Safety question 300mw 405nm

Hey guys.

Im about to start building my first laser. I have purchased all the parts i need and built the necessary circuitry to power it, i was wondering since its my first laser i was wondering what safety issues to be cautious of, i have purchased the appropriate goggles (they were cheap but should still work). Any advice would be great thanks.

Ryan

I know this might sound obvious but... try not to let the beam hit you directly in the eye even with goggles?

Lol Thanks. I bought three pairs for showing friends. If the problem was anywhere else on my body i would be paranoid but the eyes are a pretty amazing piece of engineering. Would hate to compromise them.

Your eyes are the biggest concern, make sure your goggles are performing as well as advertised (many cheap ones do not). Pass the beam through a corner of one of the lenses and it should be about as dim as a cheap $3 red pointer on the other side. Make sure you're always aware of anyone else that may walk in unexpectedly and any reflective surfaces you may accidentally hit. I think it goes without saying to never point it at airplanes or vehicles as well

Thanks Addonex

Im pretty mature about the whole subject, I knly want to build a laser or two for the challenge of building it and to help research the topic. I just want to know from everyones experience waht to look out for. As long as I have the goggles on and treat the laser with common sense it should be a safe turn out.

Cheers guys.
Ryan

Good luck! :beer: