Can I change colours with this? - Laser Pointer Forums

pinkpanda3310 · 02-19-2010, 02:02 AM

Hi, I'm new to lasers and want to get into it a little. This forum is quite extensive as are the lasers discussed. So there is quite a lot to take in.

I primaraly want a laser capable of burning so I have ordered one of these-http://cgi.ebay.com.au/High-Power-Laser-Module-260-mw-Cutting-Burning_W0QQitemZ180446582143QQcmdZViewItemQQptZLH _DefaultDomain_0?hash=item2a0374557f

I can picture some of you maybe rolling your eyes but anyway... I bought it cause it seemed cheap, it has a host/heatsink, laser, module and driver circut.I don't know if the one I have ordered is well known but I want to know a few things about it.

1-I need to get some glasses but haven't really looked into it so I don't know what I need.

2-It says adjustable lens, can I get different lenses for it if needed (patterned)

3-The driver circut is used in there 450mw version so I assume it is variable, in which case I could use different diodes yeh? Can I change *nm and get a different colour with no other hardware changes?

Your help is appreciated

scopeguy20 · 02-19-2010, 02:12 AM

I highly recommend a new user stay away from this, and any Infrared lasers! -Glenn

daguin · 02-19-2010, 02:16 AM

Do you realize that 780nm is INVISIBLE Infra-Red light?

You bought a laser that you cannot see the beam.

And, No. You cannot change the color

Peace,
dave

pinkpanda3310 · 02-19-2010, 02:25 AM

That just shows my ignorance then

Thanks for the reply anyways.

photonaholic · 02-19-2010, 02:27 AM

Please read this stuff, it will really help you out in the end. That laser is dangerous, especially since you cannot see it, it will burn your eyes out without you ever knowing it, if you look into the end of it "hey where is the light" BLAM your eyes are damaged.

I have compiled a list of "must read" information, it will make your time with us more productive and pleasant.

Laser Resources (for n00bs and veterans alike!)

Looking to build a laser? Read me!

Sam's Laser FAQ (The Laser Bible)

Sam's Laser FAQ - Preface, Introduction, What is a Laser?, Safety

RP Photonics Encyclopedia of Laser Physics and Technology

Encyclopedia of Laser Physics and Technology - an Open Access Resource of In-Depth Information, Free Articles, Nonlinear and Fiber Optics

I have included a handy guide to assist you in finding what you need.

pinkpanda3310 · 02-19-2010, 02:27 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by scopeguy20

I highly recommend a new user stay away from this, and any Infrared lasers! -Glenn

You mean infrared in particular because they cannot be seen?

pinkpanda3310 · 02-19-2010, 02:29 AM

Thanks photonaholic I'll read a bit more before I post again

photonaholic · 02-19-2010, 02:31 AM

don't worry so much about the posting, I'm just worried you'll get hurt.

ZRTMWA · 02-19-2010, 02:33 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by pinkpanda3310

You mean infrared in particular because they cannot be seen?

Yes, and also becuase higherpowered IR lasers can be bought for much cheaper than higher powered visible lasers, making them appealing to n00bs

photonaholic · 02-19-2010, 02:36 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ZRTMWA

Yes, and also becuase higherpowered IR lasers can be bought for much cheaper than higher powered visible lasers, making them appealing to n00bs

Sad state of affairs really... I can just easily imagine an uneducated person looking directly into it, wondering why the heck does this thing not seem to work.

pinkpanda3310 · 02-19-2010, 02:38 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by photonaholic

don't worry so much about the posting, I'm just worried you'll get hurt.

I don't want to get hurt either that's why I'm here

Quote:

Originally Posted by ZRTMWA

Yes, and also becuase higherpowered IR lasers can be bought for much cheaper than higher powered visible lasers, making them appealing to n00bs

That seems back to front then

aryntha · 02-19-2010, 02:47 AM

Actually, with 780 its a bit more dangerous. With 980 IR, there's some idea of the "threat" - you say to yourself (if you know) "This is an IR laser, I need to be careful when it's powered on - i can't see the beam."

