Operator’s Manual

Mephisto Laser
 Operator’s Manual
Mephisto Laser

5100 Patrick Henry Drive

Santa Clara, CA 95054
Mephisto Laser Operator’s Manual

This document is copyrighted with all rights reserved. Under copyright

laws, this document may not be copied in whole or in part, or reproduced
in any other media, without the express written permission of Coherent,
Inc. (Coherent). Permitted copies must carry the same proprietary and
copyright notices as were affixed to the original. This exception does not
allow copies—whether or not sold—to be made for others; however, all the
material purchased may be sold, given, or loaned to another person.
Under the law, “copying” includes translation into another language.

Coherent, the Coherent Logo, Mephisto, and Fieldmax are registered

trademarks of Coherent, Inc. All other trademarks or registered
trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Patents referenced in this manual are active when the manual is printed
(see last page for date). You are advised to check to see if the patents are
still active http://portal.uspto.gov/external/portal/pair.

Every effort has been made to ensure that the data given in this document
is accurate. The information, figures, tables, specifications, part numbers,
and schematics contained herein are subject to change without notice.
Coherent makes no warranty or representation, either expressed or
implied, with respect to this document. In no event will Coherent be liable
for any direct, indirect, special, incidental, or consequential damages
resulting from any defects in its documentation.

Technical Support

In the U.S.:

Should you experience any difficulties with your laser or need any
technical information, please visit our Web site www.Coherent.com.
Should you need further assistance, please contact Coherent Technical
Support via e-mail Product.Support@Coherent.com or telephone,
1-800-367-7890 (1-408-764-4557 outside the U.S.). Please be ready to
provide model and laser head serial number of your laser system as well
as the description of the problem and any corrective steps attempted to the
support engineer responding to your request.

Telephone coverage is available Monday through Friday (except U.S.

holidays and company shutdowns). Inquiries received outside normal
office hours will be documented by our automatic answering system and
will be promptly returned the next business day.

Outside the U.S.:

If you are located outside the U.S., please visit www.Coherent.com for
technical assistance, or phone your local Service Representative. Service
Representative phone numbers and addresses can be found on the
Coherent web site.

Coherent provides telephone and web-based technical assistance as a

service to its customers and assumes no liability thereby for any injury or
damage that may occur contemporaneous with such services. Under no
circumstances do these support services affect the terms of any warranty
agreement between Coherent and the buyer. Operation of any Coherent
laser with any of its interlocks defeated is always at the operator's own risk.

ii
 Table of Contents

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Preface ................................................................................................................................ vii
Signal Words and Symbols in this Manual ......................................................................... vii
Signal Words .............................................................................................................. vii
Symbols .................................................................................................................... viii
Export Control Laws Compliance ....................................................................................... ix

Section One: Laser Safety .......................................................................................... 1-1

Optical Safety ..................................................................................................................... 1-1
Electrical Safety .................................................................................................................. 1-3
Grounding the Controller........................................................................................... 1-3
Service ....................................................................................................................... 1-3
Keyswitch .................................................................................................................. 1-4
Laser Safety Requirements ................................................................................................. 1-4
Laser Emission and Classification ............................................................................. 1-4
Mephisto Laser System..................................................................................... 1-4
Mephisto MIR Laser System ............................................................................ 1-5
Interlock ..................................................................................................................... 1-5
Laser Disable ............................................................................................................. 1-5
Environmental Compliance ................................................................................................ 1-5
RoHS Compliance ..................................................................................................... 1-5
China-RoHS Compliance .......................................................................................... 1-6
Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE, 2002) ...................................... 1-6
System Labels ..................................................................................................................... 1-7
Maintenance of Laser Safety Features.............................................................................. 1-10

Section Two: Description and Specifications .................................................. 2-1

Introduction......................................................................................................................... 2-1
Specifications...................................................................................................................... 2-2
Emission Spectrum ............................................................................................................. 2-4
Relative Intensity Noise (RIN) ........................................................................................... 2-4
Beam Polarization............................................................................................................... 2-6
Mephisto Laser Head .......................................................................................................... 2-6
Laser Controller .................................................................................................................. 2-8
Laser Diode Driver .................................................................................................... 2-8
Precision Temperature Controller .............................................................................. 2-8
Analog Modulation Inputs (BNC Connectors) .......................................................... 2-8
Diagnostics Connector (D-Sub Connector) ............................................................... 2-8

Section Three: Installation ......................................................................................... 3-1

Installing the Mephisto Laser System................................................................................. 3-1

Section Four: Operation .............................................................................................. 4-1

Turning the Laser On .......................................................................................................... 4-2

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Mephisto Laser Operator’s Manual

Turning the Laser Off ......................................................................................................... 4-3

Recommended Operation ................................................................................................... 4-3
Frequency Tuning Capabilities ........................................................................................... 4-4
Output Power Modulation .................................................................................................. 4-6

Section Five: Maintenance and Troubleshooting ......................................... 5-1

Maintenance........................................................................................................................ 5-1
Troubleshooting .................................................................................................................. 5-1
Laser Disable ............................................................................................................. 5-1
Temperature Guard .................................................................................................... 5-2
Clamp Current............................................................................................................ 5-2
Supply Voltage Indicators .......................................................................................... 5-2
Amplitude Noise ........................................................................................................ 5-2

Section Six: Pin Configurations .............................................................................. 6-1

Laser Connector .................................................................................................................. 6-1
Diagnostics Connector ........................................................................................................ 6-3
Supply Voltage Indicators ................................................................................................... 6-4

Accessories .......................................................................................................................... A-1

Power Meter Accessories................................................................................................... A-1
Coherent’s Recommendation .................................................................................... A-1

Warranty ...............................................................................................................................B-1
Responsibilities of the Buyer ..............................................................................................B-1
Limitations of Warranty ......................................................................................................B-1

Glossary ..................................................................................................................... Glossary-1

Index ................................................................................................................................. Index-1

iv
 Table of Contents

LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS
1-1. Label Locations................................................................................................................ 1-7

2-1. Mephisto Laser System.................................................................................................... 2-1

2-2. Emission Spectrum Using a Scanning Fabry-Pérot Interferometer (FPI) ....................... 2-4
2-3. Relative Intensity Noise Measurements with and without Noise Eater Option .............. 2-5
2-4. Laser Head Dimensions (Front, Side, and Top)............................................................... 2-7
2-5. Laser Controller ............................................................................................................... 2-9

4-1. Typical Frequency Tuning by Crystal Temperature......................................................... 4-4

4-2. Typical Frequency Tuning by Crystal Temperature (ETR Option) ................................. 4-5

6-1. Laser Connector (37 pin D-Sub)...................................................................................... 6-1

6-2. Diagnostics Connector (25 pin D-Sub)............................................................................ 6-3
6-3. Supply Voltage Indicators ................................................................................................ 6-4

A-1. Coherent Power Meter & Sensor (Recommended) ........................................................ A-1

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Mephisto Laser Operator’s Manual

LIST OF TABLES
1-1. China-RoHS Compliant Components.............................................................................. 1-6
1-2. Label Descriptions ........................................................................................................... 1-8

2-1. General Specifications of the Mephisto Product Line ..................................................... 2-2

3-1. Permissible Minimum Laser Crystal Temperature

for Different Relative Humidity Conditions .............................................................. 3-3

6-1. Pin Description - Laser Connector................................................................................... 6-2

6-2. Pin Description - Diagnostics Connector......................................................................... 6-3
6-3. Description - Supply Voltage Indicators .......................................................................... 6-4

vi
 Preface

Preface This manual contains user information for the Mephisto Laser.

