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 The Lexel
laser head combines the plasma tube, resonator structure, and laser optics
in the most advanced, compact and functional design. An extensive
engineering effort was expended to perfect each component in the laser head.
The resulting package yields unmatched stability, reliability, and ease of
operation, along with the most advanced safety features.
The Lexel
laser head components and features described below are the same in all Lexel
models The different power level lasers differ only in the size of the
plasma tube, length of the laser resonator and the specific laser mirrors.
To view a close-up
picture of a Lexel laser head, click the photo at right.
The Lexel
plasma tube with exclusive Be0 ceramic and metal construction is
the
strongest, most compact and most reliable design available for ion lasers.
This large
stainless steel gas supply tank maintains operating gas pressure with no
need for fill valves or pressure monitoring.
An
extremely compact electromagnet provides the high axial magnetic field
required for efficient plasma tube operation.
The
assembly also serves as a water cooling jacket completely enclosing the
plasma tube so that the heat is efficiently removed from the laser head
without affecting the optical resonator structure.
The heat
removal is so effective that there is less than a 3°C temperature variation
along the laser head. Run your hand over the case of a Lexel laser operating
at full power: it is scarcely possible to detect the thermal change. Do the
same thing with other commercial ion lasers and there will be definite hot
areas near the ends of the plasma tube. The beneficial effect on amplitude
and beam-pointing stability is just as dramatic.
Lexel's
unique optical resonator holds the plasma tube and optics in precise alignment and
provides the ultimate in low thermal expansion and solid mechanical
stability
This
exclusive, patented seal protects the optical cavity from dust and
contamination. It is so effective that Lexel lasers commonly operate one to
two years without needing optical cleaning.
This
intracavity shutter (patent pending) conveniently blocks all laser output
with a flick of the lever. Magnetic coupling through the optical dust cover
maintains complete seal integrity. It complies with CDRH requirements.
The output
mirror retainer provides access to the transmitter mirror and has 3/4"-32
threads for attaching accessories An optional 1"-32 adapter is also
available
This
highly visible indicator provides a warning whenever the laser is
operational. It complies with CDRH standards.
This
interlock turns off the laser if the cover is removed from the laser head.
Its purpose is to prevent accidental exposure to dangerous voltages or any
laser radiation that could exist inside the laser head cover.
A visual
indication, as required by CDRH standards, is provided if the head cover is
removed and the safety interlock defeated.
A reliable
Tesla coil circuit provides the high energy spark required to ionize the gas
and start discharge current in the plasma tube.
The total
operating time accumulated on the plasma tube is recorded here, enabling the
laser user to easily monitor tube life.
We use reinforced water hoses that will not burst with pressure surges as has
happened with rubber hoses used by others.
The
electrical wiring and water hoses are neatly housed in a flexible
interconnection cable which disconnects at the
power supply.
The
Lexel
Model 503 Temperature Controlled Etalon Assembly mounts directly on the
Invar® rod resonator structure using the same type of kinematic
suspension system used to mount the laser mirrors. This patented etalon
design is solidly integrated into the optical system to yield the most
stable single-frequency operation obtainable from an ion laser.
The
printed circuit card electronics hold the etalon oven temperature to the
precise level required for single frequency control.
Full access to
inside of laser head
Removing
the cover allows access to any component in the laser head. Everything is
accessible down to the base plate.
Four
adjustable feet will allow the height of the laser to be adjusted over a 15
mm range. The feet can also be removed and the laser bolted into position
using the 1/4"-20 tapped holes.
Customers
such as Original Equipment Manufacturers who purchase a quantity of lasers
to be built into their equipment can have special variations to the laser
head. Such variations may include different size base plate, slightly
different component layout or a non-enclosed system.
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