, CONTROL
continuously collects module
log data and stores this log
data in a local database on the
PC. The percentage indicator
shows the amount of log data
collected for each module. Connected
Logs are collected from each Modules Percent
module. The total collected Collected
percentage is displayed for the
module’s logs.

59 CONTROL Interface
CONTROL menu

Action

3 To download and save a log

file to the CONTROL PC, right
click the percentage indicator
and select either:
• Save log – Immediately
saves the fast or slow log
file onto the CONTROL
PC. If the percentage
shows less than 100%, the
log is collected first. See Right click
Collect log below.
the % indicator
• Collect log – Starts a
dedicated log collection
mode that disabled all other
CONTROL activity.

4 If you select Save Fast or Slow

log, a dialog box prompts for a
filename and folder to store the
log in.

Connected Percent
Modules Collected

5 If you select Collect Fast or

Slow log, the log is collected
and saved in dedicated mode.
The CONTROL panel turns
grey and all other functions are
disabled. Dedicated collection mode

When the log is finished being

collected, all other CONTROL
functions are enabled.

6 Select Restart Fast or Slow log

to clear all the collected log
data and restart the log data
collection.

Extensions This tool is used to view the installed extensions (plugins) that are included with
overview CONTROL. The extensions are found in the following folder:

C:\Program Files (x86)\NKT Photonics\NKTP CONTROL\Plugins

To view the extensions, open the Tools menu and click on Extensions Overview.
The Extensions Overview window is launched as shown in Figure 33.

CONTROL Interface 60
 CONTROL menu

Figure 33 Extensions Overview

Note: To show a short description of the release notes as seen in Figure 33, hover
the mouse pointer over the “Release notes” text

The PubCompactLib.dll details highlighted in Figure 33 shows the version of the

.dll file (1.1.2.303), the included extensions and which module types they support.

Note: Multiple extensions for a wide range of NKTP lasers types are typically in-
stalled when using the default installation of CONTROL.

61 CONTROL Interface
Trigger mode

Trigger mode
Using NKTP CONTROL, you can select to operate the laser using one of five
trigger modes. The modes determine when and how pulses are emitted. When a
trigger mode is selected, the Control Panel shows the settings relevant for the
mode. To select one of the modes, click on the Trigger mode drop down menu
located on the right side of the panel (See Figure 34).

Note: Trigger signals must be supplied from an external source. NKTP CONTROL
software does not include any functionality to generate trigger signals.
Figure 34 Trigger mode

Click on the down arrow

to select a Triggerm ode

Internal trigger The laser emits continuous pulses at the set repetition rate. The rear panel
trigger inputs are not used. The repetition rate is set using the Frequency sub-
menu.

Controls
“Repetition rate” on page 66

Trigger ports
None

CONTROL Interface 62
 Trigger mode

External trigger One pulse (Figure 35) is emitted each time the leading edge (low to high
transition) of a trigger signal is detected on one of the external trigger input ports.
The rising edge of the trigger signal must reach the threshold for the detection
voltage level set for the port.

Controls
“Trigger level” on page 67

Trigger ports
“COAX trig input” on page 29
“Industrial trig input” on page 29

Figure 35 External trigger mode

Trigger output pulse

Triggers emission of a single pulse

Analog pulse output time

Optical pulse

Optical ouput time

Burst mode A burst of pulses (Figure 36) at the set repetition rate is emitted each time the
leading edge (low to high transition) of a trigger signal is detected on one of the
external trigger input ports. The rising edge of the trigger signal must reach the
detection threshold level for the port. The number of pulses in the burst is set
using Burst pulses sub-menu and the repetition rate is set using the Frequency
sub-menu.

When the light source senses a positive edge on one of the trig inputs, the light
source emits a specified number of pulses (Burst count) at the specified
repetition rate.

Controls
“Trigger level” on page 67
“Burst count” on page 67
“Repetition rate” on page 66

Trigger ports
“COAX trig input” on page 29
“Industrial trig input” on page 29

63 CONTROL Interface
Trigger mode

Figure 36 Burst mode

Trigger output pulse

Triggers emission of a burst of pulses

Analog pulse output time

Optical pulses

Optical ouput time

Gated trigger When a logic high level signal is detected at one of the trigger input ports, pulses
(Figure 37) are continuously emitted at the set repetition rate. When the signal at
both trigger inputs is at a logic low level, no pulses are emitted. An output pulse
truth table of trigger inputs for gated and gated inverted modes is shown in
Table 7.

Controls
“Trigger level” on page 67
“Repetition rate” on page 66

Trigger ports
“COAX trig input” on page 29
“Industrial trig input” on page 29

Figure 37 Gated trigger mode

High

Low Low
COAX trig input time

High

Low time
Industrial trig input

Optical ouput time

Disabled Continuous pulse Disabled

CONTROL Interface 64
 Trigger mode

Note: When using the Front panel controls, the Gated trigger mode is set using
the “External gate on mode” described on page 39.

Gated trigger When a logic low level signal is detected at both of the trigger input ports, pulses
inverted (Figure 38) are continuously emitted at the set repetition rate. When the signal at
one of the trigger inputs changes to a high logic level, no pulses are emitted. An
output pulse truth table of trigger inputs for gated and gated inverted modes is
shown in Table 7.

Controls
“Trigger level” on page 67
“Repetition rate” on page 66

Trigger ports
“COAX trig input” on page 29
“Industrial trig input” on page 29

Figure 38 Gated trigger inverted mode

High High

Low time
COAX trig input

High

Low time
Industrial trig input

Optical ouput

Disabled Continuous pulse Disabled

Note: Typically, an additional pulse is emitted after the external signal rises to a
logic high level. The repetition rate is set using the Frequency sub-menu.

Note: The front panel supports Software burst trigger setting. This mode cannot
be set using CONTROL.

Note: When using the Front panel controls, the Gated trigger inverted mode is set
using the “External gate off: mode” described on page 39.

Warning: Although some operating modes can stop pulses from being generated,
the laser must still be regarded as having emission on. Stopping pulses by using

65 CONTROL Interface
Controls

the input trigger signals in a certain combination, is considered an unsafe method

to disable emission.

Table 7 Gated modes – pulse emission truth table

Trigger mode COAX trig input Industrial trig input Output pulses

Low Low Disabled

High Low Continuous pulses

Gated trigger
Low High Continuous pulses

High High Continuous pulses

Low Low Continuous pulses

High Low Disabled

Gated inverted trigger
Low High Disabled

High High Disabled

Controls

Power or repetition You can adjust the repetition rate of the output pulse using either a Power or
rate selection Rep. rate slider. The average output power of the laser is directly proportional to
the pulse repetition rate. To set CONTROL to show either the Power or Rep, rate
slider click on the downward pointing.