Signal Words This documentation may contain sections in which particular

hazards are defined or special attention is drawn to particular condi-
and Symbols in tions. These sections are indicated with signal words in accordance
this Manual with ANSI Z-535.6 and safety symbols (pictorial hazard alerts) in
accordance with ANSI Z-535.3 and ISO 7010.

Signal Words Four signal words are used in this documentation: DANGER,
WARNING, CAUTION and NOTICE.
The signal words DANGER, WARNING and CAUTION desig-
nate the degree or level of hazard when there is the risk of injury:

DANGER!
Indicates a hazardous situation that, if not avoided, will result in
death or serious injury. This signal word is to be limited to the
most extreme situations.

WARNING!
Indicates a hazardous situation that, if not avoided, could result
in death or serious injury.

CAUTION!
Indicates a hazardous situation that, if not avoided, could result
in minor or moderate injury.

The signal word “NOTICE” is used when there is the risk of prop-
erty damage:

NOTICE!
Indicates information considered important, but not hazard-
related.

Messages relating to hazards that could result in both personal injury

and property damage are considered safety messages and not prop-
erty damage messages.

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Mephisto Laser Operator’s Manual

Symbols The signal words DANGER, WARNING, and CAUTION are

always emphasized with a safety symbol that indicates a special
hazard, regardless of the hazard level:

This symbol is intended to alert the operator to the presence of

important operating and maintenance instructions.

This symbol is intended to alert the operator to the danger of

exposure to hazardous visible and invisible laser radiation.

This symbol is intended to alert the operator to the presence of

dangerous voltages within the product enclosure that may be of
sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock.

This symbol is intended to alert the operator to the danger of

Electro-Static Discharge (ESD) susceptibility.

This symbol is intended to alert the operator to the danger of

crushing injury.

This symbol is intended to alert the operator to the danger of a

lifting hazard.

viii
 Preface

Export Control It is the policy of Coherent to comply strictly with U.S. export
control laws.
Laws
Compliance Export and re-export of lasers manufactured by Coherent are subject
to U.S. Export Administration Regulations, which are administered
by the Commerce Department. In addition, shipments of certain
components are regulated by the State Department under the Inter-
national Traffic in Arms Regulations.
The applicable restrictions vary depending on the specific product
involved and its destination. In some cases, U.S. law requires that
U.S. Government approval be obtained prior to resale, export or
re-export of certain articles. When there is uncertainty about the
obligations imposed by U.S. law, clarification can be obtained from
Coherent or an appropriate U.S. Government agency.
These commodities, technology, or software are subject to European
Union export regulations and local laws. Diversion contrary to Euro-
pean Union law prohibited. The use, sale, re-export, or re-transfer
directly or indirectly in any prohibited activities are strictly prohib-
ited.

CAUTION!
To avoid bodily injury or damage to the laser system, read this
manual carefully before operating the laser for the first time.
Special attention must be given to the material in Section One:
Laser Safety that describes the safety features built into the
laser.

WARNING!
Use of controls or adjustments or performance of procedures
other than those specified here in this manual may result in
hazardous radiation exposure.

WARNING!
Use of the system in a manner other than that described herein
may impair the protection provided by the system.

ix
Mephisto Laser Operator’s Manual

x
 Laser Safety

SECTION ONE: LASER SAFETY

Optical Safety Because of its special properties, laser light poses safety hazards not
associated with light from conventional sources. The safe use of
lasers requires that all laser users and everyone else near the laser
system are aware of the dangers involved. The safe use of the laser
depends upon the user becoming familiar with the instrument and
the properties of intense and coherent beams of light.
Laser beams can cause chemical hazards due to particle matter or
gaseous substances released as a result of laser material processing.
Laser beams can also cause direct damage to eye or skin.

WARNING!
Direct eye contact with the output beam from the laser will cause
serious damage and possible blindness.

Laser beams can ignite volatile substances such as alcohol, gasoline,

ether, and other solvents, and can damage light-sensitive elements in
video cameras, photomultipliers, and photodiodes. Reflected beams
may also cause damage. For these reasons, the user is advised to
follow the precautions below.

1. Observe all safety precautions in the operator's manual.

2. Exercise extreme caution when using solvents in the area of
the laser.
3. Limit access to the laser to qualified users who are familiar
with laser safety practices and who are aware of the dangers
involved.
4. Never look directly into the laser light source or at scattered
laser light from any reflective surface. Never sight down the
beam into the source.
5. Maintain experimental setups at low heights to prevent inad-
vertent beam-eye encounter at eye level. Avoid unwanted
reflections and scattered light from reflective surfaces when
optimizing the free space beam path outside the laser head.

1-1
Mephisto Laser Operator’s Manual

WARNING!
Only qualified personnel with laser safety training should
operate the laser. In addition, it is assumed that the operator has
read this section and is familiar with laser safety practices and
the dangers involved.

WARNING!
To avoid serious eye injury, ensure that all personnel in the area
are wearing laser safety glasses appropriate for the wavelength
and power levels. Use extreme caution even when using safety
glasses.

6. As a precaution against accidental exposure to the output beam

or its reflection, those using the system must wear the appro-
priate and undamaged laser safety glasses as designated by the
wavelength being generated.
7. Use the laser in an enclosed room. Laser light will remain
collimated over long distances and therefore presents a poten-
tial hazard if not confined.
8. Prevent unwanted exposure of flammable or explosive mate-
rials to the laser beam. Prevent unwanted release of particles or
gaseous substances as a result of material processing.
9. Post warning signs in the area of the laser beam to alert all laser
users and everyone else near the laser system to the hazards
specific to the class of laser present.
10. Advise everyone using the laser of these precautions. It is good
practice to operate the laser in a room with controlled and
restricted access.
11. An LED at the front of the Laser head warns the user of the
presence of hazardous laser radiation. Make sure it is visible
through the laser safety glasses.
12. Follow all national regulations concerning the use of a laser
system.

WARNING!
Do not open the laser housing! The laser housing should not be
opened. Doing so could lead to exposure to radiation at a wave-
length of 1.06-1.07 µm or 1.31-1.33 µm, depending on model,
and 0.8-0.82 µm.

1-2
 Laser Safety

NOTICE!
Do not open the laser housing! Opening the housing could also
lead to damage to the laser and will void the warranty.

WARNING!
To avoid serious injury, do not use or modify the laser system in
a way that changes, disables or overrides its safety features.

Electrical Safety Mephisto lasers use AC and DC voltages. There are no user service-
able components in the controller or laser head. All units are
designed to be operated as assembled. Warranty will be voided if the
laser head, the controller, or the cables are disassembled.

Grounding the The power connector of the controller must contain a protective
Controller earth conductor. Check this connection at the time of installation and
periodically thereafter.

Service Opening the laser head or the controller could lead to exposure to
potentially lethal electrical hazards. Do not open the controller or the
laser head.

