Caution
possible
equipment
damage
Take all power measurements at a point in the beam path where the laser beam is
unfocused. To prevent damage to the PW-250, never measure a laser beam at the point
of focus!
Do not use the Power Wizard to measure power levels exceeding 250 watts as this may
damage internal components.
Power Wizard PW-250 Operating
Instructions
(cont.)
Power measurements
1
Hold the PW-250 so that the LCD display is in your hand with the black anodized target facing away from you.
2
Press and hold the RESET/POWER button for at least two seconds. This activates the PW-250 and initializes the
measurement computer.
3
Release the RESET/POWER button to begin the six-second measurement sequence. The LCD display should read
00.0 Watts (±00.3 W). If the reading is not within this range, repeat Step 2.
4
Quickly insert the PW-250 target into the beam path. Position the PW-250 so the beam is centered in the middle of
target and hold the PW-250 as steady as possible.
Note: Avoid moving the target after insertion into the beam path. Excessive target motion may result in an erroneous
power reading.
5
The Power Wizard’s LCD display will show readings increasing to the final value within three to four seconds after
insertion into the beam.
6
Remove the PW-250 from the beam path when you hear a series of five beeps. This indicates the measurement se-
quence is complete and begins a 12–15 second “hold” sequence.
Note: The “hold” feature locks the displayed power reading for a period of 12–15 seconds after the measurement sequence
is complete. This allows the PW-250 to be inserted into areas where it is difficult or dangerous to visually monitor
the LCD display while the laser is operating.
7
After the 12–15 second “hold” sequence, a series of fast beeps indicates the PW-250 is automatically shutting down.
8
To perform another power measurement, repeat Steps 1–6.
Measurement notes/guidelines
• The heat capacity of the target is sufficient to allow multiple, low-power measurements in rapid succession without im-
mediate cooling. On a 25 W laser, approximately ten consecutive readings may be taken. About two measurements in
rapid succession can be taken on a 100 W laser. Only a single measurement can be taken around the 250 W level before
the unit must be allowed to cool.
• When using the PW-250 on medium power lasers in the range of 100 watts or more, caution should be exercised not
to overheat the sensor or case by excessive exposure time. An overheated target is indicated by continuous beeping, at
which time the target must be allowed to cool. You can accelerate cooling by placing the PW-250 under a fan. Do not
cool the PW-250 by immersing it in water; this will damage the electronics.
• Use care to place the beam on the target, rather than the PW-250 case. Move the PW-250 in and out of the beam
quickly, without letting the beam dwell on the case. It is permissible to turn on the laser after the PW-250 target has
been placed in the beam path; however, be sure the measurement is complete before the six-second measurement period
has elapsed. Never press the RESET/POWER button while the target is exposed to the laser beam, the computer will
not be initialized properly.
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