Figure 39 Set power or repetition rate slider selection

Repetition rate You can set the output pulse repetition rate using the slider shown in Figure 40.
You can also enter the repetition rate in kilohertz using the text input field at the
upper right corner.

Figure 40 Repetition rate slider and text input field

Power You can set the output power in percent using the slider shown in Figure 41. You
can also enter the power in percent using the text input field at the upper right
corner.

CONTROL Interface 66
 Controls

Figure 41 Repetition rate slider and text input field

Note: Output power is modified my setting a pulse repetition rate proportional to

the power level desired.

Trigger level Use the slider shown in Figure 42. to set the voltage level threshold at the Coax
trig input that triggers emission of a pulse or burst. You can also enter the level in
voltage using the text input field at the upper right corner.

Figure 42 Trigger level slider and text input field

Note: You can use the trigger indicators in the status panel (see “Trigger” on
page 54) to set the trigger level threshold correctly.

Note: If the Coax trig input is left disconnected, set the Trigger level to a high set-
ting to avoid inadvertent noise causing a trigger event.

Burst count Use the slider shown in Figure 43. to set the number of burst pulses emitted
when a trigger signal detects a leading edge. You can also enter the number of
pulses in a burst using the text input field at the upper right corner.

Figure 43 Burst count slider and text input field

67 CONTROL Interface
Application log panel

Application log panel

The Application Log panel displays and logs the communication of status
messages. You can use the log to debug connection issues between CONTROL
and NKT Photonics devices.

The panel displays and timestamps the following types of log messages:

• Port Scans

• Discovered Devices

• Closed Communication Ports

The panel includes three buttons in the upper left corner. Use the buttons to
clear, save or print the log. Click on the cross in the upper right corner of the
Application Log to close it.

Figure 44 Application Log window

Clear the log
Save the log to file
Print the log

Device monitor
The Device Monitor provides a live display of transmit and receive parameters of
the laser’s communication ports and any connected device modules.

The display parameter values are continuously updated and can be used to help
debug issues with connected devices. The parameters are described in Table 8.

Table 8 Device Monitor parameters

Parameter Description

Interface The PC port interface the device(s) is connected to. Click the greater
than symbol to the left of the port to display the connected device (s)
parameters.

TxTlgsSec The number of telegrams per second being transmitted to the

connected device.

RxTlgsSec The number of telegrams per received from the connected device.

Addr The address of the connected module.

Type The type of the connected module read from the module.

CONTROL Interface 68
 Device monitor

Parameter Description

SysType The system type, default 0 – can be used to describe system variants
and is read from the module.

Name The name of the connected device module.

P/N The device module part number.

Mode The mode or status of the connected module: connected,

disconnected, or disabled

Status bits The actual status bits read from the connected module.

Error code The actual error code read from the connected module.

Access Protected/Locked status of the module.

FW Ver. The device module’s firmware release date.

Module Serial The serial number of the device module

PCB Serial The device module’s printed circuit board serial number

PCB Ver, The version of the device module’s printed circuit board.

Sp. Cap/ The module speed capability in bits per second as read from the
module – Values: 0=(default) 115200, 1=230400, 2=460800, 3=921600

Pri Ext Primary extension/GUI loaded for this module. Hover over the icon to
list more details – Note that there can only be 1 primary.

Fast Log 0%-100% collected. Note only if the module has a fast log and only
internal modules have fast and slow logs.

Slow Log 0%-100% collected. Note only if the module has a slow log.

Mainboard Log 0%-100% collected. Note only if the module has a main log. Only main
boards have a main and system logs.

System Log 0%-100% collected. Note only if the module has a system log. Only main
boards have a main and system logs.

Timeout Time in milliseconds since the last telegram was received from the
device module.

Nack Total number of negative acknowledgments received from the device

module.

CRC Total number of received telegrams with CRC failures

COM Total number of communication errors with framing or protocol errors.

Hover over the icon to list more details.

Busy Total number of busy responses from the module. Busy responses
occur when the module receives a message but cannot process it due
to its current work load.

69 CONTROL Interface
Device monitor

CONTROL Interface 70
SECTION 3

INSTALLING THE LASER

This section describes how to install the laser and includes the chapters:

• “Mechanical Installation” on page 73

• “Connecting the Laser” on page 75

71
72
 5 Mechanical Installation

Caution: For reliable operation, the laser should not be exposed to corrosive
agents or excessive moisture, heat or dust.

General installation

Installation surface The laser must be installed on a level surface that is free from vibrations.

Environment The ambient temperature surrounding the laser should be stable and free from
temperature fluctuations such as heat or cold sources. Temperature changes
and vibrations may affect the laser’s operation and result in abnormal operation.

Ambient environment
15-30°C non-condensing

Air cooling The laser is cooled with forced air. The air is drawn in through the air inlet vent on
the front panel and blown out through the exhaust vent on the rear panel. There
should be a clearance gap of 7.5 cm (3 inches) in front of the inlet and exhaust
vents to allow the free flow of air.

Caution: Do not place or stack items on top of the laser. Doing so may affect its
operation and cause damage.

Output fiber Do not bend the output fiber such that it exceeds its maximum bending radius.
The output fiber can be coiled down to a maximum 10 cm diameter.

73
General installation

Mechanical Installation 74
 6 Connecting the Laser

Before operating the laser, follow the procedures in this chapter to ensure its
correct and safe operation.

For information on how to connect:

• the Safety Interlock – see “Connecting the safety interlock” on page 75

• Power – see “Connecting power” on page 77

• The Optical Output – see “Connecting the optical output” on page 78

• Accessories – see “Connecting accessories with the external bus” on

page 80

• Trigger input ports – see “Trigger input ports” on page 83

• Synchronization output ports – see “Synchronization output ports” on

page 84

Connecting the safety interlock

To comply with safety regulations and help provide a safe operating
environment, the safety interlock of the laser must be connected to a switch
activated by an access door to the laser’s enclosure. When the connected switch
is opened by the door, it opens the interlock circuit which in turn shuts down
laser emissions. To prevent the laser from immediately turning on when the door
subsequently closes, the interlock must be reset either from the front panel or
software control.

Interlock operation Note: this section describes the functional operation of the interlock. To connect
description a door switch to the interlock, follow the steps in Procedure 7.

