Osram’s second-generation headlight lasers

What lasers offer over LEDs as a light source is higher light output per unit area (luminance) – which then allows a slimmer smaller optical chain for a given final beam.

At a typical operating current of 2.2A, the new device, the PLPT9 450D_E A01 emits 3.5W of blue (447nm) light which, with the help of appropriate optics, can be focused at a point only a few micrometers in diameter.

A special phosphor converter converts this small spot into the white light required for a high beam.

“The luminance achieved is three times higher than that of an LED light source. In comparison, the laser produces 600cd/mm2 while LEDs deliver around 200cd/mm2,” said Osram. “With our newly developed laser diode, car lights can be designed and built even smaller
than before – without compromising light output.”

PLPT9 450D_E A01 is qualified for use in cars, and approved for an operation across -40°C to 120°C. Compared to the firm’s first generation with three pins, the new one comes in a 9mm diaameter and <4.5mm tall TO90 with two pins.

Osram also sells automotive-grade headlight grade LEDs. “Depending on the target application, developers can decide whether an LED or a laser solution is best,” it said.

On auxiliary high beams Osram claims: “Driving at dusk or at night puts great strain on the driver’s eyes and reduces their ability to concentrate. Used as a light source for auxiliary high beam which illuminates the roads further than conventional high beam makes driving at night safer.”