ML 800 Series Laser

Hard-Seal Helium Neon

Operator’s Manual

Model Numbers:
ML 800
ML 810
ML 868
ML 869
ML 869A

Industrial Fiber Optics

 *

Copyright © 2017
Previous printings 2008, 2009 and 2013
by Industrial Fiber Optics, Inc.
Revision - H

Printed in the United States of America

* * *

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced,

stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means
(electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise)
without prior written permission from Industrial Fiber Optics.

* * * * *
 INTRODUCTION

This manual provides information about the family of Hard-Seal Helium Neon
Lasers that formerly were manufactured by Metrologic, Inc. It contains all the
information needed to set up and operate these lasers safely and knowledgeably,
even if you are a novice to laser technology. Please read the manual carefully
before operating the laser.
Industrial Fiber Optics makes every effort to incorporate state-of-the-art
technology, highest quality and dependability in its products. We constantly
explore new ideas and products to best serve the rapidly expanding needs of
industry and education. We encourage comments that you may have about our
products, and we welcome the opportunity to discuss new ideas that may better
serve your needs. For more information about our company and products refer to
www.i-fiberoptics.com on the Internet.
Thank you for selecting this Industrial Fiber Optics product. We hope it
meets your expectations and provides many hours of productive activity.

Sincerely,

The Industrial Fiber Optics Team

–i–
.

– ii –
 TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction……………………….................…….....…………..…… i
LASER CLASSIFICATION.........….............................……..…...… iv
GENERAL…………................….............................……..…...…….. 1
SAFETY NOTES.............................................................................. 2
Laser Safety.................................................................................... 2
Electrical Safety.............................................................................. 3
CDRH Regulations.......................................................................... 3
OPERATING CONDITIONS…....................………..................……. 4
Input Voltage.................................................................................. 4
Environmental Limits...................................................................... 4
LASER SPECIFICATIONS.............................................................. 5
LASER OPERATION....................................................................... 6
Beam Controls............................................................................... 6
Power Controls.............................................................................. 6
Operating Instructions................................................................... 7
TROUBLESHOOTING..................................................................... 7
MODULATED LASERS (ML 868, ML 869, ML 869A).............................. 8
Connectors for Signal Input........................................................... 8
Modulation Characteristics............................................................ 8
Detectors....................................................................................... 8
Troubleshooting for Modulated Lasers.......................................... 9
APPLICATIONS AND DEMONSTRATIONS.................................... 10
Optical Galvanometer.................................................................... 10
Diffraction, Variable Slit................................................................. 10
Laser Light Show........................................................................... 11
Index of Refraction, Liquids........................................................... 11
Interference, Evaporation of Alcohol.............................................. 11
WARRANTY..................................................................................... 12
SHIPMENT DAMAGE CLAIMS....................................................... 13
SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE...................................................... 14
TABLE 1. COMMON ABBREVIATIONS.......................................... 15

– iii –
LASER CLASSIFICATIONS
All manufacturers of lasers used in the United States must conform to regulations
administered by the Center for Devices and Radiological Health (CDRH), a branch of the
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. CDRH categorizes lasers as follows:

Class Description

I A laser or laser system, which does not present a hazard to skin

or eyes for any wavelength or exposure time. Exposure varies
with wavelength. For ultraviolet, 2 to 4 µm exposures is less than
from 8 nW to 8 µW. Visible light exposure varies from 4 µW to 200
µW, and for near-IR, the exposure is < 200 µW. Consult CDRH
regulations for specific information.

II Any visible laser with an output less than 1 mW of power. Warning

label requirements – yellow caution label stating maximum output
of 1 mW. Generally used as classroom lab lasers, supermarket
scanners and laser pointers

IIIa Any visible laser with an output over 1 mW of power with a

maximum output of 5 mW of power. Warning label requirements
– red danger label stating maximum output of 5 mW. Also used
as classroom lab lasers, in holography, laser pointers, leveling
instruments, measuring devices and alignment equipment.

IIIb Any laser with an output over 5 mW of power with a maximum

output of 500 mW of power and all invisible lasers with an output
up to 400 mW. Warning label requirements – red danger label
stating maximum output. These lasers also require a key switch
for operation and a 3.5-second delay when the laser is turned on.
Used in many of the same applications as the Class IIIa when
more power is required.