The interlock circuit in simple terms is a closed loop circuit. When the interlock
monitor function of the laser controller detects a break or open in the circuit, the
controller immediately shuts down the laser. The loop can be opened by either
the keyswitch relay, the door switch circuit or the external bus loop. In Figure 45,
the keyswitch is turned to the On position which a logic circuit in the laser
detects. When a reset command is sent from the front panel controls or
CONTROL software to the laser, the controller sends a set signal to the logic
circuit energizing the normally open keyswitch relay. Since the door switch is
closed, and the external bus circuit is looped (shorted) using a Bus defeater, the
laser controller’s interlock monitor detects that the interlock circuit is closed and
so the controller permits laser emission.

75
Connecting the safety interlock

Figure 45 Interlock connected to a door switch - Laser ON1

Accessory
Bus Defeater

External Bus
Connector

SuperK COMPACT
(Bottom view)

Reset Front panel or CONTROL

interlock reset executed

Laser
Reset
Controller Logic
Normally
Set Circuit
Open
Interlock
Monitor

Off
Set On
Door
Switch Interlock Key switch Keyswitch turned to “On”
LEMO relay energized
Connector

Figure 46 shows the door switch in the open position. This opens the interlock
loop which the interlock monitor detects and the controller immediately sends a
shutdown signal to the laser (the laser’s pump). In addition, the controller sends a
reset to the logic circuit. The reset causes the logic circuit to de-energize the
keyswitch and the relay opens.

When the door closes again, use either the front panel controls or CONTROL
software to reset the interlock. This sets the logic circuit (a D Flip-Flop) to
energize the coil again closing the keyswitch relay as shown in Figure 45.

Figure 46 Interlock connected to a door switch – laser SHUTDOWN1

Accessory
Bus Defeater

External Bus
Connector

SuperK COMPACT
(Bottom view)
Shutdown
laser

Laser
Reset Logic
Controller
External Bus Normally Circuit
Reset
Connector Open
Interlock
Monitor

Off
Set On
Door
Switch Interlock Key switch
LEMO relay de-energized
Connector

Caution: Do not short-circuit the Interlock input. Short-circuiting the interlock cir-
cumvents safety regulations and NKT Photonics does not take liability for any in-
juries or damage caused by doing so.

Caution: The switch connected to the interlock must be of an approved type. Fur-
ther, the switch must be installed in a manner so that its operation cannot be fixed
in the open state using a tool to defeat its operation.

Connecting the Laser 76

 Connecting power

Warning: If the interlock is bypassed, personnel may be exposed to hazardous la-

ser radiation. To reduce the risk to personnel, the person or group responsible for
operation of the equipment must undertake a risk assessment and provide per-
sonnel with appropriate personal protective equipment and safety training.

Follow the steps in Procedure 7 to install the interlock safety circuit.

LEMO plug
The laser is shipped with a prewired 2-pin LEMO interlock plug for inter-
connecting the laser with a safety door switch circuit. Specifications for the door
safety switch circuit are as follows:

• Voltage, operational (nominal):5 VDC

• Current, operational (nominal):43 mA

• Voltage range: 0 to 12 VDCmax

• Short circuit current: 80 mAmax

• Maximum allowable circuit resistance: 40 Ω

Procedure 7 Connecting the door interlock circuit

Action

1 Install a switch that opens when the door accessing the laser enclosure is opened. The
switch must comply with local regulations.

2 Connect the switch to the prewired interlock plug using insulated wire. The wire gauge
should be at a minimum 26 AWG with a maximum length of five meters. For cable lengths
longer than five meters, it is recommended to use shielded cable.

3 Perform a continuity test using a multimeter:

a. First connect the multimeter leads to the interlock plug terminals.
b. Confirm when the enclosure door is closed, the meter shows the circuit as closed.
c. Confirm when the enclosure door opens, the meter shows the circuit as open.

4 Insert the LEMO plug into the interlock connector of the laser, see Figure 6 on page 27.

5 Connect the external bus to an accessory or the supplied bus defeater, see Connecting
accessories with the external bus on page 80).

Connecting power
Power is supplied to the laser by connecting it directly to the AC mains. Refer to
the specifications in Appendix A for the electrical details.

To connect power, follow the instructions in Procedure 8.

77 Connecting the Laser

Connecting the optical output

Procedure 8 Connecting power

Action

1 Connect the AC cable supplied with the laser to the rear 3-pin IEC power input connector.

2 Connect the AC cable to a local AC mains supply.

3 Press the power toggle button to the ON position. (The switch is next to the keyswitch on
the front panel.)

Connecting the optical output

Warning: Care should be taken to mount the collimator so that the beam emitted
is contained in an area where no personnel or flammable material is present.

Back reflection When building and connecting your optical system, you must be careful to avoid
creating a path where Back Reflection (BR) can occur. BR occurs when a laser
beam is reflected back into the laser cavity. This increases noise and may cause
the laser beam to scatter causing damage or injury.

You must always reduce the risk of BR into the laser. For example, in a bulk-optic
system, ensure all reflective optics are securely fixed, minimizing the risk of back-
reflected light into the laser. Also, before turning on the laser the first time, check
the optical path to confirm no BR is possible from the application light path.
Warning: Back reflection (BR) is a hazard and may cause injury or damage.

FC connector When a SuperK FC connecterized fiber1 is mated to another connecterized

installation component, there is a risk of damage to the connector. Any loss, dirt or stress at
the connector mating junction, can result in damage due to the significant peak
power capability of the laser.

When connectors are mated, it is not guaranteed that this damage can be
avoided. You can reduce the risk by ensuring the fiber facet is clean as described
in the following.

Cleaning the fiber facet

Before connecting the output, ensure that the fiber facet is clean and free of dust
particles. A fiber facet fouled by foreign particles, oil, or other contaminants may
cause severe damage to the fiber facet resulting in a significantly distorted beam
profile. Dust from the fiber facet may be removed using a number of approved
fiber cleaning methods. Lens cleaning tissue (lint free wipes) or similar
appropriate material may be employed. See “Fiber Maintenance” on page 97 for
further information on preparing the fiber surface for mating.

Note: The exit delivery fiber and connector are NOT covered by the laser’s
warranty.

1. Model#s S024-010-000 and S024-010-010 only

Connecting the Laser 78

 Connecting the optical output

Collimator The collimator1 is constructed so that its sleeve is inserted into a holder2 or a
installation receptacle of a next stage optical device such as a SuperK accessory. To install
the collimator, follow the instructions in Procedure 9.

