LTB MNL X00 Series User manual

LIGHT. PRECISION. ANALYTICS.
Nitrogen Laser MNL 100 / MNL X00
Operating Manual
LTB Lasertechnik Berlin GmbH
Am Studio 2c, 12489 Berlin, Germany
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
[email protected]
www.ltb-berlin.de
Oct. 2022
Rev. 10

Operating Manual MNL 100 / MNL X00 Dear customers
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Dear customers
With the purchase of an OEM laser from the MNL 100 / MNL X00 series, you have selected a state-of-the-art
Nitrogen Laser.
This laser satisfies the sophisticated needs and demanding goals of various applications within the industry.
The following properties reveal the advantages of the MNL 100 / MNL X00.
High pulse power
Minimal beam divergence
Minimal time jitter
Pulse halfwidths in the sub- and nanosecond range
Long lifetime
Low operating costs
These properties make this laser attractive for applications where high quality, stable output and cost-
effectiveness are required.
The MNL is mainly used in
MALDI-TOF-Mass spectroscopy
Laser-induced fluorescence spectroscopy
Time-resolved spectroscopy
laser-induced plasma spectroscopy
Laser ablation
Micro-structuring
Cell dissection under the microscope
Laser acoustics
Calibration of fast sensors
Pump source of dye lasers
Amplification of ultra-short laser pulses
Technological processes like laser-induced bonding, hardening and cleaning
Special applications in the environment and biotechnology
The laser operates on the principle of transversal excitation. The energy is stored in a capacitor arrangement
at about 12 kV. A fast high-current discharge is triggered by means of a solid-state high-voltage switch, thus
generating laser radiation. All laser functions are controlled and monitored by an internal laser controller.
Your laser has been carefully tested for all operating states with LTB’s end test program, and has left the
factory in optimal condition.
LTB wishes you much success in working with the laser on your projects. If this operation manual does not
answer all your questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Operating Manual MNL 100 / MNL X00 Contents
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Contents
1About this Operating Manual ................................................................................................................5
1.1 Contact manufacturer, Imprint, Copyright......................................................................................5
2Safety precautions .................................................................................................................................6
2.1 Invisible laser radiation...................................................................................................................6
2.2 High voltage up to 12 kV................................................................................................................7
2.3 Dangerous gases...........................................................................................................................7
2.4 Liability, Replacement parts...........................................................................................................7
3System requirements.............................................................................................................................8
3.1 Place and way of installation..........................................................................................................8
3.2 Electric requirements .....................................................................................................................9
3.3 Fuses..............................................................................................................................................9
3.4 Laser control, computer .................................................................................................................9
4Installation.............................................................................................................................................10
4.1 Acclimatizing the laser .................................................................................................................10
4.2 Installing the connection between laser and computer................................................................11
4.3 Installation of the user program MarathonControl........................................................................11
4.4 Remote key and remote socket ...................................................................................................11
4.4.1 The external remote circuit..............................................................................................12
4.4.2 Connecting external applications.....................................................................................12
5Operating the laser...............................................................................................................................13
5.1 Preparing for operation ................................................................................................................13
5.1.1 Remote key......................................................................................................................13
5.1.2 Connection establishment ...............................................................................................14
5.2 Starting laser operation................................................................................................................15
5.2.1 Enabling operation...........................................................................................................15
5.2.2 Beam Shutter...................................................................................................................16
5.2.3 Set the repetition rate and the number of pulses.............................................................17
5.2.4 Choosing your operation mode........................................................................................19
5.2.4.1 REPETITION ON................................................................................................ 20
5.2.4.2 BURST................................................................................................................ 20
5.2.4.3 EXT TRIGGER................................................................................................... 20
5.3 Switching off the laser..................................................................................................................21
5.3.1 Stopping laser operation..................................................................................................21
5.3.2 Switching off the laser......................................................................................................22
5.3.3 Break time automatic.......................................................................................................23
5.3.4 Closing the beam shutter.................................................................................................23
5.3.5 Protecting the laser..........................................................................................................23
6Optional Features.................................................................................................................................24
6.1 High voltage control .....................................................................................................................24
6.2 Energy measurement...................................................................................................................25

