Vortran Stradus User Manual
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Vortran Stradus User Manual

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Stradus™ Laser
User Manual

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  • Page 1 Stradus™ Laser User Manual...

  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    Vortran Laser User Manual Table of Contents List of Tables List of Figures Symbols Laser Safety Compliance Standards Vortran Laser Classification Observations Laser Safety Labels Electrical Safety Optical Safety Vortran Laser Safety Features 4.7.1 Protective Housing 4.7.2 Power Indicator 4.7.3 Interlock Indicator 4.7.4 Remote Interlock Operation...
  • Page 4 6.3.10 BNC Connector 6.3.11 Remote Interlock Plug OEM Laser Installation OEM Laser Installation Checklist Laser Head Drawings Heat Sink Requirements Laser Mounting Hardware Torque Specifications Input Connector Specifications Power Supply Requirements Laser Head Pins USB Connection 7.10 USB Drivers 7.11 RS-232 Connection and Protocol Laser Operation Laser Operation Checklist...
  • Page 5 10.0 Vortran Stradus™ Control Software 10.1 Supported Operating Systems 10.2 CD Contents 10.3 USB Driver Installation 10.4 Software Installation 10.5 Menu Items 10.5.1 Open Configuration File 10.5.2 Save Configuration File 10.5.3 Print Configuration Settings 10.5.4 Print Active Window 10.5.5 View Menu 10.5.6 Help Menu...
  • Page 6 13.0 Glossary 14.0 Warranty 15.0 Returning Laser for Service 16.0 Contact Vortran Laser Technology www.vortranlaser.com...
  • Page 7 1.0 List of Tables Table Description Page Packing List RS-232 Pin Connections Control Box I/O Pin Descriptions Laser Head Pin Descriptions RS-232 Laser Head Connections Laser Head Pin Descriptions Digital Modulation Specifications USB Pin Descriptions RS-232 Connections and Communication Protocol Command and Query Summary Command Detail Query Detail...
  • Page 8 www.vortranlaser.com...

  • Page 9: Remote Interlock Plug

    2.0 List of Figures Figure Description Page Laser Safety Label Location Serial Number Label Laser Head Power Indicator Control Box Power Indicator Control Box Interlock Indicator Remote Interlock Plug Interlock Diagram Laser Emission Indicator Laser Shutter Positions Control Box Key Switch System Block Diagram Laser Head Dimensions Control Box Dimensions...

  • Page 10: Laser Hours

    Software Installation Progress Screen Software Installation Completion Screen File Menu View Menu Help Menu Add RS-232 Laser Button Home Screen Laser Status Indicator Laser Hours Digital Modulation External Control Laser Emission Indicator Laser Power and Current Indicators Base Plate Temperature Indicator Diode Temperature Information Screen Terminal Screen...
  • Page 11 3.0 Symbols ESD – This symbol is used to alert the user of hazards associated with Electro-static Discharge. Laser Radiation – This symbol is used to alert the user of hazards associated with optical radiation emitted from the laser. CE Mark – This symbol represents the European Directive Conformite Europeenne"...
  • Page 12 No Text on This Page www.vortranlaser.com...

  • Page 13: Laser Safety

    The Vortran Laser CDRH accession number is on file and available upon request. The Vortran Laser has been tested and certified by an outside testing agency, to comply with the following directives: EMI Standard EN61326-1 Including:...

  • Page 14: Vortran Laser Classification

    The emitted wavelength and maximum power level are specified on the laser safety label. The typical divergence for all Vortran Stradus™ lasers is 0.5mrad. Observations If the equipment is used in a manner not specified by Vortran Laser Technology, the protection provided by the equipment may be impaired. Laser Safety Labels...

  • Page 15: Electrical Safety

    Vortran Laser Technology recommends proper ESD precautions are taken when handling the laser head and control box. The Vortran Stradus™ Laser System is designed with internal safeguards for protection from ESD. Even with the tested design safeguards in place, high energy ESD discharge events may cause damage to the laser system.

  • Page 16: Vortran Laser Safety Features

    Vortran Laser Safety Features 4.7.1 Protective Housing – The Vortran Laser Head and Control box include a protective housing. These housings are not intended to be removed by the user and the warranty will be voided if user removal occurs. If the housing is removed, the user may be exposed to laser radiation or line voltage.

  • Page 17: Interlock Indicator

    4.7.3 Interlock Indicator – Two types of laser emission indicators are provided by Vortran Laser Technology. The Vortran Stradus™ Control Box Includes an Interlock Indicator. When the power switch is in the “ON” position and the key switch is set to the “ON” position, the interlock indicator will be illuminated.

