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Thread: Biorad argon laser

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    Default Biorad argon laser

    I've just acquired a Biorad air-cooled argon laser as it was going cheap; it looks to be in good condition and very clean inside. I was hoping that it's similar enough to the Omni 543 so that I can use an Omni / Melles Griot PSU, but reading some comments from Steve regarding on of these, it seems that that isn't the case.
    I've trawled ebay for a PSU, but they don't seem to be particulalry common; hoping someone may have one they're willing to part with or suggestions as how I could power it with something else - I have a collection of Omni / Melles 170 PSUs and a very old Omnichrome 150 (no suffix) PSU in the collection.

  2. #2
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    "This thread is useless without pictures.."
    ~
    Over the years I've seen them use ALC, Repackaged Omni, and ILT...
    ~
    Need a pic... side view of the head and the inevitable connector
    ~


    kind Regards,

    Steve
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  3. #3
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    Sorry, forgot the golden rule!

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    Looks very much like an ALC tube to me, but I stand to be corrected.
    Last edited by NobleGas; 05-01-2018 at 13:49.

  4. #4
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    Invalid Attachment!

    Lets try again please..

    Steve
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    I don't know why, but I edited the previous post and redid the image links.

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    Quote Originally Posted by NobleGas View Post
    I don't know why, but I edited the previous post and redid the image links.
    That is definitely a common ILT head form factor with a ALC style cooling vent

    ignitor board pic please. cathode end bell pic please.

    Steve
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    My first ion. Did 200mw. Died. Of sagging cathode. Nice laser. ILT. For sure. I have the manual still if you need it.

  8. #8
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    OK, so I pulled the cover and took some pics; this at least confirmed it's an ILT.

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    I don't know why, but after posting I have to edit the post, delete the photos and reinsert them for the images to show up!
    Last edited by NobleGas; 05-03-2018 at 12:57.

  9. #9
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    ILT head electronics with an ALC tube retrofit. This required changing the end plate design too, as those are ALC mirror mounts. Now I've seen everything...
    I'll get you an ILT pinout shortly that you can check it against. I'm guessing ALC or OMNI made a tube retrofit offer that Biorad could not refuse.

    Want me to ship you an Omni OEM internal set of boards with all the wiring done by factory? I have one laying around..

    Steve


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    I don't know why, but after posting I have to edit the post, delete the photos and reinsert them for the images to show up![/QUOTE]
    Last edited by mixedgas; 05-05-2018 at 10:14.
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  10. #10
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    Default

    Thanks Steve; the boards would be a great help as I can use an Omni supply.

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