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6.2.1 Calibration of the energy monitor.....................................................................................25
6.3 Attenuator module (in connection with energy monitor) ..............................................................26
6.4 Fiber coupling...............................................................................................................................27
6.5 Optical trigger with electrical output.............................................................................................27
7OEM –Applications..............................................................................................................................28
7.1 AUTOMODE operation ................................................................................................................28
7.1.1 AutoStandBy....................................................................................................................29
7.1.2 TrgStandBy......................................................................................................................29
7.2 Difference between AutoStandby and TriggerStandby................................................................31
7.3 Description of the Break Timers BT1 und BT2 ............................................................................32
7.4 Description of the auto open and auto close functions................................................................32
8Safety functions....................................................................................................................................33
8.1 Temperature monitoring...............................................................................................................34
8.2Error messages............................................................................................................................35
8.2.1 Static errors......................................................................................................................35
8.2.2 Dynamic errors (operation errors)....................................................................................36
8.2.3 Other messages...............................................................................................................36
9Appendix ...............................................................................................................................................37
9.1 LED Codes...................................................................................................................................37
9.2 User interface of Marathon Control..............................................................................................38
9.3 Inspection and maintenance ........................................................................................................39
9.4 Optional components ...................................................................................................................40
9.5 Warranty.......................................................................................................................................41
9.6 OEM information ..........................................................................................................................42
9.7 Declaration of Conformity.............................................................................................................43
9.8 Specifications, Technical Data.....................................................................................................44
9.9 Dimensions and interfaces...........................................................................................................46
9.10 Functional block diagram .............................................................................................................47
9.11 Safety functions............................................................................................................................48
9.12 Delay and time jitter .....................................................................................................................49
9.13 Table of labels..............................................................................................................................50
9.14 Position of the labels....................................................................................................................52
AAlternative Labels.................................................................................................................................53
A.1 Position of alternative Labels.......................................................................................................56

Operating Manual MNL 100 / MNL X00 1 About this Operating Manual
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1 About this Operating Manual
For safe and proper use of the product, read this manual carefully before use and act
accordingly. Keep this manual for future reference. This document is available as print
media / pdf on request.
1.1 Contact manufacturer, Imprint, Copyright
Manufacturer LTB Lasertechnik Berlin GmbH
Am Studio 2c
12489 Berlin
Germany
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
[email protected]
www.ltb-berlin.de
Imprint LTB Lasertechnik Berlin GmbH
Am Studio 2c
12489 Berlin
Germany
Copyright © LTB Lasertechnik Berlin GmbH, 2021, All rights reserved.

Operating Manual MNL 100 / MNL X00 2 Safety precautions
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2 Safety precautions
Please note: the laser source is an OEM device which is used for integration only.
MNL Lasers are 3B class lasers (IEC 60825-1)
Improper treatment and operation of the laser can cause damage to your health.
Please follow carefully all the instructions in this manual.
The safety and information labels and their position are shown in the appendix (see chapters 9.13 and 9.14).
2.1 Invisible laser radiation
The laser emits intensive invisible laser radiation in the UV range.
Do not look into the laser beam!
Figure 1: Positions of the laser beam output (here with optical fiber attached)
Depending on your configuration the laser beam output is located at position A or B (see Figure 1 above) or
–for lasers with optical fiber –at the end of the fiber. The aperture label 4.2 (see chapter 9.13) warns of laser
radiation emission.
Please always wear laser safety goggles appropriate to the wavelength of 337 nm and ensure that all
persons in the vicinity of the laser also wear laser goggles during laser operation.
For MNL lasers, you need class L6 laser goggles.
A
B

