>On Jul 3, 11:22am, Andy Hubbard wrote:
>> Subject: Re: How long a laser lasts
>>  From my experiences it is clear that single gas lasers outlive mixed
>> gas lasers by an incredible amount.
>


While I realize that several people have had similar experiences I
can't say mine have been similar.  I would give an argon ion laser
about 3 years max on a well-used confocal (my first lasted less
than 2 years).  While it may well be true that an argon laser will
last better lightly used than an argon krypton, once they are both
heavily used I'd say that the gap narrows substantially.

Repair costs are much lower than Andy suggests - minor overhaul on
an A/K laser is about $A2,500, retubing about $A5,000.  The key thing
to check is whether your supplier will undertake to have a loan
laser available when yours has to go off for repair.  If not, buy
a different brand!  Down-time for laser refurbishment will be quite
susbtantial otherwise.

                                                Guy

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