Procedure 9 Installing the Collimator

Action

1 Remove the yellow protective cap from the end of the collimator sleeve.

2 Carefully align the collimator sleeve with the target receptacle as shown in Figure 47.

3 Slide the collimator into the receptacle and then:

• for SuperK accessories: push down on the release button and insert the
collimator into the receptacle until it stops as shown in Figure 48. Then release the
button to lock the collimator in place.
• for holders, power meters etc.: slide the sleeve into the receptacle until it stops.
Then tighten the mounting screws to securely retain the collimator as shown in
Figure 49.

Figure 47 Inserting the Collimator into a Holder1

Note: Use of non-NKTP holders: we recommend to gently fix the collimator output
barrel using plastic screws instead of metal screws thereby minimizing the risk of
scratching the collimator.

Caution: Scratching the collimator may prevent it from fitting into the collimator in-
put receptacle of SuperK accessories.

1. Model# S024-010-020 only

2. SuperK collimator holder A000-000-002

79 Connecting the Laser

Connecting accessories with the external bus

Figure 48 Collimator Installed into a SuperK Accessory Receptacle

Figure 49 Collimator Installed in a Holder Receptacle

Caution: NKT Photonics recommends to ensure there is firm thermal contact be-
tween the collimator and its surroundings. If the thermal contact between the col-
limator and its surroundings is poor, the collimator can become significantly
warmer than its surroundings. This is due to a small fraction of beam power (stray
light) being absorbed within the collimator.

Connecting accessories with the external bus

External bus The External Bus port is a digital bus interface and 12 volt supply for attached
accessories. The accessories used with the laser are connected to CONTROL
through the external bus and the laser. The bus data signals are based on a
subset of the RS-485 protocol. The bus is also made up of other signal lines,
including a logic output pin representing laser emission and an extension of the
laser’s interlock circuit.

Connecting the If no accessories are used with the laser, place the supplied bus defeater onto
external bus the laser’s External Bus port. If accessories are used, connect the accessories to

Connecting the Laser 80

 Connecting accessories with the external bus

the External Bus port in a daisy chain configuration using the supplied external
bus cable(s). The last accessory connected to the daisy chain must have the bus
defeater placed onto its output bus.

Bus defeater
A bus defeater is a DB-15 connector with it’s interlock circuit pins looped back. A
bus defeater is included with the laser. If you need a replacement, contact NKT
Photonics support – see “Support contact details” on page 94.

Figure 50 Bus defeater

Connecting the external bus

Refer to Table 9 for the details on how the external bus is connected. A bus
defeater is placed on the last open external bus port to loop the circuit back.
(Refer to Figure 51 and Figure 52 for connecting the port with and without
accessories.)

Table 9 External Bus port – connecting accessories

Accessory # External Bus port connection

No Bus Defeater
accessories

1 accessory 1. External Bus cable to accessory bus input

2. Accessory bus output – Bus Defeater

2 tor more 1. External Bus cable to accessory 1 input.

accessories 2. Accessory 1 bus output – External Bus cable to accessory N bus input
3. Accessory N bus output – Bus Defeater

Note: See Appendix C for a pinout description of the External Bus

Figure 51 External Bus circuit - with no accessories used

SuperK COMPACT

External Bus Bus Defeater

Connector

81 Connecting the Laser

Connecting accessories with the external bus

Figure 52 External Bus circuit - with multiple accessories in a daisy chain

SuperK COMPACT
SuperK
Accessory A
External Bus
Connector

SuperK
Accessory B

Connecting the Laser 82

 Trigger input ports

Trigger input ports

Coax trigger input This BNC port is considered a logic input. Figure 53 shows that when a signal
voltage connected to the port reaches the set trigger level, a pulse or burst is
emitted a short time after. The trigger timing advance and jitter specifications are
also shown in the figure. The trigger level is the voltage level at which, the laser is
triggered to emit a pulse or pulse burst. The voltage level is adjustable using
either the front panel controls (“Coax trig level” on page 41) or NKT Photonics
CONTROL management software (“Trigger level” on page 67). To reduce noise
sensitivity, the port has a hysteresis of approximately 1%.

Figure 53 Optical output delay and jitter vs. the COAX trig input port
Trigger onset

COAX trig input time

30-40 μs ±1 μs

Optical pulse

Optical ouput time

Note: The pulse-to-pulse timing jitter, is in general a function of repetition rate, in-
creasing as the rate increases. For applications requiring minimal jitter, it is recom-
mended to lower the laser’s repetition rate to below 5 kHz and possibly as low as
1 to 2 kHz.

Note: When triggering the output pulse using either “Burst mode” or “Gated trig-
ger” mode, a lowered repetition rate can also help avoid a pulse overrun warning
situation. A pulse overrun1 warning indicates that the laser could not output an op-
tical pulse before receiving the next trigger pulse, effectively reducing the number
of output pulses expected.

Table 10 Coax trigger input specifications

Parameter Value

Nominal impedance 50 Ω

Peak voltage minimum −7 V to maximum 7 V

Maximum power 0.8 W or 29 dBm RMS

Minimum pulse width 200 ns

Trigger level adjustable range minimum 0 V to maximum 4 V

Hysteresis ~ 1%

Connector type BNC

Maximum trigger frequency 200 kHz

1. See Status LEDs on page 30

83 Connecting the Laser

Synchronization output ports

Note: If the port is not in use, ensure to set the trigger level threshold (see “Trigger
level” on page 67) to a level well above zero volts to avoid noise inadvertently trig-
gering the laser.

Industrial trigger This input is isolated electrically from the laser. This gives the laser the ability to
input trigger the laser from a wider variety of equipment. The maximum input voltage
range is high, and the input impedance is considerably higher than the Coax trig
input impedance. However, this input is not as fast as the COAX trig input. Note
that the Industrial trigger voltage level is fixed and cannot be set.

Table 11 Industrial trigger input specifications

Parameter Value

Input impedance @ 5 V 1.45 kΩ

Input impedance @ 24 V 1.7 kΩ

Maximum input voltage 30 V RMS

Minimum pulse width 5 µs

ON signal threshold 3.9 V

OFF signal threshold - typical 2V

OFF signal threshold - minimum 1.2 V

Connector type 5.08 mm terminal connector

Isolation voltage 350 V

Synchronization output ports

Analog pulse output The signal from the Analog pulse output is an amplified representation of the
optical signal. This may be used for detection of optical pulses, with minimum
timing jitter, i.e. for timing critical purposes.