IV Any laser with an output over 500 mW of power. Warning label

requirements – red danger label stating maximum output. These
lasers are primarily used in industrial applications such as tooling,
machining, cutting and welding. Most medical laser applications
also require these high-powered lasers.

– iv –
GENERAL
In the ML 800 Series, Industrial Fiber Optics offers lasers in a range of power, size and
price. The helium neon tubes used in these lasers have a shelf life of at least 10 years, and
a lifespan of at least 20,000 hours of continuous operation.

Recommended uses of the different lasers are listed below:

ML 800 Student Use, Demonstrations

ML 810 Student Use, Holography
ML 868 Lecture Demos, Modulation, Voice or Video Communication
ML 869 Lecture Demos, Modulation, Voice or Video Communication,
Holography, Research
ML 869A Lecture Demos, Modulation, Voice Communication,
Holography, Research
This manual contains information on laser specification, operation, safety and trouble-
shooting. The manual includes experiments that can be conducted with the laser.
Many ideas for additional activities and investigations can be found on our website,
www.i-fiberoptics.com. Look for the Laser Teaching Supplements on the website.
Additionally, the following complete projects/labs (and many others) can be purchased
from Industrial Fiber Optics for use with the laser:

Laser Optics Lab This lab contains more than 30 optical parts and
45-600 accessories. These tools can be used to demonstrate the
principles of optics in a basic course of physics or physical
science.

Physical Optics Lab With this lab, image processing and Fourier transforms
45-688 of optical formations can be practical studies for high
schools and undergraduate physics classes.

Michelson Interferometer This is a classic device for splitting a beam of

45-940 monochromatic light into two parts that travel along
different optical paths and then merge again to produce
interference fringes.

Modern Laser Optics Kit This innovative collection of nine unique optical mounts
IF 535 offers endless possibilities for exploring the many aspects
of modern optical technology.

Laser Audio Receiver This lab contains a microphone and audio receiver, along
IF LSL2 with the instructions needed to turn your modulated
laser into a free-air voice communication link.
Check the website www.i-fiberoptics.com for details.

–1–
SAFETY NOTES
Laser Safety
Lasers are valuable sources of light for conducting exciting demonstrations and laboratory
experiments in schools.
Industrial Fiber Optics lasers emit a beam of visible light. However, they do not
emit invisible, exotic, or otherwise harmful radiations. See page iv for LASER
CLASSIFICATIONS.

Industrial Fiber Optics lasers are low-power lasers. The light output is only a few milliwatts,
i.e., a few thousandths of a watt. These lasers should not be confused with the powerful
lasers intended for burning, cutting and drilling.

Although the power of Industrial Fiber Optics lasers is low, treat all laser beams with
caution and common sense because they are intense and concentrated. The greatest
potential for harm with Industrial Fiber Optics lasers is to the eyes. Just as no one should
stare at the sun or arc lamps, no one should look directly into the laser beam or stare at its
bright reflections.

The United States Center for Devices and Radiological Health (CDRH) regulates
manufacturers of lasers to ensure that users are not endangered. The federal government
classifies lasers according to their power levels and specifies appropriate safety features for
each level. Demonstration lasers fall into Class II and they can be identified by a yellow
“Caution” label that contains the warning, “Do not stare into beam.” Class II lasers have a
maximum power of 0.95 milliwatt, i.e., 1/1000th of a watt. They conclude that the power
is eye-safe, except possibly in the case of deliberate, long-term direct staring into the beam.
Safety features include a pilot lamp, which glows when the electrical power is on, and a
mechanical beam stop, which can block the beam when the power is on.

The following are labels located on helium-neon lasers:

DANGER CAUTION CAUTION!

LASER RADIATION LASER RADIATION
DO NOT STARE INTO BEAM Plug laser only into
grounded outlets
DO NOT STARE INTO BEAM

PEAK POWER 5 mW PEAK POWER 1 mW

WAVELENGTH 600 - 700 nm WAVELENGTH 600 - 700 nm
Class IIIa Laser Product Class II Laser Product
1190.eps 1189.eps
1533.eps

Hard-Seal Laser
Periodic operation not required
Figure 1. Laser labels.

–2–
What steps can be taken to practice safety?
1. NEVER aim the laser beam directly into your eyes or the eyes of anyone else.
2. Block off laser beams so they cannot extend beyond the limits of individual
laboratory stations. Use dull, non-reflective objects such as dark-colored paper
or stacks of books.
3. If the beam must travel a long distance, keep it close to the floor or keep it
sufficiently high so it does not cross walkways at eye level.
4. Cover or remove any wall mirrors or other bright objects that could reflect a
concentrated laser beam into anyone’s eyes.

Electrical Safety
Helium-neon lasers employ high voltages similar to that inside a small television receiver.
Capacitors within the power supply retain the potentially harmful voltage for periods after
the input power has ceased. To protect the user and to comply with federal laser safety
legislation, Industrial Fiber Optics seals the laser housing. Never open the housing. If the
housing is opened, Industrial Fiber Optics’ product warranty will be voided.

Each laser is equipped with a UL-approved line cord and three-prong grounded plug.

ALWAYS PLUG THE LASER INTO A GROUNDED OUTLET.

CDRH Regulations
All Industrial Fiber Optics’ lasers comply with the Laser Performance Standard of the U.S.
Department of Health and Human Resources. They also comply with Title 21, Part 1040 of
the Code of Federal Regulations as it applies on the date of manufacture. These regulations
classify lasers by beam power and specify safety features.

The ML 800, 810, and 868 are classified as Class II lasers and have a maximum radiant
power of 0.95 mW. Class II lasers must contain a pilot light, mechanical beam shut-off and
the Caution label.

The ML 869 and ML 869A are classified as Class IIIa lasers and have a maximum radiant
power of 5 mW.

–3–
Besides the CDRH label, each laser has the following label placed near the beam exit:
“Avoid exposure. Laser light is emitted from this aperture.” The CDRH also requires that
manufacturers provide users with the following information: “Caution – Use of controls
or adjustments or performance of procedures other than those specified herein may result
in hazardous light exposure.” The fourth label identifies Industrial Fiber Optics as the
manufacturer, states the model and serial numbers and certifies that the laser has been
manufactured to meet the Laser Performance Standard.

This is an example of the

Model Number Label:

Lasers manufactured for

export are not certified with
respect to the U.S. Laser
Performance Standard. Figure 2. Model number label.

For further information on federal laser safety rules, contact the U.S. Food and Drug
Administration Center for Devices and Radiological Health, 8757 Georgia Ave., Silver
Springs, MD 20910 or the Laser Institute of America 1350 Ingenuity Dr., Suite 128,
Orlando, FL 32826.

OPERATING CONDITIONS
Input Voltage
The input voltage range of the laser power supply is listed on the label that specifies model
and serial number. Each power supply design is to function at either of the following
ranges: 105 -125 VAC or 210 – 250 VAC with an external step-down transformer. All lasers
will operate between 45 and 1000 Hz. Neither the laser tube nor the power supply are
warranted for operation outside these limits.

Environmental Limits
The laser and power supply is designed to operate at temperatures ranging from -20 C to
+50 C, at altitudes to 3,000 meters and at humidity to 99 percent without condensation.

–4–
LASER SPECIFICATIONS
Beam
Model Power (mW) Divergence Housing Class
Diameter

in mm LxWxH
# Min. Typ. Max. (mRad)
(1-1/e²) (mm)
ML 800 0.3 0.5 0.95 0.48 1.7 239 x 72 x 74 II
ML 810 0.6 0.8 0.95 0.48 1.7 239 x 72 x 74 II
ML 868 0.6 0.8 0.95 0.66 1.25 328 x 72 x 74 II
ML 869 1.0 1.5 2.9 0.66 1.25 328 x 72 x 74 IIIa
ML 869A 1.1 2.0 3.5 0.49 1.65 328 x 72 x 74 IIIa

All of Industrial Fiber Optics’ ML 800 series of lasers are of hard-seal construction.

“Hard-seal” means the mirrors are fused to the tube body and it does not require
periodic operation.

The ML 868, ML 869 and ML 869A are modulated lasers.

All specifications are subject to change without notice.