.. The issue is, this is 780nm. It won't be invisible -- it'll look *HARMLESSLY DIM*. You'll see a DULL, FAINT red spot at 260mW/780nm. I've attached an image that gives an example of this, showing the 'relative apparent' brightness (mocked up, of course) from a 635nm 5mW pointer, a 650nm 5mW pointer, and a 780nm 200mW pointer.

I assure you, this 'innocent looking' dull red spot is NOT HARMLESS. The problem with "near IR" is that people will get lulled into a false sense of security seeing the 'dim, weak beam' - when actually it's likely enough to burn skin. They may even point it around at reflective surfaces.

Since you've ordered the laser - telling you that you 'did the wrong thing' isn't going to do as much as letting you know how to be safe around it. It'll be in your house, so it's good to be well equipped.

If you want to experiment with this -- (and I'm glad you came to this forum so people could warn you about this before the laser arrived!) -- get some IR blocking goggles. And get them now. And do not power on the laser until you have the goggles on.

While 780nm is not explicitly listed, these will work. (They list a few common wavelengths on the list. But they are OD3 at 780nm. I have the same ones, and I've tested them with my 780nm.) - (Think of 'OD' factor, Optical Density, as "SPF" for your eyes. Using EasyHaz, 780nm at 0.250w (250mW) - it shows you need an OD factor of 2.4 to be 'safe' from 1 second of exposure. Note, It also says that to be safe from a direct eye exposure to the beam, without goggles, with a divergence of 1.2mRad, you'd have to be 130 meters away! Dangerous stuff.)

808nm Infrared Laser Eyes Protection Glasses/Goggle

$35. If you OWN that laser, you should have those goggles. Period.

I'm not in any way an old timer here. I'm actually pretty new myself. But I've found a lot of useful knowledge here. So, I'd say - this isn't so much about admonishment. It's about safety. So its actually a very good thing that you came to this forum.

photonaholic · 02-19-2010, 03:05 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by aryntha

This isn't about admonishment. It's about safety. So its actually a very good thing that you came to this forum.

excellent post!

pinkpanda3310 · 02-19-2010, 03:45 AM

Thanks aryntha. I would look at palming this thing off now I understand where it's all gone wrong but I have bought it knowing it is dangerous mw for a noob. When it arrives I'll inspect the host and see if I can fit a new module. Glass's are #1 priority.

IR is quite a trap for noobs!

pinkpanda3310 · 02-19-2010, 12:42 PM

Alright guy's let's pretend I didn't purchase an unsuitable laser for a noob and am asking some questions now.

I first got interested from a youtube popping balloons etc... I have a look around for lasers and find some cheap yet powerful one's on ebay. I think 'hey if I get a really powerful one I can maybe cut some carbon fibre for my other hobby. I don't want to invest too much so I'll get this one that barely cuts 1mm. I reckon I can make it work with a different colour for coolness and show off to friends and upgrade it to cut up to 2-3mm. There is not much in this thread indicating the seriousness of the item in question (260mw 780nm) Looking to build a laser? Read me! Yes, I did read it beforehand. To add to that there is no calculator or link to easyhaz that helps to work out which goggles are needed, only the speculation you will need some.

I don't mean to whine and I much appreciate what you guy's have enlightened me to.

So what would you recomend for a noob? I'm not nesasarily going to go down this line but I may get a new module to fit the one coming. My prefferences would be something from the green to blue (or violet...just not red) side of the spectrum and can be upgraded easily. I also can't find a rule of thumb for 'at what power would goggles be nesasary', would they be needed even for the 5mw lasers? I don't intend looking down the barrel but I'm not a safety freak either.

I'm sorry if these answers are in the faq threads they are just not obvious to me.

photonaholic · 02-19-2010, 12:51 PM

My first green laser was a cheap pointer I got for $12, I had a blast with it for weeks.

The green line through the air was impressive, the animals all loved chasing the spot around on the floor, and I ultimately wound up giving it to a friend who was twice as enthralled by it than I was.

Count on spending a small fortune if you really desire a "true blue" laser, they are rare and expensive. Blu Ray lasers are closer to UV and rather hard to see.

