Laser diodes are extremely sensitive to electro-static discharge, excessive current levels, current spikes, or transients from power surges or other laboratory equipment. One of the most important features we have implemented into each instrument is the ILX Lightwave proven laser diode protection standards. These standards have led to advanced protection features such as adjustable current limit and circuit design. During power up, the laser is protected from over current and turn-on transient conditions by a slow start routine designed to ramp the current to the desired set point referred to as slow-start. Current source response is tested to IEC surge and electrically fast transients (EFT) standards. The current source output is floating relative to chassis ground to prevent any potentially damaging common ground coupling between instruments or machinery and the laser diode. For more information about these protection features, please see our “Protecting Your Laser Diode" application note.