RPMC Lasers provides a diverse range of standard and custom laser diodes from mW level TO-can packages to kW level fiber-coupled devices. We offer the widest range of wavelengths and packages in the industry, with options for single or multimode, wavelength-stabilized, free space or fiber-coupled, and much more.
A Laser Diode or semiconductor laser is the simplest form of Solid-State Laser. Laser diodes are commonly referred to as edge emitting laser diodes because the laser light is emitted from the edge of the substrate or chip. The light emitting region of the chip is commonly called the emitter. The emitter size and the number of emitters determine output power and beam quality.
Learn More About Laser Diodes
Electrically speaking, a laser diode is a PIN diode. The intrinsic (I) region is the active region. The N and P regions provide the active region with the carriers (electrons and holes). Initially, research was carried out using P-N diodes. However, all modern devices utilize the double-hetero-structure implementation. This design confines the carriers and photons, allowing a maximization of recombination and light generation.
Laser Diode Epitaxy: the epitaxial structure of a diode laser is typically grown utilizing one of the crystal growth techniques, starting with an N-doped substrate, then growing the I-doped layer (active region), proceeded by the P-doped layer, and finally, a contact layer. The active region of the chip typically consists of quantum wells. These wells allow for a lower threshold current and a higher operating efficiency.
RPMC Lasers has over 25 years of experience working with our customers to provide standard and custom laser diodes in a wide variety of packages and wavelengths. RPMC offers one of the broadest wavelength selections of Semiconductor Laser Diodes available, using indium gallium arsenide (InGaAs), gallium nitride (GaN) and other semiconductor materials. On this page, we list all diode products, including single emitters, multi-emitters, arrays (bars), stacks, VCSELS, DFB, VBG, QCL, SLD, multi-wavelength, turn-key, tunable, and custom laser types.
Laser Diode Products
Laser Diodes are available with wavelengths in the UV, violet, blue, green, red, NIR, SWIR, MWIR, and LWIR spectral regions, in a large range of output powers.
Our single-mode products provide output powers in the mW range. Next, our multimode emitters produce powers in the Watts range. Finally, our diode bars, stacks and multi-emitter, fiber-coupled modules and systems provide powers in the multi KW range.
Our wavelength-stabilized, narrow linewidth options utilize DFB (distributed feedback) and VBG (volume Bragg grating) technology. Furthermore, we offer fiber-coupled options on most devices and complete turn-key systems if preferred.
There are many different packages to choose from. For example, we offer chip on submount, B-mounts, C-mounts, Q-mounts, and various TO-Can and HHL packages, amongst others. Furthermore, if you do not see the package type needed, we offer many custom packages.
For over 25 years, the laser diode experts at RPMC Lasers have facilitated successful collaborations between customers and suppliers. Our team prides itself on the knowledge and experience acquired in the industry and our dedication to providing system integrators with customized laser packaging solutions.
Over the years, we have worked in conjunction with engineers and designers to develop novel solutions, helping to ensure the success of their projects. To illustrate how these collaboration efforts could help your team on your next project, we’re going to tell the story of one company’s successful project, and how the dedicated, joint efforts of RPMC Lasers and LDX Optronics facilitated this success.
RPMC Lasers has extensive experience facilitating Space Qualification of laser diodes for various space-based applications. For nearly 25 years, we have worked closely with our trusted partners to deliver completely customized solutions and space qualification assistance for a wide variety of applications. We provide a huge range of options, including the widest diode laser wavelength selection in the industry. We offer advanced soldering processes, with options for hard or soft soldering, with high precision placement in a flux-free, void-free, uniform bond line thickness. We have many standard packages, as well as customization options, providing electrical isolation, ruggedization and low SWaP, advanced thermal management, submount design, micro lensing, fiber coupling, and more. Our laser diodes can be specified down to the wafer level, up to the packaging level, with optional add-ons and qualification specifications. These Made-in-the-US diode lasers aren’t subject to tariffs, international shipping issues, or changing/obsoleted product lines. So, we can guarantee supply for the life of your program!
Welcome to RPMC’s ‘How To Select A Laser Diode’ page. Primarily, this page should help you quickly identify an appropriate Laser Diode (LD) that suites your needs. In short, we explain how we define and organize these products, and how you can use our filters and product table to quickly find viable options to match your requirements.
