Description
Spectra Diode Labs SDL-8630 Tunable CW Laser Diode w/ SDL-824 Laser Driver 839nm
The SDL-8630 is an external-cavity tunable continuous-wave (CW) laser diode system made by Spectra Diode Labs (SDL, Inc.) of San Jose, California. It produces a collimated, diffraction-limited beam and achieves single-frequency wavelength tuning across a broad range by using a motor-driven diffraction grating in a Littrow or similar external-cavity configuration. The system is paired here with the SDL-824 Laser Diode Driver, which provides precision current control, interlock management, and power regulation for the laser head. This unit is being sold AS-IS for parts or repair: both the laser head and driver power on, but the system does not produce a laser beam — the SDL-824 displays a "no laser" fault when the laser enable button is pressed.
Specifications & What's Included
- Laser head model: SDL-8630 (Spectra Diode Labs / SDL, Inc.)
- Driver model: SDL-824 Laser Diode Driver
- Laser type: External-cavity CW diode laser (ECDL)
- Unit-specific wavelength (from rating plate): 839 nm
- System tuning range: 780 to 1060 nm (via interchangeable internal gain elements)
- Output power: 0.5 W (500 mW) continuous wave
- Beam: Diffraction-limited, collimated
- Operating current (Iop): 1.70 A
- Wavelength tuning: Motor-driven diffraction grating — manual or computer-controlled
- Internal optics: Thermo-electric (TE) laser-diode mount, collimating optics, spatial filter
- Laser head interface: DB15 connector on end panel
- Driver rear panel: BNC connectors, terminal blocks (trigger/remote/recorder outputs), IEC AC power inlet, cooling fan
- Driver front panel: Key interlock switch, "INTERLOCK OPEN" status display, toggle switches, large rotary control knob
- Manufacture date: March 1996
- Safety compliance: 21 CFR 1040 (as applicable)
- Included: SDL-8630 laser head, SDL-824 laser driver, interlock keys, power cable, both original SDL cardboard boxes
- Condition note: Powers on but produces no laser output — "no laser" fault displayed. Sold AS-IS.
Applications
The SDL-8630 is a research-grade external-cavity diode laser designed for applications in atomic and molecular spectroscopy, laser cooling and trapping, optical pumping, interferometry, and general photonics R&D. External-cavity diode lasers of this type were — and continue to be — widely used in university and government research labs where narrow linewidth, wavelength tunability, and beam quality are essential. The 780–1060 nm tuning range covers several important atomic transitions, including the rubidium D-lines near 780 nm and cesium transitions around 852 nm, making systems like the SDL-8630 common in atomic physics and quantum optics experiments. The SDL-824 driver provides the stable, low-noise current source that ECDL systems require to maintain single-mode operation and minimize frequency jitter. This particular unit dates from March 1996 and represents mid-1990s state-of-the-art in tunable diode laser technology. A buyer skilled in laser repair or optics may be able to diagnose and restore the "no laser" fault, which commonly points to a failed gain chip, a connector issue, or a driver interlock/protection circuit fault.
This Spectra Diode Labs SDL-8630 Tunable CW Laser Diode System with SDL-824 Laser Driver is being sold AS-IS for parts or repair. Both units power on; however, pressing the laser power button produces no laser output — the SDL-824 displays a "no laser" fault condition. The root cause has not been diagnosed and the system is not guaranteed to produce a laser beam. Cosmetically, both the laser head and driver appear to be in good used condition with normal wear for lab equipment of this era. The SDL-8630 enclosure and SDL-824 driver show no obvious physical damage in the photos. Includes keys for the SDL-824 interlock key switch, power cable, and both original SDL cardboard boxes. Please view our photo set and contact us if you have any questions.
Warranty Information
Additional Information
Brand: |
Spectra Diode Labs (SDL, Inc.) |
Model: |
SDL-8630 |
MPN: |
SDL-8630 |
Secondary Model: |
SDL-824 |
Type: |
Tunable External-Cavity CW Laser Diode System |
SKU: |
51838 |
Seller Notes: |
Includes SDL-8630 laser head, SDL-824 laser driver, keys, power cable, and original boxes. |
Country/Region of Manufacture: |
United States |
Wavelength: |
839 nm (unit-specific); tunable 780–1060 nm (system range) |
Output Power: |
0.5W (500 mW) continuous wave |
Tuning Range: |
780 to 1060 nm (via interchangeable gain elements) |
Laser Type: |
External-Cavity Diode Laser (ECDL), CW |
Beam Type: |
Diffraction-limited, collimated |
Wavelength Tuning Method: |
Motor-driven diffraction grating (manual or computer-controlled) |
Internal Components: |
TE laser-diode mount, collimating optics, spatial filter, grating |
Driver Model: |
SDL-824 Laser Diode Driver |
Interface: |
DB15 connector (laser head); BNC, terminal blocks (driver rear) |
Form Factor: |
Benchtop — laser head + separate driver chassis |
Manufacture Date: |
March 1996 |
Safety Standard: |
21 CFR 1040 compliant |
Application: |
Spectroscopy, atomic physics, optical research, laser R&D |
Compatible With: |
SDL-824 Laser Diode Driver |
Condition Notes: |
SDL-8630 Tunable CW Laser Diode with SDL-824 Driver — sold AS-IS for parts or repair. Powers on but produces no laser output; SDL-824 displays 'no laser' fault. Not guaranteed functional. Keys, cable, and original boxes included. |
California Prop 65 Warning: |
WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including lead and lead compounds, and DEHP (a phthalate), which are known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. Go to P65Warnings.ca.gov |