The signal is a positive analog signal from 0 to 2 V and corresponds to the

electrical specifications shown in Table 12. The signal rate matches the
configured pulse repetition rate set in CONTROL or using the front panel. The
trigger output pulse is transmitted prior to the optical pulse emission. The timing
advance between arrival of an analog trigger pulse and the optical pulse is
illustrated in Figure 54.

The advance is brief, but useful for obtaining notification of the next emitted
optical pulse. The actual total advance can vary and is dependent on the final
application setup, where the length of the trigger cables versus the actual total
optical path length can shorten or lengthen the advance time.

Connecting the Laser 84

 Synchronization output ports

Figure 54 Analog trigger output timing advance

Trigger output pulse

Analog pulse output time

45-55 ns ±2 ns

Optical pulse

Optical ouput time

Table 12 Analog pulse output

Parameter Value

Output impedance 50 Ω[

Pulse voltagei 2 V maximum

Pulse width 10 ns

Connector type BNC

Cable typeii Use RG223 type or similar double

shielded cable 3M

i. System dependent
ii. Recommended

Logic pulse output The signal from the Logic pulse output is a digital representation of the analog
trigger signal and corresponds to the electrical specifications shown in Table 13.
The signal on the Logic pulse output rises to a positive logic signal in advance of
the optical pulse emission. As Figure 55 shows, the rising edge of the logic
trigger occurs shortly after the analog output trigger and remains high for an
order of magnitude longer than its timing advance before the optical pulse. The
signal is typically used for triggering an external application and/or pulse
counting. The signal rate matches the configured repetition rate using CONTROL
or on the front panel.

85 Connecting the Laser

Synchronization output ports

Figure 55 Logic pulse output vs. Analog pulse output

Analog pulse output time

12 ns ± 1 ns 1.8 µs ± 0.2 µs
High

Low
Logic pulse output time
45-55 ns ±2 ns

Optical pulse

Optical ouput time

Note: As mentioned for the Analog pulse output, the actual total advance can vary
and is dependent on the final application setup, where the length of the trigger
cables versus the actual total optical path length can shorten or lengthen the ad-
vance time.

Table 13 Logic pulse output

Parameter Value

Input impedance 50 Ω[

Nominal pulse voltagei 2.5 V

Minimum pulse width 1 µs

Nominal Low-level output voltage 0V

Connector type BNC

Cable typeii Use RG223 type or similar double

shielded cable 3M

i. 50 Ω load
ii. Recommended

Connecting the Laser 86

 Synchronization output ports

Example As an example, the Analog output pulse signal could be used to synchronize
synchronization emission with a subject under study using a sampling sensor. A general diagram
circuit of a synchronization circuit is shown in Figure 56.
Figure 56 Example Pulse Circuit

Emission pulses

SuperK COMPACT

Analog output pulse

Analog pulse
(RG223 Cable)

Synchronizer

Sensor Control

Legend

Subject Target
Item 1

Item 2

Item 3

Item 4

Sensor Output
Item 5
Item 6

Sensor

Synchronization signaling - single pulse vs. burst mode

Figures 57 and 58 demonstrate how a subject can be imaged when illuminated
with either a single pulse or a burst of pulses. In each case, a camera shutter is
synchronized to triggers from the Analog pulse output that is driven by the COAX
trig input signal initiating emission. Subsequent to the Analog pulse output
trigger, the shutter opens, and the camera captures the subject image.

Figure 57 Synchronization with single pulse illumination

Trigger onset

Trigger optical pulse generation and analog trigger out pulse.

COAX trig input time

Analog trigger out

Analog pulse out triggers camera shutter to open.

Analog pulse output time

Open

Shutter opens capturing subject illuminated by a single

Closed emitted optical pulse
Camera shutter position time

Optical pulse out

Optical ouput time

87 Connecting the Laser

Synchronization output ports

By using burst mode as shown in Figure 58, a subject can be illuminated by

multiple pulses, increasing the dosage of light energy delivered to the subject.

Figure 58 Synchronization with pulse burst illumination

Trigger onset

Triggers generation of a burst of optical pulses and analog trigger out pulse.
COAX trig input time

Analog trigger

Analog pulse output triggers the camera shutter to open.

Analog pulse output time

Open

Shutter opens capturing subject illuminated with a burst of

Closed emitted optical pulses
Camera shutter position time

Burst of optical pulses out

Optical ouput time

Connecting the Laser 88

APPENDICES

The appendices include:

• Appendix A on page 91: Specifications

• Appendix B on page 93: Service and Support

• Appendix C on page 95: External Bus Pinout

• Appendix D on page 97: Fiber maintenance

• Appendix E on page 99: Accessories

• Appendix F on page 107: Control Software

• Appendix G on page 113: Collimator output beam properties

89
90
 A Specifications

Table 14 Optical
Parameter

Repetition rate 1 Hz to min. 20 kHz

Spectral coverage 450 – 2400 nm

Total poweri > 110 mW

Total VIS power (450-850 nm)i > 20 mW

Total power stabilityii < ± 1.0 %

Output pulse width < 2 ns

Pulse-pulse jitter (standard deviation)i < 2 us

Polarization Unpolarized

Beam output Gaussian, Single Mode

Beam quality TEM M2 < 1.1

Output beam divergence @500 nm 1.1 mrad ± 0.1 mrad

Waist width @500 nm 600 µm ± 60 µm

Waist location @500 nm 300 mm ± 150 mm

Optical Output Collimated

i. Repetition rate dependant

ii. For ± 0.5 % contact NKT Photonics

Table 15 Interfaces
PC and micro processor interfaces RS-232 serial COM - 9 Pin D-Sub Female Connector
USB 2.0 - Type B Female Connector

External Pulse Control Coax trigger inpt: BNC -7 to 7 V analog input – pulse trigger
Output Control: 5.08 mm 2-pin terminal 0 to 30 V analog input – pulse trigger

Pulse Synchronization Analog pulse output: BNC 0 to 2 V – analog synchronization pulse

Logic pulse output: BNC Monitor 0 V & 2.5 V – digital synchronization pulse

External Bus RS-485 Bus - 15pin D-Sub Female Connector

Door Interlock 2 pin Connector - LEMO Part Number FGG.0B.302

Table 16 Mechanical dimensions and environment

Size (H x W x D) 93 x 220.5 x 367 mm (3.66
x 8.68 x 14.45 in)

Weight 3.5 kg (7.7 lb)

Operating temperature 18°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F)

Operating humidity (non-condensing) 20 to 80%

91
Table 17 Electrical
AC Power Input 100-240 VAC 50-60 Hz

Fuse types T 2A, 250 V

Typical power consumption – emission ONi 20-30 W

Maximum power consumption – emission ON 50 W

Maximum power consumption with accessoryii 100 W

i. Repetition rate set to 20 kHz.

ii. Accessory connected to COMPACT external bus connector.

