LASER OPERATION
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10
Laser Operation
Switching the laser “on”
1
Ensure the
smd24
is not powered (i.e. 12 V DC source is switched off).
2
Connect the Laser Umbilical Cable to the port marked ‘Laser Umbilical’ on the
smd24
before connecting the other
end to the laser head. Tighten the locking posts on the screws at both ends so they are finger tight.
3
Switch on the 12 V DC source, this should illuminate the
smd24
green power LED. At this stage the thermal control
circuitry is activated but no laser emission should occur.
4
The analogue Control port (see Figure 4.2) is multi-functional as it has connections for Interlock, Enable Switch and
Laser Power Control/Modulation. The Interlock must be closed to allow the laser to operate and this can be
achieved using the supplied green-spot Interlock Dongle.
5
Depending on the Start Up Conditions set for the system the laser may now start to emit laser light..
Power Mode
The laser operates in Power mode. The laser power is constant, and a feedback control loop maintains the power at the
level requested by the operator via the RS232 port.
Current Mode (where available)
The pump diode current as selected by the operator is a percentage of the total pump diode current available. The
requested current remains constant however, the power may drift due to environmental changes.
Switching the laser “off”
The laser is switched off by: Removing the interlock dongle; Sending the serial command ‘OFF’. The gem systems MUST
NOT be positioned so that it is difficult to operate the disconnecting devices.
Front Panel Controls
The mode of operation can be changed by the operator using the serial commands ‘CONTROL=POWER’ to select power
mode or ‘CONTROL=CURRENT’ for current mode.
Warning: Serious Personal Injury
If a red spot Interlock Dongle has been supplied with the laser system this will over-ride the need to press the Enable
button. Turning the Key Switch to the ‘on’ position will start the laser