  • Page 18: Remote Interlock Operation

    4.7.4 Remote Interlock Operation – The laser control box includes a jack on the rear panel for remote interlock operation. The Vortran Stradus™ Laser System is shipped with a mating plug for a remote interlock connection. When the plug is installed and the plug connection is open, laser emission is not possible.

  • Page 19: Interlock Diagram

    4.7.5 Interlock Diagram Figure 7 Interlock Diagram 4.7.6 Laser Emission Indicator – The Vortran Laser Head includes a laser emission indicator. The wavelength of the indicator allows it to be viewed when using laser safety eyewear. The laser emission indicator is...

  • Page 20: Laser Emission Indicator

    Figure 9 Laser Shutter Positions 4.7.8 Key Switch – The Vortran Laser Key Switch provides the ability to initiate, halt or prevent laser emission. With the power on and the key switch in the “ON” position, laser emission is possible. Possible laser emission...

  • Page 21: Laser Emission Delay

    For OEM applications, the delay can be disabled with a firmware command. 4.7.10 Computer Control – The Vortran Laser can be controlled by a computer via USB or RS-232. The command set includes provisions for remote operation. Computer controlled safeguards can be applied in a remote operation configuration.
  • Page 22 No Text on This Page www.vortranlaser.com...

  • Page 23: System Features

    Environmental Operating Conditions The Vortran Stradus™ Laser system is designed for indoor or enclosed use only. Typical operating temperatures range from 10ºC to 40ºC, based on the heat sink used to maintain base plate temperatures at or below 50ºC. The Vortran Stradus™...

  • Page 24: System Block Diagram

    Electrical Laser Head Optical Power Regulation, Thermal Control, Microprocessor Thermistor TE Cooler Base Plate Thermistor Laser Control Center Host Computer RS-232 RS-232 Key Switch I/O Connector Laser Enable Fault Indicator Laser Ready Auto-start Laser Power Out +5 Volts Out Signal Ground User Analog Power Control...

  • Page 25: System Installation Checklist

     Connect Laser Control Box to Laser Head  Connect USB or RS-232 Cable if Computer Control is Desired  If Computer Control is Desired, Install Vortran Stradus™ Control Software  Connect AC Power to Laser Control Box  Proceed to Operation Section for Additional Information...

  • Page 26: Unpacking And Inspection

    Unpacking and Inspection Upon receipt of your new Vortran laser, inspect the contents of the shipping box for potential damage from mishandling during shipment. Immediately report any damage to Vortran Laser Technology. A CDRH compliant laser system shipment will include the following items:...

  • Page 27: Laser System Drawings

    Laser Head Mounting 6.3.1 Laser System Drawings Figure 12 Laser Head Dimensions Figure 13 Control Box Dimensions Note: The values shown for the Control Box height does not include the rubber feet. Add 0.15” for the Rubber Feet. Note: The Laser Cable length is 2 feet. www.vortranlaser.com...

  • Page 28: Heat Sink Requirements

    6.3.2 Heat Sink Requirements The Vortran Laser head is conduction cooled and requires a heat sink for operation.  Failure to use a heat sink will overheat the laser head.  Heat sink compound is not required or recommended for laser head mounting.
  • Page 29 Refer to sections 10 and 11 for computer controlled operation. 6.3.6 Laser Control box Standard Vortran Lasers are shipped with a full- feature laser control box. The laser control box allows the user to access all input and output functions available with the laser system.

  • Page 30: Mini-Din Plug

    6.3.9 I/O Connection Access the laser Input / Output functions on the front of the laser control box. The I/O connector is a standard 8 pin Mini-DIN. A mating connector is provided with each standard laser system and allows the user to build interface cable that can access some or all I/O pin functions.

  • Page 31: Bnc Connector

    Function PIN # Description TTL Signal for Fault Status. TTL High = Fault Fault Indicator Condition Laser Enable TTL Signal to Toggle Laser Emission On and Off Ground pin to require computer initiated laser Auto-start emission. (LE=1) This pin is normally TTL High 5 Volts 5 Volt Reference TTL Signal for Laser Emission Status.

  • Page 32: Remote Interlock Plug

    6.3.11 Remote Interlock Plug Each standard Vortran Stradus™ Laser System is shipped with an Interlock Plug. The Interlock Plug is Not Required for Normal Operation. For remote interlock operation, connect to the supplied plug to a remote interlock switch. When the interlock plug is installed into the control box and the connection is “Open,”...

