Quantum Composers miniSystem Series User manual

MINISYSTEM Manual Version 1.5 Page 1
MINISYSTEM Laser System
Operating Manual
QUANTUMCOMPOSERS,INC
PO Box 4248
Bozeman, MT 59772
[phone]phone
[phone]fax
www.quantumcomposers.com

MINISYSTEM Manual Version 1.5 Page 2
Contents
1. INTRODUCTION..............................................................................................................................................4
Technical Support........................................................................................................................................................4
Warranty.......................................................................................................................................................................4
Package Contents........................................................................................................................................................4
2. SAFETY ...........................................................................................................................................................5
Laser Safety .....................................................................................................................................................6
Safety Issues....................................................................................................................................................7
Electrical Safety................................................................................................................................................8
Sources of Laser Safety Standards..............................................................................................................................8
Safety Labels and Locations ........................................................................................................................................9
3. SYSTEM OVERVIEW....................................................................................................................................12
MINISYSTEM Block Diagram........................................................................................................................12
Laser System Power Supply ......................................................................................................................................12
Description of Payload............................................................................................................................................... 13
Description of the miniJewel Laser.........................................................................................................................13
Laser Optic Assemblies..............................................................................................................................................13
4. INSTALLATION.............................................................................................................................................16
Unpacking the Laser System .........................................................................................................................16
System Inventory........................................................................................................................................................16
System Installation .........................................................................................................................................17
Payload Setup............................................................................................................................................................17
Laser System Setup...................................................................................................................................................18
Optional System Connections....................................................................................................................................18
System Indicators.......................................................................................................................................................19
Authorized operation ..................................................................................................................................................19
Initial Power On..........................................................................................................................................................19
5. LASER OPERATION.....................................................................................................................................20
Operation Guidelines......................................................................................................................................20
6. SYSTEM OPERATION ..................................................................................................................................20
SMART Controller ..........................................................................................................................................21
miniSystem Software Application...................................................................................................................21
Getting Started...........................................................................................................................................................21
Laser Control.............................................................................................................................................................. 22
Cut Size...................................................................................................................................................................... 23
Illumination.................................................................................................................................................................23
7. USB COMMUNICATIONS.............................................................................................................................24
Personal Computer to Laser System Communication..................................................................................24
USB Interface Overview ............................................................................................................................................24
Device Command Format...........................................................................................................................................24
Device Address..........................................................................................................................................................25
Command Types............................................................................................................................................25
Control Commands ....................................................................................................................................................25
Query Commands ......................................................................................................................................................26
Error Codes................................................................................................................................................................26
Laser Controller Example...........................................................................................................................................26

MINISYSTEM Manual Version 1.5 Page 3
General System Commands ......................................................................................................................................29
Laser Operation Commands ......................................................................................................................................30
Slit Commands...........................................................................................................................................................31
Illuminator Commands................................................................................................................................................31
Calibration Commands............................................................................................................................................... 32
8. MAINTENANCE.............................................................................................................................................33
9. TROUBLE-SHOOTING..................................................................................................................................33
No Laser Output.........................................................................................................................................................33
Energy is Low.............................................................................................................................................................33
10. SPECIFICATIONS .....................................................................................................................................34
miniSystem Laser Specifications................................................................................................................................34
Attenuator...................................................................................................................................................................34
X-Y Slit .......................................................................................................................................................................34
Theta Slit....................................................................................................................................................................35
Filter Wheel................................................................................................................................................................35
Positions.....................................................................................................................................................................35
Tact Time ...................................................................................................................................................................35
Initialization................................................................................................................................................................. 35
Waveplate Rotator......................................................................................................................................................35
System .......................................................................................................................................................................35
11. CUSTOMER SERVICE..............................................................................................................................36
Warranty.........................................................................................................................................................36
Feedback....................................................................................................................................................................36

