Round 2: Argon help!

[bobhaha]

Hey guys,

So I've been working on my argon laser for a while now... But I've hit a wall again... I've checked out everything that people have suggested in the comments of my other thread... So I thought I would make a video which will hopefully make finding a problem easier.



Laser physics reliant 50S-488

If you have any ideas or suggestions please let me know here!

Thanks
-Adrian

 

[cheech226]

these are fine little argons. I don't have a lot of knowledge about the innards but i have one of these. if i could help with any voltage readings or something pm me

 

[bobhaha]

Beautiful! Well I was wondering if you could firstly take a pic of where the interface board meets the main board... I want to check if I have all the connections and jumpers in the right place.

Also does your tube start first click? If not... does it diminish like it does in the video for me?

 

[Things]

Hmm, sounds like you're not getting any heater voltage or even tube voltage, as usually the starting clicks would be a lot louder, indicating it is striking the tube. Switchmode power supplies are a pain in the ass when it comes to troubleshooting, especially if you don't even have a schematic (And I'm pretty sure it's a 4 layer board).

When you first turn the unit on, do you hear a relay click shortly after?

 

[bobhaha]

Yup.. then once I bridge the connector for the keyswitch a second relay clicks on too

 

[Meatball]

PM LASERFAQ if you have time. He might know where to begin making tests around the tube. Ask for a service manual for the off chance he knows where to get one.

 

[Things]

Unfortunately Steve hasn't been able to get hold of a manual for these lasers, however he may have a lead if he sees your video, as he'll know what's missing

 

[Meatball]

Hey. Any news? Did you learn anything new?

 

[bobhaha]

Well today I hooked up a fan and a small light globe to the output that goes to the heater... and nothing, no signs of life.

I did how ever figure out that both outputs are sitting at 240V above earth (laser chassis). Is it possible that there may be a earthing issue? Maybe there is a differential of 3V between both against earth?

 

[Fiddy]

can you trace back where the voltage comes from? i.e. a step down transformer and rectifier?