WARNING!
Do not open the laser housing! Dangerous high voltages exist
inside the laser and the power supply, even with the power
switched off. To avoid serious injury, only qualified, authorized
service personnel should remove the cover of the power supply.

Only qualified, authorized service personnel should remove the

cover. Even service personnel should disconnect the power lines
before opening the controller. Never work on electrical equipment
unless there is another person nearby who is familiar with the
operation and hazards of the equipment, and who is competent to
administer first aid. When possible, keep one hand away from the
equipment to reduce the danger of current flowing through the body
if a live circuit is touched by accident. Always use approved
insulated tools.

1-3
Mephisto Laser Operator’s Manual

NOTICE!
Lasers may be damaged by improper setting of the current
controls or by improper use of the modulation inputs or by
exceeding the environmental temperature conditions. Check
line voltage setting before connecting power.

WARNING!
This laser product can cause serious bodily injury and must not
be used for any medical applications, whatsoever.

The laser is intended for use in research and development or in

industrial applications.

Keyswitch A keyswitch is included at the front of each controller to enable

power to the laser. As a safety feature, in the case of an emergency,
the key cannot be removed in the on position to always allow the
possibility to turn off the laser. It can be removed in the off position
to prevent unauthorized personnel from using the laser.

Laser Safety
Requirements

Laser Emission and Mephisto lasers are classified by the United States National Center
Classification for Device and Radiological Health (CDRH) as a CLASS IV laser
product.
Mephisto laser heads can emit the following laser radiation wave-
lengths and power levels depending on the laser head type:

Mephisto Laser INVISIBLE LASER RADIATION of 1.06-1.07 µm wavelength

System from the aperture at the front of the laser head. The maximum
average power does not exceed 3 W for the Mephisto.
At least D LB7 is recommended for the laser safety glasses if the
laser beam is not focused, otherwise contact the local laser safety
appointee.

1-4
 Laser Safety

Mephisto MIR Laser INVISIBLE LASER RADIATION of 1.31-1.33 µm wavelength

System from the aperture at the front of the laser head. The maximum
average power does not exceed 1.5 W for the Mephisto MIR.
Invisible laser radiation of 1.06-1.07 µm wavelength from the aper-
ture at the front of the laser head. The maximum average power does
not exceed 0.01 W for the Mephisto MIR.
At least D LB6 from 1.31-1.33 µm and D LB4 from 1.06-1.07 µm
are recommended for the laser safety glasses if the laser beam is not
focused, otherwise contact your local laser safety appointee.

Interlock If the laboratory environment features an interlock switch, it should

shut down the supply voltage to the laser to ensure that the laser is
turned off in case the interlock is triggered. Shutting down the
supply voltage ensures that the laser is turned off completely.

Laser Disable The laser controller has a laser disable connector, so that the laser
shuts down when the laser disable is opened.

Environmental
Compliance

RoHS Compliance The RoHS directive restricts the use of certain hazardous substances
in electrical and electronic equipment. All components of the
Mephisto are RoHS compliant.

1-5
Mephisto Laser Operator’s Manual

China-RoHS The China-RoHS directive restricts the use of certain hazardous

Compliance substances in electrical and electronic equipment. Refer to the
Table 1-1 for product components that are China-RoHS compliant.

Table 1-1. China-RoHS Compliant Components

O = ᑠன ᭱㧗㳻⹎ῤ X = ኱ன ᭦ከ ᭱㧗㳻⹎ῤ
摭 ợ 擱 භ௴撔 ከ㹜俼劗 ከ㹜Ḵ劗慂
Item Description Pb Hg Cd Cr6+ PBB PBDE
1235935 Mephisto 500 Laser System X O X O O O
1235936 Mephisto 500NE Laser System X O X O O O
1235937 Mephisto 500FC Laser System X O X O O O
1235938 Mephisto 500NEFC Laser System X O X O O O
1235939 Mephisto 1000 Laser System X O X O O O
1235940 Mephisto 1000NE Laser System X O X O O O
1235941 Mephisto 1000FC Laser System X O X O O O
1235942 Mephisto 1000NEFC Laser System X O X O O O
1235943 Mephisto 2000 Laser System X O X O O O
1235944 Mephisto 2000NE Laser System X O X O O O
1235945 Mephisto 2000FC Laser System X O X O O O
1235946 Mephisto 2000NEFC Laser System X O X O O O
1235947 Mephisto MIR200 Laser System X O X O O O
1235948 Mephisto MIR200NE Laser System X O X O O O
1235949 Mephisto MIR200FC Laser System X O X O O O
1235950 Mephisto MIR200NEFC Laser System X O X O O O
1235951 Mephisto MIR500 Laser System X O X O O O
1235952 Mephisto MIR500NE Laser System X O X O O O
1235953 Mephisto MIR500FC Laser System X O X O O O
1235954 Mephisto MIR500NEFC Laser System X O X O O O
1235955 Mephisto MIR800 Laser System X O X O O O
1235956 Mephisto MIR800NE Laser System X O X O O O
1235957 Mephisto MIR800FC Laser System X O X O O O
1235958 Mephisto MIR800NEFC Laser System X O X O O O

Waste Electrical The European Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE)
and Electronic Directive (2002/96/EC) is represented by a crossed-out garbage
container label. The purpose of this directive is to minimize the
Equipment (WEEE, disposal of WEEE as unsorted municipal waste and to facilitate its
2002) separate collection. This icon is incorporated into the laser head and
separate controller labels. See Figure 1-1 and Table 1-2.
The laser can be sent back to Coherent for disposal.

1-6
 Laser Safety

System Labels Figure 1-1 identifies the location and Table 1-2 describes the labels
found on the laser system.

1
or
2

6
5

Laser Head - Front, Top, and Side View

3
Laser Head - Back View

Figure 1-1. Label Locations

1-7
Mephisto Laser Operator’s Manual

Controller - Back View

Figure 1-1. Label Locations (Continued)

Table 1-2. Label Descriptions

ITEM LABEL DESCRIPTION

1 Radiation Danger Label for the Mephisto: This
label describes the specific wavelength and output
power level capabilities of the laser system. It also
includes the laser class of the product.

2 Radiation Danger Label for the Mephisto MIR:

This label describes the specific wavelength and
output power level capabilities of the laser system.
It also includes the laser class of the product.

1-8
 Laser Safety

Table 1-2. Label Descriptions (Continued)

ITEM LABEL DESCRIPTION

3 Identification Label for the Laser Head: This
label contains the manufacturing date, model, serial
number, and product origin. Also contains the
WEEE symbol that is described in “Waste Elec-
trical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE, 2002)” on
page 1-6.

4 Identification Label for the Laser Controller:

This label contains the manufacturing date, model,
serial number, and product origin. Also contains the
WEEE symbol that is described in “Waste Elec-
trical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE, 2002)” on
page 1-6.

5 Laser Aperture Label: This label identifies the

location of the output beam.

6 Danger Label: This label warns of laser radiation

when the housing is opened.

1-9
Mephisto Laser Operator’s Manual

Maintenance of Verify the operation of all features listed below, either annually or
whenever the product has been subjected to adverse environmental
Laser Safety conditions (e.g. fire, flood, mechanical shock, spilled solvents, etc.).
Features
1. Verify that all warning labels listed in Table 1-2 are present
and firmly affixed in the correct locations.
2. Verify that opening the laser disable prevents laser operation.
3. Verify while the mechanical shutter is closed that the laser
emission LED at the front of the laser head is operating.