Operating Manual MNL 100 / MNL X00 2 Safety precautions
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Always close the beam shutter when the laser is not in operation.
Please observe that there are no reflecting materials in the beam path by which the laser beam could
unintentionally be directed towards persons or sensitive materials.
Always use beam shutters made of non-inflammable materials in your set-up.
Always follow the safety regulations.
The laser safety parameters according to IEC 60825-1 depending on the configuration of the laser:
Model
MNL103PD / MNL106PD,
MNLX03PD / MNLX06PD
without optical fibre
MNL103LD / MNL106LD,
MNLX03LD / MNLX06LD
without optical fibre
MNL103PD / MNL106PD
MNLX03PD / MNLX06PD
with optical fibre attached
Ocular MPE*
1 J / cm2
1 J / cm2
1 J / cm2
NOHD*
300 meter
2000 meter
1.2 meter**
* Specifications for the exposure time of 30000 seconds.
** Usually the customer connects a follow-up optic, which can lead to much higher energy densities and thus to higher NOHD.
2.2 High voltage up to 12 kV
A high voltage of up to 12 kV is generated in the laser. Perilously high energy amounts are also accumulated
in the capacitors of the laser. Therefore, observe the protected earth connection of the mains. The earth
conductor connection from the laser housing to the input of the LTB power supply of the laser is ensured.
Do not open the laser due to occurring dangerous high voltages in the interior of the laser!
Because of high voltage circuits, the laser should never be opened nor should any objects be put into the
laser casing openings.
2.3 Dangerous gases
The high-energetic UV radiation causes ozone. No noxious gases are used in the laser. The cartridge has a
pressure-safe sealing.
Please observe that the laser operating room is sufficiently ventilated.
2.4 Liability, Replacement parts
Any modification of the laser, replacement of components or adjustment of the laser must be done by
authorized service staff.
Only components tested by LTB must be used.
Any liability and warranty lapses with the opening of the laser or any modifications without LTB’s explicit
written consent.

Operating Manual MNL 100 / MNL X00 3 System requirements
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3 System requirements
3.1 Place and way of installation
Figure 2: MNL laser
The laser is intended for indoor use. The laser must be operated and stored in a dry, dust-poor and well-
ventilated area.
Operation temperature
°C
+15…+38
Storage temperature
°C
-10…+60
Max. rel. humidity
%
85
Pollution degree
-
2
Air pressure
mbar
750…1300
Altitude
meters above sea level
-428…2000
Please make sure that the laser is not placed near any heat sources.
Moreover please observe that the air inlet is on the side of the beam output of the laser and must not be
blocked. We recommend replacing the air inlet filters of the laser every 6 to 18 months depending on the
dust concentration of the cooling air (see also 9.3 Inspection and maintenance, page 39).
The air outlet openings on both sides of the laser cover must be kept clear of any obstructions.
Mounting the laser may be realized via the base plate with the red-marked threaded holes. (See 9.9
Dimensions and interfaces, page 46)
The laser may either be used in a standing position, or hanging with the beam output downwards. Other
positions can be checked on request.