CE Mark – Declaration of Conformance for EMI, Safety (EEC) and ROHS

Figure 59 Mechanical dimensions

Specifications 92
 B Service and Support Information

Servicing the laser

The SuperK Extreme series lasers have no user serviceable components. In case
of malfunction, contact NKT Photonics using the support website listed below
under Support contact details.

End of line safety tests according to EN61010-1 Annex F are performed on all
Laser chassis.

Opening the laser There are no user serviceable components inside the SuperK Extreme chassis.
chassis Should your laser malfunction, and it cannot be serviced on site, it must be
shipped to the NKT Photonics Headquarters in Denmark.

WARRANTY VOID Chassis

IF REMOVED label The chassis is sealed with a label “WARRANTY VOID IF REMOVED”. It is strictly
prohibited to remove the chassis cover.

Figure 60 WARRANTY VOID LABEL

WARRANTY VOID IF SEAL

IS BROKEN OR REMOVED

Collimator
The collimator housing is sealed with a label “WARRANTY VOID IF REMOVED”. It
is strictly prohibited to disassemble the collimator housing.

Figure 61 WARRANTY VOID IF REMOVED - Collimator

93
Support contact details

Support contact details

If you need help or have questions regarding your SuperK COMPACT laser or its
accessories, contact NKT Photonics through our support website below:

Support website 1. Go to:

https://www.nktphotonics.com/support/

2. Scroll down and click or press:

3. Select the help type, fill in the form, and click or press Submit.

Shipping address NKT Photonics A/S

Blokken 84
DK-3460 Birkerød
Denmark

Service and Support Information 94

C External Bus Pinout

Table 18 External bus pinout

Pin Name Description

1 NC Not connected

2 RS485- Negative (inverted) RS485 data signal

3 Interlock loop+ Positive connection of the safety interlock loop. Connect pin 3 to
pin 4 Interlock loop- to enable laser emission.

4 Interlock loop- Negative connection of the safety interlock loop. Connect pin 4 to
pin 3 Interlock loop+ to enable laser emission.

5 GND 0 volt / ground

6 GND 0 volt / ground

7 +12 V + 12 volt supply voltage for external accessories

8 +12 V + 12 volt supply voltage for external accessories

9 Emission Logic output – set high (5V) when laser emission is enabled. To
indicate laser emission using an external LED, connect the anode
of an LED to this pin. Connect the LED’s cathode to GND (pin no.
5,6, 13 or 14).
Note: The pin features a 240 Ω internal series resistor to support
connecting an LED.

10 RS485+ Positive (non-inverted) RS485 data signal

11 Not in use For future use. Do not connect this pin.

12 Interlock This pin outputs a logic high (5V) when the interlock circuit is
closed and has been reset. This signal indicates the interlock is
enabled and can be optionally used to control safety related
precautions on the External bus.

13 GND 0 volt / ground

14 GND 0 volt / ground

15 +12 V + 12 volt supply voltage for external accessories.

95
 2

External Bus Pinout 96

 D Fiber Maintenance

Fiber tip cleaning

Only use cleaning tools specifically designed for use with optical fibers. Always
use extreme caution when cleaning fibers.

Examples of appropriate cleaning tools are:

Lens cleaning tissue (lint free wipes) see Figure 62

Optical fiber cleaning tool see Figure 63

Figure 62 Lens cleaning tissue - lint free

Figure 63 Optical fiber cleaning tool

Signs of damage Indications of a damaged fiber facet may be due to one of the following:

• Power suddenly decreases (from e.g. 100 mW to 60-70 mW)

• The spectrum (recorded from an optical spectrum analyzer) is significantly

degraded compared to the original spectrum found in the measurement
report.

• Light emitted from the fiber facet results in with a large color variation. A
correct hexagonal pattern vs a random is shown in Figure 64.

97
Polishing

Figure 64 Correct vs incorrect beam profile

Correct beam profile Incorrect beam profile

When the fiber facet is clean and undamaged, the emitted beam has a noticeable
hexagonal shape which is the correct beam profile. An Incorrect beam profile
occurs as a result of a damaged or dirty fiber facet. In this case, the emitted beam
is random in direction and displays considerable variation in color.

Damaged facet If the fiber facet is damaged, the connector must be re-polished before operating
the laser. Failing to do so, could result in incorrect measurements/usage or even
damage to the laser unit itself.

Caution: A SuperK COMPACT is equipped with a Photonic Crystal Fiber (PCF).

The connector attached to it should NOT be removed, special equipment and pro-
cedures are required to fit a new connector with the fiber.

Polishing
The end of the fiber is collapsed to a length of 150-200 microns. This allows
enough length to polish the fiber end; however, you must be careful not to over
polish and generally NKTP recommends to return the unit for factory polishing.

The general procedure is to:

1. Clean the connector and quickly and very lightly, polish the connector end.

Caution: Do not over-polish the connector end (fiber facet). Over-polishing the
connector end damages it due to its limited length.

2
2. Clean the connector and then switch the source on. Observe the exit beam
on a screen. If it is not a well-formed single mode emission, repeat step 1.

3. Continue this "quick polish, check beam" process until a well-formed beam is
obtained.

If you do not obtain a good beam profile after polishing, the connector may be
damaged. Return the laser to NKT Photonics for repair. Note that this type of
repair is not covered by warranty.

Fiber Maintenance 98
 E Accessories

This appendix provides a brief overview of the accessories available for your
laser. Table 19 lists the accessories and their functions and provides a link to
descriptions of the SuperK COMPACT advanced accessories.

Table 19 SuperK COMPACT accessories

Advanced accessories Function Part number

VARIA Variable bandpass filter A301-100-000 “SuperK VARIA” on page 100

SELECT Multi-wavelength AOTF A203-XXX-000 or “SuperK SELECT” on page 101

A203-XXX-010

LLTF Narrow laser line filter A371-500-000 or “SuperK LLTF” on page 103
A371-200-000

SPLIT Broadband filter A102-200-000 or “SuperK SPLIT” on page 104

A102-500-000

CONNECT Delivery fiber A401-000-000 or “SuperK CONNECT and Fiber

A401-200-000 or Deliver System” on page 105
A401-500-000
Other accessories

Connect Holder Optical table mount for 000-000-003

Connect accessory.

