As for Class 4 lasers, these are very hazardous because the power output rating is more than mW. Even in the USA, where laws on laser tech ownership for the public are generally not very strict, Class 4 lasers are limited to professional or military use.
When it comes to laser pointers for consumer use, they have to be Class 3A and below. Of course, equipment that can measure them exist.
Then, the system is connected to a computer or meter that displays the mW reading of the current detected. There are two types of systems that are used for such measurements: photodiodes or thermopiles. The first type, photodiodes, is much more sensitive and is suitable for measuring the output of low-power lasers, including laser pointers. These can measure up to a few Watts in total power output. The power output of a laser can greatly affect its visible aspects.
Changes in brightness and heat intensity are the most commonly observed differences. In general, a laser that has a higher mW rating will have a brighter beam and will burn hotter. With a high enough power output, lasers can even burn skin or damage your eyes if looked into directly without blinking. When it comes to smaller items like basic laser pointers or pens , the power output is usually around 1 mW. Most laser tag entertainment centers also use laser tag guns which emit infrared light , or those with a visible beam of 1 mW or lower.
This is to comply with safety regulations. As you can see from the list, even Class 1M lasers which are mostly about 1 mW in power output can hurt your eyes if mishandled. As for lasers with an output of 5 mW and above, you also already have a clue through the many classifications listed above.
This can also happen if the laser is being reflected. To sum it up, a 5mW laser is very powerful and could cause permanent damage to your eyes, and burn certain materials. Fortunately, at 5mW or less, you can avoid such permanent damage if you manage to shield your eye by blinking and turning away quickly. Eye damage caused by laser pointers is a very real threat.
In a publicized case in Australia back in November , a year-old boy from Tasmania damaged both of his eyes. This happened because he shone a laser pointer pen into his eyes. The types of laser pointers you can legally own depends on the country you live in. In many countries, only higher power lasers of Class 3B and 4 are prohibited for public use.
However, there are also some countries that allow for only up to Class 2 or Class 1 laser pointers to be used by the public. For example, while the USA allows the possession of all classes of lasers as long as it is FDA-compliant, Europe and the UK outright bans all lasers with a power output of more than 1 mW. Laser pointers, even when rated at lower classes of outputs, can cause substantial damage when mishandled. Make sure to use lasers responsibly, and keep them out of the reach of young children.
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You should upgrade or use an alternative browser. Thread starter black staf7 Start date Jun 26, Joined Jun 26, Messages 2 Points 0. Or should I get both? I might get both because the site has free shipping.
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