Thorlabs PDA55 Amplified Si Photodetector Module

Description:

The Thorlabs PDA55 Amplified Si Photodetector with PS-12DC-US Power Supply is used in optical measurement and photonics systems to detect visible and near-infrared light with an integrated switchable-gain amplifier for high-speed signal acquisition. Commonly installed in laser laboratories, spectroscopy systems, fiber optic test setups, microscopy equipment, optical alignment stations, and scientific research instruments requiring amplified silicon photodetection. Optical engineers, laboratory technicians, and system integrators use this photodetector for optical power monitoring, laser diagnostics, laboratory measurements, and replacement of photodetection modules.

Applications:

The Thorlabs PDA55 converts incident light into a voltage output using a silicon photodiode and an integrated low-noise amplifier with selectable gain settings. It is widely used for laser beam monitoring, optical alignment, spectroscopy, fluorescence detection, photonics research, fiber optic testing, and OEM instrumentation where fast response, low noise, and high sensitivity are required.

Technical Specifications:

• Brand: Thorlabs
• Part Number: PDA55
• Included Accessory: PS-12DC-US Power Supply
• Product Type: Amplified Silicon Photodetector
• Detector Material: Silicon (Si) Photodiode
• Spectral Response Range: 320–1100 nm
• Peak Responsivity: 0.6 A/W @ 960 nm
• Active Area: 3.6 × 3.6 mm
• Bandwidth: DC to 10 MHz
• Gain Control: Five-position switchable gain in 10 dB increments
• Output Voltage: 0–10 V (High Impedance), 0–5 V (50 Ω Load)
• Output Impedance: 50 Ω
• Noise Equivalent Power (NEP): 1 × 10⁻¹¹ W/√Hz (typical at 0 dB gain, 960 nm)
• Mounting Thread: 8-32 Tapped Hole (0.25 in. Depth)
• Optical Interface: Removable SM1 (1.035"-40) Threaded Coupler Compatible with Thorlabs SM1 Accessories
• Power Supply: PS-12DC-US, 100–120 VAC Input, ±12 VDC Output
• Typical Applications: Laser Diagnostics, Optical Power Monitoring, Spectroscopy, Microscopy, Fiber Optics Testing, Scientific Research, and OEM Optical Instrumentation.

Common Replacements:

• Thorlabs PDA36A2
• Thorlabs PDA100A2
• Thorlabs PDA10A2