Personally I find burning things to be the least important aspect of lasers, yes it's cool, but not the most important.

a 5mw green pointer is an excellent place to start, and goggles are less important with one of those.

pinkpanda3310 · 02-19-2010, 01:28 PM

BUGGAR. I forgot to mention I have owned a keyring laser years back and had a lot of fun with it too. Just for reference- I am not just out of school and going to burn the ass off all my friends legs. I have other items/tools which never get used in the presence of my family (mainly my children).

It's got me curious why lasers are so popular as pointers. I can understand lasers are used in light shows (disco's), in industry as cutters, burners, etc... but why are pointers so intreging to people??

mrgoogfan · 02-19-2010, 05:13 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by pinkpanda3310

BUGGAR. I forgot to mention I have owned a keyring laser years back and had a lot of fun with it too. Just for reference- I am not just out of school and going to burn the ass off all my friends legs. I have other items/tools which never get used in the presence of my family (mainly my children).

It's got me curious why lasers are so popular as pointers. I can understand lasers are used in light shows (disco's), in industry as cutters, burners, etc... but why are pointers so intreging to people??

Mainly because they are small and easily moved. But first, if you want to buy a burning laser, we need to know a few things...

The country you live in (some companies will not send lasers to some places)
The amount you are willing to spend.
The color you want.

green lasers typically cost 3x as much as a red or violet, [if you want the reason why, the attached picture will explain.]

Green lasers appear 50x as bright as red ones, 100x as bright as violet ones.

red lasers w/ powers of 300mw will run you about $150
green lasers w/ powers of 300mw will cost about $600
violet lasers of that power will cost $100 if you build it yourself.

aryntha · 02-19-2010, 08:39 PM

Panda,

"Upgradeability" likely won't happen in the DPSS/Diode laser world, but you can get started pretty cheaply.

If you want to start slow, somewhat safer, but still want to burn, and have visible light, maybe look at O-Like's focusable 50mW green -- $39.00 ..(but you'd still want to get goggles with that, definitely. Like these, for $20. )

O-Like has a good reputation around here, and that laser is inexpensive, decently powerful for a beginner, moderately bright (compared to anything else you've likely seen in a pointer style), and pretty well built. It -will- burn when focused with its focusing ring, and it'll give you an idea and feel for handling a laser like this. It also has a keylock, so you can keep it disabled if there's a chance of someone inexperienced getting a hold of it.

Visually, you'll love it, if it's your first green. Don't underestimate the ability of 50mW of 532nm. It will burn black surfaces, and pop dark colored balloons (just not from 'across the room' like a 250mW will) And it'll look awesome at night... Just don't point it at anyone.

I think it's a good place to start to get a feel for this stuff.

pinkpanda3310 · 02-20-2010, 02:11 AM

Thank you very much for all your help. I'll have a look around for what's available similar to what you suggested aryntha but won't jump so fast this time.

Benm · 02-20-2010, 02:52 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mrgoogfan

red lasers w/ powers of 300mw will run you about $150

If you're starting out with laser pointers, i would recommend getting a 200 mW rated red laser, like the deal extreme dilda. For just $30 shipped, you will get a pretty visible laser, that will burn things when focussed.

Mind you, this thing is by no means safe to play with, but at least things get uncomfortably bright when your eye are in danger.

780 and 808 nm are both visible, but as pointed out, appear very very dim, even at dangerous power levels. I reckon you should actually shine it straight into your eye without blinking, and pretty sure that if you would blink it would be too late to save anything.

pinkpanda3310 · 02-20-2010, 04:06 PM

I've been reading and thinking about what to do and I think I'll go with a 50mw or less green (probably less). Then I'll have a pointer for when I've got time to burn and one for burning when I'm by myself.

I understand now why IR is so dangerous. Apart from the complacency as mentioned accidental reflections would be near impossible to flinch at.

While we are on the subject- I want the best protection but can't decide which is better. The above recommendation was for these 808nm Infrared Laser Eyes Protection Glasses/Goggle The OD at the bottom state 2-3 and I have seen these advertised other places with the rating being 2. The easyhaz calc recommends 2.5 OD. So I was wondering if these were a better choice 650nm Laser Eyes Protection Glasses/Goggle They have a rating of 4 OD at 755n. The target is 3 OD at 780nm and the first goggles were 3 OD at 808nm.