RPMC offers a selection of Laser Diodes, covering a wide range of wavelengths, powers, packages, and more. Indeed, after reading this page, you should have a better understanding on how to select the best Laser Diode for your specific needs. Let’s get started!
Laser Diode Types:
We offer a wide assortment of LD types to choose from. For example, we offer Single and Multi-Emitters, Quantum Cascade Lasers (QCLs), Volume Bragg Grating (VGB), and more. Furthermore, these “Types” typically define the technology utilized to generate lasing. However, there are some exceptions (e.g. Arrays/Bars, Stacks, Tunable, Turn-key Systems). Additionally, most products have customization options, including packaging, wafer level options, cooling, photodiodes, and more. Alternatively, for more information on our LDs, you can check out our Lasers 101 page, and you can click the Laser Diode Type links in each section below. Next, we will briefly explain each Laser Diode type.
Single Emitter/Multi-Emitter:
Firstly, we offer a wide variety of Single Emitter and Multi-Emitter LDs. Single Emitters have a single emitting region (emitter) that emits light. They can be multimode or single-mode, depending on the emitter size. Alternatively, multimode diodes have a larger width, which allows for more than one mode in the active region, therefore providing higher power, but a lower beam quality. However, for Single-Mode diode lasers, the inverse is true: lower power and higher beam quality. Finally, our Single Emitter products are available in UV, violet, blue, green, red, and IR wavelengths
Multi-Emitters utilize multiple Single Emitters. For example, these are typically multimode emitters with fiber-coupled output. Combining multiple Single Emitters allows for more power, with less current draw, when compared to Laser Diode Bars. Finally, our Multi-Emitter products are available in blue, red, and IR wavelengths
Both Single-Emitter and Multi-Emitter types are available with a wide variety of packages and customization options.
Arrays/Bars:
Laser Diode Arrays (or Bars) allow for emitters to lie next to each other, with a certain pitch between emitting regions. Therefore, the arrayed laser diodes can have a higher output power with red and IR wavelength options. Finally, they are typically used for various Industrial and Medical applications.
Stacks:
Laser Diode Stacks are comprised of LD Arrays/Bars, stacked vertically, or horizontally to provide increased total output power. Furthermore, these products are available in wavelengths from 808nm to 980nm (IR regime) in several free-space and fiber-coupled packages.
VCSELs:
Vertical Cavity Surface Emitting Lasers (VCSELs) have an emitting region oriented perpendicular to the top surface of the chip, as opposed to traditional diode lasers, which emit light from the side of the chip. Furthermore, one VCSEL chip can be used to achieve very high beam quality, or multiple chips (10s, 100s, or even 1000s) can be arrayed to create a larger emitting area, increase total output power, and increase long-term reliability. Finally, VCSELs haver greater accuracy, smaller size, lower power consumption, and higher reliability than their diode counterparts.
Distributed Feedback:
Distributed Feedback (or DFB) Laser Diodes utilize a Bragg grating to provide single-frequency output and offer Narrow Linewidth with good side-mode suppression ratio (SMSR). Finally, these are available in IR wavelengths with free-space and fiber-coupled output options.
Volume Bragg Grating:
Volume Bragg Grating (VBG) Laser Diodes utilize an external cavity technique to provide Narrow Linewidth and Wavelength Stabilized output. Finally, these products are available in green, red, and IR wavelengths, with free-space and fiber-coupled output options.
Quantum Cascade:
Quantum Cascade Lasers (QCLs) are quasi-CW, Fabry-Perot, intersubband semiconductor lasers, operating at room temperature, emitting around a center wavelength in the MWIR and LWIR wavelength regimes. Furthermore, the high average power and wall-plug efficiency of QCLs is perfectly suited for counter-measure and other defense applications.
Superluminescent:
Superluminescent Laser Diodes (also sometimes called Superluminescence Diodes, or Superluminescent Light-Emitting Diodes – SLEDs / SLDs) are optoelectronic semiconductor devices that emit broadband optical radiation. Finally, these devices are typically used for Optical Component Testing, Telecommunications, and Optical Coherence Tomography.
