Coherent Launches Best-In-Class 18 W 880 nm Single-Emitter Laser Diode For High-Performance DPSS Systems

Rhea-AI Summary

Coherent Corp (NYSE: COHR) has launched the SES18-880A-190-10, an advanced 880 nm single-emitter laser diode delivering 18 W optical output power with over 62% conversion efficiency. The device features a 97% polarization extinction ratio and is specifically designed for high-efficiency pumping of diode-pumped solid-state (DPSS) lasers. Built on a 6-inch GaAs wafer platform with fully integrated manufacturing, the product offers one of the most competitive dollar-per-watt ratios in its class. The laser diode operates in the 870-876 nm wavelength range and is compatible with Volume Bragg Grating stabilization. Coherent also offers variants at 878, 885, and 888 nm wavelengths, along with fiber-coupled modules in the FACTOR series. The product targets applications in micromachining, advanced packaging, and semiconductor processing, providing advantages over traditional 808 nm solutions through lower quantum defects, reduced thermal lensing, and enhanced mode quality.

Positive

• Achieves high performance with 18 W optical output power and 62% conversion efficiency
• Features competitive dollar-per-watt ratio in the 880 nm class
• Offers versatility with multiple wavelength variants (878, 885, and 888 nm)
• Benefits from fully vertically integrated manufacturing process

Negative

• None.

Insights

Photonics Technology Analyst

Coherent's new 18W 880nm laser diode advances their DPSS pump technology portfolio with superior efficiency and cost-effectiveness for industrial applications.

Coherent's new SES18-880A-190-10 laser diode represents a significant technological advancement in the DPSS laser pump market. The 18W optical output with 62% conversion efficiency and 97% polarization extinction ratio substantially improves upon industry benchmarks for this wavelength class. This advancement matters because the 880nm wavelength reduces quantum defects compared to traditional 808nm pumping, creating less waste heat and enabling better beam quality in end applications.

The product's competitive $/W ratio addresses a critical industry need as manufacturers in precision applications seek to lower system costs while improving performance. The technical specifications—particularly the high polarization purity and thermal management capabilities—will translate to lower operating costs and longer lifetimes for DPSS laser systems used in micromachining, advanced packaging, and semiconductor processing.

Coherent's vertically integrated manufacturing approach (from wafer growth to packaging) provides them strategic control over the supply chain and quality, a significant advantage amid ongoing supply constraints in specialized semiconductor components. The availability of wavelength variants (878, 885, and 888nm) and fiber-coupled modules demonstrates the platform's versatility, expanding Coherent's addressable market across different DPSS gain media requirements.

For industrial users, the improved thermal characteristics translate directly to better process stability and output quality in precision manufacturing applications, creating value that extends well beyond the component cost.

SAXONBURG, Pa., June 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Coherent Corp. (NYSE: COHR), a global leader in photonics, today launches the SES18-880A-190-10, a high-power 880 nm single-emitter laser diode on sub mount, designed specifically for high-efficiency, high-reliability pumping of diode-pumped solid-state (DPSS) lasers.

Delivering 18 W optical output power with over 62% conversion efficiency and 97% polarization extinction ratio, the SES18-880A-190-10 sets a new benchmark for DPSS pump lasers in terms of performance, reliability, and cost-effectiveness. With a 190 µm emitter and one of the most competitive $/W ratios available in the 880 nm class, this product is ideal for precision applications requiring excellent beam quality and scalable power.

“The DPSS laser market is evolving rapidly, with demand growing in micromachining, advanced packaging, and semiconductor processing,” said Dr. Karlheinz Gulden, Senior Vice President, Laser Components and Subsystems at Coherent. “This new diode allows customers to realize the full benefits of 880 nm pumping—delivering lower quantum defects, reduced thermal lensing, and enhanced mode quality compared to traditional 808 nm solutions.”

Built on the 6-inch GaAs wafer platform from Coherent, the SES18-880A-190-10 benefits from fully vertically integrated manufacturing—from epitaxial wafer growth to chip design and sub mount packaging. Its advanced chip architecture ensures consistent performance, high polarization purity, and robust thermal management, making it a standout option for end-pumped DPSS systems. Its wavelength range (870–876 nm) and optimized front facet reflectivity are engineered for compatibility with Volume Bragg Grating (VBG) stabilization, offering precise wavelength control and alignment flexibility.

Variations of the product are available at 878, 885, and 888 nm to support different DPSS gain media. Coherent also offers fiber-coupled modules using the same chip technology, supporting a wide range of integration needs. These modules, including the FACTOR series, provide scalable, high-efficiency pumping for advanced laser systems.

The SES18-880A-190-10 is generally available.

For more information, meet our team at Laser World of Photonics, Munich, 24-27 June.  

About Coherent 

Coherent empowers market innovators to define the future through breakthrough technologies, from materials to systems. We deliver innovations that resonate with our customers in diversified applications for the industrial, communications, electronics, and instrumentation markets. Coherent has research and development, manufacturing, sales, service, and distribution facilities worldwide. For more information, please visit us at coherent.com.  

Media Contact: 
innovations@coherent.com 

FAQ

What are the key specifications of Coherent's new SES18-880A-190-10 laser diode?

The SES18-880A-190-10 delivers 18 W optical output power, features over 62% conversion efficiency, 97% polarization extinction ratio, and operates in the 870-876 nm wavelength range.

What applications is Coherent's (COHR) new laser diode designed for?

The laser diode is designed for micromachining, advanced packaging, and semiconductor processing applications, specifically for high-efficiency pumping of diode-pumped solid-state (DPSS) lasers.

What advantages does the 880 nm laser diode offer compared to 808 nm solutions?

Compared to 808 nm solutions, it offers lower quantum defects, reduced thermal lensing, and enhanced mode quality.

What wavelength variants are available for Coherent's new laser diode?

Besides the 870-876 nm range, variations are available at 878, 885, and 888 nm wavelengths to support different DPSS gain media.

How is Coherent's new laser diode manufactured?

The laser diode is built on a 6-inch GaAs wafer platform with fully vertically integrated manufacturing, from epitaxial wafer growth to chip design and sub mount packaging.