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Green 2-in-1 Laser Module Projector, retail $28.88*
Manufactured by (Unknown)
Last updated 10-23-10
Manufactured by (Unknown)
Last updated 10-23-10
This is a green DPSS (diode pumped solid state) laser module.
But what sets this laser module apart from most others you can get isn't the MCA . And it isn't the AAA cells it feeds from either. It's that moveable holographic diffraction grating optic on the unit's "business end" that allows it to project "stars" when the button is pressed, rather than just a single dot like most other laser modules. This grating can be rotated to project any of quite literally HUNDREDS of different patterns.
It comes in what I believe is a brass body.
* Price was for a 3-pack containing red, green, and violet units.
Feed the laser module the included batteries (see below), and then you'll be ready to rock.
To use the laser module to point something out, unscrew & remove the diffraction grating tip, aim it at something you wish to point out, and press & hold down the button on the barrel for as long as you need the laser spot. Release the button to turn the laser module back off. Yes, it really is as easy as that.
To use the laser module as a "star" projector, do exactly as above except do not remove the tip. Rotate (turn) the tip clockwise (as though tightening it) to change the pattern of the projected "stars".
The laser module comes with a pocket clip, already attached. You know what it's for.
If not, slip the laser module into a shirt or pants pocket, and slide the clip over the outside of the fabric of the pocket when the module is being inserted into the pocket.
To change the batteries in this green laser, unscrew the laser near the center, and set the front portion aside.
Tip the two used AAA cells out of the barrel and into your hand, and dispose of, recycle, or recharge them as you see fit.
Insert two new AAA cells into the barrel, button-end (+) positive first. This is the opposite of how batteries are installed in most flashlights, so please pay attention to polarity here.
Screw the front portion of the tube back on, and be done with it.
Unable to measure current usage due to how the product was constructed.
This is a laser module, not a flashlight. So I won't abuse it like I might abuse a flashlight.
This is a DPSS (Diode Pumped Solid State) laser anyway; this type of laser uses some crystals and other stuff in the optical train -- they can be nocked out of alignment by doing little more than looking at it the wrong way. And if any of these components get nocked out of whack, you'll no longer get your pretty green stars (or laser beam, if the starfield tip is removed).
This laser is lightly splatter-resistant, but it is not water- or pee-resistant, so please be extra careful when using it around sinks, tubs, "terlets", fishtanks, pet water bowls, or other places where water or water-like liquids might be found. And you'll probably want to cover it up or otherwise get rid of it (such as by putting it in a pocket or bag) if you need to carry it in rainy or snowy weather.
Although the barrel is smooth, it does *NOT* feel at all slippery; the exterior finish feels almost a bit "rubbery" even though that's not what it is. I'm not exactly certain what the exterior finish is, but it has a somewhat "grippy" feel to it.
The diffraction grating can be easily rotated by hand, but it has a stiff enough "action" to it that it won't just spin by itself or through casual handling.
Beam photograph on the test target at 12"; diffraction grating removed.
Beam is not white like this photograph makes it appear.
Beam is also somewhat smaller than it appears;
the beam image also bloomed ***SIGNIFICANTLY*** when photographed.
Power measures 24.840mW (w/diffraction grating removed) on a laser power meter designed for that purpose.
Beam photograph on the test target at 12", diffraction grating in place.
Beam photograph at ~10'; diffraction grating removed.
Beam is not white like this photograph makes it appear.
Beam is also somewhat smaller than it appears;
the beam image also bloomed rather substantially when photographed.
Those colored graphics toward the left are my "Viva Piñata" posters, and that clock on the right that looks like a gigantic wristwatch is my Infinity Optics Clock.
You may also be able to see two of my SpongeBob SquarePants plush (Squidward Tentacles & Patrick Star) and a Digimon plush (Greymon)
Spectrographic analysis of this laser.
Spectrographic analysis of this laser; spectrometer's response narrowed to a range between 800nm and 850nm to isolate the NIR line from the pump diode.
USB2000 spectrometer graciously donated by P.L.
Beam cross-sectional analysis.
Image made using the ProMetric System by Radiant Imaging.
Video on YourTube showing this laser directed at the ceiling (with diffraction optic in place); optic was slowly rotated.
Those red streaks you occasionally see are from a Laserpod that was operating in the vicinity, and may safely be ignored.
This clip is approximately 5.005234587627 megabytes (5,232,840 bytes) in length; dial-up users please be aware.
It will take no less than thirty five minutes to load at 48.0Kbps.
TEST NOTES:
Test unit was purchased on Ebay on 10-16-10 (or "16 Oct. 2010" if you prefer) and was received at 4:56pm PDT on 10-20-10 ("20 Oct. 2010").
Unit is improperly labelled for power output; that's what nocked that last star off its rating.
UPDATE: 00-00-00
PROS:
Projects a widely-varying starfield that's easily user-adjustable
Uses batteries that are common and relatively inexpen$ive
CONS:
Incorrectly labelled for power output (labelled as CDRH Class IIIa <5mW); has a measured output of 24.840mW.
MANUFACTURER: Unknown
PRODUCT TYPE: Handheld laser w/diffractive tip
LAMP TYPE: DPSS (Diode Pumped Solid State) laser
No. OF LAMPS: 1
BEAM TYPE: Very narrow spot
SWITCH TYPE: Momentary pushbutton on/off on barrel
CASE MATERIAL: Metal
BEZEL: Laser & collimator recessed into hosel in the end
BATTERY: 2x AAA cells
CURRENT CONSUMPTION: 29.70mA
WATER- AND URANATION-RESISTANT: Very light splatter-resistance at maximum
SUBMERSIBLE: FOR CHRIST SAKES NOOOOO!!!
ACCESSORIES: None
SIZE: 157mm L x 13.50mm D
WEIGHT: Unknown/not equipped to weigh
COUNTRY OF MANUFACTURE: Unknown; possibly Hong Kong
WARRANTY: Unknown/not stated
PRODUCT RATING:
