Hi everyone -

I have question for anyone with experience using MP lasers.  We are
planning to purchase a Zeiss confocal system with a femtosecond MP IR
laser.  Our problem is that we will need approx. 700 nm light from it
on occasion and haven't been able to determine which of the two laser
systems available from Spectra-Physics and Coherent are best suited
to the task.  Not being "laser jockeys" it has been very hard to
separate the claims from reality.

Spectra-Physics claims that its Tsunami laser w/ 5W pump laser will
produce plenty of light at 690-710 nm (if we use a special set of
optics), and stay mode locked better than the competition besides.

Coherent, on the other hand, claims that they don't need the special
optics for their Mira laser to get enough light and good mode locking
in that spectral region, as well as, better ease of use via their
'Optima' package.  However, they also recommend a 10W pump laser
(+$34,000.00) that we pretty much can't afford.

I talked to several people from lists provided by both companies and
can come to no consensus.

Anyone care to step into this with an opinion?

Thanks all and Happy Holidays,

Dan

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Daniel Possin                      Voice: 206-221-3845
Dept. of Ophthalmology             FAX  : 206-543-4414
University of Washington           Email: [log in to unmask]
Box 356485, RR802-HSB
Seattle,  WA   98195-6485