I have a 40-watt CO2 hobby laser that I bought new at the end of October from FSLaser. I used it heavily for about 2 months, but since then have hardly used it. Yesterday, I noticed that it would not cut through 1/8" poplar ply, (which it usually cuts) and the engraving was really light and inconsistent. I checked the alignment and cleaned the mirrors and lens, but no improvement.
I have tested the beam all around the table, and have noticed that it starts out strong, but then loses its power within 5 seconds. If it sits for a few minutes, it regains its power, but then it dissipates again (like a dying cordless drill). I am trying to figure out if I have a bad tube or a bad power supply, before I spend any money on parts. The laser company tech says that it's odd for such a new laser to go bad, but they probably only deal with new lasers. Anyone familiar with these symptoms? Any advice that you have would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
-jeaves