Multiphoton laser shutdown procedure

Posted by Moulding, Dale on
URL: http://confocal-microscopy-list.275.s1.nabble.com/Multiphoton-laser-shutdown-procedure-tp7590655.html

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Dear all,

I've been in touch with our local SpectraPhysics team for advice on shutdown for their multiphoton lasers. I've pasted the advice below. I'll be shutting down our system today. They are happy to be contacted if anyone needs any advice.

cheers

Dale

Hi Dale,

Further to our call I understand a number of users would appreciate guidance on shutting down their Spectra-Physics' Mai Tai and InSight lasers for an extended period.

Firstly, the golden rule for the Chiller and Power Supply Units is "BOTH ON or BOTH OFF".  If you expect to use the system within a matter of days simply leave the system running.  For extended shutdown please follow the simple shutdown instructions in Chapter 6 of the respective user manual (pdf copies available by email).

NB: If the system has been off for a while we recommend you turn the Chiller and PSU on at least a couple of days ahead of intending to run the laser.  This will give the system sufficient time to return to operating temperature (and provide you with the expected stable operation):
   - For a Mai Tai 1-2 days should be sufficient,
   - For the larger InSight laser we would suggest 3-4 days might be necessary.

Some users may ask how to determine whether to leave running or shut down.  The restart time above is probably the deciding factor: If you're planning to use the system weekly then leave it on, if longer than a month and can restart beforehand then switch off.  However, be aware that coolant needs topping-up from time-to-time so if the coolant won't be checked / topped-up it is clear the system should be turned off.

Finally, it would not be unexpected that power cuts may occur.  We have not experienced issues caused by power outages here in the UK and so we do not suggest a UPS is necessary.  However, users should ensure the "Both On / Both Off" rule is followed.  If systems are left On and a power cut should occur it would be wise to check that both PSU and chiller have indeed both come back on.  Alternatively some users have implemented RCD devices to 'latch' the Chiller and PSU in the Off state in the event of a Power Cut.

As always, we are on hand should our users have any questions on restarting their lasers.  Do not hesitate to contact us with questions or if you are uncertain about any of the information above.
For the UK, the local Service Manager is Bob Brien and he can be reached directly on [phone].

Best regards,
Ashley and Bob
________________________________________________
Ashley Crane
Regional Sales Manager
Spectra-Physics Lasers
[hidden email]

Bob Brien
UK Service Manager
Spectra-Physics Lasers
[hidden email]

Newport Spectra-Physics Ltd
Unit 7, Library Avenue, Harwell Oxford,
Didcot, Oxfordshire, OX11 0SG, UK
Reg. no: 2096856
Office:   [phone]