  • Page 33: Oem Laser Installation

    7.0 OEM Laser Installation OEM Laser Installation Checklist  Unpack and Inspect Laser Head  Use Supplied Mounting Screws to Secure Laser Head to Heat Sink  Torque Laser Head to Heat Sink at 20 in-lbs, Using a Progressively Increasing Cross Torque Pattern ...

  • Page 34: Laser Mounting Torque Pattern

    Laser Mounting Hardware Each Vortran Stradus™ Laser System is shipped with M4 x 10mm laser head mounting screws and washers. If ASE mounting hardware is desired, the laser head can be mounted with 6-32 x ½ “ socket head screws.

  • Page 35: Input Connector Specifications

    Input Connector Specifications The Vortran Stradus™ Laser System input connector is a 3M Mini-D 20 pin connector. For OEM applications, Vortran Laser Technology recommends the solder connector described below. A solder-type connector will allow for connections to only the pins required for custom applications without connecting to unneeded pins.

  • Page 36: Computer Control

    Modulation Ground Table 4 Laser Head Pin Descriptions Power Input +12 Volts from Vortran Stradus™ Control Box or OEM Power Supply. *Note: Laser Power connector supports 1 Amp per pin. 3 power inputs are required to deliver 3 amps to the laser head. This includes the Power Supply Ground.

  • Page 37: Laser Output

    Except Modulation Input. Connect this pin to DE-9 connector pin 5 as a ground for RS-232 communication. 5 Volt Reference – The Vortran Laser microprocessor provides a 5 volt output reference signal, which can be used for a variety of laser control functions such as interlock operation.

  • Page 38: Usb Connection

    The Vortran Stradus™ Laser Head includes a standard Mini B USB connector for computer controlled operation. The 5 volts supply provided by the USB connection is not utilized by the laser head in any way. The Vortran Laser Head supports USB 1.0 or 2.0. For additional USB operational information, please refer to section 7.0 and 8.0.
  • Page 39 7.11 RS-232 Connection The Vortran Stradus™ Laser supports USB or RS-232 communication. Refer to the table below for information on connecting a computer serial port directly to a Vortran Stradus™ laser head. The Vortran Laser will not operate with a null-modem cable. A standard RS-232 cable is required for serial computer controlled operation.
  • Page 40 No Text on This Page www.vortranlaser.com...

  • Page 41: Laser Operation

    Open Shutter Auto-start vs Manual Start The Vortran Stradus™ Laser is configured for auto-start operation at the time of shipment. When power is applied, the thermal control circuits will stabilize the diode temperature at 25ºC. When the optical block temperature is within 3ºC of the 25ºC set temperature, the 5 second CDRH emission delay will start.

  • Page 42: Laser Warm-Up And Standby

    Electrical Input / Output Functions The Vortran Stradus™ Laser provides capability to accept and provide a number of electrical input and output signals. All Electrical Input and Output Signals available with the Control Box are available directly from the Laser Head.

  • Page 43: Laser Head Pin Numbers

    Function PIN # Description TTL Signal for Fault Status. TTL High = Fault Fault Indicator Condition Laser Enable TTL Signal to Toggle Laser Emission On and Off Ground pin to require computer initiated laser Auto-start emission. (LE=1) This pin is normally TTL High 5 Volts 5 Volt Reference TTL Signal for Laser Emission Status.

  • Page 44: Shutter Operation

    Laser Emission 8.5.1 Shutter Operation The shutter on the Vortran Stradus™ Laser Head operates with a simple sliding motion. A detent is included at both the open and closed positions. For proper shutter operation, ensure the detent in engaged. The shutter positions are labeled on the top of the laser head and shown below.

  • Page 45: Far-Field Beam Quality

    8.5.3 Far-field Beam Quality The typical Rayleigh range for a Vortran Stradus™ Laser is greater than 2 meters. When measuring beam quality with a camera, the image should be collected at a distance of 4 meters or greater. A true representation of beam quality occurs in the Far-field and directly relates to a focused beam application.

  • Page 46: Digital Modulation Specification

    **The SMB connectors require a 50Ω termination** 8.6.3 Operation To operate the Stradus ™ laser in pulse mode, install the Vortran Stradus™ software and USB drivers. If RS-232 operation is required, refer to section 9.2. Activate “Digital Modulation” by clicking the “On”...

  • Page 47: Pulse Mode Example

    Figure 29 Pulse Mode Example www.vortranlaser.com...
  • Page 48 No Text on This Page www.vortranlaser.com...

  • Page 49: Computer Controlled Operation

    9.0 Computer Controlled Operation USB Connection The Vortran Stradus™ Laser System provides capability for remote USB communication. The laser rear panel includes a Mini-B USB connector. This connector does not provide or utilize 5 volts for external Mini-B USB or internal use.

