Broadband Light Source- An Overview | Inphenix

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Certainly, sensing has become one of the most interesting and essential streams for the optical devices. Considering its widespread applications in the clinical and other areas, more and more companies and individuals are coming forward to research and develop new technologies in this sector. 

This article discusses the broadband light source (BLS) modules, which are also known as SLD light source, the light source set, and its characteristics. Let us begin with the definition.

What is a Broadband Light Source?

The broadband light source is the device which is used for multi-wavelength test and measurement of wavelength-division-multiplexing components. These light sources use the amplified spontaneous emission of diode-pumped, erbium-doped fibers. 

Broadband Light Source Set

Most of the superluminescent diode light source sets are consist of two types of equipment, namely,

A.         SLD Modules

The superluminescent diode modules are small and powerful source of broad-spectrum light- often used for applications related to optical measurement and sensors, which include OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography), gyroscope, and other clinical applications. 

It is a speckle-free laser which emits low-coherence light with a broadband spectrum like LED (Light Emission Diode) and high brightness like LD (Laser Diode). However, considering its high dependency on temperature, most of the SLD modules are stabilized.

broadband light source modules


B.         BroadbandLight Source Desktop

The BLS desktop, also known as the Remote control unit (RCU), is a device that allows you to monitor and readout the status of diodes. In short, it is nothing but a control unit where you can observe and manage the activity of the SLDs.

BroadbandLight Source Desktop


The Principle of SLD Light Source

The emission of light in superluminescent diodes works on the same principle as the LD (Laser Diode) and LED (Light Emission Diode). The emission of light takes place by flowing forward current to the p-n junction. The electrons enter from the n-side and holes from the p-side when the power supply is connected.

Principle Characteristics of SLD Module

  1. Superluminescent diode modules are operating at different broadband emission wavelengths between the 670 to 1650 nm range.
  2. The broadband light sources are ideal for applications that require a reliable, powerful, and stable light source with broad-spectrum and low-coherence.
  3. Typically, SLD modules present inside the light source are powered by a high current & temperature controller.
  4. Superluminescent diodes offer low-speckle, broadband output.
  5. It has high directionality, limited diffraction (single spatial mode), high efficiency, and polarized output.

Diverse Application of Superluminescent Diode Light Source

Broadband light sources have widespread applications in various industries. However, the primary applications of these benchtop instruments are:

  • Optical fiber sensing, 
  • Optical metrology, 
  • Biomedical imaging, 
  • Optical coherence tomography (OCT),
  • Fiber sensor interrogation, 
  • Passive component testing and
  • Spectroscopy

With the full-fledged R & D in place by various research centers and companies, we could expect many more SLD light source applications soon.

Inphenix is a renowned photonic company that manufactures bright light sources, laser diodes, SWEPT lasers, and other products used in the clinical, telecom, sensing, and measurement industry. With industry experts and highly advanced technology on the side, the company manufactures & supplies a wide range of customizable broadband light sources that can be configured with SLDs as per need.

Our broadband light sources are adorned with very short coherence length and high optical output power. Other than readymade superluminescent diodes and control units, the company also offers standard light sources that comprise powerful single or multiple SLDs that you can use for extended spectral bandwidth.

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