MKS Ophir BeamWatch AM Quick start guide

BeamWatch AM User Note
Document No. 50394-001
Rev H
3-Feb-2020
Page 1
BeamWatch AM
User Notes
For Sales, Service or Technical Support
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Service Email
[e-mail]
Sales Email
[e-mail]
Ophir-Spiricon, LLC
3050 North 300 West
North Logan, Utah 84341
©2020 Ophir-Spiricon, LLC

BeamWatch AM User Note
Document No. 50394-001
Rev H
3-Feb-2020
Page 2
Dear Ophir-Spiricon Customer,
Thank you for your recent purchase of the BeamWatch AM system.
At Ophir-Spiricon we strive to provide the highest level of leading edge photonic measurement technology and
service possible. We hope that your experience with us is a pleasant one, and anticipate the relationship we
build will serve your photonic measurement needs for years to come.
As a valued customer, your comments and opinions are always very important to us. If you have any
concerns, questions, or comments, bring them to our service department’s attention. We are ready to help
with everything from basic setup to working with you to find solutions for your most complex photonics
measurement needs.
Please let us know if there is any way we can be of service. Thank you once again for your business.
Sincerely,
Ophir-Spiricon, LLC
Ophir-Spiricon, LLC
3050 North 300 West
North Logan, UT 84341, USA
Tel [phone]
Fax [phone]
www.ophiropt.com/photonics

BeamWatch AM User Note
Document No. 50394-001
Rev H
3-Feb-2020
Page 3
How to Use this Guide
Symbol Notation
Indicates general information that poses no risk.
Indicates important information about the product with little or no risk.
Indicates warning information. Failure to follow instruction may result in harm to the user or product
damage.

BeamWatch AM User Note
Document No. 50394-001
Rev H
3-Feb-2020
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Safety
While the BeamWatch AM alone does not present the user with any safety hazards, this instrument is intended
for use with laser systems. Therefore, the user should be protected from any hazards that the laser system
may present. The greatest hazards associated with laser systems are damage to the eyes and skin due to laser
radiation.
Optical Radiation Hazards
BeamWatch AM is designed for use with high power lasers and therefore safety precautions must
be taken. Users must be protected against accidental exposure. Exposure to personnel other than
the user must also be considered. Hazards include direct beam exposure and reflected radiation.
Protective eye shields and clothing must be worn.
Electrical Hazards
BeamWatch AM utilizes only low voltages, derived from the USB and camera power supplies. Thus
there is little risk of electrical shock presented to the user.
When installing or removing any hardware from a PC, the power to the computer should always be
disconnected.
The computer should always be operated with its covers in place and in accordance with its
manufacturer’s recommendations.
The computer should always be operated with a properly grounded AC power cord.

BeamWatch AM User Note
Document No. 50394-001
Rev H
3-Feb-2020
Page 5
Chapter 1 General Information
Introduction
BeamWatch AM is the next version in Ophir-Spiricon’s family of non-interfering beam monitoring systems.
Designed specifically for the additive manufacturing industry, BeamWatch AM sports a new compact design
and provides real-time measurement of the beam at the working plane location. Measurement of the beam’s
caustic is taken by imaging the Rayleigh scatter of the beam from the side. A dust shutter is implemented to
prevent contamination of internal components and can only be opened when the purge gas is flowing. A light
trap and power sensor are also included in the design to fully contain and provide absolute power
measurement of the beam.
BeamWatch AM provides simultaneous measurements of multiple profiles along the beam caustic in the
camera field-of-view (FOV). Real-time measurements are performed at video rates. They include:
•waist (focus spot) width and location
•focal shift
•centroid
•M2or K
•divergence
•Beam Parameter Product
•Rayleigh length
•absolute power
Real-time performance also allows for measurement of dynamic focal shift during laser startup.
The technique is based on Rayleigh scattering of laser light by oxygen and nitrogen molecules in the air as the
beam propagates. Measurement of this scattered light provides an equivalent slit scan of the laser beam in the
direction of the view observed. The scattered light is measured using conventional CCD cameras and image
capture systems.
BeamWatch AM has USB connectivity to Windows personal computers for data acquisition, analysis, and
display.
Make sure to save the BeamWatch AM Shipping case and key. This makes it easier to ship when the
unit needs to be recalibrated.