Multi Wavelength:
Our Multi Wavelength Laser Diodes provide multiple CW wavelength output options from the same device. Furthermore, these multimode diodes are water-cooled, with multimode fiber-coupled output. Finally, these provide multiple wavelengths including blue, red, and IR.
Turn-Key System:
Our Laser Diode Turn-Key Systems are ready to use immediately, available with integrated electronics, thermal management, user interface, and more. For example, the BDL Turn-Key systems are available with 915nm and 976nm wavelengths, with CW multimode fiber-coupled output, and output powers from 1kW to 3kW, depending on the configuration. Another example, the DS3 Turn-Key system, can take ANY of our K Series diode lasers, to make them a Turn-Key System. Simply chose the configuration you want, with the DS3 turn-key system package option. Finally, there are many available wavelengths from violet to the IR regimes.
Tunable Lasers:
Our Tunable products are Distributed Feedback (DFB) Quantum Cascade Lasers (QCLs), factory set in the LWIR wavelength regime from 11.3µm to 16µm. Furthermore, these QCLs are well suited for integration into systems, available in a sealed High Heat Load (HHL) package, with integrated collimating lens, thermistor, and thermoelectric cooler (TEC). Alternatively, they can act as a stand-alone turnkey system for R&D and detection applications.
Packages:
Our Laser Diodes are available in a huge variety of standard and custom packaging options. For example, we offer B-Mounts, C-Mounts, T-Mounts, and Q-mounts, 3.8mm/5.6mm/9mm TO-Cans, 9mm SMA, HHL, Open Beam & Fiber-Coupled Butterfly (BF), and MANY more.
Wavelength:
One of the more important specifications to consider when selecting a Laser Diode is wavelength, and our products are available in a wide range of wavelengths. Many applications are wavelength specific. However, some applications can use multiple wavelengths, depending on preference or specifics of your particular setup. Our many wavelength options span the UV, violet, blue, green, red, IR, SWIR, MWIR, and LWIR regimes. Finally, the table to the right shows a small sampling of which wavelengths work with a given application.
Our Infrared or (IR) Laser Diodes can be classified into four different categories. Near Infrared (NIR), Short Wavelength Infrared (SWIR), Mid-Wavelength Infrared (MWIR), and Long-Wavelength Infrared (LWIR) LDs. To see all of the various IR Laser products we offer, check out these links:
If you have any questions, or if you would like some assistance please Contact Us here. Furthermore, you can email us at info@rpmclasers.comto talk to a knowledgeable Product Manager.
Alternatively, use the filters on this page to assist in narrowing down the selection of Laser Diodes lasers for sale. Finally, head to our Knowledge Center with our Lasers 101 page and Blogs, Whitepapers, and FAQ pages for further, in-depth reading.
Finally, check out our Limited Supply – In Stock – Buy Now page: This page contains an ever-changing assortment of various types of new lasers at marked-down/discount prices.
The HL Series offers versatile and high-quality laser diode products in a variety of wavelengths and high-power options,ideal for direct imaging, industrial, and bio/medical applications. These reliable, efficient, and compact diodes come in TO-Can packages, making them perfect for OEM integration. Additionally, they operate with TE mode oscillation and are RoHS compliant, ensuring safe use. Choose the HL Series for quality, reliability, and performance in laser diodes.
The JDL series offers industry-leading custom high-power unmounted laser diode bars in the 760-1070 nm spectral region. Our unmounted laser diode bars are available in a wide range of emitter configurations, cavity lengths, and CW or QCW operational modes. We offer low fill factor bars suitable for fiber coupling, high-power bars up to 300W for CW or hard-pulse industrial DDL applications, and QCW bars up to 500W for QCW or long-pulse optical pumping and medical applications. With full customization options including custom designed epitaxial wafer structures, you’re sure to get the perfect solution for your needs.
The JOLD-FC series of high-power fiber-coupled laser diode arrays (bars) provide a cost-effective and robust solution for OEM applications. With superior reliability and efficiency, our lasers offer industry-leading performance. We offer standard wavelengths of 760-1070 and 1470 nm, with 200, 400, or 600 µm fiber core diameters. Other optional components include pilot lasers, monitor diodes, and integrated Peltier elements, available in the JOLD-FC series, ensuring you get exactly what you need.
The JOLD-Open Heatsinks Series offers industry-leading, reliable, and cost-effective high-power free-space single-laser-bar packages based on passively or actively cooled heat sinks in the 760-1070 nm range. Our proprietary heat sink and assembly technology, paired with our focus on advanced optical pumping and direct-diode-laser technology, results in diode lasers with unmatched performance including optical output power, electro-optical (EO) efficiency, and lifetime. This series offers options from 792 nm up to 1035 nm, and average output powers up to 300 W CW with passive cooling.
The JOLD–Stacks Series offers a highly modular approach for power scaling well into the kW range. The series features compact, lightweight, and robust multimode, free-space laser diode stacks with options for 760-1070 nm, CW & QCW operation, output power up to 2400 W (QCW), no lensing or FAC or FAC/SAC collimation, active or passive cooling, and are completely customizable. JOLD-Stacks achieve optimal beam quality by reducing the stack pitch without compromising cooling capacity, and our proven hard-solder technology and strictly monitored production processes ensure tried & tested reliability in the harshest environments.
The LDX Series of made-in-the-US, high-power, multimode laser diodes provide wavelengths from 400nm – 1900nm, a wide range of output powers and package types, as well as completely customized solutions. We have been offering these high-quality laser diodes for over 25 years. The performance, reliability, and lifetimes are time tested, and if for some reason there is an issue, we will make it right.
The PowerMir series is a line of high-power, pulsed Quantum Cascade Lasers based on proprietary technology, available in wavelengths from 4-9 µm and either turnkey benchtop systems, OEM driver + laser module, HHL package, or chip. Our lasers operate in Quasi-Continuous Wave (QCW) mode, enhancing wall-plug efficiency and thermal dissipation. The PowerMir series is ITAR-free, featuring high-powered diodes that emit in the primary atmospheric transmission bands. Our lasers produce a circular TEM00 Gaussian beam for superior performance.
The R series of wavelength-stabilized single-mode and multimode laser diodes offer narrow linewidth output in wavelengths from 633nm thru 1064nm, with output powers up to 5 W. This highly customizable series offers package options ranging from components as basic as a TO-56 or 14-pin BF packaged diodes to OEM modules, including electronics, to UL/CE and IEC-certified turn-key systems. The R series is the perfect source for various markets, including chemical analysis, bio-medical, fiber laser, and scientific applications.
The REP series includes high-performance, tunable, single-frequency (DFB-like) diode lasers and Fabry-Perot laser diodes in wavelengths from 760nm thru 2350nm, designed to address challenges in Gas Sensing, LIDAR, Spectroscopy, and Telecom. The REP series includes high-power and narrow linewidth options, covering various product ranges at the most popular wavelengths, providing customizable units with multiple packaging options, including the Fiber coupled 14-pin butterfly, TO39 (w/TEC), and TO56.
The RPK Series of multiple, single-emitter fiber-coupled diode lasers are available in wavelengths from 405nm thru 1550nm with up to ≈ 500W output power. Our specialized fiber-coupling techniques ensure high efficiency, stability, and superior beam quality, while rigorous inspections and burn-in procedures guarantee each product’s reliability, stability, and long lifetime. Highly customizable packages allow us to meet our customers’ specific needs, providing high-quality products at reasonable prices.
The RPKBDL Series is a high-power direct diode turn-key system available in wavelengths of 445nm, 915nm, or 976nm, providing up to 3kW of power and unprecedented brightness. Its pluggable design makes maintenance easy, avoiding troubles and high time costs caused by return-to-factory maintenance. The RPKBDL series results from continuous innovation, ensuring high technical strength and product quality. This highly customizable system allows us to meet our customers’ specific needs, providing high-quality products at reasonable prices.
The RWLD series offers competitively priced laser diodes with high beam quality and a wide variety of products to support multiple applications. Available in a wide range of wavelengths, power levels, and packages. The RWLD wavelength options span from 405nm to 1650nm, with output powers in the range of 10 mW to 300 mW, packaged in a TO-18 package with photodiode. We also offer customized options, such as a customized wavelength, output power, or a special package to meet your specific needs.
The RWLP series offers an affordable and versatile solution for your laser application needs with single-mode and multimode options and wavelengths from 405nm thru the IR region. With customizable options, our team can work with you to solve any challenges you may face. Rigorously tested for long-term reliability, the RWLP series ensures consistent performance and high beam quality. Perfect for integration, this series supports multiple applications including biological and analytical instrumentation.
The SMX Series of US-made, high-power, thermally stable, and cost-effective InP laser diodes is available at 13XX, 14XX, 15XX, 16XX, and 19XX nm, perfect for medical, military, aerospace, LIDAR, free-space communications, and more! With a patented EPI structure, low-cost packaging, DFB & SOA configurations, ISO certified supply chain with full lifecycle traceability, focus on ease of integration, and custom design capabilities, this laser diode family is an excellent choice for reliable, high-power InP devices.
The TG Series of laser diodes emit in the blue spectral range with non-standard wavelengths from 418 nm up to 466 nm, perfect for Life Science applications, with a typical output power of 50mW and an absolute maximum output power of 100mW. Assembled in a 5.6 mm (TO-56) packages the TG series is a suitable for a wide range of OEM applications that require blue/violet light, including ECDL with low AR coating option.
The RWLS series of RGB White Laser Diodes offers customizable, versatile, and reliable solution for your laser applications. Available in a wide range of power levels, with three base wavelengths: 635 nm (Red), 520nm (Green), and 445nm (Blue), the RWLS series can be tailored to your exact specifications. Typically packaged in a pigtailed HHL configuration, with built-in TEC, there are also plenty of customization options including wavelength, power, and packaging.
The uniMir Series is a long-wavelength, single-frequency, DFB, CW Quantum Cascade Laser based on proprietary technology. The technology’s versatility allows them to address various wavelengths between ≈ 10-14um and 17-19um. Now commercially available in a sealed High Heat Load (HHL) package, with integrated collimating lens, thermistor, and thermoelectric cooler (TEC), well suited for integration into systems, or as a stand-alone turnkey system for R&D and detection applications.
Component FAQs
Can I operate multiple laser diodes from the same power supply?
Can I operate multiple laser diodes from the same power supply?
The same power supply can drive multiple laser diodes if they are connected in series, but they must never be connected in parallel. When two diodes are connected in series, they will function properly as long as the compliance voltage is large enough to cover the voltage drop across each diode. For example, suppose you are trying to power two diode lasers, each with an operating voltage of 1.9 V, and connect the two in series. In that case, the pulsed or CW laser driver must have a total voltage capacity greater than 3.8 V. This configuration works because diodes share the same current when connected in series. In contrast, when two diodes are connected in parallel, the current is no longer shared between the two diodes. Get more details on the topic in this article: “Can I Operate Multiple Laser Diodes From the Same Power Supply?” Get more information from our Lasers 101, Blogs, Whitepapers, FAQs, and Press Release pages in our Knowledge Center!
Can laser diodes emit green, blue, or UV light?
Can laser diodes emit green, blue, or UV light?
The output wavelength of a semiconductor laser is based on the difference in energy between the valance and conduction bands of the material (bandgap energy). Since the energy of a photon is inversely proportional to its wavelength, this means that a larger bandgap energy will result in a shorter emission wavelength. Due to the relatively wide bandgap energy of 3.4 eV, gallium nitride (GaN) is ideal for the production of semiconductor optoelectronic devices, producing blue wavelength light without the need for nonlinear crystal harmonic generation. Since the mid-’90s, GaN substrates have been the common material utilized for blue LEDs. In recent years, GaN based laser technology has provided blue, green and UV laser diodes, now available in wavelengths from 375 nm to 521 nm, with output powers exceeding 100 watts. Read our article, titled “Gallium Nitride (GaN) Laser Diodes: Green, Blue, and UV Wavelengths” to learn more about GaN Based Laser Diodes, available through RPMC. Get more information from our Lasers 101, Blogs, Whitepapers, and FAQs pages in our Knowledge Center!
How long will a laser diode last?
How long will a laser diode last?
Honestly, it depends on several factors, and there is no simple chart to cover everything. Typical diode lifetimes are in the range of 25,000 to 50,000 hours. Though, there are lifetime ratings outside this range, depending on the configuration. Furthermore, there are a wide range of degradation sources that contribute to a shorter lifespan of laser diodes. These degradation sources include dislocations that affect the inner region, metal diffusion and alloy reactions that affect the electrode, solder instability (reaction and migration) that affect the bonding parts, separation of metals in the heatsink bond, and defects in buried heterostructure devices. Read more about diode lifetime and contributing factors in this article: “Understanding Laser Diode Lifetime.” Get more information from our Lasers 101, Blogs, Whitepapers, FAQs, and Press Release pages in our Knowledge Center!