1 - 10
 Description and Specifications

SECTION TWO: DESCRIPTION AND

SPECIFICATIONS

Introduction The Mephisto laser system consists of two self-contained units, the
laser head and the controller (Figure 2-1). This manual is intended
to provide detailed information on how to operate these devices
properly.
The laser includes one or two temperature stabilized pump diodes,
providing the pump radiation for the monolithic Nd:YAG laser
crystal. The monolithic design ensures excellent frequency stability
of the emitted laser radiation. In addition, the laser crystal is temper-
ature stabilized to increase the frequency stability even further. As
an option called Noise Eater, a fraction of the output power is
focused onto a photo detector and the generated signal, appropri-
ately filtered and amplified, is fed back to a pump diode. Activating
this feedback loop, the Nd:YAG laser's intensity noise is suppressed
by a large amount close to the fundamental limit set by quantum
noise.

Figure 2-1. Mephisto Laser System

2-1
Mephisto Laser Operator’s Manual

Specifications The general specifications that apply to all Mephisto lasers are
summarized in Table 2-1.

Table 2-1. General Specifications of the Mephisto Product Line

Operational mode continuous wave

Wavelength/nm 1064 (1319)

Beam quality TEM00, M2 < 1.1

Beam parameter product / mm·mrad < 0.37

Beam radius at the beam waist / µm 160

Beam waist location inside laser head / cm 10.5

Divergence angle (half angle) / mrad 2.3

Beam roundness < 1.1

Thermal tuning coefficient laser crystal / GHz/K -3

Thermal tuning range laser crystal / GHz 30

Thermal response bandwidth laser crystal / Hz  1

Piezo tuning coefficient / MHz/V  1
Piezo tuning range / MHz ± 65

Piezo response bandwidth / kHz 100

Optical emission spectrum single-frequency

Spectral linewidth / kHz / 100 ms 1

Coherence length / km >1

Frequency drift at constant room temperature / MHz/min 1

Relative Intensity Noise (RIN) > 10 kHz / dB/Hz < - 100

Noise Eater option, RIN > 10 kHz / dB/Hz < - 140

Laser head weight 4 kg (8.82 lb.)

Laser controller weight / kg 9.2 kg (20.28 lb.)

Laser controller size 340 x 345 x 135 mm

(13.38 x13.58 x 5.31 in.)

Supply current single phase 50/60 Hz

Supply voltage (select manually, exchange fuse) 115/230 V

Supply current fluctuations / % < |±10|

2-2
 Description and Specifications

Table 2-1. General Specifications of the Mephisto Product Line (Continued)

Controller housing IP Code IP20

Laser cable minimum bending radius of curvature / mm > 65

Typical electrical power consumption during operation / W 800

Environmental temperature range during operation / °C (°F) + 15 to + 30

Air pressure during operation / hPa > 700

Clean room requirement ISO 8

Humidity during operation Non condensing

Vibration (sweeps 5 to 55 Hz @ 1 octave/min, for 3 axis) non operating / g 1

Environmental temperature range during transport/storage / °C (°F) - 10 to + 50

Air pressure during transport/storage / hPa > 200

Humidity during transport/storage Non condensing

For customized laser parameters, please check the data sheet.

2-3
Mephisto Laser Operator’s Manual

Emission A common feature of all models of the Mephisto Product Line is the
reliable emission on a single longitudinal mode and frequency. This
Spectrum can be investigated using an optical spectrum analyzer like a
confocal scanning Fabry-Pérot Interferometer (FPI). The free spec-
tral range (FSR) of the device was 2 GHz as indicated in Figure 2-2:

1,0 FSR = 2 GHz

0,8
Transmitted intensity / a.u.

0,6

0,4

0,2

0,0

1
n 2
n+1 n+2
Frequency (multiple of free spectral range) / a.u.

Figure 2-2. Emission Spectrum Using a Scanning Fabry-Pérot Interferometer (FPI)

The absence of any peaks between the main resonances of the inter-
ferometer clearly indicates the operation on a single longitudinal
mode.

Relative The Mephisto can be equipped with an integrated intensity noise

reduction system. This reduces intensity fluctuations of the laser
Intensity Noise beam by several orders of magnitude. These fluctuations are largely
(RIN) due to a phenomenon called relaxation oscillation

2-4
 Description and Specifications

The spectrum of these fluctuations resembles the spectral behavior

of a white-noise-excited classical oscillator. It features a large peak
and a significant amount of low frequency noise. This is illustrated
in the trace “Free running” in Figure 2-3.

-90

-100

-110

-120 Free running

RIN / (dB/Hz)

-130

-140 Noise Eater active

-150

-160 Detector noise

-170
10k 100k 1M 10M
Frequency / Hz

Figure 2-3. Relative Intensity Noise Measurements with and without Noise Eater Option

Both of these spectral components can be significantly reduced by

using the Noise Eater option as illustrated by the trace “Noise Eater
active” in Figure 2-3. To achieve this, a fraction of the generated
Nd:YAG laser light, transmitted through a mirror, is focused onto a
photo detector to analyze the variation of the generated output
power. This signal, appropriately filtered and amplified by an elec-
tronic board, is fed to the laser diode current to stabilize the output
power.
Activating this feedback loop by the switch at the front panel of the
controller, the Nd:YAG laser's intensity noise above a few 100 Hz is
suppressed by up to 40 dB.

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Mephisto Laser Operator’s Manual

Beam The output beam of the Mephisto Product Line is elliptically polar-
ized with an intensity ratio IS/IP  5/1 and the main axis oriented
Polarization perpendicular to the mounting table (s-pol). As this polarization
state represents an eigenmode of the monolithic ring laser cavity, it
can be transformed without loss into any linear polarization state by
means of a suitable combination of quarter-wave and half-wave
plates. The resulting polarization extinction ratio is typically
~ 300/1. If the Mephisto laser has a single mode polarization main-
taining fiber attached to the output, then the polarization of the
output beam is linearized inside the laser head before entering the
polarization maintaining fiber.

Mephisto Laser The dimensions of the laser head of the Mephisto Laser Product Line
are illustrated in Figure 2-4. The laser beam is emitted from the laser
Head aperture at the front side of the laser head. The exact position of the
aperture at the front of the laser head is shown in the figure. The laser
beam is emitted with a right angle with respect to the front side of
the laser housing. The aperture can be closed with a mechanical
shutter. The handle of the shutter is located at the top of the laser
housing. Moving it towards the housing closes the laser aperture.

2-6
 Description and Specifications

Laser aperture

(4.45 in.)
113 mm
(2.87 in.)
73 mm
75 mm
(2.95 in.)
150 mm
(5.91 in.)

(5.91 in.)
150 mm

200.1 mm
(7.88 in.)

Figure 2-4. Laser Head Dimensions

(Front, Side, and Top)

2-7
Mephisto Laser Operator’s Manual

Laser Controller The controller is designed to provide all required subsystems to

drive and control the Mephisto laser system. It features a Laser
Diode Driver, Precision Temperature Controller, analog modulation
inputs (BNC connectors), and a diagnostics connector (D-Sub
connector). See Figure 2-5.