MINISYSTEM Manual Version 1.5 Page 4
1. Introduction
Thismanualis areferencedesignedtofamiliarizeyou withthe Quantum Composers miniSystem
series laser system and is arranged so that you can easily find theinformationyou’relookingfor.
Generally,eachtopichasitsownsectionand nosectionassumesthatyou’ve readanythingelsein
themanual.
Technical Support
ForquestionsorcommentsaboutoperatingtheMINISYSTEMour technicalstaffcan be
reachedvia one ofthefollowingmethods:
Phone –1 [phone]
Fax –1 [phone]
Internet-www.quantumcomposers.com
Warranty
The miniSystemhas aone-yearlimited warrantyfromthedateofdelivery. Thiswarrantycovers
defects inmaterialsand workmanship. QuantumComposerswillrepairor replaceanydefective
unit. Contactusforinformationonobtainingwarrantyservice.
Package Contents
Theboxyoureceiveshouldcontainthefollowing:
miniSystemLaser System Payload
Desktop Power Supply
USB Cable
SMART Controller (Optional)
User’s Manual andControlSoftwareon Disk
Acceptance Test Results
Contact Quantum Composers 1 [phone] if anypartsaremissing.

MINISYSTEM Manual Version 1.5 Page 5
2. Safety
This user’s manual contains the technical information needed to properly install, operate, and
maintain the miniSystem laser system. It provides instructions for setup and installation, operation,
service, preventive maintenance, and troubleshooting (fault-isolation). The laser system consists of
one major subassembly:
1. The Payload, which consists of a laser, laser optics, and all supporting control circuits.
The laser system is truly “turn-key” and has been shipped fully functional. Only minor adjustments
are necessary after installing to operate the system.
Caution labels, in accordance with CDRH and CE requirements, are
prominently displayed on the Laser Optical Assembly and Laser Power
Supply. The maximum ratings indicated on the system labels are in
excess of the normal operating parameters. Please refer to the Data
Summary Sheet for specific information pertaining to your system.
The laser system produces laser radiation, which is hazardous to eyes and
skin, can cause burning and fires and can vaporize substances. The safety
chapter contains essential information and user guidance about these
hazards.
This product complies with safety standards EN61010:1993+A2:1995,
EN60825:1994+A11:1996, and CDRH21 CFR 1040.10(d). Do not install substitute parts or
perform any unauthorized modification to this product. Return the product to manufacturer
for service or repair to ensure that all safety features are maintained.
Do not operate this product beyond its specifications.
SYMBOL
DEFINITION OF SYMBOL
CAUTION: Calls attention to a procedure, practice, or condition that could cause damage to
the product, or cause bodily injury to the user. Refer to accompanying documentation.
ATTENTION: Ce symbole signale une procédure, une méthode ou une condition qui peut
endommager le produit ou blesser l’utilisateur. Se référer à la documentation jointe.
ACHTUNG!: Beachten Sie Verfahren, Praktiken oder Zustände, die das Produkt
beschädigen oder zu Verletzungen fuhren können. Lesen Sie die deigefugte Dokumentation.
ATTENZIONE: Porre estrema cautela alla procedura, uso o condizioni che potrebbero
danneggiare il prodotto o l’utilizzatore. Far riferimento alla documentazione inviata insieme al
prodotto.
ADVERTENCIA: Llamar la atención de un producto, practica, o estado que puede causar
daño al producto o puede herir el usario.

MINISYSTEM Manual Version 1.5 Page 6
CAUTION: Risk of Electric Shock.
ATTENTION: Risque d’éléctrocution.
ACHTUNG!: Gefahr durch Stromschlag.
ATTENZIONE: Rischio di shock elettrico.
ADVERTENCIA: Riesgo de choque eléctrico
CAUTION: Risk of exposure to hazardous laser radiation.
ATTENTION: Risque d’exposition à un rayonnement laser dangereux.
ACHTUNG!: Gefahr durch gefährliche Laserstrahlung.
ATTENZIONE: Rischio di esposizione a pericolose radiazioni laser.
ADVERTENCIA: Riesgo de exposición a radiaciên láser peligrosa.
Laser Safety
VISIBLE AND/OR INVISIBLE LASER RADIATION
CAUTION: The MINISYSTEM Laser System is a Class 4 OEM laser. Its
output beam is, by definition, a safety and fire hazard. Precautions must
be taken to prevent accidental exposure to both direct and reflected
beams.
Precautions for Safe Operation of Class 4 OEM Lasers:
Keep the protective covers on the Laser Head as much as possible. Do not operate the
laser with the covers removed for any reason.
Avoid looking at the laser output beam.
Do not wear reflective jewelry while using the laser, as it might cause inadvertent
hazardous reflections.
Use protective eyewear at all times. Consult the ANSI, ACGIH, or OSHA standards listed
at the end of this section for guidance on goggles and safety matters.
Operate the laser at the lowest possible beam intensity, given the requirements of the
intended application.
Increase the beam diameter wherever possible to reduce beam intensity and thus reduce
the hazard.
Avoid blocking the laser beam 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.

