We have an SLA-3500 that is coming up on it's first birthday and we are
pondering hardware and software maintenance agreements with 3D Systems.
The basic question I have for the group is: Is it better to sign up for
maintenance with laser or without? There is a substantial price
difference between the two options.
It seems to me that if you take the 'with laser' option you are
essentially paying for a new laser over a period of time (a year
maybe?). If your laser lasts more than a year, you've paid more for a
new one (when the time comes) than you need to. On the other hand, if
you take the 'without laser' option, and your laser dies sooner rather
than later, then you and your pocketbook are hosed.
Our machine was installed in July, 1997. We had an infant mortality on
the first laser and the laser & power supply were replaced under
warranty in August, 1997. In the 10 months since then, we have logged
2280 hours on the replacement laser. The solid state laser is supposed
to last 5000 hours, but I've heard of some that have lasted far longer.
I'd appreciate any feedback / advice / experiences on this topic, good,
bad, or indifferent. Thanks.
-- Doug Greenwood Square D Company, Groupe Schneider Raleigh, NC Ph (919)217-6334, Fax 919-266-8397 greenwod@eng.squared.comFor more information about the rp-ml, see http://ltk.hut.fi/rp-ml/
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