Laser Diode Driver A Laser Diode Driver provides a very stable, low noise injection
current to the laser diode up to a value of 5 A. This subsystem also
contains the protection circuitry that is essential for reliable opera-
tion of the laser system and a temperature controller that regulates
the diode laser temperature.

Precision A Precision Temperature Controller stabilizes the Nd:YAG crystal's

Temperature temperature. Because of an integrated pre-stabilization stage, typical
drifts of this controller are only a few 100 µK / min, corresponding
Controller to a variation of the laser frequency of less than 1 MHz / min.

Analog Analog modulation inputs (BNC connectors) for laser diode current
Modulation Inputs and laser crystal temperature are used to externally control output
power and laser frequency of the Mephisto laser system. An addi-
(BNC Connectors) tional modulation input for fast frequency modulation with a piezo
crystal is located at the laser head.

Diagnostics A diagnostics connector (D-Sub connector) monitors all vital signals

Connector and voltages of the Mephisto laser system without opening the
controller.
(D-Sub
Connector)
Static charge is also a well known killer of laser diodes. For this
reason, when the laser head is not connected to the controller, a
built-in relay shorts the diode pins. After the controller is
connected and switched on, the relay opens the short circuit.

2-8
 Description and Specifications

Interlock Laser Diode Laser Crystal

Temperature Injection Current Temperature

-19.999
Noise Eater
A B 0 0
ON 0 90 0 90
10 10

30 20

80 7 0

30 20

8 0 70
Guard 60 Clamp 60
50 40 50 40
OFF
Adjust
Current [A], Temperature [°C]
O
ON OFF

I LASER Set Set Actual Set Actual

Front Panel

Interlock GND
Fuse:
230V/1,6A
115V/3,2A
slow blow

Diagnostics

Modulation Inputs
Current Temperature Temperature
Laser Diode Laser Crystal Doubling Crystal
0.1A/V 1K/V 1K/V
Laser
Power Rating
L1 L2 L3 L4 L5 L6 L7 L8 115-230V | 50-60Hz | 80W

Rear Panel

Figure 2-5. Laser Controller

The pin configuration of the laser and control connectors are

described in Section Six: Pin Configurations.

2-9
Mephisto Laser Operator’s Manual

2 - 10
 Installation

SECTION THREE: INSTALLATION

Installing the When the product is received, the shipping container and its content
must be inspected for any damage incurred during shipping. In case
Mephisto Laser of damage, please inform Coherent and the shipper immediately!
System
NOTICE!
To avoid damage, allow 4 hours for the laser to acclimate before
opening the package to avoid condensation!

NOTICE!
Save the shipping container and all packaging for the Mephisto
laser system. To prevent mechanical shock and avoid damage
during transport, the laser should be shipped only in the
packing provided by Coherent.

For accurate installation of the Mephisto laser system, the following

installation sequence is required:
1. Place the laser head on a flat surface, for instance an optical
table. For mounting the Mephisto laser head, use the three
clamping forks that are shipped with the laser to mount the
pedestals to the optical table. Further clamping or squeezing of
the laser head is not recommended, as it may cause temporary
misalignments of the optics inside.
2. The heat sink of the laser and the air flow of the controller
should not be blocked or covered. Place them on the table with
free surroundings.

NOTICE!
Before connecting the power cable, verify that the line voltage
setting on the reverse side of the controller agrees with local line
voltage regulations to avoid damage to the controller.

3-1
Mephisto Laser Operator’s Manual

3. For activating the laser diode driver, the two left laser disable
pins of the three-pole screw-type connectors at the rear of the
controller must be connected. With unconnected laser disable,
the “interlock” LED on the front of the controller will glow
and the unit will be inoperable. A passive potential free switch
should be connected to these pins.
4. The two units of the Mephisto laser system, the laser head and
the controller, are to be connected only by using the suitable
cable shipped with the laser system. Make sure that the cables
are fully plugged in and secured by the screws. Only turn on
the controller after the cables are plugged in. Do not loop the
cables. Turn off the controller and wait 1 minute for the capac-
itors to discharge before disconnecting the cables.

NOTICE!
Before connecting the two units, make sure the controller is
switched off to avoid damage to the laser.

At the rear side of the laser head, a D-Sub connector and a BNC
connector are located. The D-Sub connector is used to connect
the laser with the controller. The BNC connector can be used
to apply a high voltage signal in the range - 65 V to + 65 V to
a piezo element on the laser crystal for fast tuning of the laser
frequency.
5. It is necessary to check that the crystal temperature is well
above the dew point of the laser's environment.

3-2
 Installation

Table 3-1. Permissible Minimum Laser Crystal Temperature

for Different Relative Humidity Conditions

Ambient Air ≤ ≥
Temperature 40%RH 45%RH 50%RH 55%RH 60%RH 65%RH 70%RH 75%RH 80%RH 80%RH

< 15ºC (59ºF)

15ºC (59ºF) 18.0 18.0 18.0 18.0 18.0 18.0 18.0 18.0 18.0

16ºC (60.8ºF) 18.0 18.0 18.0 18.0 18.0 18.0 18.0 18.0 18.0

17ºC (62.6ºF) 18.0 18.0 18.0 18.0 18.0 18.0 18.0 18.0 18.0

18ºC (64.4ºF) 18.0 18.0 18.0 18.0 18.0 18.0 18.0 18.0 18.0

19ºC (66.2ºF) 18.0 18.0 18.0 18.0 18.0 18.0 18.0 18.0 18.5

20ºC (68ºF) 18.0 18.0 18.0 18.0 18.0 18.0 18.0 18.5 19.5

21ºC (69.8ºF) 18.0 18.0 18.0 18.0 18.0 18.0 18.4 19.4 20.4

22ºC (71.6ºF) 18.0 18.0 18.0 18.0 18.0 18.2 19.3 20.4 21.4

23ºC (73.4ºF) 18.0 18.0 18.0 18.0 18.0 19.0 20.3 21.4 22.4

24ºC (75.2ºF) 18.0 18.0 18.0 18.0 18.7 20.0 21.2 22.2 23.3

25ºC (77ºF) 18.0 18.0 18.0 18.4 19.7 21.0 22.1 23.2 24.4

26ºC (78.8ºF) 18.0 18.0 18.0 19.3 20.7 21.9 23.1 24.3 26.3

28ºC (82.4ºF) 18.0 18.0 19.6 21.1 22.4 23.9 25.0 26.2 27.2

30ºC (86ºF) 18.0 19.8 21.4 23.0 24.4 25.7 26.9 28.1 29.1

> 30ºC (86ºF) Don’t operate and cool the laser system at these ambient air conditions

The permissible range of the laser crystal temperature is 20°C (68ºF)

to above 40°C (104ºF). However, depending on the relative
humidity and the temperature of the ambient air, it is crucial not to
operate the laser crystal below a certain limit to avoid condensation.
The specific lower limit for your ambient air conditions can be
obtained from the table above. Operating the laser crystal tempera-
ture below the specific lower limit will void the laser system
warranty!

3-3
Mephisto Laser Operator’s Manual

3-4
 Operation

SECTION FOUR: OPERATION

NOTICE!
Read this manual carefully before starting up the laser! Oper-
ating errors can lead to destruction of the Mephisto laser head!

