Shutter Electronic Controller Technology

The laser shutter controller product line provides the source of electrical power to open and close the laser shutter. We offer a DC voltage PCB to operate the shutter. Our CX4000B is calibrated and labeled for a particular model of shutter.

The shutter wires attach to the screw terminals. A signal source, such as a pulse generator or microprocessor output, is attached to the CX4000B terminals. On the PCB, tailored DC power waveforms are generated and sent to the shutter whenever the input signal is high.

The CX4000B PCB controller and laser shutter are very similar to a common amplifier and speaker system. The CX4000B, as an amplifier, sends waveforms of inductive load power, and the shutter, as a speaker, is the inductive load receiving the electrical power. When the two are closely matched for the application, the performance of the design is maximized. This includes magnetic damped motion control.

Simple DC circuits can be used to drive most electro-mechanical devices, including laser shutters. But when performance becomes demanding, the design features of the CX4000B are the absolute best choice.

Tailored waveforms have emphasis on one or more of the following features: rapid switching speeds, high repetition rates, exposure repeatability and jitter control, low laser shutter heat dissipation, shock/vibration/acoustic noise control, safety interlocking, and special OEM considerations.

The CX4000B controller is simple to use. After wiring connections are made, simply apply the control signal. Whenever the signal is high (3-24 VDC), the laser shutter is opened. When the signal goes low, the shutter closes. The input is resistive, at about 3 K Ohms. Your signal source must be able to source the required current, typically 1 mA at TTL voltages.

Controller Block Diagram

Safety interlock models offer additional circuitry to read the Position Sensors built into the laser shutter. Either TTL totem pole outputs or mechanical microswitch contacts are available on the output wires. These outputs toggle between hi/low (open/close) as the shutters cycle. The signals are useful for driving computer safety systems, amplified door lighting systems, LED displays, and processing software.

When selecting a controller, first choose between a modulation type or safety interlock type, then review the features that match your application. Contact us for more information.

Capacitor Discharge Circuit

Below is an example of a simple Capacitor Discharge Circuit. It is very simple, but robust and low cost. All of our safety interlock laser shutters can be driven with this circuit as well as with our controller models. Modulation laser shutters typically cannot use this circuit due to recharging limitations.