The EL6296 is a highly integrated laser diode driver designed to support multi-standard writable optical drives. It accomplishes this by incorporating a waveform generator wherein the diode currents and timing details can be programmed before operation. The data input circuitry inspects the NRZ serial data waveform and generates programmed waveforms in recognition of 3, 4, 5, or 6 or more clock periods of space changing to 3, 4, 5, or 6 or more clock periods of mark, and vice versa. This programmable architecture allows reprogramming of the timers to support different media, DVD or CD standards, and different speeds. The programming is accomplished through a serial interface port. Two outputs are provided to support dual-laser multi-standard optical heads. The EL6296 requires 3.3V and 5V supplies, with all the logical interface operating on the 3.3V supply.