So if someone could tell me either goggle will do or one is better than the other, I would much appreciate it.

mrgoogfan · 02-20-2010, 04:14 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by pinkpanda3310

So I was wondering if these were a better choice 650nm Laser Eyes Protection Glasses/Goggle They have a rating of 4 OD at 755n. The target is 3 OD at 780nm and the first goggles were 3 OD at 808nm.

So if someone could tell me either goggle will do or one is better than the other, I would much appreciate it.

the 650 one seems good to me. What do you plan to do with that laser? As far as ir lasers go, that one isn't very powerful. It was probably from a optocommunications line. If you attach a fibre to that laser you could possibly make a nice woodburner.

pinkpanda3310 · 02-20-2010, 04:42 PM

Undecided as to what I'm going to do with it. It's not big enough for my initial plans of cutting carbon fibre. It was more of a 'don't spend to much in case it doesn't work out'.

What are these green squares in the ID box << I notice yours is red mrgoogfan.

diachi · 02-20-2010, 05:02 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by pinkpanda3310

Undecided as to what I'm going to do with it. It's not big enough for my initial plans of cutting carbon fibre. It was more of a 'don't spend to much in case it doesn't work out'.

What are these green squares in the ID box << I notice yours is red mrgoogfan.

They are to do with reputation points, more reputation more green bars. When there is red bars the user has negative reputation.

02-19-2010, 02:12 AM	#2
scopeguy20 Class 3B Laser Join Date: Jun 2007 Location: Sunny S. California WOOT! Posts: 2,568 Rep Power: 159	Re: Can I change colours with this? I highly recommend a new user stay away from this, and any Infrared lasers! -Glenn __________________ 6X Bluray >260 mW, & New FAV! 8X >500 mW! Made by IgorT Flaminpyro BR & ~4 Red Burners on board ~650 nm 175, & ~250 mW & ~300mW 3 Hene's 632.8 nm & 2 635 nm pointers Rigel 3-4 mW I Love it! PGL III 589 nm rated 5mW is >20 mW a new fav! Many Green lasers, EVO PRO Peak ~160 mW & Spyder I Peak 295 mW are my new green favorites! LG Aquarius -10 & Viasho 473 nm peak ~29 mW & From WL on loan, Spyder III rated 60mW but peaks ~100mW! !!!!! 500mW 445nm portable now on board Thanks Flaminpyro LINK !!!!! Blurays by IgorT, john lawson & EzPk0970, jayrob lenses, IgorT 6X & 8X! spiro toy mods w/ side aperture for any pointer Spiro toy in Red & Violet by yobresal too! Laser sleds/ diodes sold so far 1050+, MY IgorT .5 WATT BR is HERE NOW! NOTE: More GGW's & PHR's still some left! !!LINK!!

02-19-2010, 02:16 AM	#3
daguin Moderator Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Sunny Southern California Posts: 11,589 Rep Power: 360	Re: Can I change colours with this? Do you realize that 780nm is INVISIBLE Infra-Red light? You bought a laser that you cannot see the beam. And, No. You cannot change the color Peace, dave __________________ Niko only WISHES he could SPAM like me Did you get some benefit from reading this forum? If so, CLICK HERE to donate $2 to keep it going

02-19-2010, 02:25 AM	#4
pinkpanda3310 Junior Member Join Date: Feb 2010 Posts: 22 Rep Power: 0	Re: Can I change colours with this? That just shows my ignorance then Thanks for the reply anyways.

