The Thorlabs PDA36A2 user guide explains setup, operation, specifications, and troubleshooting for the Si switchable‑gain detector.
This manual provides step‑by‑step instructions for installing and configuring the Thorlabs PDA36A2 Si Switchable Gain Detector. It covers mechanical mounting, power connection, optical alignment, and gain adjustment, with safety warnings and regulatory information.
The document also includes detailed performance specifications such as wavelength range, gain settings, bandwidth, and noise, plus a troubleshooting section to help resolve common issues.
| Wavelength Range | 350 to 1100 nm |
|---|---|
| Peak Wavelength | 970 nm (Typ.) |
| Peak Response | 0.65 A/W (Typ.) |
| Amplifier GBP | 600 MHz |
| Output Impedance | 50 Ω |
| Gain Adjustment Range | 0 dB to 70 dB |
| Gain Steps | 8 × 10 dB steps |
| Package Size | 2.79" × 1.96" × 0.89" |
| Operating Temperature | 10 °C to 40 °C |
Rotate the gain control knob on the top side of the unit; there are 8 positions each increasing gain by 10 dB.
Attach a 50 Ω coaxial cable (e.g., RG‑58U) to the detector’s BNC output; for long cables use a 50 Ω terminator at the far end.