Glossary

Axial divergence

The beam direction error provides information about the deviation of the laser beam from the axis direction and it is stated as an angle. This value is crucial in the event of highly accurate alignment purposes only.

Beam shape

In addition to classic dot lasers we also offer line and cross lasers with different projection dimensions. We also offer an ample range of diffractive optics with special beam shapes.

Cable length

We can provide any cable lengths, from 30 mm to 300 m.

Divergence

The divergence describes the expansion of the laser dot or the line thickness across a distance and it is usually only important in conjunction with larger operating distances. This parameter can be neglected with smaller distances.

Fan angle

The aperture angle is a characteristic parameter for line and cross lasers. This angle allows a determination of the line length in the operating distance. The larger the operating angle, the faster the line length grows, whi- le the line‘s brightness decreases.

With our line laser calculator, you can easily determine the appropriate aperture angle for your application.To line laser calculator

Focus

We offer laser modules with a fixed focus/operating distance as well as laser modules with continuously adjustable focus.

Laser class

Lasers pose a potential risk on the basis of their physical properties and for this reason, all lasers are split into certain laser classes. As a rule, laser classes 1, 1M, 2 and 2M can be used without taking special precautions. Laser classes 3R, 3B and 4 must be used in conjunction with special protective measures due to the direct hazard they pose to eyes and skin. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us at any time.

To type designations

Lifetime

We specify the mean time between failures (MTTF) of our laser modules at an ambient temperature of 23°C. The ambient temperature is a crucial factor in terms of service life. The module service life decreases with an increasing ambient temperature.

Line thickness • size laserdot

The line width or dot size is determined at a certain operating distance and depends on the laser module‘s divergence. The greater the operating distance and divergence, the wider the line. In laser modules with adjustable focus the line thickness can also be adjusted freely.

Material

Various housing variants are available. Aluminium is usually used due to its flexible properties and the low price. We can also use more high-quality materials, such as stainless steel.

Modulation frequency

Our modular or switchable laser modules can be actuated using a digital TTL signal. As a result, it is possible to implement switching frequencies of up to 200 kHz. The modulation voltage corresponds to the laser module‘s input voltage.

Operating temperature

Operate all our modules within the listed operating temperature to safeguard a long service life and stable output power. Our semiconductor lasers are suitable for outdoors in any weather conditions, all year round.

Operating voltage

We offer a large number of different input voltages and are able to cater to special requests. As a rule, all mo- dules can be operated with mains units or batteries. No other electronic components are required except a rectified power source.

Optical power

The output power describes the light quantity escaping from the laser aperture and it represents a scale for the brightness of the laser at a certain distance. Lasers are able to achieve very significant intensities and for this reason, it is very important to observe laser protection measures.

Optics

Anti-reflection glass lenses boast excellent optical properties and outstanding representation quality. Plastic lenses are used in the low-cost segment.

Potential of housing

Many of our modules are delivered with an electrically insulated housing ex works. Some of the lasers are avai- lable with either positive or negative supply voltage to the housing. With modules featuring potential to the housing it is important to ensure no other voltage applies to the fixing device or attachment.

Protection lens

The protective lens is intended to shield installed optics and the laser module from external influences. It allows a use of the laser module in very dusty environments and in industrial conditions.

Size

External dimensions of laser modules vary due to different designs. Red laser modules can be produced in more compact designs than green lasers.

Wavelength

The wavelength is an elementary parameter of a laser module and describes the colour of the laser light. We offer visible lasers from blue 405nm to red 670nm and also wavelengths in the invisible infrared spectrum. It is possible to produce very compact red laser modules and they are suitable for rough, industrial conditions. Green wavelengths are the most visible to the eye and they are particularly suitable for challenging lighting conditions.

405nm520nm532nm635nm670nm

Wire type

In addition to single strands with open cable ends we also offer insulated cables in line with current standards and directives. We recommend using shielded cables for more challenging applications.