Laser Diode Module Information

Laser diode modules from CALPAC LASERS are ideal for commercial, industrial, medical, and OEM applications requiring longer duty cycles, frequent intermittent use, and application specific tolerances. Laser diode modules offer a higher level of performance, greater stability, and are more durable than hand held laser pointers. Simply adding an external power supply creates the perfect alignment laser for industrial positioning, batch processing, scanning, machine vision, imaging, and other applications. Our affordable laser diode modules make excellent replacements for expensive He-Ne lasers, and are optimal for cost-effective prototyping.

Each module is a complete laser assembly including all circuits, a laser diode, and optics packaged in a protective housing. Red alignment lasers projecting highly visible lines or dots are available in wavelengths of 635nm, 650nm, and 660nm. Our green laser diode modules project an extremely bright dot at a wavelength of 532nm.

Contact Technical Support for questions about laser diode modules.

Laser Diode Module Applications

Laser diode modules are the most efficient and cost effective solutions for many positioning, alignment, measurement, automation, scientific, security, and OEM applications. Industries from manufacturing and textiles to university laboratories can all benefit from increased productivity, limited waste, and cost savings by using our affordable laser modules. Contact Technical Support for questions about your laser application.

Following is a list of common laser diode module applications:

• Drilling
• Sawing/Cutting
• Textile Alignment
• Woodturning
• Machine Vision
• Scanning
• Laser Alignment

Positioning and Alignment:

• Targeting & Pointing
• Parts Alignment Sawing, Cutting, Drilling
• Machine Positioning
• Laser Marking System Alignment
• Textile Alignment
• Woodturning
• Telescope Collimation
• Alignment Pilot Beam

Measurement:

• Fault Detection
• Edge Detection
• Distance & Clearance Measurement
• Tooling Calibration
• Deformation Analysis
• Thickness Measurement
• Optical Surface Inspection
• Camber Alignment

Automation:

• Machine Vision
• Robotic Control Imaging
• Dimensional Scanning
• Bar Code Scanning
• Light Barriers
• Good/Bad Parts Selection
• Parts Positioning
• Air Quality Control
• Breakage Control

Science:

• Absorption Measurement
• Interferometry
• Material Property Analysis
• Speed Measurement
• He-Ne Replacement
• IR/High Power Laser Alignment

OEM:

• Prototyping Subassemblies Components

Security:

• Perimeters

Laser Diode Performance Tips

Following is a list of common laser diode module performance tips:

Life Expectancy:

There are many factors that determine the actual laser diode module life expectancy, such as temperature, humidity, length of continuous use, etc. Because we have no control over these factors, CALPAC LASERS cannot guarantee a minimum Laser Diode Module life expectancy (MTBF).

Avoid mounting laser diode modules in thermally insulating materials such as foam or plastics. Excessive heat can decrease output power, cause wavelength instability or even diode failure. Metal mounting fixtures are recommended for optimal heat dissipation.

Our laser diode modules contain no user serviceable parts. Laser Diode Modules are warranted against "Dead on Arrival". All claims must be made within 15 days of the date of purchase. Warranty/Return information

Duty Cycle:

CALPAC LASERS diode modules incorporate advanced circuit protection into each model. This design allows for frequent intermittent on/off cycles which will maximize laser performance and prevent overheating.

Laser Diode Modules should not be used for more than 8 continuous hours per day. We highly recommend adequate cooling periods following extensive continuous use to maximize performance and prevent premature failure. For 24/7 applications, the use of multiple Laser Diode Modules is suggested. Contact Technical Support for questions about recommended duty cycles.

Visibility:

Laser visibility is dependent on several factors: wavelength, power output, ambient lighting conditions, projection distance, and target background color. Green lasers (532nm) offer the highest visibility and farthest range in bright ambient light. Diode modules at 635nm wavelength will be the brightest color of the red light spectrum. Dark ambient light or shaded target areas will increase visibility. Light colored target backgrounds (white or yellow) will also increase visibility.

The actual laser beam will not be visible without the presence of airborne particles such as from smoke or fog.

Laser optics may require occasional cleaning. In such cases, CALPAC LASERS recommends using compressed air to blow the optics clean.

Suitability:

CALPAC LASERS does not make any representations or warranties as to the suitability of these or any units for any application. CALPAC LASERS expressly disclaims any implied warranty of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. It is the sole responsibility of the purchaser of these units to determine their suitability and assume all responsibility for any application. Disclaimer