02-19-2010, 02:27 AM	#5
photonaholic Class 3B Laser Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: Central New York State - Watkins Glen - planet Earth Posts: 2,758 Rep Power: 84	Re: Can I change colours with this? Please read this stuff, it will really help you out in the end. That laser is dangerous, especially since you cannot see it, it will burn your eyes out without you ever knowing it, if you look into the end of it "hey where is the light" BLAM your eyes are damaged. I have compiled a list of "must read" information, it will make your time with us more productive and pleasant. Laser Resources (for n00bs and veterans alike!) Looking to build a laser? Read me! Sam's Laser FAQ (The Laser Bible) Sam's Laser FAQ - Preface, Introduction, What is a Laser?, Safety RP Photonics Encyclopedia of Laser Physics and Technology Encyclopedia of Laser Physics and Technology - an Open Access Resource of In-Depth Information, Free Articles, Nonlinear and Fiber Optics I have included a handy guide to assist you in finding what you need. __________________ Thanks for reading my post. Kind regards, Wayne ------------------------------------------------------------------ "Disclaimer: all posts made by me are based on my own opinion only, That opinion is subject to change without notice." Too much knowledge is dangerous, not enough is worse. Adapted from Einstein quote. ------------------------------------------------------------------ If you want to burn things, buy a lighter ------------------------------------------------------------------ My Pet Forums - for the animal fans Link Dances With Reptiles - If you like snakes Link Last edited by photonaholic; 02-19-2010 at 02:29 AM.

02-19-2010, 02:29 AM	#7
pinkpanda3310 Junior Member Join Date: Feb 2010 Posts: 22 Rep Power: 0	Re: Can I change colours with this? Thanks photonaholic I'll read a bit more before I post again

02-19-2010, 02:02 AM	#1
pinkpanda3310 Junior Member Join Date: Feb 2010 Posts: 22 Rep Power: 0	Can I change colours with this? Hi, I'm new to lasers and want to get into it a little. This forum is quite extensive as are the lasers discussed. So there is quite a lot to take in. I primaraly want a laser capable of burning so I have ordered one of these-http://cgi.ebay.com.au/High-Power-Laser-Module-260-mw-Cutting-Burning_W0QQitemZ180446582143QQcmdZViewItemQQptZLH _DefaultDomain_0?hash=item2a0374557f I can picture some of you maybe rolling your eyes but anyway... I bought it cause it seemed cheap, it has a host/heatsink, laser, module and driver circut.I don't know if the one I have ordered is well known but I want to know a few things about it. 1-I need to get some glasses but haven't really looked into it so I don't know what I need. 2-It says adjustable lens, can I get different lenses for it if needed (patterned) 3-The driver circut is used in there 450mw version so I assume it is variable, in which case I could use different diodes yeh? Can I change *nm and get a different colour with no other hardware changes? Your help is appreciated

02-19-2010, 02:31 AM	#8
photonaholic Class 3B Laser Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: Central New York State - Watkins Glen - planet Earth Posts: 2,758 Rep Power: 84	Re: Can I change colours with this? don't worry so much about the posting, I'm just worried you'll get hurt. __________________ Thanks for reading my post. Kind regards, Wayne ------------------------------------------------------------------ "Disclaimer: all posts made by me are based on my own opinion only, That opinion is subject to change without notice." Too much knowledge is dangerous, not enough is worse. Adapted from Einstein quote. ------------------------------------------------------------------ If you want to burn things, buy a lighter ------------------------------------------------------------------ My Pet Forums - for the animal fans Link Dances With Reptiles - If you like snakes Link

