Over on Sam's FAQ (http://www.repairfaq.org/sam/laserstr.htm) I read:
I confirmed the expected operation of the FPS using an oscilloscope for DC on/off test signals, but I don't understand why the FPS operation doesn't extend to kHz frequencies. Does anybody have experience actually using the Laserscope Q-switch for graphics blanking?CAUTION: On the Laserscope or any Q-switched high power YAG (or other SS laser), don't think you can get away with blanking it (as you might want to do for laser show applications) by using the gate to the Q-switch. Some people have tried and quickly found out that it's the quickest way to destroy your optics. If you blank very quickly with your Q-switch, there is no way to get effective first pulse suppression, and you end up with giant first pulses drilling all your optics, starting with the most expensive ones.Use other means for blanking like an external galvo
The first pulse suppression on the early mods of the Laserscope Q-switch drivers (the units with the gate pulse circuitry mounted on a board exterior to the RF section) is kinda iffy. If you are thinking of using it for blanking, don't do it very fast (i.e., don't use it for blanking during a show, but turning the beam on and and off during a show, or for alignment, etc., is OK). The newer Q-switch modules have far better first pulse suppression, and I have been told by the manufacturer that you can blank up to a few hundred hertz with the Q-switch enable input, but I have not done this personally in a Laserscope type system.
Best regards,
weartronics