  • Page 50: Connection And Setup

    RS-232 Connection and Setup Along with the capability for remote USB communication, the Vortran Stradus™ Laser System provides the capability for remote RS-232 communication. The control box includes a DE-9 connector for direct connection to a remote computer. The Vortran Stradus™ Control software supports both USB and RS-232 communication.

  • Page 51: Commands

    Command and Query Summary           9.3.1    Commands              Command  Function   Range  Description              Sets Power or Current Control (1 = Current  C  Laser Drive Control Mode  0/1  Control)  Toggle 5 Second Laser Emission Delay On and  DELAY  5 Sec. Delay On/Off  0/1  Off  ECHO  Echo ON‐OFF  0/1  Turns RS‐232 Terminal ECHO ON‐OFF  Enables External Power Control (1= External  EPC  External Power Control  0/1  Control)  LC  Laser Current Control  0 ‐ Max  ...

  • Page 52: Command And Query Summary

    9.3.2        Queries              Query  Function   Range  Description              ?BPT  Request Base Plate Temp.  0‐55°C  Returns Present Base Plate Temperature  ?C  Request Laser Drive Control Mode  0/1  Returns Present Laser Drive Control Mode  Returns Present State of Computer Control  ?CC  Request Computer Control  0/1  Pin  Request 5 Second Emission Delay  ?DELAY  Status  0/1  Returns Present Emission Delay Status  Request External Power Control  Returns Present External Power Control  ?EPC  Status  0/1  Status  Request Fault Code (BINARY) &  ?FC ...
  • Page 53 Command Detail C     Function  Laser Drive Control Mode  As a command it is used to toggle the laser diode drive control  mode between the light loop and a user entered current setting. (0  Description  = Power Control, 1 = Current Control)     As a query, it returns the present laser diode drive control mode.  Command/Query  Both  Syntax:     Command  C=0, C=1   Query  ?C  Example:     Normal Operation:    Laser is running normally in power control mode.  User enters C=1.  Laser switches to current control mode, using the stored laser     current value.       Return value C=1  Not Allowed:  Fault condition exists.  User enters C=1.  The laser will not change to current control mode when fault     condition is cleared.     Return value C=0  Range  0,1  Resolution  N/A  Stored on Set ...
  • Page 54 DELAY     Function  5 sec. Delay On/Off  Description  Toggles 5 second laser emission delay on and off  Command/Query  Both  Syntax:     Command  DELAY=0, DELAY=1  Query   ?DELAY  Range  0,1  Resolution  N/A  Stored on Set  Yes  Default  1  The command function will write a new value only when a no fault  Dependencies  condition exists.    Conditional Information  The query is available any time.   EPC     Function  External Power Control  Enables External Power Control Input Port (1= External  Description  Control)        Command/Query  Both  Syntax:     Command ...
  • Page 55 LC     Function  Laser Current Control  Description  Sets Laser Diode Current Directly        Command/Query  Both  Syntax:     Command  LC=###.#  ( ma.)  Query   ?LC  Example:     Laser Emission is active, with laser running at 50mA.  User  Normal Operation:    enters LC=100.    Laser Emission remains active and the measured value is     retruned LC=99.8  Laser Emission is active, with laser running at 50mA.  User     enters LC=10000    Fault condition exists or laser emission is not active.  User  Not Allowed:  enters LC=100. The new value is not written.          Range  Zero to Maximum Current Setting Plus 30%  Resolution  ###.#  ( ma.)  Stored on Set  Yes  Command is only allowed when C=0, TEC=1 and no fault  Default  greater than 16. ...
  • Page 56 LE     Function  Toggle Laser Emission On/Off  Description  Toggles Laser Emission On and Off (1 = On, 0 = Off)        Command/Query  Both  Syntax:     Command  LE=0, LE=1  Query  ?LE  Example:     Normal Operation:    LE=1 Response LE=1        Not Allowed:  Fault Condition LE=1 Response LE=0  Range  0,1  Resolution  N/A  Stored on Set  No  Dependencies  No fault 32 or greater  www.vortranlaser.com...
  • Page 57 LP     Function  Laser Power  As a command, it sets laser power through USB and RS‐232  interface.  As a query, it will return the laser power measured  Description  by the light loop.        Command/Query  Both  Syntax:     Command  LP=###.#  (mW)  Query  ?LP  Example:     Laser Emission is active, with laser running at 50mW.  User  Normal Operation:    enters LP=100.    Laser Emission remains active and the measured value is     returned LP=99.8.  Laser Emission is active, with laser running at 50mW.  User  enters LP=10000.  No change in laser power is made for the  Not Allowed:  excessive value.  The measured return value is LP=49.9.  Fault condition exists or laser emission is not active.  User     enters LP=100.  The new value is not written.  The measured returned value is     LP=0.00.  Range  Zero to the maximum power the laser system is calibrated to.  Resolution  ###.#  Stored on Set ...
  • Page 58 PROMPT     Function  Prompt ON‐OFF  Description  Turns RS‐232 Prompt ON‐OFF (Prompt=1 is Prompt on)  Command/Query  Command Only  Syntax  PROMPT=0, PROMPT=1  Range  0,1  Resolution  N/A  Store on Set  Yes  Dependencies  None  Default  1  www.vortranlaser.com...
  • Page 59 PP     Function  Pulse Power  As a command, it sets pulse laser power through USB and RS‐ 232 interface.  As a query, it will return the pulse laser power  Description  measured by the light loop.        Command/Query  Both  Syntax:     Command  PP=###.#  (mW)  Query  ?PP  Example:     Laser Emission is active, with laser running at 50mW.  User  Normal Operation:    enters PP=100.    Laser Emission remains active and the measured value is     returned PP=99.8.  Laser Emission is active, with laser running at 50mW.  User  enters PP=10000.  No change in laser power is made for the  Not Allowed:  excessive value.  The measured return value is PP=49.9.  Fault condition exists or laser emission is not active.  User  enters PP=100.     The new value is not written.  The measured returned value is     PP=0.00.  Range  Zero to the maximum power the laser system is calibrated to.  Resolution  ###.#  Stored on Set ...

  • Page 60: Command Detail

    PUL     Function  Digital Modulation Mode  As a command it is used to toggle the laser diode drive control  mode between CW and Digital Modulation. (0 = CW, 1 = Digital  Description  Modulation)     As a query, it returns the present laser diode drive control mode.  Command/Query  Both  Syntax:     Command  PUL=0, PUL=1   Query  ?PUL  Example:     Normal Operation:    Laser is running normally in CW mode.  User enters PUL=1.     Laser switches to current Digital Modulation mode.      Return value PUL=1  Not Allowed:  Fault condition exists.  User enters PUL=1.  The laser will not change to Digital Modulation mode when fault     condition is cleared.     Return value PUL=0  Range  0,1  Resolution  N/A  Stored on Set  No  Default  0 ...
  • Page 61 Query Detail ?BPT      Function  Request Base Plate Temp.    Description  Returns Present Base Plate Temperature    Command/Query  Query    Syntax  ?BPT    Example  ?BPT  Response BPT=35    Range  0‐55°C    Resolution  Whole Numbers    Dependencies  Base Plate Temperature is valid even in a fault conditon.    Conditional Information      ?CC     Function  Request Computer Control  Returns Present State of Computer Control Input Pin. 0 =  Description  Computer Control Only , 1 = Internal Control   Command/Query  Query ...
  • Page 62 ?FC        Request Fault Code  **Fault Codes are Displayed then  Cleared.  The displayed value represents a sum of all  active faults.  Type ?FC again to get present fault  status.  Use the ?RF query to recall previously stored  Function  faults and the CF command to clear stored faults.  Returns Fault Code as a  Description  Whole Number     Command/Query  Query     Syntax  ?FC     Example  ?FC Response FC=0  Range  32 Error Codes Maximum  Resolution  Binary Values  Dependencies  None              Note  Value  Description  LASER EMISSION  Laser State  0  ACTIVE  Laser State  1  STANDBY ...
  • Page 63 ?FD     Request Fault Description  **Fault descriptions are displayed  then cleared.  This will allow the user to see faults that may  have occurred and been resolved.  Type ?FD  again to get  Function  present fault status.    Description  Returns Fault as descriptive text  Command/Query  Query  Syntax  ?FD  Example  ?FD Response FD=LASER EMISSION ACTIVE  Range  35 Characters Maximum  Resolution  N/A  Dependencies     Values greater than 32 will stop laser emission and Set I/O  Conditional Information  Fault Pin (Control Box Mini‐DIN Pin 2, Laser Head Mini‐D Pin 7)  High for Values of 16 or Greater  Value  Description        0  LASER EMISSION ACTIVE  1  STANDBY  2  WARMUP  4  VALUE OUT OF RANGE  8  INVALID COMMAND  16  INTERLOCK OPEN ...
  • Page 64 ?FP     Function  Request Firmware Protocol  Description  Returns Firmware Protocol Version  Command/Query  Query  Syntax  ?FP  Example  ?FP Response 1.01.01  Range  N/A  Resolution  #.##.##  Dependencies  None  ?FV     Function  Request Firmware Version  Description  Returns the Loaded Firmware Version  Command/Query  Query  Syntax  ?FV  Example  ?FV Response FV=1.01.01  Range  N/A  Resolution  #.##.##  Dependencies  None  www.vortranlaser.com...
  • Page 65 ?H     Function  Display Help File  Description  Returns Help File Text from Laser EEPROM  Command/Query  Query  Syntax  ?H  Example  ?H  Response Shown Below     LP  SET AND REQUEST LASER POWER  C  SET AND REQUEST LASER DRIVE CONTROL MODE   LC  SET AND REQUEST LASER CURRENT  EPC  SET AND REQUEST LASER CURRENT  DELAY  SET AND REQUEST 5 SECOND CDRH DELAY STATUS  ECHO  TOGGLE TERMINAL ECHO ON AND OFF  PROMPT  TOGGLE TERMINAL PROMPT ON AND OFF  LE  TOGGLE LASER EMISSION ON AND OFF  ?LPS  REQUEST LASER POWER SETTING  ?OBTS  REQUEST OPTICAL BLOCK TEMPERATURE SETTING  ?OBT   REQUEST OPTICAL BLOCK TEMPERATURE   ?BPT  REQUEST BASE PLATE TEMPERATURE  ?FC  REQUEST FAULT CODE  ?FD ...
  • Page 66 ?IL     Function  Request Interlock Status  Description  Returns Actual Interlock Status: 1 = Closed, 0 = Open  Command/Query  Query  Syntax  ?IL  Example  ?IL Response IL=1  Range  0,1  Resolution  N/A  Dependencies  None  ?LH     Function  Request Laser Operating Hours  Returns Present Laser Diode Hours (Clock only runs when  Description  laser emission is active)  Command/Query  Query  Syntax  ?LH  Example  ?LH  Response LH=1423.2  Range  0 – 100,000  Resolution  12 Minutes (.2Hrs)  Dependencies  None  ?LI     Function  Request Laser Identification ...
  • Page 67 ?LPS     Function  Request Laser Power Setting  Description  Returns Present Laser Power Setting  Command/Query  Query  Syntax  ?LPS  Example  ?LPS  Response LPS=95  Range  0‐1000mW  Resolution  Whole Numbers  Dependencies  None  ?LS     Function  Request Present Laser Status  Description  Returns the following Laser Status Values.  ?C  Laser Drive Control Mode  ?LP  Laser Power  ?LC   Laser Current Control  ?EPC  External Power Control  ?DELAY  5 sec. Delay On/Off  Command/Query  Query  Syntax  ?LS  Example  ?LS Response C=0, LP=95.5, LC=107.5, EPC=0, DELAY=1  Range ...

  • Page 68: Query Detail

    ?MAXP     Function  Request Maximum Laser Power  Description  Returns Maximum Output Power Available from the Laser  Command/Query  Query  Syntax  ?MAXP  Example  ?MAXP Response MAXP=106.5  Range  0‐1000mW  Resolution  ###.#  Dependencies  None  ?OBT     Function  Optical Block Temperature  Description  Request Optical Block Temperature in °C  Command/Query  Query  Syntax  ?OBT  Example  ?OBT Response OBT=25  Range  10 to 35  Resolution  ###.#  Dependencies  None  ?RP     Function  Request Rated Laser Power  Description ...

  • Page 69: Fault Codes

    Fault Codes The RS-232 command prompt provides vital laser status information. When the laser is operating normally and emission is active, the prompt will return a value of zero. Status information, syntax errors and faults are reported as binary values. If multiple issues occur, they will be added and the prompt will reflect the sum of all reported issues.

  • Page 70: Vortran Stradus™ Control Software

    Device (HID) USB driver. This type of driver is automatically supported by all current USB compatible operating systems. The main advantage of an HID driver type is that Vortran Laser Technology will no longer support the laser USB driver as new computer operating systems are released. The required USB drivers are contained within the operating system, rather than being supplied by the device manufacturer.

  • Page 71: Initial Usb Connection Message

    Figure 32 Initial USB Connection Message When the Vortran Stadus™ laser is first connected via USB, Windows will detect the laser and display the screen above. Figure 33 Restart Request Window It is often necessary to restart the computer following the USB driver installation process.

  • Page 72: Windows Device Manager

    Figure 34 Windows Device Manager When the driver is properly installed, the Windows Device Manager for the Stradus laser will contain the information as shown above. Figure 35 Computer Properties To access the Windows Device Manager, Right Click the “My Computer” or “Computer”...

