Cutting-Edge 120W Laser Diode Revolutionizes Lidar Technology

Rohm, a leading technology company, has recently announced the development of a groundbreaking 120W 905nm infra-red laser diode for lidar applications. This new diode, known as RLD90QZW8, incorporates original technology that significantly reduces the temperature dependence of the laser wavelength to just Δ11.6nm – an impressive improvement of 0.10nm/°C. According to Rohm, this advancement allows for a narrower bandpass filter while extending the detection range.

The 120W power output is achieved at 38A, with the diode dropping 13V during 50ns pulses at a 0.05% duty cycle. Additionally, Rohm claims an exceptional 97% light intensity uniformity over the diode's 270 x 10µm emission aperture. The diode is housed in a metal top hat package with a 5.6mm diameter base, as shown in the accompanying images.

To facilitate evaluation and integration, Rohm offers an evaluation module that combines the laser diode with a 150V GaN hemt and gate drivers. In terms of quality assurance, Rohm has obtained certification under the IATF 16949 automotive quality management standard for both front-end and back-end processes at its manufacturing facilities. This achievement enables the company to proceed with the development of laser diodes for AEC-Q102 compliant automotive applications, with plans for commercialization by the end of 2024.

The applications for the RLD90QZW8 laser diode are vast and diverse. It is expected to find use in various fields, including robot vacuum cleaners, laser rangefinders, automated guided vehicles, service robots, and 3D monitoring systems. The versatility and high performance of this diode make it a valuable component in these cutting-edge technologies.

For more information about the RLD90QZW8 laser diode, please visit the product page on Rohm's official website.