Multi-Chip Laser Diode Produces 50 W For Projectors

Osram’s new PLPM4 450 compact laser module combines up to 20 blue laser chips into a single "butterfly" package for projection applications, instead of constructing a light source from individual laser diodes. The multi-chip module doubles the optical output of the individual chips, resulting in an overall blue light output of 50 W. This means that professional laser projectors can achieve a brightness level of more than 2,000 lumens with only one component. If several modules are installed in a projector, brightness levels far in excess of 5,000 lumens are possible. To achieve the high optical output, engineers optimized the chip parameters to double the single-chip output from 1.6 W to 3.2 W and also improved the thermal resistance of the module. The package measures 25.5 x 35 mm and accommodates four copper bars with up to five blue laser chips connected in series and operated at 2.3 A each. The multi-chip laser diode offers a light output of 50 W from a typical electrical input of 165 W, with wavelengths of 440 to 460 nm, and achieves an efficiency of 30%. Volume production of the PLPM4 450 multi-chip laser module will start at the end of 2014. Samples will be available in the summer.

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