MINISYSTEM Manual Version 1.5 Page 7
Maintain a high ambient light level in the laser operation area so the eye pupil remains
constricted, thus reducing the possibility of hazardous exposure.
Post prominent warning signs near the laser operation area.
Provide enclosures for the beam path whenever possible.
Set up an energy absorber to capture the laser beam, preventing unnecessary reflections
or scattering.
CAUTION: Use of controls, adjustments or performance of procedures
other than those specified in this User's Manual may result in hazardous
radiation exposure.
Follow the instructions within this manual carefully to ensure the safe operation of your
laser. At all times during laser operation, maintenance, or servicing, avoid unnecessary
exposure to laser or collateral radiation that exceeds the accessible emission limits listed in
"Performance Standards for Laser Products," United States Code of Federal Regulations,
21 CFR 1040.10(d). This information is also available in EN60825-1:1994, Section 8.2,
titled “Measurements of Laser Radiation for Determining Classification.”
Preventative Maintenance for Safety
Preventative maintenance is required to ensure the laser remains in compliance with
Center for Devices and Radiological Health (CDRH) Regulations and European Norm (EN)
requirements. This laser product complies with Title 21 of the United States Code of
Federal Regulations, Chapter 1, Subchapter J, Parts 1040.10, as applicable, and with
EN60825-1:1994, Part 1 for a Class 4 laser, as applicable. To maintain compliance, verify
the operation of all features listed below, either annually or whenever the product has been
subjected to adverse environmental conditions, which may have affected these features
and functions.
Verify that removing the remote interlock connector prevents laser operation. This
connector is located on the rear panel of the Laser Power Supply.
Verify that an 8 second time delay exists between turning on the main power and the start
of laser firing. It must give enough warning to allow action to be taken to avoid exposure to
laser radiation.
Safety Issues
Normal use of test equipment presents a certain amount of danger due to electrical shock
because it may be necessary for testing to be performed where voltage is exposed.
An electrical shock causing 10 milliamps of current to pass through the heart will stop most
human heartbeats. Voltage as low as 35 VDC or 35 VRMS AC should be considered
dangerous and hazardous, as it can produce a lethal current under certain conditions.
Higher voltages pose an even greater threat because such voltage can easily produce a
lethal current. Your normal work habits should include all accepted practices that will
prevent contact with exposed high voltage and steer current away from your heart in case of
accidental contact with a high voltage. You will significantly reduce the risk factor if you
know and observe the following safety precautions:

MINISYSTEM Manual Version 1.5 Page 8
If possible, familiarize yourself with the equipment being tested and the location of
its high-voltage points. However, remember that high voltage may appear at
unexpected points in defective equipment.
Do not expose high voltage needlessly. Remove housing and covers only when
necessary. Turn off equipment while making test connections in high- voltage
circuits. Discharge high-voltage capacitors after shutting down power.
When testing AC powered equipment, remember that AC line voltage is usually
present on power input circuits, such as the on-off switch, fuses, power transformer,
etc.
Use an insulated floor material or a large, insulated floor mat to stand on, and an
insulated work surface on which to place equipment. Make certain such surfaces are
not damp or wet.
Use the time-proven “one hand in the pocket” technique while handling an instrument
probe. Be particularly careful to avoid contact with metal objects that could provide a
good ground return path.
Never work alone. Someone should always be nearby to render aid if necessary. Training in
CPR first aid is highly recommended.
Electrical Safety
CAUTION: Both the Laser Optics Assembly and Laser Power Supply contain electrical
circuits operating at lethal voltage and current levels. Always unplug the system Mains
connection and wait at least one (1) minute to allow capacitors to discharge before
servicing any part of the laser system.
Consult with the manufacturer if repair of the laser electronics is required. Only those trained in
high voltage, high current electronics, and who understand the laser circuitry, should be allowed to
service and repair the laser electronics. If any such action is required, it is recommended that you
contact the manufacturer for details.
Sources of Laser Safety Standards
"Safe Use of Lasers" (Z136.1)
American National Standards Institute (ANSI)
11th West 42nd Street
New York, NY 10036 USA
Phone: [phone]
"A Guide for Control of Laser Hazards"
American Conference of Governmental and Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH)
6500 Glenway Avenue, Bldg. D-7
Cincinnati, OH 45211 USA
Phone: [phone]