What factors affect the lifetime of laser diodes?
What factors affect the lifetime of laser diodes?
There are a great many factors that can increase or decrease the lifetime of a laser diode. One of the main considerations is thermal management. Mounting or heatsinking of the package is of tremendous importance because operating temperature strongly influences lifetime and performance. Other factors to consider include electrostatic discharge (ESD), voltage and current spikes, back reflections, flammable materials, noxious substances, outgassing materials (even thermal compounds), electrical connections, soldering method and fumes, and environmental considerations including ambient temperature, and contamination from humidity and dust. Read more about these critical considerations and contributing factors in this article: “How to Improve Laser Diode Lifetime: Advice and Precautions on Mounting.” Get more information from our Lasers 101, Blogs, Whitepapers, FAQs, and Press Release pages in our Knowledge Center!
What is a laser diode?
What is a laser diode?
A Laser Diode or semiconductor laser is the simplest form of Solid-State Laser. Laser diodes are commonly referred to as edge emitting laser diodes because the laser light is emitted from the edge of the substrate. The light emitting region of the laser diode is commonly called the emitter. The emitter size and the number of emitters determine output power and beam quality of a laser diode. Electrically speaking, a laser diode is a PIN diode. The intrinsic (I) region is the active region of the laser diode. The N and P regions provide the active region with the carriers (electrons and holes). Initially, research on laser diodes was carried out using P-N diodes. However, all modern laser diodes utilize the double-hetero-structure implementation. This design confines the carriers and photons, allowing a maximization of recombination and light generation. If you want to start reading more about laser diodes, try this whitepaper “How to Improve Laser Diode Lifetime.” If you want to read more about the Laser Diode Types we offer, check out the Overview of Laser Diodes section on our Lasers 101 Page!
What is the difference between laser diodes and VCSELs?
What is the difference between laser diodes and VCSELs?
Laser Diodes and VCSELs are semiconductor lasers, the simplest form of Solid State Lasers. Laser diodes are commonly referred to as edge emitting laser diodes because the laser light is emitted from the edge of the substrate. The light emitting region of the laser diode is commonly called the emitter. The emitter size and the quantity of emitters determine output power and beam quality of a laser diode. These Fabry Perot Diode Lasers with a single emission region (Emitter) are typically called laser diode chips, while a linear array of emitters is called laser diode bars. Laser diode bars typically use multimode emitters, the number of emitters per substrate can vary from 5 emitters to 100 emitters. VCSELs (Vertical Cavity Surface Emitting Laser) emit light perpendicular to the mounting surface as opposed to parallel like edge emitting laser diodes. VCSELs offer a uniform spatial illumination in a circular illumination pattern with low speckle. If you want to read more about lasers in general, and help narrowing down the selection to find the right laser for you, check out our Knowledge Center for our Blogs, Whitepapers, and FAQ pages, as well as our Lasers 101 Page!
What’s the difference between single transverse mode & single longitudinal mode?
What’s the difference between single transverse mode & single longitudinal mode?
Within the laser community, one of the most overused and often miscommunicated terms is the phrase “single mode.” This is because a laser beam when traveling through air takes up a three-dimensional volume in space similar to that of a cylinder; and just as with a cylinder, a laser beam can be divided into independent coordinates each with their own mode structure. For a cylinder we would call these the length and the cross-section, but as shown in the figure below for a laser beam, we define these as the transverse electromagnetic (TEM) plane and the longitudinal axis. Both sets of modes are fundamental to the laser beam’s properties, since the TEM modes determine the spatial distribution of the laser beams intensity, and the longitudinal modes determine the spectral properties of the laser. As a result, when a laser is described as being “single-mode” first you need to make sure that you truly understand which mode is being referred to. Meaning that you must know if the laser is single transverse mode, single longitudinal mode, or both. Get all the information you need in this article: “What is Single Longitudinal Mode?” Get more information from our Lasers 101, Blogs, Whitepapers, FAQs, and Press Release pages in our Knowledge Center!