Safety Precautions for High Power Diode Lasers
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Handling and Safety precautions for High Power Semiconductor Diode Lasers
The following note is to help facilitate a successful experience with operating high power
semiconductor lasers. Areas to be covered by this note are:
· ESD handling
· Laser Safety
· Fiber handling
ESD handling
The semiconductor laser is extremely sensitive to electro-static discharge. As a precaution,
certain guidelines should be considered when handling the module or device:
· All tests should be performed at a static-controlled work station.
· Shorting clips should be attached to anode and cathode pins when the module is
disconnected from the operational circuit.
· Ground operators, equipment, work-in-progress (WIP) transport carts/trays and work
surface to eliminate static electricity.
· Only use confirmed ESD dissipative coatings/surface finishes on fixtures/tooling used to
assemble the lasers.
· When working with lasers, use ESD protective smocks, gloves and shoes/covers,
dissipative bench-top mats, and ESD protective flooring or matting.
· Remove or control static generating sources to voltages below the specified maximum for
safe ESD handling.
· Install air ionizers as necessary for additional environmental control.
· Use electrically grounded soldering irons for soldering the laser to the mounting surface.
· Use electrostatic shielding containers and antistatic or dissipative carriers.