–5–
LASER OPERATION
Beam Controls
The only moving parts at the front end of the
laser are the beam stop and the adjustable
optics mount.

The adjustable optics mount consists of a

threaded ring held by two sets of retainers that
will assist in mounting lenses, beam shaping
telescopes and spatial filters. The optics mount is
held in place by three Allen-type socket screws
that can be loosened or tightened with a #2
Allen or hex wrench. When the three screws are
loose, the optics mount can be positioned with
respect to the beam. Do not remove the screws
1625.eps

Figure 3. Front view of laser.

because an internal retaining plate will become
detached and may short-out power supply components.

The beam stop or beam attenuator, required by federal law, is a metal slide-bar located
on the optics mount. When pushed in one direction, the attenuator will block the beam.
When pushed in the other, the attenuator will permit the beam to pass.

Power Controls
The power controls are at the rear of the laser
housing. The power switch has two positions:
On and Off. Video

The pilot lamp shows that power is reaching Pilot

the laser.
Mic. On
Modulated lasers may have two input
connectors. Refer to the section Instructions
for Modulated Lasers on page 8 for further Off

information.
(Video input – ML 868, ML 869 only.) 1626.eps

Figure 4. Rear view of laser.

–6–
Operating Instructions
1. Point the laser toward a wall or other dull surface.
2. Plug the line cord into a grounded outlet of the proper voltage. A label on
the unit identifies the correct voltage range.
3. Position the On/Off switch to the On position.
4. Look for the beam on the wall toward which the laser is pointed. The
beam will not be visible as it travels through the air unless particulate
matter such as dust is present to scatter the light.

TROUBLESHOOTING
If there is no laser output, check the beam stop and the alignment of the optics mount to
determine whether it is blocking the beam. Be careful to avoid looking directly into the
beam. If the pilot lamp does not light, check to see if the laser is receiving power and if the
fuse is good. The pilot lamp may flicker. This is normal.

When the laser beam blinks on and off about once each second, the starting voltage is
not sufficient to ionize the gases in the tube. Check to see that line voltage is adequate. A
defective laser tube or a defective power supply may also cause this condition.

A laser might overheat during prolonged operation. Beginning immediately after the laser
turns on, the laser power might climb until it reaches a maximum within 30 minutes. At
this point, the power will remain stable until the power turns off. The current-regulating
circuit of the power supply may be defective. Return the laser for repair.

Most lasers exhibit both a primary spot and a secondary spot of light when the beam is
viewed from short distances. As the beam passes through the exit mirror, it also passes two
glass surfaces. Internal reflections between these surfaces produce secondary rays that,
unlike the primary beam, are highly divergent. When the beam projects about three meters
to a wall or viewing screen and is observed in normal room light, any secondary spots
should be invisible or indistinct.

–7–
MODULATED LASERS (ML 868, ML 869 and ML 869A)
Connectors for Signal Input
The rear end cap of the laser may contain two connectors through which signals can be fed
from microphones (crystal type), tape recorders, signal generators, television cameras, etc.,
to the laser.

• The miniature phone jack, used primarily for audio signals, accepts a 60k
Ohm impedance signal with a 100 millivolt peak-to-peak level.
• The BNC jack (when provided) can accept audio or video signal from a
VCR or camera. It can also accept a 75 Ohm impedance with a 1 Volt
peak-to-peak level. (ML 868 and ML 869 only)

Modulation Characteristics
When not modulated, these lasers produce their full power. During modulation, the power
range will be 85 percent to 100 percent of full power depending on the amplitude of the
modulating signal that is applied to the laser.

Helium-neon video modulated lasers have a bandwidth from 50 Hz to 1 MHz (3 dB) on

the video input. Input video signals usually exceed 1 MHz. Though the bandwidth of the
laser is not adequate to reproduce the full resolution of the video, the modulated lasers will
transmit most of the black-and-white video. Industrial Fiber Optics’ modulated lasers are
not intended for commercial use.

Detectors
The detector that receives the transmitted signal should have sufficient bandwidth to
decode the signal. Industrial Fiber Optics’ 45-545A Digital Laser Power Meter, IF PM
Photometer and IF 513 Audio Receiver can detect audio, but not video signals. Industrial
Fiber Optics’ IF LSL1 Laser Speed of Light/Laser Video Kit may be used for either audio or
video transmissions.

