Features
• Current-controlled Output Current Source with 4 Input Channels
• Two Selectable Outputs for Grounded Laser Diodes
• Output A Suited for Blue Laser Diodes: VLD ≤6V (VCCH ≤8V)
• LVDS/CMOS Compatible Inputs Channel 2, 3, and 4
• Output Current per Channel up to 350 mA
• Total Output Current up to 500 mA
• On-chip RF Oscillator
• Control of 2 Different Frequencies and Swings by Use of 4 External Resistors
• Oscillator Frequency Range from 200 MHz to 500 MHz
• Maximum Oscillator Current Amplitude 100 mApp
• Small Pb-free QFN24 4 mm × 4 mm Package
4-channel LVDS
Laser Diode
Driver with High
Voltage Output
for Blue Laser
Applications
• DVD Blue Laser
• DVD-RAM/DVD-RW/DVD+RW with CD-RW Capability
• Recordable Optical Drives
1. Description
ATR0842
Summary
The ATR0842 is a laser diode driver designed to operate two differently grounded
laser diodes. The output, IOUTA, can be used for a blue laser diode (400 nm) with up
to 6V voltage drop by applying 8V at pin VCCH. The other output, IOUTB, supports
legacy laser diodes for DVD-RW/+RW/RAM (650 nm) and CD-RW (780 nm). The
device includes four channels for four different optical power levels. The write chan-
nels (channel 2 to 4) can be controlled either by fast LVDS (Low Voltage Differential
Signaling) or by single-ended standard CMOS logic. In case of single-ended use,
each of the enable inputs (NEx or Ex) can be used, the complementary input may be
left open. There is no need for blocking or connection to a reference voltage.
The read function of the channel is to generate a continuous output current, channels
2 to 4 are designed as write channels with very fast switching speed. All channels are
summed together and routed to one of the two outputs, IOUTA or IOUTB, controlled
by the select input SELA. Each write channel (channels 2 to 4) can contribute up to
350 mA to the total output current of up to 500 mA. The read channel can contribute
up to 150 mA. Total gain of 100 (read channel) and 250 (channel 2, 3 and 4), respec-
tively, are provided between each reference current input and the selected output.
Although the reference inputs are current inputs, voltage control is possible by using
external resistors. An on-chip RF oscillator is available to reduce laser-mode hopping
noise during read mode. The oscillator current amplitude can be set independently for
the two selectable outputs with two different resistors. Oscillation is enabled by a high
signal at the ENOSC pin. Complete shut down of the output currents is achieved by a
low signal at the ENABLE input.
NOTE: This is a summary document.
For more information, please contact
your local Atmel sales office.
In case of uncertain (balanced) enable signals, a built-in protection circuit keeps the
laser diode output current within the defined range.
4819BS–DVD–07/06