The chip runs laser pulses using a 3V battery. It needs fewer parts, saves space, and helps make small, low-power laser devices.
Silanna Semiconductor has introduced the SL2002, a compact laser driver IC designed to operate directly from a standard 3V battery. It combines resonant-capacitor charging and high-current laser diode firing in a single chip, packaged in a small 14-pin, 3.5 mm² WLCSP. The SL2002 is capable of delivering over 1,000W peak laser pulses with 86% input-to-laser efficiency—far higher than the 50% typical of conventional solutions.
This level of integration eliminates the need for bulky, external boost converters. With fewer external components and a smaller PCB footprint, designers can reduce overall system cost and simplify product architecture. The high efficiency also cuts power loss, helping to extend battery life and reduce heat in tightly packed systems.
Some of the key features of the SL2002 Laser Driver IC include:
- Operates directly from a standard 3V battery without external boost circuitry
- Integrates resonant-capacitor charging and high-current laser firing in a single chip
- Delivers over 1,000W peak laser pulse power
- Achieves 86% input-to-laser efficiency (up to 73% better than traditional designs)
- Packaged in a compact 14-pin, 3.5 mm² WLCSP form factor
- Reduces bill-of-materials by eliminating external discrete components
- Minimizes PCB footprint and simplifies overall system design
- Available with a full evaluation kit for rapid development
By making high-performance laser driving possible from a low-voltage supply, the SL2002 enables a new class of compact and cost-effective rangefinding products. Applications include handheld 3D mapping devices, sports rangefinders, optical scopes, and industrial sensors. The simplified design and available evaluation kit allow for faster prototyping and time-to-market, giving developers the tools they need to build efficient, portable systems with fewer constraints.