MINISYSTEM Manual Version 1.5 Page 9
Occupational Safety and Health Administration
U.S. Department of Labor
200 Constitution Avenue N.W.
Washington, DC 20210 USA
Phone: [phone]
“Safety of Laser Products” (EN60825-1:1994)
Global Engineering Documents
15 Iverness Way East
Englewood, CO 80112-5704 USA
Phone: [phone]
Safety Labels and Locations
The following figures show the safety labels, model number, serial number and origination
labels, and their locations on the miniSystem Laser System. These labels are installed at
the factory and should not be removed by the user. If for some reason a label is removed,
obscured or damaged in any way, please contact the manufacturer for a replacement.
Figure 1 Certification & ID Label
Figure 2 Laser Wavelengths Label
Figure 3 Laser Aperture

MINISYSTEM Manual Version 1.5 Page 10
Figure 4 Cover Exposure Label
Figure 5 Non-Interlocked Cover Label
Figure 6 Model, Serial, and Origination Label
Figure 7 MINISYSTEM Safety Labels Front

MINISYSTEM Manual Version 1.5 Page 11
Figure 8 MINISYSTEM Safety Labels Back

MINISYSTEM Manual Version 1.5 Page 12
3. System Overview
MINISYSTEM Block Diagram
Figure 9 shows the laser system block diagram, which consists of the Jewel Laser, the laser optic
modules, and the System Power Supply.
Figure 9 System Block Diagram
Laser System Power Supply
The portable power supply contains an AC/DC converter to supply the needed voltage for the
miniSystem system from one AC supply. The main source can be 100-240 VAC and 50-60 Hz.

MINISYSTEM Manual Version 1.5 Page 13
Figure 10 Power Supply
Description of Payload
The miniSystem payload contains multi-wavelength laser optics assemblies for beam control, the
miniJewel laser head, a beam combining assembly, and the payload system controller. The laser
head includes a 1064nm laser with an attached nonlinear module which converts the 1064nm (IR)
laser output to 532nm (GRN), 355nm (UV), or 266nm (DUV). The laser features a ruggedized
sealed housing designed for ease of maintenance and reliable operation. The laser beam control
optics modify the output of the laser head providing wavelength selection, energy control, beam
sizing, and beam shaping. The payload also contains a Laser System Control (LSC) card, which
provides an interface to the user and control of all the motorized optic modules contained within the
payload. This box also contains the input ports for USB communications from a user supplied
computer or SMART controller, an external trigger, an external interlock, and sync out signal.
Description of the miniJewel Laser
The miniJewel is a conductively cooled 1064 nm diode pump laser with 8 mJ of nominal output
power. The miniJewel is a self-contained laser housing the diode driver.
Laser Optic Assemblies
The available laser optical assemblies (Figure 11) are explained below.

MINISYSTEM Manual Version 1.5 Page 14
Figure 11 Laser Optical Assembly
1. The resonator is a diode pumped laser with an output wavelength of 1064 nm and
nonlinear module to perform harmonic generation to produce a few key wavelengths.
Resonator mirrors are hard-mounted to the machined resonator bench, which results in an
extremely stiff, rugged resonator which is much less sensitive to misalignment then
standard laser resonators. The output of the laser enters the integral nonlinear module.
Harmonic generation is performed using non-linear crystal(s). The crystal temperature is
tightly regulated by mounting them inside a temperature controlled oven assembly. The
laser head has a nonlinear optic (NLO) crystal mounted inside a nonlinear module. The
output is collinear, with all wavelengths exiting the same aperture.
2. The next component in the beam path is the attenuator. The attenuator is used to control
the amount of energy exiting the payload. The attenuator is designed with a
waveplate/polarizer to provide motorized attenuation of the laser beams from 0-100% of
the full energy at the given wavelength. The attenuator utilizes high precision encoders to
provide closed-loop motor control.
3. The laser beam leaves the laser and is reflected off of the Fold Mirror to the Wavelength
Selector. The Wavelength Selector contains filters to separate the beam into discrete
wavelengths and allow the selection of High or Low energy modes.
4. The beam expander follows the wavelength selector. The beam expander enlarges the
laser beam for the proper illumination of the XY Theta aperture.
5. The laser beam is then offset by the parallel mirror assembly so that it is nominally
centered on the XY (or XY Theta) Aperture.
6. The next component in the beam path is the optional Polarization Rotator. This
module can rotate the output polarization of the system ± 90 degrees from a vertical or
horizontal input polarization.

