Description
The Q8a driver module is our latest and most advanced solution, delivering true simultaneous current and voltage control for photonic integrated circuits (PICs), ensuring precision for optical systems. Designed for scientists, engineers, and photonics R&D professionals seeking precise and robust control for optical and quantum applications, with a minimum of setup time. The Q8a offers unparalleled accuracy, power efficiency, and DUT protection in a sleek, compact form factor.
Why choose the Q8a driver module?
- Next-generation accuracy and power delivery with 8 independent channels
- Seamless integration and scalable multi-channel control with Qontrol’s ecosystem and industry-standard photonics setups
- Ultrafast protection from over-voltage (OV) and over-current (OC) events in 50 μs
Perfect for research labs pushing the limits of what PICs can do, in universities, start-ups, and industrial R&D, the Q8a easily supports SiN thermal modulators, on-chip lasers, and photonic sensing applications, providing a scalable and cost-effective solution for the challenge of precision DC control of photonic integrated circuits.
Technical
Key Features & Benefits
True Simultaneous Current & Voltage Control
Most driver modules limit users to either current or voltage control at any given time. The Q8a, however, enables both simultaneously, ensuring precise operation of photonic devices without compromise.
High-Performance Power Delivery
- Voltage control range: 0 – 12V
- Current control range: 0 – 100mA
- Maximum power output per channel: 1200mW
Advanced Hardware Protection
- Overvoltage (OV) & Overcurrent (OC) protection in just 50µs
- Per-channel two-point calibration for long-term accuracy
- Temperature monitoring for thermal stability
Compact & Efficient Design
- All-metal CNC enclosure for reduced electromagnetic interference (EMI) and durability
- Single power supply input for streamlined operation
- Plug-and-play compatibility with existing Qontrol products
| Feature |
Specification |
| Voltage Control |
0 – 12V |
| Current Control |
0 – 100mA |
| Power Output |
1200mW per channel |
| Protection |
Hardware OV/OC (50µs response) |
| ADC Resolution |
30nA / 1.4µV |
| DAC Resolution |
1.5µA / 180µV |
| Form Factor |
CNC-machined metal enclosure |
| Compatibility |
Fully integrates with Qontrol hardware & software |
For a full breakdown, refer to the downloadable datasheet.
Performance & Competitive Advantage
The Q8a represents a significant upgrade over previous models and competitors in the market. It offers 4.2x more power, enhanced drive linearity, and near-instantaneous fault protection compared to Q8iv.
Comparison Chart (Q8a vs. Q8iv)
| Feature |
Q8a |
Q8iv |
| Voltage Control |
0 – 12V |
0 – 12V |
| Current Control |
0 – 100mA |
0 – 24mA |
| Max Power Output |
1200mW |
288mW |
| Hardware Protection |
50µs OV/OC |
50ms OV/OC |
| Temperature Monitoring |
✅ |
❌ |
Performance Graphs
- Power Delivery & Efficiency
- Drive Linearity & Accuracy
- Transient Response (Protection Speed)
Download the performance analysis PDF.
Application
Use Cases & Applications
The Q8a is optimised for a variety of research and commercial applications, including:
- Photonic Integrated Circuits (PICs) – fine-tuning and active control of integrated photonics
- SiN Thermal Modulators – precise temperature and phase tuning for cutting-edge photonic devices
- On-Chip Lasers & Sensors – voltage/current control for stable and reliable performance
- High-Speed Photodetection – simultaneous measurement of voltage and current for research setups
Example use case: An R&D lab implementing SiN-based PICs can use the Q8a to precisely modulate multiple channels simultaneously while maintaining linearity and accuracy, ensuring optimal performance in live testing.
Software & Integration
The Q8a is designed for seamless integration with Qontrol’s existing ecosystem and is fully compatible with industry-standard setups. Qontrol devices share the same communication protocol (accessible in the programming manual), allowing users to write their own API for deployment in various software environments, such as MATLAB.
Getting Started
- Connect the Q8a to your system using a standard interface.
- Install the necessary drivers and API libraries (available for Python & LabVIEW).
- Run calibration and configure channels via Qontrol’s intuitive software.
- Monitor real-time voltage and current measurements using our built-in dashboard.
Downloadable Resources
- API Documentation & Example Code
- Driver Installation Guide
- User Manual
Sales & Support
Availability & Pricing
The Q8a is available for purchase now. For detailed pricing and bulk order inquiries, please contact our sales team.
Get a Quote or Contact Us
For pricing details, lead times, and bulk order discounts, reach out to us:
[email protected]
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can the Q8a be used with other Qontrol products?
A: Yes, it is fully compatible with our ecosystem.
Q: How does the protection mechanism work?
A: The Q8a features hardware-based overvoltage and overcurrent protection that reacts in 50µs, ensuring device safety.
Q: What software do I need to use the Q8a?
A: The module works with our Qontrol API and Python/LabVIEW drivers, all available for download.
