1. What is the SureLock™ OEM Laser Module designed for?

 

The SureLock™ OEM Laser Module is designed for direct integration into Raman spectroscopy systems, providing system builders with a low‑cost, wavelength‑stabilized excitation source that delivers consistent optical performance without the complexity of external laser controllers or stabilization electronics.

 

2. Why is this laser well suited for OEM Raman systems?

 

The module combines high output power, narrow spectral bandwidth, and excellent wavelength stability in a compact OEM form factor. This allows Raman instrument manufacturers to achieve repeatable spectral performance across systems while minimizing development time, calibration effort, and total system cost.

 

3. How does SureLock™ technology benefit Raman measurements?

 

SureLock™ technology uses a PowerLocker® Volume Holographic Grating (VHG) to lock the laser wavelength, resulting in:

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• Typ <0.01 nm wavelength variation over temperature

• Narrow linewidth (<0.15 nm FWHM)

• Stable performance from 0–100% output power

 

This ensures consistent Raman peak positions and minimizes spectral drift over time and across production units

 

4. Which wavelengths are available for Raman excitation?

 

Standard OEM Raman wavelengths include:

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• 638 nm

• 785 nm

• 830 nm

• 1064 nm

 

Custom wavelengths and tighter tolerances can be supported for specialized Raman applications.

 

5. What output power levels are supported?

 

Depending on wavelength, the OEM module delivers up to:

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• 500 mW at 638 nm

• Up to 600 mW at 785 nm, 830 nm, and 1064 nm

 

This supports a wide range of Raman applications, from benchtop analytical systems to portable and field‑deployable instruments.

 

6. How does this module help reduce system cost?

 

The SureLock™ OEM module reduces overall system cost by:

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• Integrating laser diode, TEC control, and drive electronics in one module

• Eliminating the need for external wavelength lockers or controllers

• Providing factory‑set optical and electrical parameters for repeatability

 

This simplifies both initial design and high‑volume manufacturing.

 

7. How easy is it to integrate electrically?

 

The module supports simple OEM electrical interfaces, including:

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• 5 V DC power input

• Analog voltage control for laser current (power adjustment)

• TTL on/off control

• Interlock pins with built‑in emission delay

• Laser emission indicator output

 

These interfaces allow straightforward connection to embedded controllers or Raman system electronics. Initial units come with sample cabling to simplify initial testing with only power wires required.

 

8. Can the laser power be adjusted by the system controller?

 

Yes. Optical output power is controlled via an analog voltage input, with factory‑defined minimum and maximum current setpoints. This allows:

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• Optimization for different sample types

• Repeatable power settings across instruments

 

TTL control can also be used for fast laser on/off during background subtraction.

 

9. What optical output options are available?

 

Standard configurations include:

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• Fiber‑coupled output (105 µm core, 0.22 NA, FC/PC connector)

• Free‑space output options for custom optical layouts

 

Fiber coupling simplifies alignment and improves unit‑to‑unit consistency in Raman systems

 

10. What mechanical and thermal considerations are required?

 

The OEM module is intended to be:

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• Mounted to a heat sink or base plate

• Installed in a non‑condensing laboratory or instrument environment

 

Proper thermal coupling is essential to maintain wavelength stability and long‑term reliability. Poor thermal mounting can result in performance degradation or damage.

 

11. How consistent is performance across production units?

 

SureLock™ OEM lasers are factory‑aligned and wavelength‑locked using specially binned gratings, providing:

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• Excellent unit‑to‑unit wavelength consistency

• Repeatable output power characteristics

• Reduced need for per‑system wavelength calibration

 

This consistency is especially valuable for OEMs producing Raman systems at scale.

 

12. Is this laser compliant as a standalone product?

 

No. The SureLock™ OEM Laser Module is intended solely as a component within an OEM system and does not meet CDRH requirements when operated standalone. Regulatory compliance is the responsibility of the finished Raman instrument.

 

13. What are the key OEM integration risks to consider?

 

System builders should pay attention to:

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• Proper ESD handling during integration

• Fiber cleanliness to prevent permanent damage

• Correct power supply voltage and current limits

• Adequate thermal management

• Fiber handling awareness

 

Following these guidelines ensures long lifetime and stable Raman performance.

 

14. Where does the SureLock™ OEM Laser fit best in Raman product portfolios?

 

This module is ideal for:

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• Cost‑optimized benchtop Raman systems

• Portable or handheld Raman analyzers

• Process and inline Raman instruments

• High‑volume OEM Raman platforms

 

It provides wavelength‑stable Raman excitation without the cost and complexity of larger laser subsystems.

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15. What is the difference between vacuum and air-referenced wavelengths?

 

Because we tightly control wavelength accuracy and tolerance, it is important to specify the reference medium used for wavelength measurement.

 

Light travels slightly more slowly in air than in vacuum, causing the wavelength in air to be marginally shorter. To avoid ambiguity and ensure consistency, wavelengths in our datasheets are vacuum‑referenced, which is also the convention used by many spectroscopy databases.  As an example, a HeNe laser specified at 632.991 nm in vacuum corresponds to 632.816 nm in air. This difference does not indicate a physical change in the laser, only a difference in how the wavelength is referenced.