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Accurate, inexpensive testing of handheld lasers for safe use and operation

Published

Author(s)

Marla L. Dowell, Joshua A. Hadler

Abstract

An accurate, inexpensive test bed for measurements of optical power emitted from handheld lasers is described. Our test bed consists of a thermopile detector, bandpass optical filters, an adjustable iris, and self-centering holders for mounting of the handheld lasers. This test bed serves as a quick and inexpensive method for evaluating the compliance of a laser pointer's power output with the upper power limits imposed by the U.S. Code of Federal Regulations. Measurements on a random sample of 23 Class 3R laser pointers yielded a compliance rate of only 26%. A discussion of potential laser pointer hazards is included.
Citation
Measurement Science & Technology
Volume
24
Issue
4

Keywords

laser metrology, laser pointers, laser safety

Citation

Dowell, M. and Hadler, J. (2013), Accurate, inexpensive testing of handheld lasers for safe use and operation, Measurement Science & Technology, [online], https://doi.org/10.1088/0957-0233/24/4/045202, https://tsapps.nist.gov/publication/get_pdf.cfm?pub_id=912781 (Accessed March 29, 2024)
Created March 6, 2013, Updated October 12, 2021