So I've dabbled with adjustable test loads before, using discrete components. However due to the method of operation the actual V-drop would take some time to actually go into effect, preventing it from reproducing the actual way laser diodes function... Aka, It'd be super high resistance for a split second, and then it would come down to the actual drop you desire.
So, as an alternative...
http://tinyurl.com/gplg4f6
What looks an awful lot like this circuit diagram you might ask?
An LM337 negative voltage regulator.
Since it uses a PNP transistor as its pass element it more accurately represents the way laser diode drops work, at least, in theory.
If anyone has a switching driver, an oscilloscope, the parts, and some extra time I'd be super appreciative if someone could test out my theory! I don't have any switching drivers on hand currently otherwise I'd try it out myself.
If anyone wants to comment, on whether they think this would work or is complete sillyness then please do!
So, as an alternative...
http://tinyurl.com/gplg4f6
What looks an awful lot like this circuit diagram you might ask?
An LM337 negative voltage regulator.
Since it uses a PNP transistor as its pass element it more accurately represents the way laser diode drops work, at least, in theory.
If anyone has a switching driver, an oscilloscope, the parts, and some extra time I'd be super appreciative if someone could test out my theory! I don't have any switching drivers on hand currently otherwise I'd try it out myself.
If anyone wants to comment, on whether they think this would work or is complete sillyness then please do!