Question about solar interference on laser tag guns

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on the performance of laser tag guns in outdoor settings, specifically addressing solar interference and the effectiveness of infrared (IR) lasers. The guns utilized infrared LEDs modulated with a 57.6 KHz carrier wave, which allows them to function effectively despite sunlight. The conversation also explores the potential advantages of using blue lasers over red or IR lasers, although it concludes that the majority of blue light from the Sun reaches the Earth's surface without significant scattering. The consensus is that changing the laser type may not significantly improve performance due to the higher output of sunlight in the visible spectrum compared to IR.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of infrared laser technology and modulation techniques
  • Basic knowledge of light wavelengths and their interaction with the atmosphere
  • Familiarity with laser tag technology and its operational principles
  • Knowledge of electromagnetic spectrum and solar radiation effects
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the principles of infrared LED modulation and its applications in laser tag systems
  • Explore the effects of solar radiation on different wavelengths of light
  • Investigate the differences between infrared and visible laser technologies
  • Learn about the design and functionality of laser tag sensors and their response to coherent light
USEFUL FOR

Laser tag enthusiasts, game organizers, engineers in optical technology, and anyone interested in the science of light and its applications in recreational activities.

Brainguy
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So my brother had a birthday party the other day where this company that rents laser tag guns comes over and all his friends played a big game of laser tag outside. the guns worked surprisingly well, and there was even a "grenade" that would shoot lasers out in all directions once a pin was pulled. They were most likely IR lasers since I could not see a little dot on my hand when I shot myself, but the question is: I was surprised by how well the guns worked, despite solar interference; and I didn't know why so naturally I had to learn. Also, on a rant, would a "blue-ray laser gun" (blue laser) work better outside than a normal red or IR one? Because based on what science teacher said, blue light gets caught up in the atmosphere (turning it blue) and never makes it to earth, so my idea was that since there is no alien blue light coming to interfere, the game would work much smoother. Or am I getting this all wrong and red light DOES interfere with blue light. (actually, red and blue make purple...) ughh.. I don't even know what I'm saying anymore. Ill post now to get answers more quickly.
 
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The majority of blue light from the Sun reaches the surface of the Earth without scattering in the atmosphere. I don't think moving the laser from IR to visible would accomplish much, as the Sun's output is higher in the visible range than in the IR range. However I am not familiar with the workings of laser guns, so I could be wrong.
 
It is possible that the Laser Tag sensors respond to coherent light only.
 
Laser Tags guns do not use a laser for the actual tagging, but an infrared LED with a lens to focus the beam. The infrared is modulated with a 57.6 KHz carrier wave. The receiver detects this 57.6 KHz signal and isn't very sensitive to the IR wavelength.
This works the same as Tv-remotes, only those have less power and the beams spread out more.

see http://membres.multimania.fr/ormeralion/Fichiers/ctii.pdf

esp. page 31: Infrared emitters and their driver circuitry
 
Hmm, ok. Is there a wavelength of light that comes less powerfully from the cosmos?
 
Brainguy said:
Hmm, ok. Is there a wavelength of light that comes less powerfully from the cosmos?

I'm not sure what you are asking. Less powerfully than what?
 

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