Can a Lens Increase the Power of a Laser Pointer?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the use of lenses to focus the beam of a green laser pointer. Participants confirm that while a lens can focus the beam to a smaller spot, the resulting brightness can be blinding, making it difficult to assess the focus. Suggestions include using protective eyewear such as welding helmets or eclipse glasses to mitigate the intense brightness. Experimentation with different lenses, including convex lenses and polarizing filters, is encouraged, but caution is emphasized due to the risk of eye damage.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of laser optics and beam divergence
  • Familiarity with convex lenses and their properties
  • Knowledge of safety precautions when working with high-intensity lasers
  • Experience with polarizing filters and their applications
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the effects of lens curvature on laser beam focus
  • Learn about laser safety standards and protective equipment
  • Explore the use of multiple lenses to achieve desired focus
  • Investigate the properties of polarizing filters in laser applications
USEFUL FOR

Laser enthusiasts, optical engineers, and anyone experimenting with laser pointers for applications such as burning or precise focusing.

barryj
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I have a green laser pointer. I assume that the beam is nearly focused a infinity because it does not spread much when shown on a wall. My question is, can I use a lens to focus the beam to a smaller spot.
when I see videos about burning laser pointers I do not see any of them using a lens to focus the beam to a smaller dot.Why not?
 
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barryj said:
My question is, can I use a lens to focus the beam to a smaller spot
Strange question :rolleyes:. Why not try it first and see what happens ?
 
I did try it. The green spot is so bright it is hard to see if the spot focuses down to a smaller spot.
It is blindingly bright. Even sun glasses don't help much and then there is the area around the spot that is sort of fuzzy.
I know, get a welders helmet, right?
I think it should focus.
 
barryj said:
I did try it. The green spot is so bright it is hard to see if the spot focuses down to a smaller spot.
It is blindingly bright. Even sun glasses don't help much and then there is the area around the spot that is sort of fuzzy.
I know, get a welders helmet, right?
I think it should focus.
You might try eclipse glasses.
 
or with two polaroids at close to right angle
 
It didn't seem to focus :-( I did use cross poloroid glasses. At least not to a good point.
 
With a convex lens it surely diverges after the focal point, so yes, it focuses. Play around with two lenses but be very careful not to go blind. You wouldn't be the first one with several blind spots.
 

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