  • Page 73: System Properties

    Figure 36 System Properties From the “System Properties” Screen, select “Hardware” to show the “Device Manager” button. www.vortranlaser.com...

  • Page 74: Software Installation

    The Vortran Stradus software installation is configured for an auto-run process if available. For security reasons, this may not occur in many cases. If the Vortran Stradus software CD is installed into the CD drive and the installation process does not initiate, manually select the computer CD drive and double-click on the Vortran Stradus software icon.

  • Page 75: Software Installation Welcome Screen

    Figure 38 Software Installation Welcome Screen The “Welcome” screen provides a preview of the software installation process. This screen also provides warnings associated with copyright protection. Click “Next” to continue the installation process. Figure 39 Software Installation Location Screen The default software installation location will be displayed. An alternate installation location can be selected by clicking on the “Browse”...

  • Page 76: Software Installation Location Screen

    Figure 40 Software Installation Confirmation Screen Click “Next” to initiate the actual software installation process. Figure 41 Software Installation Progress Screen A progress indicator will be displayed during the software installation process. www.vortranlaser.com...
  • Page 77 Figure 42 Software Installation Complete Screen When the software installation is complete, the screen above will be displayed. Click “Close” to complete the software installation process. www.vortranlaser.com...

  • Page 78: Menu Items

    10.5 Menu Items The Vortran Stradus™ Control Software includes global menu items with functions that are applied to application functions. Each connected laser displays a window with controls and functions that are applied to individual lasers only. The following information relates to the global application functions only.

  • Page 79: Print Configuration Settings

    10.5.5 View Menu The view menu provides the capability to navigate between the Vortran Stradus™ Control screens and adjust multiple laser views. The Home, Information and Terminal Screen items are used to switch between the selected screens. The Tile functions arrange multiple laser views with standard windows tile functions.

  • Page 80: View Menu

    View Menu 10.5.6 Help Menu The Help Menu provides a variety of information to assist with the Vortran Stradus™ Laser and Software. Use the Help menu to launch interactive Help with a variety of tools to access Stradus™ Software information contained in the user manual.

  • Page 81: Add Rs-232 Laser Button

    Vortran Stradus™ Software is running. Lasers connected via RS-232 do not have the capability to initialize without the host computer sending the appropriate queries. If the Vortran Stradus™ software is running and a new laser is connected via RS-232, the “Add RS-232 Laser”...
  • Page 82 When the Vortran Stradus™ Software is initialized or a new laser is connected, the Home Screen will be displayed for each laser. The Vortran Stradus™ Software will display up to 4 lasers simultaneously. Each Home screen has individual display and control parameters unique to each connected laser.
  • Page 83 10.6.3 Digital Modulation The Vortran Stradus™ Laser operates in a CW or Digital Modulation mode. These modes are selectable with the “Digital Modulation” Button. When “On” is selected the laser output is modulated as a function of the TTL voltage level input at the SMB connector.
  • Page 84 10.6.4 External Control The External Control function provides the ability to control the laser power directly with an analog voltage. When “OFF” is selected, the laser operates in a constant power mode, based on the present power setting. When “ON” is selected, the laser power is directly controlled by the voltage applied to the Control Box BNC connector.
  • Page 85 Vortran Laser microprocessor and is updated continuously. The scale values represent both nominal and maximum values unique to the laser that is connected. The green scale represents the normal laser operating range.
  • Page 86 10.6.7 Base Plate Temperature The base plate temperature gauge displays the present measured base plate temperature. The base plate temperature is measured by the microprocessor and is updated continuously. Once again, green represents the normal and safe operating range. Yellow indicates a level of temperature that will allow the laser to operate, but is not recommended as a level to be maintained for the long-term.

  • Page 87: Information Screen

    The Laser Status values are measured parameters that are constantly monitored and displayed, based upon queries to the Vortran Laser microprocessor. For detailed information on a specific parameter, feel free to contact Vortran Laser Technology. Figure 56 Information Screen www.vortranlaser.com...

  • Page 88: Terminal Screen

    10.8 Terminal Screen The terminal screen allows the user to communicate directly with the Vortran Stradus™ Laser System. This screen provides flexibility to set or query specific laser parameters. As a secondary function, the user can test custom laser applications, by using a script containing a string of parameters.

  • Page 89: Control Buttons

    The file name will also be displayed. The default script file location is C:\Program Files\Vortran Laser\Script Files Script files are saved as .txt This will allow the user to view them with a standard text editor.

  • Page 90: Clear Window And Save Session File Log

    10.8.4 Clear Window and Save Session File Log The “Clear Window” button will clear the contents of the script window when clicked. The “Save Session Log” button will display a standard Windows “Save As” dialog when clicked. The user can enter a file name and save the list of commands and queries displayed in the Script Window as a new script file.