NOTICE!
Before connecting or disconnecting any cables, switch off the
control electronics and/or the power supply to avoid damaging
the laser!

WARNING!
To avoid electrical shock, do not open the controller!

WARNING!
Always wear laser safety glasses to protect the eyes! Those using
the laser and everyone else in the room must wear safety glasses
as required by the wavelength being generated to protect
against accidental exposure to the output beam or its reflection.

4-1
Mephisto Laser Operator’s Manual

Turning the For proper operation of the Mephisto Laser System, the following
turn-on sequence is recommended:
Laser On
1. Use the main key switch to turn the controller on. The OFF
button of the controller will glow and the fan will be operating.
2. Check the Set Temperature of the laser diode(s) by pushing the
Set button(s) in the section Laser Diode. Compare the values
with those given in the data sheet of the laser.
3. Check the Set Temperature of the Nd:YAG laser crystal. The
correct operation temperature depends on the experimental
requirements and may be around 25°C (77ºF).
4. Allow about 60 seconds for the temperature controllers to
stabilize.
5. Make sure, all LEDs at the front of the controller are not
glowing.
6. Make sure that the 10-turns dial of the Injection Current is in
its zero position.
7. Choose the Actual injection current to be displayed at the
monitor by pushing the green button in the section Laser
Diode.
8. Pull up the shutter on the top of the laser head.
9. Activate the diode driver by pressing the green ON button. The
laser emission LED at the front of the laser head will glow.
Make sure that the light from the LED is still visible through
the laser safety glasses.
10. Increase the Injection Current until the desired value is
displayed at the monitor (see data sheet). Make sure the Clamp
LED is off.
To reduce the Mephisto output power, the current can be reduced,
however this changes the beam divergence a little.

NOTICE!
To avoid damage to the laser and not to disturb the laser perfor-
mance, avoid back-reflections from the optical set-up into the
laser. If such reflections should occur, use suitable optics like a
Faraday Isolator with sufficiently high optical isolation.

To protect the laser diodes, a current limiting circuitry is included.

The Injection Current is restricted to the range from zero to the inter-
nally set current limit.

4-2
 Operation

The controller features a soft-start that smoothly increases the laser

diode current when the LASER ON button is pressed.

Turning the Go through the following steps to switch off the Mephisto laser
system:
Laser Off
1. Turn down the Injection Current to zero.
2. Deactivate the laser by pressing the red OFF button. The
button will glow red.
3. Switch off the controller with the main key switch.

NOTICE!
Lasers may be damaged by improper setting of the current
controls or by improper use of the modulation inputs.

Recommended The optical set-up inside the laser head is carefully aligned for best
performance. Therefore the laser head should be handled with
Operation caution. Any mechanical shock is hazardous! Misalignment will
cause the optical power to decrease and should not be fixed by the
operator! Check the output power using a calibrated power meter.
In case of low optical output power or poor beam quality, do not
attempt to fix the problem. Please contact Coherent immediately!

WARNING!
Keep in mind that a hazardous amount of invisible laser radia-
tion might be diffracted in any direction!

Check the functionality of the laser emission LED at regular inter-

vals.
The laser can be operated continuously. It can be operated with the
shutter fully opened and with the shutter fully closed.
Whenever the laser is not used, close the mechanical shutter to avoid
accidental exposure to laser radiation.

4-3
Mephisto Laser Operator’s Manual

NOTICE!
Be aware that the laser might disturb equipment that is sensitive
to magnetic fields.

Frequency The frequency of the Mephisto laser can be tuned by changing the
temperature of the monolithic laser crystal. This can either be done
Tuning directly at the front panel of the controller using the appropriate dial
Capabilities or by applying a voltage to the Laser Crystal temperature modula-
tion input at rear of the controller.
By applying an analog voltage signal in the range - 10 V to + 10 V
to the modulation input labeled “Temperature Laser Crystal”, the
temperature of the laser crystal can be changed by + 1 K/V, corre-
sponding to a frequency change of about - 3 GHz/V at 1064 nm.
Due to the large time constants of the thermal tuning, the response
bandwidth is limited to fractions of a Hertz. The input impedance is
100 kΩ. Do not exceed +/- 10 V and avoid condensation.
The typical tuning characteristic of a standard Mephisto laser oper-
ating at 1064 nm is shown in Figure 4-1. The filled dots represent
operation on a single longitudinal frequency, while the open dots
indicate the mode-hops, where the laser frequency changes from one
longitudinal mode to the next. The exact position of the mode-hops
can be shifted a little from one laser to the next.

281,645

281,640

281,635

281,630
Frequency / THz

281,625

281,620

281,615
Single-frequency
281,610 Mode hop

281,605
20 25 30 35 40 45
(68) (77) (86) (95) (104) (113)
Temperature / ºC (ºF)

Figure 4-1. Typical Frequency Tuning by Crystal Temperature

4-4
 Operation

As can be seen, the laser frequency can be tuned continuously by

6 - 8 GHz between the mode-hops, covering an overall frequency
tuning range of more than 30 GHz. For the Mephisto 500 at
1064 nm, a significantly larger continuous tuning range of more than
15 GHz can be achieved with the Extended Tuning Range (ETR)
option as illustrated in Figure 4-2.

281,660

281,655

281,650

281,645
Frequency / THz

281,640

281,635

281,630

281,625
Single-frequency
Mode hop
281,620

281,615
20 25 30 35 40 45
(68) (77) (86) (95) (104) (113)
Temperature / ºC (ºF)

Figure 4-2. Typical Frequency Tuning by Crystal Temperature (ETR Option)

Fast frequency tuning of a Mephisto laser can be achieved by

applying a high voltage signal in the range of - 65 V to + 65 V to a
piezo crystal element on the laser crystal, using the BNC connector
at the rear side of the laser head. Higher voltages will misalign the
laser cavity or even destroy the piezo crystal. Especially RF signals
will heat up the piezo and destroy it.
Depending on the actual laser crystal and the modulation frequency,
the piezo tuning coefficient is about 1 MHz/V with a response band-
width of about 100 kHz. The capacity is 1-2 nF. The combination of
the slow temperature tuning with a large range and the fast tuning
with a high bandwidth is ideally suited for stabilizing the laser
frequency to optical reference cavities or molecular absorption lines.

4-5
Mephisto Laser Operator’s Manual

Output Power By applying an analog voltage signal in the range - 10 V to + 10 V

to the modulation input labeled “Current Laser Diode” using the
Modulation BNC connector at the rear panel of the controller, the injection
current of the laser can be modulated by 0.1 A/V. The response
bandwidth of this modulation input is limited to about 5 kHz, the
input impedance is 100 kΩ. Do not exceed +/- 10 V.

4-6
 Maintenance and Troubleshooting

SECTION FIVE: MAINTENANCE AND

TROUBLESHOOTING

Maintenance The Mephisto laser head and the controller do not contain any
parts requiring maintenance. Do not open the laser head or the
controller.

Troubleshooting If any failure occurs, do not open the laser head or the
controller! They do not contain any user serviceable parts.

Do not use any replacement parts that are not authorized by
Coherent.

