Scanner Issue

[NephiliumSlayer]

I have a custom-built laser that I purchased from someone, and the scanner is acting up. I use Beyond software and have no idea what brand of laser or scanner is installed. When i activate the test pattern after turning on the laser, the pattern is very distorted. After about 15 minutes the pattern then morphs into its correct shape. It is not color specific either. Any Idea what can cause this or where i can send it to be repaired? I'm in Phoenix Arizona

[buffo]

This sounds like a thermal issue, although usually the problems get worse when the projector warms up, rather than getting better. Could be a cold-solder joint or some other loose connection inside the case, but a failing scanner amp is also a likely possibility.

Unfortunately, if this is a certified projector, then your repair options are limited. Normally you would send it back to the company that built it and ask them to repair it. However, if that is not an option, you might be able to find another custom laser projector manufacturer who would be willing to repair your projector and then re-certify it under their own laser product manufacturer's variance.

I'm not really familiar with any custom manufacturers that offer repair services, but you might try laserlightcompany.com out of Tampa, Florida and see what they say. Alternately, you may want to reach out to Pangolin and see if one of their repair centers would be willing to take on the task. (For example, I know Adam Bourassa in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin has been repairing Kvant and Unity projectors for Pangolin customers for some time now, but I don't know if he will work on other gear.) Perhaps others here on the forum can recommend some more options...

Worst case, you could open the case and try to repair it yourself, but just keep in mind that doing this will void the certification on the projector, meaning it will no longer be legal to use it for commercial shows for the general public here in the USA. This may not be a concern if you only intend to use the projector for your own enjoyment, however.

A new set of cheap Chinese scanners that will do 30K or better can be purchased on Ebay for $250-$300, complete with the amps, PSU, mounting block, and all the cables you'll need to hook them up, so you shouldn't need to do any soldering.

Adam

[NephiliumSlayer]

This sounds like a thermal issue, although usually the problems get worse when the projector warms up, rather than getting better. Could be a cold-solder joint or some other loose connection inside the case, but a failing scanner amp is also a likely possibility.

Unfortunately, if this is a certified projector, then your repair options are limited. Normally you would send it back to the company that built it and ask them to repair it. However, if that is not an option, you might be able to find another custom laser projector manufacturer who would be willing to repair your projector and then re-certify it under their own laser product manufacturer's variance.

I'm not really familiar with any custom manufacturers that offer repair services, but you might try laserlightcompany.com out of Tampa, Florida and see what they say. Alternately, you may want to reach out to Pangolin and see if one of their repair centers would be willing to take on the task. (For example, I know Adam Bourassa in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin has been repairing Kvant and Unity projectors for Pangolin customers for some time now, but I don't know if he will work on other gear.) Perhaps others here on the forum can recommend some more options...

Worst case, you could open the case and try to repair it yourself, but just keep in mind that doing this will void the certification on the projector, meaning it will no longer be legal to use it for commercial shows for the general public here in the USA. This may not be a concern if you only intend to use the projector for your own enjoyment, however.

A new set of cheap Chinese scanners that will do 30K or better can be purchased on Ebay for $250-$300, complete with the amps, PSU, mounting block, and all the cables you'll need to hook them up, so you shouldn't need to do any soldering.

Adam

Thank you for the info. I'll call them up and see what they say