Flash Lamp Problem

[Gryphon]

Ive returned to my SSY-1 laser head after finally making a good capacitor charger, the only problem now is that the flash lamp won't light! The lamp is hooked up to 510v at 400uF and the trigger circuit is making a visible blue glow inside the lamp's glass but it refuses to dazzle me with a blinding white flash of light.

Is it possible that the lamp could be dead and in need of replacing, and is there any way to positively test if it is?

If all else fails i can simply buy a replacement lamp from Meredith but i thought i would check with you guys first.

 

[Prototype]

I hope you're not actually looking at the lamp when you're trying to trigger it! Those things emit dangerous amounts of IR and can do serious damage to your eyes should it trigger intermittently. Can't remember off the top of my head what the PFN should produce for the flashlamp, but I'll check.

 

[NetGod3Com]

I have 2 ssy-1 assemblies, I Death Stared the flash lamp in one, the other is ok. If you get a blue glow but no ignition then your flashlamp has probably leaked and will need replacement. Also, as Prototype stated, keep the business end of the ssy-1 pointed away from anything you do not want damaged and your left hand in your pocket when the cap is charged.

I hope you get it running, happy lasering...

 

[Prototype]

Well I was referring to the flashlamp itself being a danger to the eyes, but that's good advice as well.

 

[Gryphon]

Thanks for the responses guys! When the laser didn't fire i removed the lamp and tried to power it up outside the cavity but behind cover so as not to blind myslf if it did light. But when it didn't light i went over to see if the trigger circuit was working and thats when i noticed the blue glow from the trigger wire that told me the trigger was indeed working.

Never the less i just put in an order at Meredith and should have new lamp in a couple days.

Thanks again for the advice, i really like the one about putting your hand in your pocket so as not to short out HV across your heart, i also like to put power cables in my pockets too, it makes sure its not plugged in and helps me remember where it is