Be aware that laser diodes degrade and have a limited lifetime. In case
of a reduced output power, contact Coherent to determine if the
diodes have degraded. In that case a diode exchange at Coherent
might be necessary.
The controller for the Mephisto laser system includes a sophisticated
safety circuitry to protect the laser diodes against current spikes or
overheating and switch the diode drivers into inactive mode in case of
problems. This is indicated by the LED at the front panel of the
controller. Check for the following possible causes:

Laser Disable Diagnosis:

Indicated by the “Interlock” LED. The two pins of the Laser
disable connector at the rear panel of the controller are not
connected.
Reaction: 
Short the two pins of the Laser disable connector.

5-1
Mephisto Laser Operator’s Manual

Temperature Diagnosis:
Guard Indicated by the “Guard” LED. To prevent the laser diodes
from overheating, the controller contains a Temperature
Guard that monitors deviations between the set temperature
and the actual laser diode temperature and switches the driver
into inactive mode in case a deviation persists.
Reaction: 
If the set temperature is far above the room temperature, the
temperature control might not reach the set temperature quick
enough before the temperature guard is activated. Turn the
controller on and off. Starting from a preheated value, the set
temperature will now be reached more quickly.

If the set temperature is not particularly high and is not
reached, it might be due to overheating of the laser head.
Check that the heat sink is not blocked. If the set temperature
was set far too low and cannot be reached, try increasing it a
little.

If the problem persists, contact Coherent.

Clamp Current Diagnosis:

Indicated by the “Clamp” LED. The injection current of the
laser diodes is driven above its internal limit.
Reaction:
Reduce the voltage at the “Current Laser Diode” modulation
input at the rear panel of the controller.

Supply Voltage The presence of all supply voltages required for reliable operation of
Indicators the Mephisto laser system is indicated by a set of LEDs at the rear
panel of the controller. If any of the LEDs L1 to L8 is not glowing,
the corresponding supply voltage is not present and the laser system
will not work properly. In that case also contact Coherent.

Amplitude Noise If there are big high frequency oscillations in the laser amplitude
noise and if the laser does include a Noise Eater, turn off and on the
Noise Eater to see if the oscillation disappears.
After fixing an error, cycle the key switch once to see if the error is
no longer present. If the problem cannot be fixed, contact Coherent.
Service inside the laser head or the controller should only be
performed at Coherent.

5-2
 Pin Configurations

SECTION SIX: PIN CONFIGURATIONS

Laser Connector The two units of the Mephisto laser system, the laser head and the
controller, are to be connected only with a suitable cable, shipped
with the laser system. Figure 6-1 illustrates the 37 pin D-Sub
connector at the rear panel of the master laser controller. The
description of the individual pins of the laser connector is given in
Table 6-1 on page 6-2.

19 17 15 13 11 9 7 5 3 1

37 35 33 31 29 28 26 24 22 20

Figure 6-1. Laser Connector (37 pin D-Sub)

6-1
Mephisto Laser Operator’s Manual

Table 6-1. Pin Description - Laser Connector

PIN DESCRIPTION PIN DESCRIPTION

1 Laser diode cathode 20 Laser diode anode

2 Laser diode 1, TEC anode 21 Supply voltage + 12 V

3 Laser diode 1, TEC cathode 22 Relay, negative supply voltage

4 Laser diode 2, TEC anode 23 GND

5 Laser diode 2, TEC cathode 24 Relay, positive supply voltage

6 Laser crystal, TEC anode 25 Supply voltage - 12 V

7 Laser crystal, TEC cathode 26 Noise Eater, monitor

8 n/c 27 Noise Eater, switch

9 n/c 28 n/c

10 Laser diode 1, monitor diode, 29 Laser diode 2, monitor diode,

cathode cathode

11 Laser diode 1, monitor diode, 30 Laser diode 2, monitor diode,

anode anode

12 Laser crystal, NTC reference 31 n/c

voltage 6.85 V

13 Laser crystal, NTC ground 32 Laser disable

14 n/c 33 GND

15 Laser diode 1, NTC reference 34 Laser diode 2, NTC reference

voltage 6.85 V voltage 6.85 V

16 Laser diode 1, NTC ground 35 n/c

17 Laser diode 2, NTC ground 36 n/c

18 n/c 37 n/c

19 n/c

6-2
 Pin Configurations

Diagnostics All vital information about the status of the Mephisto laser system
can be monitored without opening the controller, using the diagnos-
Connector tics connector. Figure 6-2 illustrates the 25 pin D-Sub connector at
the rear panel of the master laser controller. A description of the indi-
vidual pins of the diagnostics connector is given in Table 6-2.

13 11 9 7 5 3 1

25 23 21 18 16 14

Figure 6-2. Diagnostics Connector (25 pin D-Sub)

Table 6-2. Pin Description - Diagnostics Connector

PIN DESCRIPTION
1 Laser diode 1, power monitor, 1 V / W

2 Laser diode 2, power monitor, 1 V / W

3 Laser crystal, TEC error signal, 10 V / °C

4 n/c

5 n/c

6 Laser diode 1, TEC error signal, 10 V / °C

7 Laser diode 2, TEC error signal, 10 V / °C

8 Laser diode 1, temperature guard

9 Laser diode 2, temperature guard

10 n/c

11 n/c

12 Noise Eater, monitor

13 Laser disable

14-25 GND (measure all other signals against GND)

6-3
Mephisto Laser Operator’s Manual

Supply Voltage In order to quickly check the presence of all supply voltages required
for reliable operation of the Mephisto laser system without opening
Indicators the controller, they are indicated by a set of 8 LEDs at the rear panel
of the controller (Figure 6-3). The description of the indicators is
given in Table 6-3.

Supply Voltage Indicator LEDs

Figure 6-3. Supply Voltage Indicators

Table 6-3. Description - Supply Voltage Indicators

LED DESCRIPTION
L1 Negative supply voltage, temperature controllers

L2 Positive supply voltage, laser crystal temperature controller

L3 Positive supply voltage, laser diode 2 temperature controller

L4 Positive supply voltage, laser diode 1 temperature controller

L5 Supply voltage, laser diodes

L6 Supply voltage, Noise Eater

L7 Negative supply voltage, controller

L8 Positive supply voltage, controller

6-4
 Accessories

ACCESSORIES

Power Meter Coherent offers a variety of instruments for laser test and measure-
ment. For additional detailed information, including product selec-
Accessories tion guides, visit Coherent’s web site at www.coherent.com.
For the most common diagnostics – measuring the output power of
the Mephisto – Coherent recommends the Fieldmax™II-TO with a
PM10 sensor (Figure A-1).

Coherent’s The FieldMaxII-TO is a full-featured power meter that supports

Recommendation interchangeable power sensors and offers capabilities like onboard
statistical analysis and computer interfacing via USB. It also comes
with installable applications software and LabVIEW drivers.
The recommended sensor option for this meter:
The PM10 provides measurements up to 10 W covering the
0.19 - 11 µm wavelength range. This air-cooled thermopile
sensor also features broadband coating.

