I know that a laser should not be stored in a very cold place, since thermal shock can damage the components when the laser is turned on; hence, most laser hobbyists consider it a bad idea to put lasers in freezers. However, I have the following questions:
1. Does anyone know what is the minimum temperature at which a green DPSS laser can be used without risk of thermal shock?
2. Would it be a bad idea to put a laser in a refrigerator instead?
3. Earlier today, the temperature at Chicago was just below 0° C. I briefly used my Spyder after leaving it in a car for two hours. In hindsight, I don't know if that was the brightest (pun intended) idea. I know the temperature inside the car was somewhat higher, but was it still a bad idea to turn on my laser right after taking it out of the car?
4. If thermal shock does damage a laser, will its output drop slightly, or will it suddenly stop lasing completely?
Thanks.
1. Does anyone know what is the minimum temperature at which a green DPSS laser can be used without risk of thermal shock?
2. Would it be a bad idea to put a laser in a refrigerator instead?
3. Earlier today, the temperature at Chicago was just below 0° C. I briefly used my Spyder after leaving it in a car for two hours. In hindsight, I don't know if that was the brightest (pun intended) idea. I know the temperature inside the car was somewhat higher, but was it still a bad idea to turn on my laser right after taking it out of the car?
4. If thermal shock does damage a laser, will its output drop slightly, or will it suddenly stop lasing completely?
Thanks.
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