New Wave Research Tempest User manual

Operator’s Manual
New Wave Research, Inc.
Tempest and Gemini PIV
Nd: YAG Lasers
New Wave Research, Inc.
47613 Warm Springs Blvd.
Fremont, CA 94539
October 2000

Tempest Nd:YAG Laser Operator’s Manual
ii
Copyright ©2000, 1998 by New Wave Research, Inc. All rights
reserved. Printed in the U.S.A. Reproduction or translation of any part
of this publication, except as permitted by the 1976 United States
Copyright Act, without prior written permission of New Wave Research,
Inc. is unlawful.

iii
Preface
This manual contains information for proper installation and operation of
the Tempest, Gemini PIV and accessories. The Tempest and Gemini
PIV comply with the Center for Device and Radiological Health (CDRH)
Standard 21 CFR 1040.
The Tempest and Gemini PIV laser systems are Class 4 lasers and
emit laser radiation that can be harmful to your eyes and skin. It is
essential that the safety section of this manual be read before
installing this laser and that the user follows the instructions given
for safe laser operation.
Do not attempt to repair the laser while it is under warranty. Report all
problems to New Wave Research, Inc. for warranty repair.
New Wave Research, Inc. can be reached at:
47613 Warm Springs Blvd.
Fremont CA 94539
Tel: [phone]
Tel: [phone]
FAX: [phone]
E-mail: [email protected]
Web: http://www.new-wave.com

Tempest Nd:YAG Laser Operator’s Manual
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v
Table of Contents
Preface......................................................................iii
Chapter One, Laser Safety ......................................1
Introduction.......................................................................................................................................3
Optical Safety....................................................................................................................................3
Laser Safety ......................................................................................................................................4
Electrical Safety................................................................................................................................5
Safety Features.................................................................................................................................5
Laser Covers ................................................................................................................................. 5
Interlocks ....................................................................................................................................... 5
Exit Shutter .................................................................................................................................... 6
CE Declaration..................................................................................................................................6
Government Regulations.................................................................................................................7
Laser Classification ....................................................................................................................... 7
Location of Safety Labels .............................................................................................................. 7
Chapter Two, Description and Specifications.....12
Introduction.....................................................................................................................................14
Optical Layout.................................................................................................................................14
Optical Attenuator........................................................................................................................ 14
Second Harmonic Generation ..................................................................................................... 15
Third Harmonic Generation ......................................................................................................... 15
Fourth Harmonic Generation....................................................................................................... 15
External Computer Control............................................................................................................15
Safety Interlocks.............................................................................................................................15
Power Supply..................................................................................................................................16
Electronics ................................................................................................................................... 16
Water Cooling System................................................................................................................. 16
Tempest Specifications..................................................................................................................16
Gemini PIV Specifications .............................................................................................................17
Chapter Three, Installation....................................19
Voltage Requirements....................................................................................................................20
Power Line Fuse.............................................................................................................................20
Laser Umbilical...............................................................................................................................21
Control Panel ..................................................................................................................................22
Interlock Connector........................................................................................................................22
Cooling System...............................................................................................................................22
Chapter Four, Operation........................................23
Starting the Laser...........................................................................................................................25
Turning the Laser Off.....................................................................................................................26
Controls and Indicators .................................................................................................................26

Tempest Nd:YAG Laser Operator’s Manual
vi
Power Supply .............................................................................................................................. 26
Control Panel .............................................................................................................................. 27
Interlocks ........................................................................................................................................ 27
Internal Interlocks........................................................................................................................ 27
External Interlock ........................................................................................................................ 27
Triggering and Timing ................................................................................................................... 28
Inputs and Outputs...................................................................................................................... 28
Internal Triggering ....................................................................................................................... 29
External Triggering...................................................................................................................... 30
External Q-switch Triggering....................................................................................................... 32
External Flashlamp Triggering .................................................................................................... 32
External TTL Direct Triggering.................................................................................................... 32
Harmonic Generators..................................................................................................................... 34
Second Harmonic Installation ..................................................................................................... 34
Third Harmonic Installation ......................................................................................................... 36
Fourth Harmonic Installation ....................................................................................................... 36
Gemini PIV Alignment.................................................................................................................... 37
Gemini UV Operation..................................................................................................................... 39
Third Harmonic Installation ......................................................................................................... 40
Fourth Harmonic Installation ....................................................................................................... 40
Return to 532 nm operation ........................................................................................................ 41
Chapter Five, Maintenance ....................................43
Introduction .................................................................................................................................... 45
Cooling System.............................................................................................................................. 45
Deionization Cartridge Replacement .......................................................................................... 45
Cooling System Flush ................................................................................................................. 47
Flashlamp Replacement................................................................................................................ 49
Chapter Six, Troubleshooting ...............................53
Introduction .................................................................................................................................... 55
Observed Conditions..................................................................................................................... 55
Recommended Procedures........................................................................................................... 55
Procedure 1. Laser does not start..............................................................................................55
Procedure 2. Laser starts, but no light is emitted ...................................................................... 56
Procedure 3. Low fundamental output energy........................................................................... 56
Procedure 4. Unstable laser energy .......................................................................................... 56
Procedure 5. Clipped laser beam .............................................................................................. 57
Procedure 6. Low second harmonic energy .............................................................................. 57
Procedure 7. Low third harmonic energy ................................................................................... 58
Procedure 8. Low fourth harmonic energy................................................................................. 58
Appendix A, Part Numbers ....................................62
Appendix B, Limited Warranty ..............................62

