Class I Lasers
Description
Class I lasers are devices that emit laser beams with power levels considered safe under all conditions of normal use, including direct viewing. These lasers are designed to be inherently safe, meaning they do not pose a hazard to the eyes or skin under normal operating conditions.
Working Principle
Class I lasers operate by amplifying light through the process of stimulated emission of radiation. This involves exciting atoms or molecules from a low energy level to a higher one, which then emit light of a specific wavelength. The emitted light is coherent, meaning it is of a single wavelength and phase, allowing for a focused and intense beam. The safety of Class I lasers is achieved by ensuring that the emitted power is below the threshold that could cause harm to human tissue.
Applications
Class I lasers are commonly used in consumer electronics and other applications where safety is a priority. Specific examples include laser printers, optical drives, and barcode scanners. These devices utilize the laser's ability to read and write data with high precision without posing a risk to users.
Advantages over other Lasers
Class I lasers offer significant safety advantages over higher-class lasers. Unlike Class II or higher lasers, Class I lasers do not require additional safety measures such as protective eyewear or restricted access areas. This makes them ideal for consumer products and environments where user safety is paramount.
Limitations
The primary limitation of Class I lasers is their low power output, which restricts their use to applications that do not require high-intensity beams. This limits their effectiveness in industrial applications such as cutting or welding, where higher power levels are necessary.
Considerations
When considering the use of Class I lasers, it is important to evaluate factors such as initial costs, operating expenses, and maintenance requirements. Class I lasers typically have lower initial costs and operating expenses due to their simpler design and lower power consumption. They are also generally more durable and require less frequent maintenance compared to higher-class lasers. However, their limited power output may necessitate the use of additional equipment or alternative technologies for certain applications.
from Electro Optical Components, Inc.
The unique feature of this laser diode module with single mode coupling is its highly stable performance across a wide range of temperatures. The module is cooled solely using a passive system – no TEC (thermoelectric cooler) is required. Wavelengths include: 450 nm, 515 nm, 635 nm, 640 nm,... [See More]
- CDRH Classification: Class I; Class II; Class IIa; Class IIIa; Class IIIb
- Laser Wavelength: Violet; Green; Red; Infrared
- Laser Type: Laser Diodes
- Features: Fiber Optic Pigtail
from World Star Tech
UCL Series Cross-Hair Laser modules are fully self-contained with integrated laser driver circuit, surface polished glass asherical lens optics, laser diode and cross-line generator. Unique properties include a perfectly straight cross, compact anodized aluminum body, fine adjustable focus, clean... [See More]
- CDRH Classification: Class I; Class 1 (IEC)
- Wavelength Range: 635
- Laser Type: Laser Diodes; Laser Diode Modules
- Laser Power: 0.4000
from Hamamatsu Photonics
The EQ-77X-QZ-S is a high output power LDLS that produces radiance about 3 times higher than the standard model EQ-99X LDLS. To maintain its high output power, the lamphead requires nitrogen purging and connection to a water cooling chiller. [See More]
- CDRH Classification: Class I
from World Star Tech
DPGL series green lasers are diode pumped green lasers operating at 532nm. The diode, driver and optics are integrated in a compact package. The DPGL series lasers offer excellent beam quality and stability. Modulation and beam shaping optics can be added to the DPGL series lasers. Features. [See More]
- CDRH Classification: Class I; Class 1
- Laser Wavelength: Green
- Laser Type: Laser Diodes; Laser Diode Modules
- Wavelength Range: 532
from Hamamatsu Photonics
The spectral irradiance of the EQ-99X-CAL-S is calibrated and traced to national standards. Compared to traditional calibrated light sources the EQ-99X-CAL-S features a more stable spectrum and longer lifetime. [See More]
- CDRH Classification: Class I
from World Star Tech
ULL-Series Line Laser modules are fully self-contained with integrated laser driver circuit, surface polished glass aspherical lens optics, and laser diode. Unique properties include a compact anodized aluminum body, fine adjustable line laser, clean beam, low divergence, high boresight accuracy and... [See More]
- CDRH Classification: Class I; Class 1 (IEC)
- Wavelength Range: 635
- Laser Type: Laser Diodes; Laser Diode Modules
- Laser Power: 0.4000
from Hamamatsu Photonics
The EQ-99X-FC-S is a fiber-coupled LDLS. Two types of optical fibers are available for selecting a wavelength range that matches your application. The lamphead of the EQ-99X-FC-S is compact and generates lower heat, making it ideal for experiments in cramped spaces or for installation into... [See More]
- CDRH Classification: Class I
from World Star Tech
LQB-Series Laser diode modules are fully self-contained with integrated laser driver circuit, aspherical plastic lens optics and laser diode in a compact brass body. Unique properties include compact body , clean beam, industrial strength and low cost. If your application requires high beam pointing... [See More]
- CDRH Classification: Class I; Class 1 (IEC)
- Wavelength Range: 635
- Laser Type: Laser Diodes; Laser Diode Modules
- Laser Power: 0.4000
from Hamamatsu Photonics
The EQ-99X-QZ-S is a standard LDLS model with a diverging-beam optical interface. It has a compact lamphead with lower heat generation that makes it ideal for experiments in cramped spaces or for installation into equipment. The lamphead is designed to cool by natural convection thus eliminating... [See More]
- CDRH Classification: Class I
from Traceable® Products
Pointer's brilliant red beam works equally well in daylight and dark. Laser is designed specifically for slide presentations, wall charts, and field use. Beam is at the highly visible 650 nm wavelength with diameter of 3.5 mm. Output is 4 mW with a range of 400 feet. Key chain makes it easy to... [See More]
- CDRH Classification: Class I
- Laser Output: Continuous
- Laser Type: Laser Pointers
- Laser Wavelength: Red
from OSI Optoelectronics
OSI Laser Diode, Inc ’s (LDI) High Power SMF coupled laser modules are designed to meet the specific performance demands of the optical test equipment marketplace. The high peak optical power SCW Series lasers serve 1310 nm, 1550 nm, and 1625 nm wavelengths, along with a 3-pin coaxial package. [See More]
- CDRH Classification: Class I
- Laser Output: Continuous (optional feature); Pulsed (optional feature)
- Laser Type: Laser Diode Modules
- Laser Wavelength: Infrared
from LaserStar Technologies Corporation
FiberStar laser systems offer state-of-the-art laser resonator technology which provides high peak power, optimal performance and throughput, higher up-time, enhanced electrical efficiency, and a space saving air cooled design. Solid state diodes provide instantaneous power with no “warm up... [See More]
- CDRH Classification: Class I; Class IV
- Laser Output: Continuous; Pulsed
- Laser Type: Fiber Lasers
- Laser Wavelength: Infrared
from OSI Optoelectronics
Excellent output power stability and constant wavelength are features of OSI Laser Diode, Inc ’s (LDI) laser series that make these modules ideal for applications such as telecommunications and test instrumentation. These devices comprise a Fabry-Perot laser chip and a single mode optical... [See More]
- CDRH Classification: Class I
- Laser Wavelength: Infrared
- Laser Type: Laser Diode Modules
- Features: Fiber Optic Pigtail
from LaserStar Technologies Corporation
At LaserStar Technologies, we offer an extensive range of laser marking and laser engraving products with the ability to custom design any of our standard systems to fit your needs. Whatever your challenge, we will work directly with you to help you find the ideal solution to your laser marking... [See More]
- CDRH Classification: Class I; Class IV