Simple laser using magnifying glasses, lenses and a laser pointer

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on building a simple laser using magnifying glasses, lenses, and a laser pointer. Participants clarify that while a laser pointer is indeed a laser, it typically operates at low power and is not suitable for applications requiring heat generation. For effective heating or cutting, a higher power laser is necessary, along with a thorough understanding of safety requirements. The forum emphasizes the importance of safety and advises against engaging in potentially dangerous activities without proper knowledge.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of laser technology and classifications
  • Knowledge of optical components such as lenses and magnifying glasses
  • Familiarity with laser safety standards and regulations
  • Basic principles of heat generation through laser applications
NEXT STEPS
  • Research high-power laser diodes suitable for heating applications
  • Learn about laser safety protocols and best practices
  • Explore optical design principles for effective laser focusing
  • Investigate materials that can be effectively cut or heated by lasers
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for hobbyists, laser enthusiasts, and individuals interested in DIY laser projects, particularly those exploring applications in heating or cutting materials.

Aidan39
Messages
2
Reaction score
0
Hi guys, sorry new to this, I'm looking to build a simple laser using magnifying glasses, lenses and a laser pointer. How would I go about it and can I get away with using the pointer or do I need a laser diode?
 
Engineering news on Phys.org
A laser pointer IS a laser. So it is not clear what you are you trying to build. Could you be more specific.
(I assume you are not going to use the pointer as a pump-laser)
 
Sorry for being unspecific, I'm trying to make a low power laser capable of creating heat on an object not just light
 
Aidan39 said:
I'm trying to make a low power laser capable of creating heat on an object not just light

The reason that legal laser pointers have low power output is so they can't "create heat" and cause injury to people.

If you want to use a laser for heating or cutting, you need a higher power laser, and YOU ALSO NEED TO UNDERSTAND THE SAFETY REQUIREMENTS OF WHAT YOU ARE DOING. This forum won't give you any advice on potentially dangerous activities, except for "don't do it".
 

Thread 'uA709 op amp compensation'

Most likely this can only be answered by an "old timer". I am making measurements on an uA709 op amp (metal can). I would like to calculate the frequency rolloff curves (I can measure them). I assume the compensation is via the miller effect. To do the calculations I would need to know the gain of the transistors and the effective resistance seen at the compensation terminals, not including the values I put there. Anyone know those values?
View full post »

Similar threads

Pwrng a 1064nm Diode/Laser Pointer w/Voltage Regulation
  • · Replies 32 ·
2
Replies
32
Views
3K
Hacked pulsed laser driver using Arduino
  • · Replies 32 ·
2
Replies
32
Views
4K
Undergrad How Can I Expand and Collimate a Laser Pointer Beam Using Basic Optics?
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
Electric Gauntlet for Phone, Flashlight & Laser Pointer: Battery Selection Guide
  • · Replies 18 ·
Replies
18
Views
2K
Frequency Comb (Photonics, Optics)
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
562
Practical Info on Ultra-High Q Lasers?
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
1K
Converting oscilloscope voltage to laser power
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
2K
Cannot lock reference signal on lock-in amplifier
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
What is the Type of Laser Used in My Wine Raman Spectrometer?
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
Graduate IR Laser diode focusing and module selection for CSEL Laser pointer
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
1K