OPerA Solo and Topas-Prime Service Course

The OPerA Solo and Topas-Prime Service course covers in depth the theory, installation, operation, and maintenance of the OPerA Solo, Topas-Prime, and all their wavelength extensions. It is for advanced laser engineers with strong laser and optical backgrounds. The course focuses on the topics listed below. Most of the course takes place in the laboratory and consists of extensive hands-on optical alignment covering the range of daily optimization to “worst-case,” full re-alignment scenarios. Upon successfully completing the course, students should be able to train others to control and operate the laser.

Topics: Laser, electrical, and lab safety; review of specifications and typical operating conditions; theory of operation; optical layout and identification of components; optical alignment of the OPA and wavelength extensions; power and spectrum optimization; wavelength calibration; daily operation; wavelength tuning; laser optimization; software control and instructions; maintenance procedures; optics cleaning; turn on/off procedures; electronics; installation; operational and component differences between the OPerA Solo and Topas-Prime; discussion of available/typical diagnostics; troubleshooting scenarios.

Prerequisites: Successfully completing the Ultrafast Amplifier Level I Service course and all of its

Prerequisites. A basic theoretical understanding of optics and lasers is strongly recommended but not required.