02-19-2010, 02:47 AM	#12
aryntha Class 2M Laser Join Date: Nov 2009 Location: Evergreen, CO Posts: 936 Rep Power: 38	Re: Can I change colours with this? Actually, with 780 its a bit more dangerous. With 980 IR, there's some idea of the "threat" - you say to yourself (if you know) "This is an IR laser, I need to be careful when it's powered on - i can't see the beam." .. The issue is, this is 780nm. It won't be invisible -- it'll look HARMLESSLY DIM. You'll see a DULL, FAINT red spot at 260mW/780nm. I've attached an image that gives an example of this, showing the 'relative apparent' brightness (mocked up, of course) from a 635nm 5mW pointer, a 650nm 5mW pointer, and a 780nm 200mW pointer. I assure you, this 'innocent looking' dull red spot is NOT HARMLESS. The problem with "near IR" is that people will get lulled into a false sense of security seeing the 'dim, weak beam' - when actually it's likely enough to burn skin. They may even point it around at reflective surfaces. Since you've ordered the laser - telling you that you 'did the wrong thing' isn't going to do as much as letting you know how to be safe around it. It'll be in your house, so it's good to be well equipped. If you want to experiment with this -- (and I'm glad you came to this forum so people could warn you about this before the laser arrived!) -- get some IR blocking goggles. And get them now. And do not power on the laser until you have the goggles on. While 780nm is not explicitly listed, these will work. (They list a few common wavelengths on the list. But they are OD3 at 780nm. I have the same ones, and I've tested them with my 780nm.) - (Think of 'OD' factor, Optical Density, as "SPF" for your eyes. Using EasyHaz, 780nm at 0.250w (250mW) - it shows you need an OD factor of 2.4 to be 'safe' from 1 second of exposure. Note, It also says that to be safe from a direct eye exposure to the beam, without goggles, with a divergence of 1.2mRad, you'd have to be 130 meters away! Dangerous stuff.) 808nm Infrared Laser Eyes Protection Glasses/Goggle $35. If you OWN that laser, you should have those goggles. Period. I'm not in any way an old timer here. I'm actually pretty new myself. But I've found a lot of useful knowledge here. So, I'd say - this isn't so much about admonishment. It's about safety. So its actually a very good thing that you came to this forum. Attached Thumbnails __________________ O-Like - 980nm 65mW O-Like - 808nm 200mW O-Like - 780nm 120mW CNI PGL-III-M - 671nm 150mW DPSS! - Review ∙ CNI PGL-III-C - 671nm 260mW DPSS Mohrenberg LOC - 650nm 240mW ∙ DX200 - 650nm 212mW LG Orion HV (PGL-III-C) - 635nm 353mW(442.3mW pk) JDSU 1145AP HeNe - 632.8nm 19mW ∙ JDSU 1145P HeNe - 632.8nm 22mW ∙ JDSU 1135P HeNe - 632.8nm 15mW Melles Griot 05-LOR-151 HeNe - 612nm 3mW LG Rigel - 593.5nm 3mW ∙ LG PGL-III-C - 593.5nm 10mW(14.7mW pk) ∙ Lasos 7512P HeNe - 594.1nm 2.6mW CNI PGL-III-C 589nm 38mW(45mW pk) JDSU 1675P HeNe - 543.5nm 1.3mW ∙ REO LHGR HeNe - 543.5nm 2.3mW ∙ Lasos 7786 HeNe - 543.5nM 1.3mW CNI GLP-532nm 60mW ∙ LG PGL-III-C - 532nm 150mW(180.2mW pk) ∙ CNI PGL-III-C - 532nm 400mW(690mW pk) JDSU 2214-20GL ArIon - 515nm 30mW (Run 6/25/10) Novalux Protera DPSS - 488nm 7mW - Info! ∙ JDSU 2214-20SL ArIon - 488nm 30mW (Run 6/18/10) MG 65A106025ALS ArIon - Multiline - 70mW LG PGL-III-A - 473nm 45mW(80.1mW pk) ∙ CNI PGL-III-C - 473nm 65mW(78mW pk) JDSU 2214-4VL ArIon - 458nm 8mW (Run 6/28/10) Jayrob 18650 + MicroBoost Build - 445nm - 450mA - Info! Mohrenberg PHR - 405nm 100mW ∙ Jayrob 18650 + FlexDrive Build - 405nm - 300mA 400mW ∙ O-Like - 405nm 152mW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sunclan Magenta 650/405nm 250mW \|\| Sunclan Cyan 532/405nm 250mW mixed color lasers Last edited by aryntha; 02-19-2010 at 03:12 AM.

02-19-2010, 03:45 AM	#14
pinkpanda3310 Junior Member Join Date: Feb 2010 Posts: 22 Rep Power: 0	Re: Can I change colours with this? Thanks aryntha. I would look at palming this thing off now I understand where it's all gone wrong but I have bought it knowing it is dangerous mw for a noob. When it arrives I'll inspect the host and see if I can fit a new module. Glass's are #1 priority. IR is quite a trap for noobs!