Operating Manual MNL 100 / MNL X00 3 System requirements
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3.2 Electric requirements
The laser is supplied with a low voltage of 24 V DC, 2.4 A. A power supply unit providing the low voltage
from the mains is part of the delivery as standard.
The mains connection values are: 100 to 240 V, 47/63 Hz, 1.1 A (see type label).
Connect the laser power supply unit only to a mains
that corresponds to the values stated on the type.
The laser power supply unit has an earthed conductor connection that is connected to the laser housing via
the connection cable. The low voltage is off-earth, the minus line is connected to the frame ground.
The laser power supply fulfills the requirements of the standard, 61000-6-3, 61000-6-2, 61000-3-2 and
61000-3-3 regarding mains supply voltage fluctuations, interruptions and voltage dips for industrial
environment.
Using another power supply requires the written consent of LTB Lasertechnik Berlin.
Please observe: only a mains that provides an earthed conductor is to be used.
The cross section area should be at least 0.75 mm² respectively AWG 18, voltage rating 300 V.
Unless otherwise specified (OEM contracts), a suitable power cord is included.
US / Canadian customers: Power cord (if being used) has to be UL / CSA compliant.
3.3 Fuses
The laser is equipped with resettable fuses. Their replacement is not necessary in case of an error.
3.4 Laser control, computer
Using a RS 232 interface connected to a PC or Notebook, the laser can be operated with all functions and
settings. The last settings are stored when the laser is switched off, and are provided again as basic settings
when the laser is switched on again.
The laser comes with an optic-electronic interface converter for the connection between laser and PC.
PC requirements: No special requirements.
For integrating the MNL 100 / MNL X00 in a system control, the interfaces of the MNL 100 / MNL X00 are
described in detail in the Interface Manual.
Alternatively to the operation via the optical PC interface, the lasers of the MNL 100 / MNL X00 series can be
operated without computer (see 7 OEM –Applications).

Operating Manual MNL 100 / MNL X00 4 Installation
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4 Installation
1 - Device cord
2 - Power On LED (1 x green)
3 - Laser emission indicator LEDs (2 x red)
4 - Remote socket
5 - External trigger input, optical (HP OWG)
6 - RS 232 interface (optical, HP OWG, TX-grey, RX-blue)
7 - Sync Out (SMB) (optional)
Figure 3: Connections of the MNL laser
4.1 Acclimatizing the laser
We recommend that the laser is acclimatized to its operating environment for one hour before it is switched
on, especially if it was recently exposed to ambient temperatures outside the operating range.
1
4
5
6
7
2 and 3

Operating Manual MNL 100 / MNL X00 4 Installation
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4.2 Installing the connection between laser and computer
A Duplex-OWG (optical wave guide) is used to establish the
connection between the laser and a computer or notebook.
The interface in the laser has already been integrated. Plug in
and fix the interface adapter onto a free 9-pin serial port of your
computer.
If you have only USB interfaces at your disposal, you will need
an adapter USB-RS 232 (optionally available).
Turn on your PC. The transmitter line (blue connector) of the
duplex cable must emit red light. Put the OWG connectors –
blue below, grey above –in the sockets of the optical interface
RS 232 at the laser. The PC and laser are now connected.
Figure 4: Duplex-OWG
Figure 5: USB-RS 232 adapter
4.3 Installation of the user program MarathonControl
1. The laser is operated and monitored via its serial interface. The program MarathonControl allows the
convenient operation via PC or Laptop.
Download the “MarathonControl”software from the website http://www.ltb-berlin.de/en/company/downloads/
2. Unzip the zip file and execute the file install.exe.
3. The laser control software installation proceeds automatically.
4.4 Remote key and remote socket
The remote socket (see page 10, [4]) is provided for:
Closing the external remote circuit with the remote key
Integrating external applications in the remote circuit of the
laser
The remote key prevents unauthorized use and provides
additional safety during laser operation.
Always remove the remote key after switching off the laser and
store it in a safe location.
With an open remote circuit, the laser cannot be operated!
Figure 6: Remote key

Operating Manual MNL 100 / MNL X00 4 Installation
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4.4.1 The external remote circuit
The external remote circuit is closed when the remote key is plugged into the remote socket (Mini-USB) of
the laser.
4.4.2 Connecting external applications
For additional protection against laser radiation, the position switch of the laser beam guidance and the
sample chambers of a laser application can be incorporated into the external remote circuit.
Thereby opening the beam guidance or sample chamber will automatically switch off the laser.
The necessary cables can be obtained from LTB.

Operating Manual MNL 100 / MNL X00 5 Operating the laser
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5 Operating the laser
5.1 Preparing for operation
Connect the power supply unit with the mains via the device cord.
Connect the Mate-N-Lok connector to the laser.
The Power On LED (green) of the laser should start blinking. (please see 9.1 LED Codes)
Figure 7: Connecting the mains
5.1.1 Remote key
Plug the remote key or remote adapter in the remote socket of the laser. The green Power ON LED on the
top of the laser should remain on.