The operating range of the laser is a function of the beam divergence and the diameter of
the usable area of the detector. The operating range of the laser is approximately 75 feet
for the 45-545A and IF PM power meters and 20 feet for the IF LSL1. The working ranges
can be extended considerably by using a collimating telescope at the transmitting end and a
collecting lens at the receiving end.

–8–
Troubleshooting for Modulated Lasers
If the laser will not modulate, determine whether the input signal is suitable. Test the laser
using an alternate input source. Use an amplifier between a microphone and the laser, if
necessary.

Determine whether the receiver is functioning properly. Aim the laser at the receiver, but
do not try to modulate the laser. Insert a hair comb into the beam and move the comb up
and down at various speeds. If the receiver is working properly, it will emit noises or tones
in response to the breaking of the beam as it passes between the teeth of the comb.

If the laser turns off momentarily in response to loud sounds, its input amplifier is
overdriven. An alternate input device can be used, or a 2-to-1 voltage divider can
be constructed.

–9–
APPLICATIONS AND DEMONSTRATIONS
The following are a few suggestions for using the laser to teach science and perform some
useful applications. Many ideas for additional activities and investigations can be found on
our website, www.i-fiberoptics.com. Look for them in the Laser Teaching Supplements in
the Educational Equipment section of the website. For a free catalog and information on
purchasing the catalog in bulk, call, fax or e-mail Industrial Fiber Optics.

Optical Galvanometer
Wind 20 turns of insulated wire around a screwdriver handle. Remove the screwdriver and
tape the coils together. Attach two thin strands of wire to the ends of the coil. Using a small
piece of cellulose or double-sided tape, fasten the coil to a thin mirror. Suspend the coil and
mirror between the poles of a horseshoe magnet. Aim a laser at the mirror and observe its
reflection on a distant wall. Do not stare at the laser beam or its bright reflection. Apply
a small current to the coil and the mirror will twist, resulting in a laser beam deflection.
Using the appropriate shunts and multipliers, calibrate the galvanometer to read amperes
and volts. An ammeter or voltmeter can be used for comparison.

Tape Thin Wire

Mirror
Thin Wire
Taped
Wire Mirror
Wire Coil
Coil

1610.eps
Magnet

Figure 5. Construction of an optical Galvanometer.

Diffraction, Variable Slit

Make an inexpensive variable slit using a vernier caliper and two razor blades. Glue or tape
each blade to a jaw of a vernier caliper as shown
Laser
in Figure 6. Aim a laser beam at the gap between
the blades and observe the single slit diffraction Ope
n

pattern on a distant screen. If the width of the slit Double Edge Razor AVOI
D EX

is known, the wavelength of the laser beam can be

LASE PO
R RA SURE
DI
FROM ATIO
N IS
THIS EM
APER ITT
ED
TURE
.

determined. Alternately, by using a laser beam of a Vernier Caliper

known wavelength, the width of the gap between Laser Beam

the jaws can be measured with high precision.

1749

Figure 6.
Variable slit diffraction.

– 10 –
Laser Light Show
Tape a small, lightweight mirror to a speaker cone connected to the output of a radio or
tape deck. Shine a laser beam at the mirror, reflecting it onto a wall. The beam will dance
around on the wall in a pattern set by the music.

Industrial Fiber Optics’ Laser Optics Lab (45-600) includes lightweight, front-surface
mirrors.
Screen

Mirror

Laser

On

1750
Speaker

Figure 7. Laser light show.

Laser Light
Index of Refraction, Liquids Protractor

Hold a circular protractor in a vertical position and

Liquids
submerge half of it in a large beaker of liquid. Aim the
laser so the beam just grazes the front surface of the
protractor and passes through its center. Measure the
angles of incidence and refraction. Calculate the
Beaker
index of refraction of the liquid using the relationship
ή = sin i / sin r. Repeat for different angles of
incidence and for different liquids. Water, alcohol 1751

and glycerin are suitable for this exercise. Figure 8.

Refraction of a laser beam.

Interference, Evaporation of Alcohol

Place a lens within a laser beam and project the enlarged image onto a viewing screen.
Place a drop of alcohol on the lens and allow the alcohol to evaporate. As the evaporation
proceeds, changing interference patterns will be observed on the screen.

