Fotona QX MAX

The QX MAX is an older Fotona Q-switched laser for tattoo and pigment work. Its FDA device record describes it as part of the Fotona QX laser system family, and the 510(k) summary for that family (K083889, cleared April 2009) explains the design. One flashlamp pumped Nd:YAG crystal produces 1064 nm, and passing that beam through a frequency doubling crystal gives 532 nm. An articulated arm carries the light, along with a red diode aiming beam, to a focusing handpiece with variable spot size, and a footswitch fires the laser.

The same summary sets out the output. At 1064 nm the laser runs Q-switched with nominal 5 to 20 ns pulses at up to 1.6 J, or non-Q-switched at 0.25 ms and up to 5 J. The 532 nm beam is Q-switched only, at up to 0.6 J. Spot sizes run from 2 to 8 mm. Two optional dye converter handpieces take the 532 nm beam and shift it to 585 nm or 650 nm.

The StarWalker followed the QX MAX in the same line. When FDA cleared the StarWalker family in August 2017 (K171227), its comparison table listed the QX family with push button controls and the StarWalker with a touch screen. In the FDA device database, the QX MAX record carries model number M031-3A/2 with nothing after it, while StarWalker records add a suffix such as QX, MAQX or PQX. Fotona's service registration form lists the Fotona QX and the QX MAX as separate models, so read the brand name on the label too.

The FDA record shows the QX MAX left commercial distribution on February 27, 2019. Ask Fotona or a distributor about parts support before pricing a unit. Buyers will want to know which handpieces come with it, including either dye converter, plus the arm's condition, flashlamp history and service records.