02-19-2010, 12:42 PM	#15
pinkpanda3310 Junior Member Join Date: Feb 2010 Posts: 22 Rep Power: 0	Do over Alright guy's let's pretend I didn't purchase an unsuitable laser for a noob and am asking some questions now. I first got interested from a youtube popping balloons etc... I have a look around for lasers and find some cheap yet powerful one's on ebay. I think 'hey if I get a really powerful one I can maybe cut some carbon fibre for my other hobby. I don't want to invest too much so I'll get this one that barely cuts 1mm. I reckon I can make it work with a different colour for coolness and show off to friends and upgrade it to cut up to 2-3mm. There is not much in this thread indicating the seriousness of the item in question (260mw 780nm) Looking to build a laser? Read me! Yes, I did read it beforehand. To add to that there is no calculator or link to easyhaz that helps to work out which goggles are needed, only the speculation you will need some. I don't mean to whine and I much appreciate what you guy's have enlightened me to. So what would you recomend for a noob? I'm not nesasarily going to go down this line but I may get a new module to fit the one coming. My prefferences would be something from the green to blue (or violet...just not red) side of the spectrum and can be upgraded easily. I also can't find a rule of thumb for 'at what power would goggles be nesasary', would they be needed even for the 5mw lasers? I don't intend looking down the barrel but I'm not a safety freak either. I'm sorry if these answers are in the faq threads they are just not obvious to me.

02-19-2010, 12:51 PM	#16
photonaholic Class 3B Laser Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: Central New York State - Watkins Glen - planet Earth Posts: 2,758 Rep Power: 84	Re: Can I change colours with this? My first green laser was a cheap pointer I got for $12, I had a blast with it for weeks. The green line through the air was impressive, the animals all loved chasing the spot around on the floor, and I ultimately wound up giving it to a friend who was twice as enthralled by it than I was. Count on spending a small fortune if you really desire a "true blue" laser, they are rare and expensive. Blu Ray lasers are closer to UV and rather hard to see. Personally I find burning things to be the least important aspect of lasers, yes it's cool, but not the most important. a 5mw green pointer is an excellent place to start, and goggles are less important with one of those. __________________ Thanks for reading my post. Kind regards, Wayne ------------------------------------------------------------------ "Disclaimer: all posts made by me are based on my own opinion only, That opinion is subject to change without notice." Too much knowledge is dangerous, not enough is worse. Adapted from Einstein quote. ------------------------------------------------------------------ If you want to burn things, buy a lighter ------------------------------------------------------------------ My Pet Forums - for the animal fans Link Dances With Reptiles - If you like snakes Link

02-19-2010, 01:28 PM	#17
pinkpanda3310 Junior Member Join Date: Feb 2010 Posts: 22 Rep Power: 0	Re: Can I change colours with this? BUGGAR. I forgot to mention I have owned a keyring laser years back and had a lot of fun with it too. Just for reference- I am not just out of school and going to burn the ass off all my friends legs. I have other items/tools which never get used in the presence of my family (mainly my children). It's got me curious why lasers are so popular as pointers. I can understand lasers are used in light shows (disco's), in industry as cutters, burners, etc... but why are pointers so intreging to people??

