Installing a new tube - at nearly the cost of a new laser - would be the ideal solution. But a low power laser can still be fully functional for a single, or perhaps dual-axis machine; for a test system, in education and training, or as a low cost emergency spare while waiting for a full-spec replacement - at a few percent of the cost of a new laser.

These lasers have been modified to enable them to become READY at a lower power, and additional ballast resistance has been added if needed to prevent the appearance of amplitude ripple, which can eventually interfere with the optical REF and MEAS signals.

     

Sample Photos - All the lasers are in the same excellent condition.

The buyer may opt for the normal closed or vented HP/Agilent cover pending availability. If not specified, I will select one. (The cover can always be transferred from your defective laser.) Standard metal feet are optional but will be included upon request.

Starting is instantaneous, there is no problem with the tube dropping out, the time to READY on solid is normal (around 4 minutes), the optical REF signal is clean and stable, and they should meet all HP/Agilent specifications except for minimum output power, which is between 80 and 100 µW after warmup. (So, about 1/2 the minimum spec'd power.) They have been tested in an interferometer setup for at least 8 hours to assure that there are no dropouts and that the beat frequency remains clean and stable.

Since these lasers have been modified and might be used in demanding applications, we will provide the following warranty:

• First 10 days: If the laser fails to meet the specifications in the "Sam's Classified" listing, buyer may opt for 100 percent refund, free repair, or replacement. The laser may be returned for any other reason including that the case color doesn't match your decor for a 75 percent refund.

• Next 80 days: If the laser fails to lock or the output power falls below 75 percent of the initial recorded value, or the beat frequency becomes unstable, free repair or replacement will be provided, or a 50 percent refund of purchase price if repair or replacement is not possible.

Warranty void if failure resulted from improper installation, incorrect power wiring or voltages, lack of cooling, physical shock, being run over by a 10 ton truck, dropped down a flight of stairs, etc. Warranty excludes shipping.

If your application is critical where down-time must be avoided, then I would recommend buying either a new laser, or one that has low hours and runs without modification. But a new laser from Agilent will typically be 30 or 40 times my price, or 5 or 6 times as much for a used one which comes close to meeting new specifications, likely pulled from service due to an electronic failure and subsequently repaired, or due to a production line shutting down.

But if you're willing to take a chance with little risk (except time and essentially just slightly more than the cost of shipping), then these lasers may be adequate, or may serve as a low cost spare.

Discount available with trade-in of your HP/Agilent laser(s).

Return to Metrology Lasers Section or Table of Contents of Sam's Classified Page.