This laser is a custom build centered around an OSRAM PL-530 OPSL module. The outer casing was originally a Coherent CUBE. Using the optical stage, we mounted to PL-530 to it and retained the original thermistor and TEC. The rear connector was replaced with a DB-9 (previously a DB-15 for the CUBE). The entire assembly is mounted to a heatsink originally intended for a Coherent Sapphire laser. We had to drill and tap some additional holes to accommodate the CUBE chassis. The lens inside the CUBE chassis was removed as it did not collimate the PL-530 beam well. The external lens mounted on the heatsink was originally intended for a Coherent Sapphire of a similar wavelength and collimates the beam quite well.
The heatsink is quite large and doesn't require any active cooling as long as the ambient air temperature isn't abnormally hot. This heatsink was designed to be side-mounted to whatever piece of equipment it originated from.
Taking a look inside the casing, we can see the PL-530 module that has been adhered to the brass optical stage original to the Coherent CUBE. We used ordinary super-glue since the PL-530 does not produce much heat. It's important to note that when you are gluing any lasers or optics, a fan should be placed nearby to prevent glue or adhesive vapors from contaminating the surfaces of the optics. As mentioned earlier, the collimating lens was removed from the brass stage as the external lens yields better results. The TEC located below the stage was retained as was the thermistor located within a hole drilled into the brass stage. Short lengths of wire were used to connect the PL-530, TEC, and thermistor to the DB-9 socket on the rear plate. The original output window and shutter from the CUBE was retained.
The PL-530 is a very sensitive laser module, as it contains a tiny pump diode and internal heater. They often do not come with the original controller, so we worked with our friend Patrick (Zenodilodon) to develop a custom driver board for this laser. Once powered up, it takes a few seconds for the output to stabilize, and then it's rock solid. The driver balances diode current and heater control to achieve a strong and stable output. We placed the custom board in a plastic enclosure with an input power connection and a laser head connection that mates with the DB-9 socket on the laser head.
Using our Coherent SSIM laser power meter and custom developed software, Laser Monitor XPS, we measured the output power of this system at ~100 mW. This is right in line with the specifications of the PL-530.
Patrick built a custom OPSL laser pointer that also uses a PL-530, it's an amazing work of art that's definitely worth checking out at the link below.