The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
The iC-HN is a compact iC-Haus laser-driver IC for short, high-current pulses, with manufacturer materials specifying a minimum pulse width of 2 ns and pulsed-current capability up to 1.4/2.8 A. It is aimed at systems such as time-of-flight (TOF) range finders, LIDAR and 3D scanners—not at driving a laser continuously at those peak-current figures.
What is the iC-HN laser driver?
iC-Haus describes the iC-HN family as a “Short Pulse 1.4/2.8 A Laser Driver.” It is a switched, voltage-controlled current sink: a voltage on the CI pin sets the laser current, while LVDS inputs provide the switching command. The manufacturer also lists spike-free switching as a feature.
This topology matters in the circuit design. The IC sinks current through the laser diode; it is not a general-purpose voltage source or a complete laser module. The diode, laser supply and surrounding network must be designed for a current-sink driver and the device’s laser-supply limit.
Recommended Free Tools
Can the iC-HN drive a laser diode with 2 ns pulses?
Yes: iC-Haus’s HN/HN3 technical flyer, version 4.0, specifies a minimum laser pulse width of 2 ns. It also gives current rise/fall time up to 1 ns and propagation delay of 5 ns. These figures describe different aspects of timing: the pulse-width minimum is not the same measurement as the transition time or the delay from an input command to the output response.
#1 Best Overall
- Wide Compatibility: This Driver PCB board suitable for laser diodes with working voltage less than 5V and working current within 800mA; optimized for 5mW1000mW 808nm&532nm and 5300mW 660nm laser diode/laser module
- Adjustable Output Current: The input voltage DC3V-5V; Output current adjustable A: 0600mA; B: 0800mA; The output current has been set to: A: 150mA @DC5V; B: 150mA @5V, if you need large or small current you can adjust it yourself, make sure the output current does not exceed the maximum operating current of the laser tube, otherwise it may cause damage
- TTL Modulation Feature: Double TTL modulation capability with TTL frequency range of 0 20K for precise control and signal processing
- Advanced Protection Circuit: With anti-protection, high-precision constant current IC driver circuit can better protect the laser tube from damage
- Compact Dimensions and Accessories: Dimensions: 48x32x16mm/1.89x1.26x0.63inch (length x width x height); Terminal type: XH2.54-2P, Default package with 3pcs 100mm length XH2.54-2P cables (one use for power, two use for laser diodes)
The stated 1.4/2.8 A capability is pulsed, not a blanket continuous-current rating. The achievable current depends on operating frequency, duty cycle and heat dissipation. Check the applicable operating conditions and thermal limits for the intended pulse train before choosing a current target.
What are the iC-HN’s electrical and package limits?
| Specification | Published value | Qualification |
|---|---|---|
| Pulsed laser current | Up to 1.4/2.8 A | iC-Haus product materials; achievable value depends on frequency, duty cycle and heat dissipation. |
| Minimum laser pulse width | 2 ns | HN/HN3 technical flyer, version 4.0. |
| Laser supply | Up to 30 V | HN/HN3 technical flyer, version 4.0. |
| IC supply | 3.0–5.5 V | HN/HN3 technical flyer, version 4.0. |
| Current rise/fall time | Up to 1 ns | HN/HN3 technical flyer, version 4.0. |
| Propagation delay | 5 ns | HN/HN3 technical flyer, version 4.0. |
| Package | DFN8, 3 × 3 mm | HN/HN3 technical flyer, version 4.0. |
The flyer marks its information preliminary and says specifications may change. Confirm the latest revision, pinout, thermal limits and availability with iC-Haus before committing a board design.
Rank #2
- 12V TTL 200mW To 2W 445nm 450nm Laser Diode LD Power Supply Driver Board
- Input Voltage: DC 8-14V Max. Output Voltage: DC 12V (adjustable) Max
- For Red, Green and Blue Laser Drive Power
- AC / DC can be used, regardless of positive and negative input to improve the non-professional user convenience
What is the difference between iC-HN and iC-HN3?
The available HN/HN3 flyer presents the two designations together and provides the shared figures above, but it does not establish a detailed feature-by-feature difference between iC-HN and iC-HN3. It would therefore be unsafe to infer that the parts have identical pinouts, limits or ordering status—or to name a specific distinction without a part-specific datasheet. For a design-in, request the current documentation for the exact ordering code from iC-Haus or its authorized distributor.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →When should you consider another driver?
The iC-HN is relevant when an application needs ampere-level pulsed laser current and a pulse width down to 2 ns, and when LVDS control and the current-sink arrangement fit the system. Compare alternatives against pulse width, peak current, laser-supply voltage, trigger interface, timing, thermal design and board area.
Rank #3
- 1PCS Laser Diode driver board TTL modulation current 1A-2A DC 12V voltage current Adjustable
- Max 2A
- Output specifications: 1V~6V,
- Circuit control: 12V step-down circuit, constant current output (current and voltage are adjustable)
For substantially shorter pulses where timing resolution matters more than ampere-level current, iC-Haus’s adjacent iC-HS family is a different option: its official product information lists pulse widths from 100 ps to 5 ns and 200/500/600 mA peak-current variants. Those current figures are far below the iC-HN family’s stated peak range, so the choice is an application trade-off rather than a direct upgrade.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Where can you buy the iC-HN?
iC-Haus lists the iC-HN DFN8 part in its B2B webshop. The webshop states that orders are fulfilled to EU business clients with a valid address and VAT number; that condition does not establish consumer availability or availability in other regions. For other purchasing routes, contact iC-Haus sales or an authorized distributor and ask about the exact part and any evaluation hardware. A generic laser-driver board or laser module is not a like-for-like substitute for this bare IC.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Output power: 30
- Wavelength: 980nm
- Operation Voltage: DC=3-5VDC
- Laser Shape Dot
- Size:12x30mm
Rank #4
- Dimensions: 8x20mm (W * L)
- Power Supply: DC 3-4.5V
- Output Current: 0-800mha constant current (Adjustable)
- This is a power driver Circuit Board commonly used for 532nm 650nm 780nm 808nm 980nmnm Green Red IR Laser Diode!
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