FieldMaxII-TO Laser Power Meter PM10 Power Sensor

Part Number 1098579 Part Number 1097901

Figure A-1. Coherent Power Meter & Sensor (Recommended)

A-1
Mephisto Laser Operator’s Manual

A-2
 Warranty

WARRANTY

Coherent, Inc. warrants Diode-Pumped Solid State laser systems to

the original purchaser (the Buyer) only, that the laser system, that is
the subject of this sale, (a) conforms to Coherent's published speci-
fications and (b) is free from defects in materials and workmanship.
Laser systems are warranted to conform to Coherent's published
specifications and to be free from defects in materials and workman-
ship for thirteen (13) months.

Responsibilities The buyer is responsible for providing the appropriate utilities and
an operating environment as outlined in the product literature.
of the Buyer Damage to the laser system caused by failure of buyer's utilities or
failure to maintain an appropriate operating environment, is solely
the responsibility of the buyer and is specifically excluded from any
warranty, warranty extension, or service agreement.
The Buyer is responsible for prompt notification to Coherent of any
claims made under warranty. In no event will Coherent be respon-
sible for warranty claims made later than seven (7) days after the
expiration of warranty.

Limitations of The foregoing warranty shall not apply to defects resulting from:
Warranty • Components and accessories manufactured by companies,
other than Coherent, which have separate warranties
• Improper or inadequate maintenance by the buyer
• Buyer-supplied interfacing
• Operation outside the environmental specifications of the
product
• Unauthorized modification or misuse
• Improper site preparation and maintenance
• Opening the housing
Coherent assumes no responsibility for customer-supplied material.
The obligations of Coherent are limited to repairing or replacing,
without charge, equipment which proves to be defective during the
warranty period. Replacement sub-assemblies may contain recondi-

B-1
Mephisto Laser Operator’s Manual

tioned parts. Repaired or replaced parts are warranted for the dura-
tion of the original warranty period only. The warranty on parts
purchased after expiration of system warranty is ninety (90) days.
Our warranty does not cover damage due to misuse, negligence or
accidents, or damage due to installations, repairs or adjustments not
specifically authorized by Coherent.
Warranty applies only to the original purchaser at the initial installa-
tion point in the country of pur-chase, unless otherwise specified in
the sales contract. Warranty is transferable to another location or to
another customer only by special agreement which will include
additional inspection or installation at the new site. Coherent
disclaims any responsibility to provide product warranty, technical
or service support to a customer that acquires products from
someone other than Coherent or an authorized representative.
THIS WARRANTY IS EXCLUSIVE IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER
WARRANTIES, WHETHER WRITTEN, ORAL OR IMPLIED,
AND DOES NOT COVER INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUEN-
TIAL LOSS. COHERENT SPECIFICALLY DISCLAIMS THE
IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND
FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.

B-2
 Glossary

GLOSSARY

% Percent
°C Degrees Celsius
°F Degrees Fahrenheit
µ Micron(s) = (10-6)
µJ MicroJoule(s) = (10-6 Joules)
µm Micrometer(s) = (10-6 meters)
Ω Ohm (SI derived unit of electrical resistance)

A Ampere(s)
AC Alternating Current
a.u. Arbitrary units

BNC Bayonet Neill Concelman connector

CDRH Center for Devices and Radiological Health (U.S. Government)

dB Decibel
DC Direct Current

EMC Electromagnetic Compatibility

ESD Electro-Static Discharge

FPI Fabry-Pérot Interferometer

GHz GigaHertz = (109 Hertz)

GND Ground

hPa Hectopascal
Hz Hertz or cycles per second (frequency) (= 1/pulse period)

in. Inch(es)
IP Ingress protection rating
ISO International Organization for Standardization

K Kelvin(s)
kHz Kilohertz = (103 hertz) (1000 hertz)
km Kilometer(s) = (103 meters)
kΩ Kilohm

LD Laser Diode
LED Light Emitting Diode

m Meter(s) (length)
mA Milliamp(s) = (10-3 Amperes)
m°C Milidegree(s) Celsius
MHz Mega Hertz = (106 Hertz)
mm Millimeter(s)
MΩ Megohm(s) = 106 ohms) (resistance)
mrad Milliradian(s) = (10-3 radians) (angle)

Glossary - 1
Mephisto Laser Operator’s Manual

ms Millisecond(s) = (10-3 seconds)

mW Milliwatt(s) (10-6 Watts) (power)

n/c Not connected

NE Noise Eater
nm Nanometer(s) = (10-9 m) (wavelength)
NTC Negative Temperature Coefficient Thermistor

pps Captures per cycle

RF Radio Frequency
RIN Relative intensity noise
RoHS Restriction of Hazardous Substances Directive

TEC Thermo Electric Cooler

V Volt(s)

W Watt(s)
WEEE Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment

Glossary - 2
 Index

INDEX

A Mephisto Laser System 1-4

Accessories A-1 Mephisto MIR laser system 1-5
Amplitude noise 5-2
K
Analog modulation inputs (BNC connectors) 2-8
Keyswitch 1-4
B
L
Beam polarization 2-6
Labels, system 1-7
C Laser
China-RoHS compliance 1-6 Description 2-1
Clamp current 5-2 Specifications 2-1, 2-2
Classification, Laser 1-4 Turning off 4-3
Compliance Turning on 4-2
China-RoHS 1-6 Laser connector 6-1
Environmental 1-5 Laser controller 2-8
Export control laws ix Laser diode driver 2-8
RoHS 1-5 Laser disable 1-5, 5-1
Waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE, Laser emission and classification 1-4
2002) 1-6 Laser head 2-6
Configurations, pin 6-1 Installation 3-1
Connector Laser safety 1-1
BNC 2-8 Features, maintenance of 1-10
Diagnostics 6-3 Requirements 1-4
D-Sub 2-8
M
Laser 6-1
Maintenance 1-10, 5-1
Controller, grounding 1-3
Laser safety features 1-10
D Maintenance and troubleshooting 5-1
Diagnostics connector 2-8, 6-3 MIR 1-5
D-Sub connector
O
Diagnostics 2-8
Operation 4-1
E Operation, recommended 4-3
Electrical safety 1-3 Optical safety 1-1
Emission Output power modulation 4-6
Laser 1-4
P
Spectrum 2-4
Pin configurations 6-1
Environmental compliance 1-5
Power meter accessories A-1
Export control laws compliance ix
Precision temperature controller 2-8
F Preface vii
Frequency tuning capabilities 4-4
R
G Recommended operation 4-3
Grounding controller 1-3 Relative intensity noise (RIN) 2-4
RoHS compliance 1-5
I
Installation 3-1 S
Laser head 3-1 Safety 1-1
Interlock 1-5 Electrical 1-3
Invisible laser radiation Laser 1-1
Optical 1-1

Index - 1
Mephisto Laser Operator’s Manual

Requirements 1-4
Service 1-3
Signal words vii
Specifications, laser 2-1, 2-2
Supply voltage indicators 5-2, 6-4
Symbols viii
T
Temperature guard 5-2
Troubleshooting 5-1
Troubleshooting (see Maintenance) 5-1
Turning the laser off 4-3
Turning the laser on 4-2
W
Warranty B-1
Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE,
2002) 1-6

Index - 2
Mephisto Laser Operator’s Manual
©Coherent Inc., 11/2013 (RoHS), printed in the USA
Part No. 1265350 Rev. AA
Mephisto Laser Operator’s Manual
©Coherent Inc., 11/2013 (RoHS), printed in the USA
Part No. 1265350 Rev. AA