Re: 633 nm laser replacement

Posted by Zdenek Svindrych on
URL: http://confocal-microscopy-list.275.s1.nabble.com/recommended-distortion-target-for-multiphoton-tp7582387p7582393.html

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Hi,
just remember to search the divergence, pointing stability and beam profile
(M-square value) if you plan to put a diode laser into a confocal microscope
(there you can only use the 'TEM00 part' of the beam). If these parameters
are not listed you'll probably be able to couple just few percent of the
power into the fiber... Also, proper mounting and integration into an
existing microscope might be painful.
I would go for some compatible cheap old tube you can sometimes find on
ebay. Btw, I haven't seen one failing unexpectedly. I'm sure you've checked
the HV supply, control lines and interlocks... but I just wanna make sure.
Regards, Zdenek Svindrych @ cuni.cz


---------- Původní zpráva ----------
Od: Craig Brideau <[hidden email]>
Komu: [hidden email]
Datum: 22. 7. 2014 22:27:26
Předmět: Re: 633 nm laser replacement

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I have had to get a Spectra Physics argon re-tubed for one of our
confocals. It worked well and the re-tubing charge was about half the cost
of a new argon laser. ($5k retubing fee vs. $9.5k for a new argon).
I suspect HeNe lasers will be a similar cost, although you can get red
diode lasers at 635nm for fairly cheap at this point. Some even come in a
tube package that is basically a drop-in replacement for the HeNe. I'd
suggest price checking the cost of a decent 635 diode laser vs retubing
your HeNe, especially since 5mW is relatively low power and diodes are
cheap at these ranges.
Here's an example of a 4mW one in the tube format, although I always
suggest you shop around, but at least it gives you a ballpark value for
price to compare against repair of the HeNe.

http://www.thorlabs.com/newgrouppage9.cfm?objectgroup_id=1219

Craig Brideau


On Tue, Jul 22, 2014 at 11:13 AM, Arvydas Matiukas <[hidden email]>
wrote:

> *****
> To join, leave or search the confocal microscopy listserv, go to:
> http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?A0=confocalmicroscopy
> Post images on http://www.imgur.com and include the link in your posting.
> *****
>
> Dear listers,
>
> 633nm 5mW HeNe laser LGK 7628-1 went dead on our
> LSM 510. The laser has been working for 10years and
> most likely >5000 hrs and suddenly stopped producing
> a beam.
>
> The confocal is off service contract so I am looking for
> inexpensive option to self-repair/replace/refurbish the
> laser. Core Directors and Managers please share any
> related experience. Contacting me off list is fine.
>
> I googled a used/refurbished laser of the same model
> for $650 (4 month warranty included). Any experience
> with such option is greatly appreciated. I project about
> 1000 hrs laser usage in 2-3 years, and paying the full price
> for a new laser would not be cost effective.
>
> best,
> Arvydas
>
> Director of Microscopy Core
> SUNY Upstate Medical University
>"