02-19-2010, 08:39 PM	#19
aryntha Class 2M Laser Join Date: Nov 2009 Location: Evergreen, CO Posts: 936 Rep Power: 38	Re: Can I change colours with this? Panda, "Upgradeability" likely won't happen in the DPSS/Diode laser world, but you can get started pretty cheaply. If you want to start slow, somewhat safer, but still want to burn, and have visible light, maybe look at O-Like's focusable 50mW green -- $39.00 ..(but you'd still want to get goggles with that, definitely. Like these, for $20. ) O-Like has a good reputation around here, and that laser is inexpensive, decently powerful for a beginner, moderately bright (compared to anything else you've likely seen in a pointer style), and pretty well built. It -will- burn when focused with its focusing ring, and it'll give you an idea and feel for handling a laser like this. It also has a keylock, so you can keep it disabled if there's a chance of someone inexperienced getting a hold of it. Visually, you'll love it, if it's your first green. Don't underestimate the ability of 50mW of 532nm. It will burn black surfaces, and pop dark colored balloons (just not from 'across the room' like a 250mW will) And it'll look awesome at night... Just don't point it at anyone. I think it's a good place to start to get a feel for this stuff. __________________ O-Like - 980nm 65mW O-Like - 808nm 200mW O-Like - 780nm 120mW CNI PGL-III-M - 671nm 150mW DPSS! - Review ∙ CNI PGL-III-C - 671nm 260mW DPSS Mohrenberg LOC - 650nm 240mW ∙ DX200 - 650nm 212mW LG Orion HV (PGL-III-C) - 635nm 353mW(442.3mW pk) JDSU 1145AP HeNe - 632.8nm 19mW ∙ JDSU 1145P HeNe - 632.8nm 22mW ∙ JDSU 1135P HeNe - 632.8nm 15mW Melles Griot 05-LOR-151 HeNe - 612nm 3mW LG Rigel - 593.5nm 3mW ∙ LG PGL-III-C - 593.5nm 10mW(14.7mW pk) ∙ Lasos 7512P HeNe - 594.1nm 2.6mW CNI PGL-III-C 589nm 38mW(45mW pk) JDSU 1675P HeNe - 543.5nm 1.3mW ∙ REO LHGR HeNe - 543.5nm 2.3mW ∙ Lasos 7786 HeNe - 543.5nM 1.3mW CNI GLP-532nm 60mW ∙ LG PGL-III-C - 532nm 150mW(180.2mW pk) ∙ CNI PGL-III-C - 532nm 400mW(690mW pk) JDSU 2214-20GL ArIon - 515nm 30mW (Run 6/25/10) Novalux Protera DPSS - 488nm 7mW - Info! ∙ JDSU 2214-20SL ArIon - 488nm 30mW (Run 6/18/10) MG 65A106025ALS ArIon - Multiline - 70mW LG PGL-III-A - 473nm 45mW(80.1mW pk) ∙ CNI PGL-III-C - 473nm 65mW(78mW pk) JDSU 2214-4VL ArIon - 458nm 8mW (Run 6/28/10) Jayrob 18650 + MicroBoost Build - 445nm - 450mA - Info! Mohrenberg PHR - 405nm 100mW ∙ Jayrob 18650 + FlexDrive Build - 405nm - 300mA 400mW ∙ O-Like - 405nm 152mW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sunclan Magenta 650/405nm 250mW \|\| Sunclan Cyan 532/405nm 250mW mixed color lasers Last edited by aryntha; 02-19-2010 at 08:53 PM.

02-20-2010, 02:11 AM	#20
pinkpanda3310 Junior Member Join Date: Feb 2010 Posts: 22 Rep Power: 0	Re: Can I change colours with this? Thank you very much for all your help. I'll have a look around for what's available similar to what you suggested aryntha but won't jump so fast this time.

02-20-2010, 04:06 PM	#22
pinkpanda3310 Junior Member Join Date: Feb 2010 Posts: 22 Rep Power: 0	Re: Can I change colours with this? I've been reading and thinking about what to do and I think I'll go with a 50mw or less green (probably less). Then I'll have a pointer for when I've got time to burn and one for burning when I'm by myself. I understand now why IR is so dangerous. Apart from the complacency as mentioned accidental reflections would be near impossible to flinch at. While we are on the subject- I want the best protection but can't decide which is better. The above recommendation was for these 808nm Infrared Laser Eyes Protection Glasses/Goggle The OD at the bottom state 2-3 and I have seen these advertised other places with the rating being 2. The easyhaz calc recommends 2.5 OD. So I was wondering if these were a better choice 650nm Laser Eyes Protection Glasses/Goggle They have a rating of 4 OD at 755n. The target is 3 OD at 780nm and the first goggles were 3 OD at 808nm. So if someone could tell me either goggle will do or one is better than the other, I would much appreciate it.

02-20-2010, 04:42 PM	#24
pinkpanda3310 Junior Member Join Date: Feb 2010 Posts: 22 Rep Power: 0	Re: Can I change colours with this? Undecided as to what I'm going to do with it. It's not big enough for my initial plans of cutting carbon fibre. It was more of a 'don't spend to much in case it doesn't work out'. What are these green squares in the ID box << I notice yours is red mrgoogfan.

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