Collimator Holder Receptacle for laser or M0002-4041-00

accessory collimator.

External Filter Holder Beam path 1” filter mount A000-000-004

for any filter accessory.

TL30 mm Adapter Accessory adapter for A000-000-005

Thorlabs 30 mm cage
system.

USB Adapter Kit USB to RS485 adapter, A911-100-103

used to connect
accessories to a PC.

Key Spare key for the laser’s A911-100-009

key switch.

External Bus Defeater Spare bus defeater for the A911-100-007

External Bus ports.

Door Interlock Connector Spare Lemo connector A911-100-005

assembly for the door
interlock circuit.

Bus Cable Used to connect the laser A911-100-006

to any accessories.

USB Cable Spare Type A to B USB A911-100-004

cable.

BNC Cable Used to connect External A911-100-008

Control Input or Pulse
Output.

99
SuperK VARIA

SuperK VARIA
VARIA accessories act as bandpass filters when connected to the collimator of a
SuperK COMPACT laser. A portion of the beam from the SuperK COMPACT is
diverted to the VARIA’s bandpass filter which removes the light wavelengths that
fall outside a variable wavelength range. The filtered beam is then emitted from
the main optical output of the VARIA. A CONTROL PC connected to the SuperK
COMPACT controls the VARIA through the laser’s front panel External Bus
connector connected to the VARIA’s bus input connector. CONTROL is used to
configure the variable range of the VARIA’s bandpass filter. The beam portion
not diverted to the bandpass filter is output from the auxiliary optical output of
the VARIA. A diagram of the accessory connected to the laser is shown in
Figure 65.

Figure 65 VARIA
Output aperture

CONNECT accessory

Optical input:
P^ZZW\Mc^aM]QŬORa
output from COMPACT

VARIA specifications
The bandpass filter specifications of the VARIA are shown in Table 20.

Table 20 VARIA specifications

Specification Function

Bandpass filter range (wavelength) 400 to 800 nm

Minimum linewidth 10 nm

Transmission efficiency Approximately 80%

Filter suppression Approximately 50 dB

2

Note: For further details, refer to the SuperK VARIA Product Guide.

Accessories 100
 SuperK SELECT

SuperK SELECT
SuperK SELECT accessories can be fitted to extract multiple specific light
wavelengths from the broadband spectrum output of the SuperK COMPACT
laser. The SELECT accessory uses Acousto-optic Tunable Filter (AOTF)
technology using tellurium dioxide crystal(s) that diffracts the desired beam
wavelength. The specific wavelength diffracted by each crystal is tuned by
applying an RF signal to it. A single SELECT crystal filter can output up to eight
tunable wavelengths configurable through CONTROL. A SELECT accessory is
fitted with either one or two AOTF crystal filters to deliver a maximum of 16
specific wavelengths tuned and extracted from the laser’s broadband output. A
SELECT connected to a SuperK COMPACT is shown in Figure 66.

Figure 66 SELECT

Output apertures

RF signal inputs

Optical input:
collimator and
ŬORa^dc_dcSa^\ CONNECT accessory
COMPACT

Output delivery
The beam delivery from the SELECT output is either a free space collimated
beam or fiber coupled using SuperK Fiber Delivery (FD) with a SuperK CONNECT
(fiber coupling connector). The AOTF crystal output naturally includes power
from numerous sidebands, see Figure 67 on page 102. Free space delivery
implements a small aperture to suppress the bulk of the side lobe power beyond
the first order. However, when using a fiber delivery system with the SuperK
CONNECT, a small aperture is not required; the delivery system aperture
provides the suppression.

Output beam specifications

The AOTF type(s) is specified when ordering a SuperK SELECT. The type of
AOTF determines the possible wavelength range and bandwidth that can be
diffracted from the crystal. Table 21 lists the available AOTFs that can be fitted to
a SuperK SELECT.

101 Accessories
SuperK SELECT

Table 21 SELECT AOTF types1

AOTF Type Wavelength Range (nm)i

UV-VIS 400-650

VIS (1x) 430-700

VIS (4x) 450-700

VIS-nIR 500-900

nIR1 640-1100

nIR2 800-1400

IR 1100-2000

i. Subject to change, refer to the

current product datasheet for the
latest specifications.

As noted earlier, the tuned beam which is defracted from a SELECT crystal filter
also includes a number of n’th order side lobes. A typical example is shown in the
output spectrum graph of Figure 67. In this case, the tuned wavelength is set to
640 nm and the energy of the 1st order side lobe is approximately 10 dB less than
the central wavelength.

Figure 67 SELECT AOTF example output - 640 nm central wavelength

Note: For further details, refer to the SuperK SELECT Product Guide.

1. Ranges subject to change, refer to the latest NKT Photonics datasheet.

Accessories 102
 SuperK LLTF

SuperK LLTF
A Laser Line Tunable Filter (LLTF) Contrast accessory provides a tunable and
extremely narrow bandpass filter with out-of-band (OOB) suppression in the
order of 60 dB. The filter is continuously tuned over the entire spectrum of the
supercontinuum laser, converting the wide band beam to a finely tuned ps laser.
The LLTF Contrast uses a non-dispersive filter that maintains the intrinsic
single-mode beam quality of the laser.

There are four LLTF Contrast models, each with a specific tuning range as shown
in table Table 22. Depending on the tuning range required, the LLTF accessory
supports filters that cover both visible and NIR tuning ranges. Note that a
separate PC-based GUI application is required to provide filter tuning control
using USB 2.0 connectivity. The LLTF Contrast connected to a SuperK
COMPACT is illustrated in Figure 68.

Output Delivery
The beam delivery from the LLTF Contrast is fiber coupled using a Fiber Deliver
(FD) such as a SuperK Connect (fiber coupling connector).

Figure 68 SuperK LLTF Contrast

Optical input:
Output aperture collimator and
ŬORa^dc_dcSa^\
COMPACT

Table 22 LLTF Contrast model specifications

LLTF model Wavelength range Spectral bandwidth Maximum power

LLTF Contrast VIS 400-1000 nm 1.0-2.0 nm 8W

LLTF Contrast SWIR 1000-2300 nm 2.0-5.0 nm 8W

103 Accessories
SuperK SPLIT

SuperK SPLIT
Use a SuperK SPLIT to divide SuperK EVO emission into two separate spectral
outputs. A SPLIT is a passive filter and it is available in two standard models
where the spectral outputs are configured as either:

• VIS/IR – Visible and Infrared

– or –

• nIR/IR – Near Infrared and Infrared

Note: The SPLIT can be ordered with custom wavelength splits, see Table 23 for
the details regarding the wavelengths.