– 11 –
WARRANTY
Industrial Fiber Optics Hard-Seal Helium-Neon lasers are warranted against defects
in materials and workmanship for two years. The warranty will be voided if the laser
components have been damaged or mishandled by the buyer, including entry to the laser
housing and/or removal of screws.

Industrial Fiber Optics’ warranty liability is limited to repair or replacement of any defective
unit at the company’s facilities, and does not include attendant or consequential damages.
Repair or replacement may be made only after failure analysis at the factory. Authorized
warranty repairs are made at no charge, and are guaranteed for the balance of the original
warranty.

Industrial Fiber Optics will pay the return freight and insurance charges for warranty repair
within the continental United States by United Parcel Service or Parcel Post. Any other
delivery means must be paid for by the customer.

The costs of return shipments for lasers no longer under warranty must be paid by the
customer. If an item is not under warranty, repairs will not be undertaken until the cost of
such repairs has been approved, in writing, by the customer. Typical repair costs range from
$75 - $225 and repairs usually take two to three weeks to complete.

When returning items for analysis and possible repair, please do the following:

• In a letter, describe the problem, person to contact, phone number and

return address.
• Pack the laser, power adapter, manual and letter carefully in a strong box
with adequate packing material, to prevent damage in shipment.
• Ship the package to:

Industrial Fiber Optics

1725 West 1st Street
Tempe, AZ 85281-7622
USA

– 12 –
SHIPMENT DAMAGE CLAIMS
If damage to an Industrial Fiber Optics product should occur during shipping, it is
imperative that it be reported immediately, both to the carrier and the distributor or
salesperson from whom the item was purchased. DO NOT CONTACT INDUSTRIAL
FIBER OPTICS.

Time is of the essence because damage claims submitted more than five days after delivery
may not be honored. If shipping damage has occurred during shipment, please do the
following:

• Make a note of the carrier company, the name of the carrier employee, the
date and the time of the delivery.
• Keep all packing material.
• In writing, describe the nature of damage to the product.
• In cases of severe damage, do not attempt to use the product (including
attaching it to a power source).
• Notify the carrier immediately of any damaged product.
• Notify the distributor from whom the purchase was made.

– 13 –
SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE
Periodic operation, maintenance and service of this laser are not required. The warranty
will be voided if entry has been made to the laser housing and/or any screws removed.

In the unlikely event this laser malfunctions and you wish to have it repaired, please do the
following:

• In writing, describe the problem, person to contact, phone number and

return address.
• Carefully pack the laser, power adapter, manual and written description
in a strong box with sufficient packing material to prevent damage in
shipment.
• Ship the package to:

Industrial Fiber Optics

1725 West 1st Street
Tempe, AZ 85281-7622
USA

– 14 –
 Table 1. Common abbreviations used in this manual.

Abbr Long Version Scientific Notation

mW milliwatts 1 x 10-3 watts
µW microwatts 1 x 10-6 watts
nW nanowatts 1 x 10-9 watts
mm millimeters 1 x 10-3 meters
µm micrometers 1 x 10-6 meters
nm nanometers 1 x 10-9 meters

– 15 –
NOTES:
NOTES:
 12 0098

Rules for Laser Safety

• Lasers produce a very intense beam of light. Treat them with respect. Most
educational lasers have an output of less than 3 milliwatts, and will not harm
the skin.

• Never look into the laser aperture while the laser is turned on! PERMANENT
EYE DAMAGE COULD RESULT.

• Never stare into the oncoming beam. Never use magnifiers (such as binoculars or
telescopes) to look at the beam as it travels – or when it strikes a surface.

• Never point a laser at anyone’s eyes or face, no matter how far away they are.

• When using a laser in the classroom or laboratory, always use a beam stop, or
project the beam to areas which people won’t enter or pass through.

• Never leave a laser unattended while it is turned on – and always unplug it when
it’s not actually being used.

• Remove all shiny objects from the area in which you will be working. This
includes rings, watches, metal bands, tools and glass. Reflections from the beam
can be nearly as intense as the beam itself.

• Never disassemble or try to adjust the laser’s internal components. Electric shock
could result.