Operating Manual MNL 100 / MNL X00 5 Operating the laser
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5.1.2 Connection establishment
Start the MarathonControl program.
The laser controller automatically switches into ONLINE mode. Laser-computer-communication is
electronically monitored. The laser and computer are properly connected if the blue and the green triangles
in the MarathonControl user interface flash alternately.
If, however, NO CONNECTION flashes, the COM-port must be changed in the user interface.
Click System in the drop down menu and then go to Options or click directly on COM.
Choose the appropriate port (COM 1…9).

Operating Manual MNL 100 / MNL X00 5 Operating the laser
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5.2 Starting laser operation
You can set all alterable parameters via a mouse click on the user interface or by using the respective
underlined letters in the menu bar.
After the warm-up period is completed, you can begin laser operation.
5.2.1 Enabling operation
By clicking the button
(or “A“ on the keyboard)
you enable operation.
STAND BY

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5.2.2 Beam Shutter
The laser is equipped with a motor-driven beam shutter which is activated via the laser interface.
By default, the beam shutter is closed.
It can be opened by a software command and is automatically closed again if laser operation is interrupted.
When the laser is in the STAND BY mode, the shutter can be opened with the button OPEN SHUTTER.
When the shutter is open, the button changes to CLOSE SHUTTER and the display OPEN under the button
gleams yellow.

Operating Manual MNL 100 / MNL X00 5 Operating the laser
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5.2.3 Set the repetition rate and the number of pulses
In the field REP.RATE
you see the current pulse repetition rate.
In the field QUANTITY
you see the current pulse number (refers to Burst mode only).

Operating Manual MNL 100 / MNL X00 5 Operating the laser
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To change value of the repetition rate or pulse quantity, click the respective display:
The input window INPUT REPETITION RATE appears
or
INPUT QUANTITY
Key in your required values (in integers up to 65535) and confirm them.
You can also call the input windows by entering "E" (for repetition rate) or "Y" (for quantity) on the keyboard.

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5.2.4 Choosing your operation mode
Approximately ten seconds after you press the STAND BY button, the following buttons become active:
Here, you can choose the required operation mode.
After pushing one of these buttons, the high voltage is automatically switched on and the laser starts in the
selected mode.
This can also be done by entering the respective underlined letter ("R", "B", "X") via the keyboard.
Please observe!
In EXT-TRIGGER mode the optical trigger input of the laser is active, and incident stray light can cause
malfunctioning if no trigger cable is connected.
REPETITION ON
BURST
EXT-TRIGGER

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5.2.4.1 REPETITION ON
The laser runs continuously with the repetition rate between 1 and 60 Hz (depending on the laser type,
internally limited) as set by you.
The required repetition rate can be modified while the laser is running.
5.2.4.2 BURST
In addition to the frequency, you can also choose the pulse quantity in this mode. Starting with the total
number, the laser counts down the pulses to zero.
5.2.4.3 EXT TRIGGER
In EXT-TRIGGER mode the laser must be provided with an external optical trigger signal.
The respective input socket (Page 10; [5]) is positioned directly below the interface input. The trigger
converter cable (electric –optic) converts electrical pulses into the corresponding trigger pulses (the cable is
included in the utility bag)
If you use the trigger converter cable, please observe the following requirements:
Amplitude: 5 Volt (TTL, without OFFSET)
Driver current: ≥10 mA
Pulse width: 2-60 µs
If you use your own optical trigger source, please observe:
The laser is equipped with a HP OWG receiver system for Ø 1 mm POF fibers and requires the following
specifications:
Pulse width of the light impulse 2-60 µs
Light power ≥ 100 µW @ 660 nm
The maximum possible repetition rate of the laser is internally limited.