MINISYSTEM Manual Version 1.5 Page 15
7. The laser beam then illuminates the optional XY Theta aperture. The XY Theta
aperture forms a rectangular shape and each axis is independently controlled. The
rectangular shape can be rotated ±45 degrees from horizontal.
8. The Aperture Backlight shines through the 2nd mirror of the Parallel Mirror assembly to
illuminate the XY Aperture. When mounted in a system with the appropriate video
optics, the aperture can easily be viewed indicate where the laser cuts will occur.
9. The Beam Splitter assembly separates the visual wavelengths from the laser beam
path for viewing with a machine vision camera.
10.The optional Camera Port allows a machine vision camera to be utilized for viewing of
the laser process. The Camera Port is a C-mount (1.00”-32 thread).

MINISYSTEM Manual Version 1.5 Page 16
4. Installation
Unpacking the Laser System
The laser system has been carefully packaged for shipment. If the container arrives damaged in
any way, please contact the shipper's agent to be present for the unpacking. Inspect each unit as
it is unpacked, looking for dents, scratches, or other damage. If damage is evident, immediately
file a claim against the carrier and notify the manufacturer.
It is recommended that the shipping container be kept for possible further shipping purposes,
should the unit require repair or maintenance services. If a damage claim has been filed, the
container will be needed to prove shipping damage.
The laser system is a turnkey system, designed so that a field service engineer is not required to
get the system up and operating properly. The system has undergone extensive testing to verify
its conformance to the specifications prior to delivery.
Before operating the laser however, it is important to fully understand its main features and
controls.
CAUTION: Do not power up the system before thoroughly reading the
system description. Use of the controls or adjustments, or performance of
procedures other than those specified in this user’s manual my result in
hazardous radiation exposure, laser system damage or result in voiding
the warranty. Please refrain from connection the main power until you
make sure the power switch is in the OFF position.
System Inventory
The miniSystem Laser system consists of the following items. Verify that all listed items are
present in the shipping container. If there are any shortages or discrepancies, contact Quantum
Composers immediately.
miniSystemLaser System Payload
Desktop Power Supply
USB Cable
SMART Controller (Optional)
User’s Manual andControlSoftwareon Disk
Acceptance Test Results

MINISYSTEM Manual Version 1.5 Page 17
System Installation
CAUTION: When utilizing the Remote Interlock capability, use an isolated
contact closure such as a relay to avoid generating undesirable ground loops.
CAUTION: Ensure that the system is connected to the proper Mains voltage.
The voltage rating is marked on the Laser System Power Supply. Operating the
system at the incorrect voltage may result in damage to the unit.
CAUTION: Ensure that the Mains power outlet that the Laser System Power
Supply connects to is properly grounded. Poor ground quality could result in
exposure to electrical shock.
Payload Setup
1. Remove payload from packaging and lift onto microscope or VMU. Secure payload with
2 set screws in kinematic interface.
Figure 12 Mechanical Interface

