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- Dec 31, 2012
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Hmm, what you're saying sounds like the test points are giving you accurate data. As the current readings go up and down, if measured output power varies jointly, then it's a good indicator the test point are giving you meaningful readings.
I may be wrong about the voltage. I think you're correct. As the tube ages, Argon is outgassed from the tube, and the pressure falls, and it takes less voltage to make it lase. Over-pressure requires more voltage.
If I recall correctly, a fresh 60X tube should operate at 108V. And at 10A put out about 100mW. I am by no means an expert. And I no longer have a 60X tube. But back in the 1980s, I handled many of these.
Also these numbers are kinda of meaningless, because they vary depending on bore diameter and other factors I cannot remember.
Operating at 10A is a little on the high side, but if you're doing a laser show, you'll operate it at 10A for only an hour or so, right? At 4A and 10mW, I seem to recall these tubes have a life of 20,000 hours. But at 10A and 100mW, it's one tenth that at 2,000 hours.
I'm still dubious of your PSU, but it sounds like things are looking up and you have a working laser. Enjoy it, and let's not over analyze.
I may be wrong about the voltage. I think you're correct. As the tube ages, Argon is outgassed from the tube, and the pressure falls, and it takes less voltage to make it lase. Over-pressure requires more voltage.
If I recall correctly, a fresh 60X tube should operate at 108V. And at 10A put out about 100mW. I am by no means an expert. And I no longer have a 60X tube. But back in the 1980s, I handled many of these.
Also these numbers are kinda of meaningless, because they vary depending on bore diameter and other factors I cannot remember.
Operating at 10A is a little on the high side, but if you're doing a laser show, you'll operate it at 10A for only an hour or so, right? At 4A and 10mW, I seem to recall these tubes have a life of 20,000 hours. But at 10A and 100mW, it's one tenth that at 2,000 hours.
I'm still dubious of your PSU, but it sounds like things are looking up and you have a working laser. Enjoy it, and let's not over analyze.
