HeNe tube helps

[kristopher]

Hey all,

I was just given two HeNe lasers.  They are off brand and have rated max power of 30mW and 20mW.  Using a molectron PM,  they only put out about ~4mW each.  They have the original power supplies and the keys/lights/etc needed.

My question is how much work is it (or is it even possible?) to bring them back up in power?  Is it worth it?  I found Sams Laser FAQ but just looking for a second opinion.

Thanks,
Kristopher

 

[daguin]

Hey all,
I was just given two HeNe lasers.  They are off brand and have rated max power of 30mW and 20mW.  Using a molectron PM,  they only put out about ~4mW each.  They have the original power supplies and the keys/lights/etc needed.
My question is how much work is it (or is it even possible?) to bring them back up in power?  Is it worth it?  I found Sams Laser FAQ but just looking for a second opinion.
Thanks,
Kristopher

If they truly are the "original" power supplies, then you probably cannot get them much higher. IMNSHO it is much too expensive to re-gass these just to have a cool beam.

Peace,
dave