vii

Tempest Nd:YAG Laser Operator’s Manual
viii
List of Figures
Figure 1-1: Location of Labels ................................................................................................................... 8
Figure 1-2: Certification Label.................................................................................................................... 9
Figure 1-3: Power Supply Identification Label ........................................................................................... 9
Figure 1-4: Laser Head Identification Label............................................................................................... 9
Figure 1-5: Warning Label, U.S. .............................................................................................................. 10
Figure 1-6: Warning Label, International.................................................................................................. 10
Figure 1-7: Aperture Label ....................................................................................................................... 11
Figure 1-8: Defeatable Interlock Label..................................................................................................... 11
Figure 2-1. Layout of Tempest Head with Options ................................................................................. 14
Figure 3-1: Voltage Switch....................................................................................................................... 20
Figure 3-2: Power Supply Back Panel ..................................................................................................... 21
Figure 4-1: Control Panel Layout ............................................................................................................. 25
Figure 4-2: Power Supply BNC input/output Connections....................................................................... 28
Figure 4-3: Timing Diagram for Internal Triggering.................................................................................. 30
Figure 4-4: Timing Diagram for External Triggering ................................................................................ 31
Figure 4-5: Second harmonic Waveplate Optimization ........................................................................... 35
Figure 4-6: Second harmonic Angle Adjustment ..................................................................................... 35
Figure 4-7: Gemini PIV Beam Overlap Adjustment ................................................................................ 38
Figure 4-8: Gemini with Extended Base Plate for UV Operation............................................................. 39
Figure 5-1. Cooling System in the Power Supply ................................................................................... 46
Figure 5-2. Deionization Cartridge and Water Reservoir........................................................................ 48
Figure 5-3. Removing Leads to Replace Flashlamp............................................................................... 49
Figure 5-5. Removal of Pump Chamber Assembly End Cap ................................................................. 50
Figure 5-6. Pump Chamber Water Seal O-rings..................................................................................... 51
List of Tables
Table 2-1: Tempest Performance Specifications..................................................................................... 16
Table 2-2: Gemini PIV Performance Specifications................................................................................. 17
Table 4-1: DB 25 Pin Assignments .......................................................................................................... 33
Table 4-2: TTL Direct Control Signals...................................................................................................... 33
Table 4-3: TTL Direct Feedback Signals ................................................................................................. 34
Table 6-1: Observed Conditions ............................................................................................................. 55
Table B-1: Part Numbers for Laser Head ............................................................................................... 62
Table B-2: Part Numbers for Laser Power Supply.................................................................................. 62