MINISYSTEM Manual Version 1.5 Page 18
Laser System Setup
1. Attach USB cable to laser system payload and connect the opposite end to a computer or
optional SMART controller. The connections are specific so that connectors cannot be
miss-matched.
2. Connect the power barrel connector to the laser system payload.
3. Plug in the AC power to the desktop power supply to a suitable 100-240 VAC supply using
the provided plug. Plug in smart controller power cable if applicable.
Figure 13 Laser System Connections
Optional System Connections
The Laser System has optional connections that can be used if desired see Figure 13 Laser
System Connections.
1. Remote Interlock. The remote interlock can be connected to any normally closed switch
such as a door or access panel. If not used, the shorting jumper must be connected. When
opened, the system will indicate an interlock fault and stop firing the laser.
2. Sync. The sync connection is an output that can indicate various system states depending
on the state of the sync output settings (see command set). The signal present on this
connector will be 5V max amplitude. The output can indicate the laser diode pulse state, or
emission state.
3. Trig. This is an optional input that can be customized based on application needs. An
optional footswitch can be connected to the TRIG input to control laser output. Please
contact the factory for your needs if externally triggering or gating the system is required.
4. Optional Board Mount Camera micro-USB. This is an optional output that is only available
with an internal board mount camera. Please contact the factory for your needs if an
internal board mount camera is required.

MINISYSTEM Manual Version 1.5 Page 19
System Indicators
The system has multiple visual indicators that show the state of the system. The Laser Payload
has Emission, Fault and Power indicators on either side of the system. The Emission indicator will
be active when the laser is enabled and able to be actively fired. The Fault indicator will be active
whenever a fault has occurred.
Authorized operation
CDRH regulations mandate the use of a key control or password to allow operation of the laser
system (1040.10(f)(4)). The miniSystem size prevents the implementation of a standard key
operation so a password method has been implemented. When using the Quantum Composers
LSxxx application or the SMART controller, the user will be prompted to enter either the master or
user password before allowing the laser to be enabled and fired. Once the correct password has
been entered, the user no longer has to re-enter the correct password as long as the system
remains on and the application software has not been closed. The master password and the
default user password are as follows:
Master: 40668
User: 12345
The user password can be changed as long as the Master password has been entered first. This
allows controlled access to the laser. Please refer to the device command listing for commands to
either enter the passwords or change the User password.
Initial Power On
Power-On Checklist
Verify cable connections are correct.
Turn on system power.
1. The laser harmonic crystal(s) will warm up to the set temperature. This takes
approximately 10 minutes.
2. The attenuator will independently home upon power up.
3. The XY and optional Theta aperture will home upon power up.
4. The wavelength selector will home on power up.
5. The optional output polarizer will home on power up.
The system will be ready to operate after approximately 5 minutes. Best laser performance
will require another 5 minutes of warm-up time.

MINISYSTEM Manual Version 1.5 Page 20
5. Laser Operation
The laser system has undergone extensive testing to verify its conformance to the specifications
prior to delivery.
Once the laser system has been set up as outlined in the previous chapter, it is ready to operate.
Turn ON the Laser Power Supply. After approximately 5 minutes, the laser system is initialized
and ready for operator control.
NOTE: Laser harmonic crystals must warm up. This can take 10 minutes before stable output
energy can be realized.
Operation Guidelines
CAUTION: Below is a list of guidelines, which apply to all Quantum Composers’
laser systems. These guidelines should be followed whenever possible to avoid
laser damage.
Operate the laser in a dust-free environment and keep the Laser Optics Assembly covered
when not in use. This protects the output aperture against dust and particulate.
The Laser Optics Assembly is sealed with careful attention to use of low outgassing
materials. Silicone and similar sealing, bonding or insulating materials should not be used
in close proximity to the Laser Optics Assembly since these substances will outgas and
could contaminate the output window, causing laser damage.
Avoid back reflections. Back reflections of even a small percentage of the output energy
can promote damage to optical components in the Laser Head. For example, an uncoated
convex lens or a glass disk calorimeter will reflect about 4% of the incident energy. While
the reflection may seem harmless, it can perturb the resonator operation to the extent that
the near field beam intensity profile is degraded and may promote optical damage. In some
cases, even anti-reflection coated glass optics can reflect enough energy to promote
damage to laser optics. It is best to use only quality optics coated for the operating
wavelength.
CAUTION: To avoid laser damage, minimize back reflections of the output beam.
When reflections are unavoidable, direct them away from the optical axis of the
system by canting the optics off-axis. Failure to do so can cause laser damage
and void the warranty.
6. System Operation
The system can be controlled by multiple methods, using provided software application, using the
SMART controller, or direct communication by using discrete commands.