Ultra-short pulse NIR and SWIR laser diode illuminators for automotive LiDAR

Advancements in VCSEL and edge emitter laser diode technology, associated micro-optics and drive electronics has enabled use of direct diode lasers as illumination sources for solid-state lidar. This paper will discuss advancements in integrated, low cost solid-state laser diode based illumination sources that offer pulse widths below 5ns and peak powers over 1kW with very small form factors. Data will be presented on state-of-the-art near-infrared (NIR) and short-wave infrared (SWIR) sources. The impact on beam size and shape upon adding micro-optics to the assembly will also be shown.