Chapter One,
Laser Safety

Tempest Nd:YAG Laser Operator’s Manual
2

Laser Safety
3
The New Wave Research Tempest Nd:YAG laser is a high performance
laser that requires care in handling. As with any high power laser system,
it is important that every person who works with the laser is trained in
the safe operation. It is also important that each person who works in the
area is aware of necessary procedures to safely turn the laser off.
The Gemini-PIV laser system is a specific configuration of the Tempest
designed for particle image velocimetry (PIV). The Gemini-PIV consists
of two IR laser heads combined in a single package with a second
harmonic generator and two discrete power supplies. All information for
the Tempest applies to the Gemini-PIV, so the Gemini PIV will be
inferred by reference.
The Tempest Nd:YAG laser generates high energy infrared radiation that
can pose serious risks to eye safety. Infrared radiation is invisible to the
eye, so the hazard is not immediately obvious, but the radiation can be
focused onto the retina. For this reason it is very important to always
wear safety glasses and to be aware of any possible reflections.
WARNING: The New Wave Research Tempest Nd:YAG
laser is a Class 4 high power laser whose beam is, by definition, a
safety and fire hazard. Take all necessary precautions to prevent
accidental exposure to both direct and reflected beams. DIFFUSE
AS WELL AS SPECULAR BEAM REFLECTIONS CAN CAUSE
SEVERE EYE AND SKIN DAMAGE.
BECAUSE THE 1064, 355, AND 266 NM OUTPUT BEAMS OF A
ND:YAG LASER ARE INVISIBLE THEY ARE EXTREMELY
DANGEROUS. Infrared radiation passes easily through the cornea,
which focuses it on the retina of the eye, where it can cause
instantaneous permanent damage including blindness. AVOID EYE
AND SKIN EXPOSURE TO DIRECT OR SCATTERED
RADIATION.
CAUTION: USE OF CONTROLS, ADJUSTMENTS OR
PERFORMANCE OF PROCEDURES OTHER THAN THOSE
SPECIFICIED HEREIN MAY RESULT IN HAZARDOUS
RADIATION EXPOSURE.
Follow the instructions contained in this manual for proper
installation and safe operation of your laser. Wear protective eye
wear; selection depends on the energy and wavelength of the laser
beam as well as operating conditions. Consult ANSI, ACGIH or
OSHA standards for guidance.
Introduction
Optical Safety

Tempest Nd:YAG Laser Operator’s Manual
4
At all times during installation, operation, maintenance or service of
your laser, avoid exposure to laser or collateral radiation exceeding
the accessible emission limits listed in “Performance Standards for
Laser Products,” 21 CFR 1040 10(d).
Laser light poses safety hazards that are not associated with conventional
light sources. Special precautions must be observed when working with
the Tempest pulsed Nd:YAG laser. The safe use of lasers requires that
all laser users, and people working in the same area as the laser, are
aware of the dangers involved.
Laser beams are intense enough to burn skin, clothing or paint. They can
ignite volatile substances such as alcohol, or other solvents. The beam
may also cause damage if reflected from some other surface. For this
reason it is important that the following precautions are observed.
• Keep the protective cover on the laser head at all times.
• Avoid looking at the output beam, even diffuse reflections are
hazardous.
• Treat back reflections from any optic surface as you would the main
laser beam. Even though the energy of such reflections is only a
fraction of that contained in the main beam, it is sufficient to cause
serious bodily harm, especially to the eye.
• Use protective eyewear at all times. Selection depends on the
wavelength and the intensity of the radiation, the conditions of use,
and the visual function required.
• Operate the laser at the lowest beam intensity possible, given the
requirements of the application.
• Expand the beam wherever possible to reduce beam intensity.
• Avoid blocking the output beam or its reflection with any part of the
body.
• Use an IR detector or energy detector to verify that the laser beam is
off before working in front of the laser.
• Establish a controlled access area for laser operation. Limit access to
those trained in the principles of laser safety.
Laser Safety

Laser Safety
5
• Maintain a high ambient light level in the laser operation area to
constrict the pupil of the eye, reducing the possibility of injury.
• Post warning signs prominently near the laser operation area.
• Provide enclosures for beam paths whenever possible.
• Set up an energy absorbing target to capture the laser beam,
preventing unnecessary reflections and scattering.
• Do not open laser head or power supply. Dangerous voltages and
laser energies are present.
If laser service is required, return it to New Wave Research, 47613
Warm Springs Blvd. Fremont CA 94539 Tel: [phone] FAX: 510-
249-1551
The laser head and power supply contain electrical circuits operating at
lethal voltage and current levels. Do not attempt to operate the laser with
the power supply cover or laser head cover removed. For service, please
contact New Wave Research at 47613 Warm Springs Blvd. Fremont,
CA, 94539. The phone number for New Wave Research is (510) 249-
1550; Fax [phone].
Certain procedures such as changing the flash lamp, water filter, or
cleaning optical components require removal of the protective systems.
It is important that all safety precautions outlined in this manual are
observed by anyone using the laser. The most important rule when
performing maintenance procedures on this laser is to unplug the power
cord from the electrical outlet.
There are no user serviceable parts on the electrical side of the power
supply. Service procedures on system electronics must be carried out by
New Wave Research.
The following features are built into the Tempest Nd:YAG lasers to
conform to government regulations and provide safe laser operation.
The Tempest laser head is enclosed in a protective housing that prevents
access to radiation in excess of Class I limits, except for the output beam,
which is Class IV. The cover also protects against stray radiation from
the Tempest. Do not remove the cover, except to perform maintenance
procedures by a trained person.
The Tempest Nd:YAG laser system has a series of interlocks to prevent
accidental exposure to dangerous levels of electricity or radiation. In
Electrical
Safety
Safety
Features
Laser Covers
Interlocks