BeamWatch AM User Note
Document No. 50394-001
Rev H
3-Feb-2020
Page 6
User documentation:
•BeamWatch AM User Notes
•Alignment tool User Notes
•Calibration Certificate
•Quick Start Guide
BeamWatch AM
Power Supply Cable
Power Supply Adapter
Software Installation
Disc
Interlock Cable
Y-Distributor for
Interlock
Juno USB Interface
Wiring Harness:
•Power Sensor Cable
•Polyurethane Tubing
•Power Cable
•USB 3.0 Cable
•5/32” - 1/4” Air Hose Adapter
Equipment

BeamWatch AM User Note
Document No. 50394-001
Rev H
3-Feb-2020
Page 7
Additional 1/4" Air Hose
(10ft)
Retaining Ring Pliers
Halo Aperture
Replacement Filters
(x4)
Alignment Tool

BeamWatch AM User Note
Document No. 50394-001
Rev H
3-Feb-2020
Page 8
Getting to know BeamWatch AM
LED Notification Lights
Three LED lights on the top of the BeamWatch AM unit provide information at a glance about operation.
The Power Indicator LED shines green when the unit is receiving power.
The Shutter Indicator LED shines green when the shutter is open and red when the shutter is closed. The
shutter cannot open without the purge gas connected and flowing.
The Fan Indicator LED shines green when the fan is active and does not shine when the fan is inactive. The
fan is the primary method of cooling when the unit gets too hot. When the unit gets too hot a warning
appears in the software. The fan can only be turned on from the software.
The shutter cannot be open when the fan is running and vice-versa.

BeamWatch AM User Note
Document No. 50394-001
Rev H
3-Feb-2020
Page 9
Specifications
Beam Profiling
Wavelength
1060-1080 nm
Minimum Power density
1.5 Megawatts/cm2
Minimum Focus Spot
50 microns
Maximum Beam diameter at
entrance
6 mm
(4.5 mm using the Halo Aperture)
Communication to PC
USB 2.0 & USB 3.0
Power
100-240 Volts AC 50/60Hz
Particulate Purge
Clean dry gas, 3-8 SLPM (35-100 PSI /
250-650 kPa). 1/4" hose fitting included.
Beam Divergence
15-60 mrad
Field of View
11.26mm x 2.99mm
Power Meter/Beam Dump
Measured Power
50 W to 1000 W
Maximum Power Exposure
1000 W for 2 minutes (120 kJ)
Precision
±3%
Cool-down Time
20 minutes with fan cooling if used to
maximum exposure
General
Weight
17 lbs
Dimensions
7.03in x 4.96in x 7.16in
178.57mm x 126mm x 181.92mm

BeamWatch AM User Note
Document No. 50394-001
Rev H
3-Feb-2020
Page 10
Operating Space
The graphic below gives a visual indication of the recommended operating space for BeamWatch AM. If
BeamWatch is operated outside of this space, it may be difficult to see the curvature of the caustic or the
beam may be large enough at the edges of the image that it is out of focus.
•Best results yield the strongest measurements and may be ISO when 3 Rayleigh lengths can be seen
by the camera’s detector.
•Acceptable results do not meet ISO requirements, but can still be strong, accurate measurements.
•Avoid applying lasers that fall within the Danger Zone as these results may lead to damaging fine
components in the BeamWatch AM unit.
In some cases results may fall within the Best Results area of the plot, but not state ISO. If this occurs, the
build plate location can be adjusted so the appropriate amount of Rayleigh lengths can be seen. Only make
adjustments after following the standard setup procedure and achieving an initial understanding of the beam.
The calibrated distance is measured to the center of the FOV and the detector is approximately 11mm
vertically. The build plane location can be adjusted ±5mm with the working plane still in the FOV.
If the beam focus is stable and does not experience a significant focal shift, the best practice for reaching ISO
compliance is to lower the build plate location farther than the calibrated distance by a maximum of 5mm. This
will cause the focal point to occur higher in the detector’s FOV and prevent any possible damage to the turning
mirror.
If the focal point shifts outside of the FOV then the build plate location can be raised a maximum of 5mm from
the calibrated distance to attempt to capture the entire focal shift. If the beam’s focal point falls outside of the
FOV the result accuracy is degraded.

