Need Help!- Laser Beam alignment

[graver1]

I have a couple of problems. Bought a used ULS 25 w laser engraver.
Supposed to be working but........... I need a way to find out how much power I might have , and how to detect the beam through the 2 mirrors.
I made an adapter and mounted the final lens in front of the laser origin.
It will burn thru paper w/ a pinhole. I cant get any sign of a beam more than 2 inches away. Since its invisible I dont know how far it may be off center.
Not sure if the power I have is enough to be doing 25 watt work.
Any and all suggestions welcome. Thanks very much. LL.

[MacGyver]

That's because the final lens is a focusing lens, most likely a 2" FL. If you place it in front of the laser, you're only going to burn things 2" away.

[graver1]

Thanks for looking. I tried locating the focusing lens after the first mirror, and there is no sign of burning. Would the result I get on the origin reflect the "Trickle" power? If so maybe the tube is OK but I'm not sending the correct signals from Corel Draw. I'm trying to be careful in case it suddenly come to life. This has a "Test" button, but while it indicates the laser is firing, nothing happens, not even the burn at the origin/ focus setup. Still open for suggestions. Thanks. LL

[SkipW]

You aren't trying to test it with the lid open are you? Don't those have a safety switch that would keep it from firing if the lid is open? Just a thought....

Also, you can rent a laser power meter from laserbits.com if needed.

[MacGyver]

Place a piece of cardstock in front of the first mirror and give it a test fire. You should see a rough circle burned into it about 6-8mm in diameter. My guess is you're not aligned onto that mirror correctly.

[graver1]

Thanks Macguyver:
I really didnt know how much power to expect or what size the beam might be out of the laser tube. I have tried tape over every path possible. From what you say, I dont have a firing laser. The test function doesnt operate even w/ the focus lens in front of the laser output window. When it is running a program, this set up puts a hole in tape and paper, but it seems just barely. I'm not sure what I can get in the way of a test program.
They said it was getting slow cutting out 1/8 plexiglas parts. I really want to believe that. Ignorance is a terrible handicap. Thanks again. LL.

[skip20]

Where are you?
I have a X25 & may be able to help.
865-966-7929

[graver1]

Thanks skip2o. I'm in Dallas Tx, but I'll try and call you tomm. Havnt looked up your area code. Would like to find a trick that would let me determine if I have a dead laser, or if its operator error. Thanks. LL

[skip20]

I'm in Knoxville, TN
I have the new Magic Jack phone,so I could call you.
skip20@charter.net

[robyward]

check out this link on setting up a laser machine Laser cutting and Laser Engraving Videos | Origin Laser