Laser operation, Manual shutter operation – Quantum Composers Jewel Laser User Manual
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Page 18 Jewel Manual v1.1 | Quantum Composers
The laser has undergone extensive testing to verify its conformance to the specifications prior to
delivery.
Once the laser has been set up as outlined in the previous chapter, it is ready to operate. Turn
the Key Switch ON. After approximately 10 seconds the laser is initialized and ready for operator
control. See summary Data Sheets included with our laser for factory preset operating
parameters.
CAUTION: Below is a list of guidelines, which apply to all Quantum Composers’
laser systems. These guidelines should be followed whenever possible, to avoid
laser damage.
Operate the laser in a dust-free environment, and keep the Laser Optics covered when not
in use. This protects the output aperture against dust and particulate.
The Laser Optics Assembly is sealed with careful attention to use of low outgassing
materials. Silicone and similar sealing, bonding or insulating materials should not be used
in close proximity to the Laser Optics because these substances will outgas, and could
contaminate the output window, causing laser damage.
Avoid back reflections. Back reflections of even a small percentage of the output energy
can promote damage to optical components in the Laser Head. For example, an uncoated
convex lens or a glass disk calorimeter will reflect about 4% of the incident energy. While
the reflection may seem harmless, it can perturb the resonator operation to the extent that
the near field beam intensity profile is degraded, and may promote optical damage. It may
also affect the resonator hold-off, which can cause prelasing and catastrophic optical
damage. In some cases, even anti-reflection coated glass optics can reflect enough
energy to promote damage to laser optics. It is best to use only quality optics coated for
the operating wavelength.
CAUTION: To avoid laser damage, minimize back reflections of the output beam.
When reflections are unavoidable, direct them away from the optical axis of the
system by canting the optics off-axis. Failure to do so can cause laser damage and
void the warranty.
MANUAL SHUTTER OPERATION
The Jewel Laser utilizes a manual shutter, located at the output of the laser head (see Figure 13).
The shutter blocks laser output when in the CLOSED position. An internal switch prevents the
laser from firing. The switch is satisfied only when the lever is fully in the OPEN position.
6.
Laser Operation