  • Page 91: Tool Bar

    Each button is also highlighted when the associated active screen is displayed. The Tool Bar also displays the communication method for each connected laser. Vortran Stradus™ Software can display both USB and RS-232 connected lasers simultaneously. Figure 62 Tool Bar 10.10 Status Bar...
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  • Page 93: Tutorials

    A computer is required to initiate external laser power control. The computer can be connected directly to the laser with a USB connection or to the control box with a RS-232 connection. The Vortran Stradus™ laser will support a USB 1.0 or 2.0 connection. For RS-232 communication, a standard serial cable is required.
  • Page 94 Once computer communication is established with the laser system, the “EPC=1” command will enable External Laser Power Control. External Laser Power Control can also be enabled with Vortran Stradus™ software. The External Power Control button is located on the software Home Screen.
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  • Page 96: Laser Enable Modulation

    11.2 Laser Enable Modulation The Vortran Stradus™ Laser has a laser enable input. This input allows a TTL signal to toggle the laser emission on and off. The laser enable signal is fed directly to the microprocessor and is able to switch the laser on and off at a maximum rate of 50KHz.
  • Page 97 If connecting directly to the laser, use Mini-D Pin 6 (+) and Pin 14 (-). Figure 68 Laser Enable Pins With the delay disabled, the TTL input will modulate laser emission on and off at the laser set power. The laser output amplitude can also be controlled with the Analog input simultaneously.
  • Page 98 11.3 Digital Modulation The output of the Stradus™ Laser System can operate in a Continuous Wave or Digital Modulation mode. Prior to setting the laser into Digital Modulation mode, the voltage levels of the input to the SMB connector should be verified using an oscilloscope terminated at 50 ohms.

  • Page 99: Troubleshooting Guide

    Figure 70 Fault Pin If a fault occurs, the user can use RS-232 or Vortran Stradus™ software to determine the actual fault condition. When communicating with RS- 232, use the query ?FC to obtain a binary representation of all existing fault conditions.
  • Page 100 Position Laser Power On, TEC Turned Off. Turn 32  TEC OFF  on TEC or restart laser. Fault Condition, Laser Over Current, Contact Vortran Laser Technology for 64  DIODE OVER CURRENT  Repair. Fault Condition, If environment is excessively cold or hot, adjust environment temperature to normal room conditions.

  • Page 101: Temperature Faults

    The Vortran Stradus™ Laser provides temperature protection for the laser diode. If a temperature fault occurs, laser emission will be interrupted until the temperature returns to a safe range.

  • Page 102: Poor Beam Quality

    12.4 Poor Beam Quality The Vortran Stradus™ Laser is a precision optical assembly designed and built to provide the best beam quality. All of the critical optical components are sealed inside the laser housing. This is done to ensure maximum long-term beam quality and reliability. Under normal conditions the only thing that would affect beam quality would be obstructions to the beam path.
  • Page 103 www.vortranlaser.com...
  • Page 104 13.0 Glossary ºC Degrees Celsius µm Micrometers (10 Meters) µrad Microradians (10 Radians) Alternating Current Bayonet Neill Concelman Connector CDRH Center for Devices and Radiological Health Electrostatic Discharge Kilohertz (10 Cycles per Second) Light Emitting Diode Milliamps (10 Amps) Millimeter (10 Meters) mrad Milliradian (10...
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  • Page 106 14.0 Warranty Vortran Laser Technology, Inc. provides a warranty for a period of 12 months from the original shipment date. This warranty applies only to the original purchaser and covers material defects, workmanship and adherence to published specifications. If a replacement unit is provided, the warranty is based on the shipment date of the original unit.
  • Page 107 No Text on This Page www.vortranlaser.com...

  • Page 108: Laser Control Box

    15.0 Returning Laser for Service Return Material Authorization (RMA) Instructions The Vortran Stradus™ Laser System does not require interval calibration or factory maintenance. If service is required, contact Vortran Laser Technology. Be ready with the laser part number, serial number and problem description when contacting the factory.
  • Page 109 No Text on This Page www.vortranlaser.com...
  • Page 110 16.0 Contact Vortran Laser Technology Vortran Laser Technology, Inc. 21 Goldenland Court, #200 Sacramento, California 95834 Phone (916) 283-8208 (916) 648-9751 E-mail Sales sales@vortranlaser.com Service service@vortranlaser.com Web Site www.vortranlaser.com www.vortranlaser.com...
  • Page 111 Part Number 10048 Rev B6 www.vortranlaser.com...

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