Posted by
Craig Brideau on
URL: http://confocal-microscopy-list.275.s1.nabble.com/laser-launch-protocol-tp4874169p4874198.html
If you can hook the other end of the fiber up to some sort of optical
power meter, then you are in business. Basically stare at the readout
on the meter while adjusting the screws. Try to scan out a 'raster'
pattern: go back and forth on one axis, while moving the other axis in
a sweep from left to right. Eventually you will see the power meter
react, which means you are close to the fiber tip. Then just keep
making small adjustments to optimize for power. Note that you can get
stuck on local maxima rather than the true maxima. To prevent this,
when you think you are on the maximum value, move off of it a
significant distance with one axis and see that things drop off, then
move back, then try the other direction. If you don't see any higher
values anywhere then you are on the true maximum.
Craig
On Thu, Apr 8, 2010 at 4:09 PM, Michael Bastiani
<
[hidden email]> wrote:
> Anyone have experience aligning a new KrAr laser on a Microradiance 2000? I just installed
> a new laser and have a service scheduled in 2-3 weeks to align the laser (when service
> engineer gets back from a training session in Germany). It would be great if I could get it
> useable sooner and I would feel a great sense of accomplishment! It looks straightforward
> (two mirrors, 4 adjustment screws), but I know hitting a 50um fiber is not trivial. If
> someone routinely does this on their own and has step by step instructions I would love to
> hear from you.
> thanks
> michael
>