Development of a diode laser controller with an embedded processor: sub-system to contribute to the development of a compact atomic frequency standard

• Grant number: 21/05449-2
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: August 01, 2021
• End date: July 31, 2022
• Field of knowledge: Engineering - Electrical Engineering - Electrical, Magnetic and Electronic Measurements, Instrumentation
• Principal Investigator: Daniel Varela Magalhães
• Grantee: Daniel Amaral Brigante
• Host Institution: Escola de Engenharia de São Carlos (EESC). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Carlos , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 13/07276-1 - CEPOF - Optics and Photonic Research Center, AP.CEPID

Abstract

Diode lasers have a lower cost and a lower operating complexity when compared to other types of lasers. However, its intrinsic characteristics make a control system with optical-electronic feedback necessary for the emitted radiation to have a stable wavelength and a narrow enough linewidth to enable its application. In addition to this, the control system used must allow adjustments in real-time, making it possible to tune the laser to the desired operating frequency. The tuning process demands that signals and parameters are monitored constantly and that the controller can be adjusted according to them. Thus, when done manually, the task of tuning the diode laser becomes a mechanical and laborious operation, involving the use of different instrumentation devices internal and external to the system. With this in mind, the development of a diode laser controller with an embedded processor is proposed, aiming to use it as a subsystem of a compact atomic frequency standard. Through the processor, the control and tuning of the diode laser can be unified under the same interface, reducing its complexity, eliminating the dependence on external instrumentation equipment, and providing the foundation for future improvements, such as the automation of parts of the process. At the end of the project, it is expected that the proposed device will be able to control and tune the diode laser, making it possible to characterize the system's performance and determine future modifications and improvements.