Laser Line Generators

Well I may play with huge lasers for a job but the smaller diode based items can often leave me wondering about things.

I'm looking to get a nice clear line or cross hair output from a smaller Axiz type unit (or something around that size)

I'm looking for some advice on what modules to use or what diffraction gratings will be best for possible Green , Blue or Red dot modules. Duty cycles are a consideration but by no means will limit the choices. Quality of line / cross hair is paramount for the use they are intended for.
You guys probably have more combined experience than any company so all and any info is very welcome.

thanks

Dave

Quality is subjective here. However, I think everyone can agree:
diffraction pattern < line lens < vibrating mirror

Brand or source doesn't seem to matter.

Thanks Cy, are there good and bad DG's? if so what would you recommend as a good buy?

cheers

Dave

No, the diffraction type all produce a somewhat fuzzy pattern and a splotchy image. If you just need a line or crosshair, a line lens will produce a good image. They're $3 for a pack of five and small enough to tape/glue over your existing lens so I would just buy some. If you don't like them, it's not a big loss.

That's fantastic Cy, off to get some now

thanks

Dave

I scoured the net looking for the best line generators and the truth is, if you can manage with a single line instead of a cross, Powell Lenses. Best around but not cheap. If you want cheap, the diffractive ones are. They will be brighter in the center due to the way they work. If you want something clean but not too worried how much power gets through, Laserex make a range of cross hair and line lenses that are good, except the remove around 60% of the strength of the signal due to the narrow aperture to control the beam entry. They are very clean with slight extra strength at the far edges, but don't show signs of high order fringes, (extra lines either side more visible up close).

Great stuff, thanks Gok

cheers

Dave

No worries, anytime.