BeamWatch AM User Note
Document No. 50394-001
Rev H
3-Feb-2020
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Chapter 2 Setup
Mounting Hardware
Place the BeamWatch AM unit in the build chamber
approximately where the beam can enter the input
aperture unobstructed.
BeamWatch AM employs three ball bearings at its
base to maintain three points of contact which keeps
the unit level. Some build planes have holes for
mounting. Make sure that none of the ball bearings
fall into these holes. The unit may be rotated slightly
as needed.
In most instances the weight of the unit keeps the
unit in place. The user is responsible for any other
means of securing the unit on the build plate.
Lower the build plane to the exact distance of the
calibration sticker on the unit. This distance ensures
that the Camera Axis and the Working Plane are
level.
BeamWatch AM is spatially calibrated which allows
the software to automatically calculate the distance
between the working plane and the waist location of
the beam.
The calibrated distance is measured from the point
where the ball bearings rest on the build plate to the
center of the camera FOV and is marked with a line
on the side of the unit.
Never apply the laser when the dust shutter is closed. The dust shutter can only be opened from
inside the software when the purge gas is flowing. See section 2.1.3.

BeamWatch AM User Note
Document No. 50394-001
Rev H
3-Feb-2020
Page 12
A 10 mm reference pin hole is present under the
bottom plate to help aid with repeatable mounting.
The bottom plate does not contain an access hole
due to fan airflow. However this plate can be
removed when in the build chamber.
Remove the bottom plate to locate the reference pin
hole. The unit can be mounted to a custom build
plate with a press fit dowel. If using the fan to cool
the unit the plate must be reinstalled.
Connections
Additive manufacturing powder beds
have high levels of particulates that
must be removed from the camera FOV
to obtain accurate results. With
BeamWatch AM, this is accomplished by
generating a laminar flow region at the
camera FOV using a clean, dry gas
source. Air, Nitrogen, or Argon is
recommended.
Connect the provided tubing to the gas
source as shown.
The 5/32” - 1/4” Air Hose Adapter and
Additional 1/4” Air Hose are included in
case they are needed.

BeamWatch AM User Note
Document No. 50394-001
Rev H
3-Feb-2020
Page 13
After connecting the purge gas, connect the electrical components.
1. Connect the provided power
cord to the power port on the
BeamWatch AM unit.
2. Connect the remaining end into
a surge protected 100-240 VAC
outlet.
3. Connect one end of the
provided USB 3.0 cable into the
data source on the BeamWatch
AM unit.
4. Connect the remaining end into
a USB port on the PC.
5. Connect the provided Power
Sensor cable to the Sensor port
on the BeamWatch AM and the
remaining end to the Juno USB
Interface.
6. Connect the provided USB mini-
B cable to the port on the Juno
and connect the other end to
the PC.
Route all cables safely outside of the chamber before operation.
Calibration information is stored inside the wiring harness. Always make sure that the serial number
and calibration date on the harness match what is listed on the BeamWatch AM unit.
If the BeamWatch software detects that the BeamWatch AM is not connected to external power a
warning appears on screen.

BeamWatch AM User Note
Document No. 50394-001
Rev H
3-Feb-2020
Page 14
Interlock (Optional)
The Y-Distributor and Interlock cable are provided to allow you to integrate BeamWatch AM with your laser
system. This can prevent accidentally applying the laser when the shutter is not open.
1. Connect the Y-Distributor to the
power cable.
2. Connect the Interlock Cable to one
side of the Y-Distributor.
3. Use the exposed wires to integrate
BeamWatch AM into the laser
interlock system.
4. Connect the power supply adapter to
the Y-Distributor.
5. Connect the power supply adapter to
a supply source.
The following schematic is a wiring diagram for the Interlock Cable to be used when integrating into the laser
interlock system.
Wire Color
Function
Brown
+12V
White
Interlock In (Common)
Blue
Ground
Black
Interlock Out (Normally
Open
The interlock is a normally open contact that closes when the shutter opens.

BeamWatch AM User Note
Document No. 50394-001
Rev H
3-Feb-2020
Page 15
Laser Setup
1. Open the software, supply approximately 3
SLPM (35 PSI / 2.5 BAR) purge gas, and then
select Open to open the shutter. Do not
exceed 8 SLPM (100 PSI / 6.5 BAR).
2. Apply the guide beam. The alignment tool can
only be used with a low power guide beam.
Alignment
BeamWatch AM is provided with an alignment
tool accessory. For accurate results the beam
must be aligned with the center of the input
aperture, perpendicular to the top of the unit. A
beam offset in any direction can produce
inaccurate results and risk damage.