The separate outputs are both collimated and free-space and can be fitted with
additional filters, polarizers, attenuators and for beam deliver, the CONNECT
accessory.

A diagram of the SPLIT connected to the laser is shown in Figure 69.

Figure 69 SuperK SPLIT

Output aperture

CONNECT accessory

Optical input:
Collimator and
ŬORa^dc_dcSa^\
COMPACT

SuperK SPLIT specifications

The specifications of the SPLIT are shown in Table 23.

Table 23 SPLIT wavelength ranges

Model Wavelength Ranges

VIR/IR 400-800 and 915-2400 nanometers

nIR/IR 600-1120 and 1180-2400 nanometers

Note: For further details, refer to the SuperK SPLIT Product Guide.

Accessories 104
 SuperK CONNECT and Fiber Deliver System

SuperK CONNECT and Fiber Deliver System

A CONNECT is a single mode fiber coupling device which can terminate to a
collimator and an FC /PC or FC/APC connector. As a fiber delivery system,
CONNECT can be used with the laser or its accessories. It combines high
coupling efficiency with power handling up to 500 mW over a spectrum from 400
to 2000 nm. You can disconnect and reconnect it to a photonic system without
needing to realign the coupling. There are multiple CONNECT models built to
match the emission characteristics of the application. Table 24 lists the models
and their specifications.

A general view of the Connect accessory showing the location of the collimator
input is shown in Figure 70.

Figure 70 SuperK Fiber Delivery System using a CONNECT

CONNECT Specifications
The bandpass filter specifications of the CONNECT models are shown in
Table 24.

Table 24 Fiber Delivery System specifications

Model Single mode Transmission Typical peak
cutoff wavelength transmission
FD1-PM 425±25 nm >60 % (425-775 nm) 75 % @ 650 nm

FD2 450±25 nm >60 % (450-775 nm) 80 % @ 650 nm

FD3 630±20 nm >60 % (630-1100 nm) 80 % @ 800 nm

FD3-PM 580±40 >65 % (580-950 nm) 85 % @ 650 nm

FD4 730±30 nm >70 % (730-1150 nm) 80 % @ 950 nm

FD4-PM 710±60 nm >65 % (710-1100 nm) 70 % @ 900 nm

FD5 930±40 nm >50 % (930-1550 nm) 65 % @ 1350 nm

FD5-PM 900±70 nm >50 % (900-1500 nm) 60 % @ 1200 nm

FD6 1260±40 nm >30 % (1260-1900 nm) 40 % @ 1650 nm

FD6-PM 1200±70 nm >30 % (1200-1900 nm) 35 % @ 1700 nm

FD7 400 nm >70 % (450-1050 nm) 80 % @ 750 nm

FD7-PM 400 nm >70 % (450-950 nm) 80 % @ 600 nm

FD8 800 nm >40 % (800-1700 nm) 55 % @ 1300 nm

FD9 500 nm >50 % (500-1300 nm) 60 % @ 900 nm

FD10 NA >80 % (500-1100 nm) 90 % @ 750 nm

105 Accessories
SuperK CONNECT and Fiber Deliver System

Accessories 106
 F Control Software

Installing CONTROL
Download the software from:

https://www.nktphotonics.com/support/

Follow the steps in Procedure .

Procedure 10 Installing CONTROL

Action

1 On the PC, launch the installer package and then click the
Run button. Installer

2 The installation wizard appears.

Click Next to continue.

3 Accept to use the default installation directory or select

another directory by clicking the Browse button.

Click Next to continue.

107
Installing CONTROL

Action

4 Uncheck the components you do not require. By default,

all components are installed.

Click Next to continue.

5 Read the End-User License Agreement, and check “I

accept the license.” box.

Not checking the box ends the installation wizard.

Click Next to continue.

6 The wizard creates a start menu folder with program

short-cuts.

Use the default name or enter a new name for the folder.

Click Next to continue.

Control Software 108

 Installing CONTROL

Action

7 Check the box to create a desktop shortcut to access

Control.

Click Next to continue

8 Check the ‘Run the Silicon Labs CP10x driver installation’

box and click Next.

Note: USB connectivity fails if you do not install the driver.

9 Click Install to install NKTP CONTROL software on your

PC.

Click Cancel if you want to abort the installation.

109 Control Software

Installing CONTROL

Action

10 The wizard displays a progress meter for the installation.

Note: a normal install should only take a few seconds.

11 Click Next to install the UART drivers for the PC USB port.

12 The drivers are installed.

Note: Depending on your computer this occurs so fast

you may not see this.

Control Software 110

 Installing CONTROL

Action

13 The Silicon Labs drivers is installed successfully.

Click Finish to end the driver installation.

14 CONTROL is now installed.

Check the Run box to launch CONTROL when the Finish

button is clicked.

Click Finish to end the installation wizard.

111 Control Software

Installing CONTROL

Control Software 112

 G Collimator Output Beam Properties

Beam parameter definitions

Figure 71 Beam parameters
W01
θ1

ZR1 ZR1

Definitions: W01: Beam Diameter at waist location

θ1: Full angle divergence after waist

ZR1: Rayleigh length

Waist location Figure 72 Beam waist location

Waist width

General
Laser output
definition

Divergence
Waist location

Collimator waist location Z01

113
Beam diameters in the visible range

Beam diameters in the visible range

Full angle beam Figure 73 Full angle beam divergence θ1

divergence θ1
SuperK Compact Collimator Divergence
1.6
Full Angle Divergence [mrad]
1.4
1.2
1
0.8
0.6
0.4
0.2
0
450 500 550 600 650 700 750 800 850
Wavelength [nm]

Beam diameter at Figure 74 Beam diameter at waist location W01

waist location W01
SuperK Compact Collimator waist width
1200

1000
Waist width [µm]

800

600

400

200

0
450 500 550 600 650 700 750 800 850
Wavelength [nm]

Waist location from Figure 75 Waist location from collimator collar face Z01
collimator Z01

Waist location [mm]

350
300
250
200
150
100
50
0
‐50 400 500 600 700 800 900
‐100

Collimator Output Beam Properties 114

Item: 800-629-01
Customer Revision: 1.3
NKTP Revision: 4.0
Release Date: 08-2022

SuperK COMPACT Product Guide