Visible Laser Diodes Suit DVD Uses

Operating at a lower current than conventional laser diodes while simultaneously withstanding high operating temperatures, the RLD-65MC/PC visible (650 nm) laser diodes are well suited for DVD applications. The diodes also are useful in bar-code scanners and in alignment and pointer applications.Through use of the company's strained MQW active layer, operating current in the new diodes is reduced by 35% compared with visible laser diodes with traditional active layers. This improved operating characteristic results in an increased life span, with the device's MTTF reaching over 10,000 hours at 60°C. Also, optical power is 5 mW, maximum luminous intensity is 7 mW, and operation is guaranteed to 70°C. The diode comes in a very small, 5.6-mm package with precise tolerances.