Tempest Nd:YAG Laser Operator’s Manual
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addition, there are interlocks designed to interrupt laser operation if the
laser may be damaged. The interrupts are
• Laser head cover opened
• Control panel detached
• Laser head umbilical detached
• Cooling water temperature too high
• Cooling water flow too low
• Remote interlock interrupted (if installed)
The Tempest has an exit beam shutter located on the laser head housing.
The laser beam may be blocked by closing the shutter. Do not use the
exit beam shutter as a method of blocking the beam for more than a few
seconds. Turn off the laser if the output beam is not needed for longer
time periods.
CE Declaration
Declaration of Conformity
Application of Council Directives:
• 73/23/EEC, 89/336/EEC
Standards to which Conformity is Declared:
• EN 61010; EN 60825
• EN 55011; EN 50082
Manufacture's Name and Address:
47613 Warm Springs Blvd.
Fremont CA 94539 USA
Type of Equipment: Nd:YAG Laser Systems
Model Numbers: Tempest, Gemini
Date CE Mark Affixed: 1998
Supplementary Information:
I the undersigned, hereby declare that the equipment specified
above conforms to the above Directives and Standards.
Place: Fremont, CA Date: December 20, 1998
Edward North
President
Exit Shutter

Laser Safety
7
New Wave Research suggests that laser users purchase a copy of the
American National Standard for the Safe Use of Lasers (ANSI Z136.1-
1993). This publication provides recommendations for the safe use of
lasers and laser systems that operate at wavelengths between 180 nm and
1 mm. The publication is available from:
Laser Institute of America
12424 Research Parkway, Suite 125
Orlando, FL 32826
[phone]
The governmental standards and regulations specify that the laser must
be classified according to the output power or energy and the laser
wavelength. The Tempest is classified as Class IV based on 21 CFR,
subchapter J, part II, section 1040-10 (d). According to the European
Community standards, the Tempest is classified as Class IV based on EN
60825-1, clause 9. This manual and other documentation for the
Tempest will refer to the classification as Class 4.
Refer to Figures 1-1 through 1-7 for the location of all labels for the
Tempest laser system. The labels are for safety, certification and
identification, and a copy of each label is shown in the following figures.
Government
Regulations
Laser
Classification
Location of Safety
Labels

Tempest Nd:YAG Laser Operator’s Manual
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Figure 1-1: Location of Labels
Mechanical Shutter
Ap
erture Label
I.D. Label
Warning Label
Interlock Label
Certification label
(
Inside
)
I.D. Label

Laser Safety
9
Figure 1-2: Certification Label
Figure 1-3: Power Supply Identification Label
Figure 1-4: Laser Head Identification Label
COMPLIES WITH 21 CFR
1040.10 AND 1040.11

Tempest Nd:YAG Laser Operator’s Manual
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Figure 1-5: Warning Label, U.S.
Figure 1-6: Warning Label, International
WAVELENGTH 1064 nm/600 mJ/5 ns
WAVELENGTH 532 nm/400 mJ/5 ns
WAVELENGTH 355 nm/300 mJ/4 ns
WAVELENGTH 266 nm/200 mJ/4 ns
WAVELENGTH 213 nm/100 mJ/4 ns
WAVELENGTH 670 nm 3 mW
VISIBLE AND INVISIBLE
LASER RADIATION. AVOID
EYE AND SKIN EXPOSURE TO
DIRECT OR SCATTERED RADIATION
Wavelength1064 nm/600mJ/5ns
Wavelength532 nm/400mJ/5ns
Wavelength355 nm/300mJ/4ns
Wavelength266 nm/200mJ/4ns
Wavelength213 nm/100mJ/4ns
Wavelength670 nm 3mW
CLASS 4 LASER PRODUCT

Laser Safety
11
Figure 1-7: Aperture Label
Figure 1-8: Defeatable Interlock Label
VISIBLE AND INVISIBLE LASER
RADIATION IS EMITTED FROM
THIS APERTURE
AVOID EXPOSURE
DANGER
VISIBLEAND INVISIBLELASER
RADIATIONWHEN OPENAND
INTERLOCKDEFEATED. AVOID EYEOR
SKINEXPOSURE TODIRECT OR
SCATTEREDRADIATION

Tempest Nd:YAG Laser Operator’s Manual
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Chapter Two,
Description and
Specifications