BeamWatch AM User Note
Document No. 50394-001
Rev H
3-Feb-2020
Page 16
Using the Alignment Tool
1. Insert the alignment tool into the BeamWatch AM with the
cutout side facing the camera as shown.
a. The alignment tool has an index to assist in guiding
it into place. Hold the tool by the index and insert it
into the aperture on the unit.
b. Place the index into the middle notch in the
aperture to view the beam on both axes, or insert it
left or right to view only one axis.
c. Ensure the alignment tool is flush with the top.
The BeamWatch AM alignment tool is intended for use
with low power alignment beams.
-Do not turn the high power beam on when the
alignment tool is in place-
2. Start the BeamWatch software and enable the Crosshair
located at the top of the 2D Beam Display window.
3. Turn on the alignment beam and center it on the alignment tool by adjusting either the beam or the
BeamWatch AM unit, with the beam perpendicular to the BeamWatch as shown below.

BeamWatch AM User Note
Document No. 50394-001
Rev H
3-Feb-2020
Page 17
4. The beam will be displayed in the BeamWatch software as an ellipse as shown in the images below. It
may be necessary to adjust the Exposure and/or Summing to bring the alignment beam to a viewable
level.
5. If the beam is centered on the crosshair as shown in the properly centered example, the beam is
aligned. If the beam is not centered it will be necessary to adjust the angle the beam enters the
BeamWatch. The following illustrations show beam deviations and the resulting displays.
The angle of the beam is exaggerated for clarity.

BeamWatch AM User Note
Document No. 50394-001
Rev H
3-Feb-2020
Page 18
6. Remove the alignment tool and use the
concept below to make any necessary
fine adjustments.
7. Watch the 2D Beam Display as you
align the beam. The outer two vertical
lines represent the bounds of the
Focal Plane Region (±350µm). Align
the beam within these bounds, in both
views, to get the strongest results.
The diagram below shows how various degrees of misaligned beams appear on the screen.
The red beam is off in the view of the Y axis. It needs to be moved down and left to center.
The blue beam is off in both axes and appears close to the insides of the views. It needs to be moved
up to center.
The purple beam is off in the view of the X axis. It needs to be moved down and right to center.
The green beam represents a perfectly aligned beam.
The orange lines represent the field of view of each axis.

BeamWatch AM User Note
Document No. 50394-001
Rev H
3-Feb-2020
Page 19
Operating Limits
The high powered lasers used in additive manufacturing generate a large amount of heat which limits how
long measurements can be taken. See the chart below to see how long measurements can be taken based on
Power levels.
The Halo Aperture
In some applications extra light besides the main beam can
enter the BeamWatch AM and cause an increase in background
signal. This makes it difficult to see the beam and can reduce
measurement accuracy. To minimize this effect insert the Halo
Aperture into the input aperture after the beam has been
properly aligned.
Make sure that the beam diameter does not exceed 4.5 mm as
it enters the Halo Aperture.

BeamWatch AM User Note
Document No. 50394-001
Rev H
3-Feb-2020
Page 20
Chapter 3 Maintenance
Replace Air Filters
Air filters should be changed every 10
hours of operation.
1. Use a flat tool, like a flathead
screwdriver, to remove the Filter
Retainer.
2. Remove the Filter Guards as well
as the filter that is interposed
between the shields.
3. Insert the new Filter between the
filter shields.
4. Insert the Filter and Filter Guards
back into the BeamWatch AM unit.
5. Replace the Filter Retainer by
applying gentle pressure.
Air filters are a replaceable part and can be purchased. See Appendix B Replacement Parts.
Cleaning the Mirror
If dust gets on the mirror it can either increase the background signal in the measurement or more likely can
burn off the mirror coating which can lead to more components getting severely damaged. The Turning Mirror
should be cleaned after every five hours of operation. Safety eye-wear required for this process.
We strongly recommend purchasing and using Newport Optic Cleaning Kit, Red Polymer, Brush Applicator
MODEL: RFCR
1. Wear safety eye-wear and clean
gloves to prevent damage to self and
fine components.
2. Use a screwdriver to remove the four
screws located on the Base Plate. Set
aside and do not lose.
3. Remove the Base Plate.
4. Use the provided retaining ring pliers
to remove the exposed Retaining
Ring.
5. Remove the Wave Ring.
6. Place a clean optical quality tissue on
the table and gently tilt the
BeamWatch AM unit to catch the
Beam Dump Mirror Assembly.