Hey, New to Lasers!

Marble · Apr 30, 2012

Hi, I'm Marble and I have recently just gotten interested in lasers. I've always liked them, really, but just recently have I wanted to know how they work. Eventually I want to build my very own laser! But I know pretty much nothing about them, besides them looking cool. But I'm willing to learn. I have no knowledge of electronics or optics, but I'm up for doing research to enlighten myself in these subjects. What should I read to build a good working knowledge of how lasers work, so I that might safely build one some day? If you guys could point me in the direction of some good online resources, it would be greatly appreciated! And also, can I get everything I need to build a laser (minus the diode) at a Radio Shack? If not, what must be procured elsewhere?
Well, that's all I guess...

-Marble

mikeox · Apr 30, 2012

Welcome to the forum. If you use the search bar on the forum you can find out everything you need to know. I am sure other members will be writing here as well with great info as well. There are expert builders here and very knowlegable members, that if you listen to what they have to say, have respect for the vets on here they will help you in your mission. Always remeber to use proper eyewear for your different lasers I would suggest buying some as soon as. Survival lasers on here in the BST and other sellers have quality eyewear for sale. Becareful Have fun!

billg519 · May 1, 2012

Wecome to the forum. You will find the info you need here. Search is useful, but so is reading a lot of the older threads. As you read up here, you'll find that you need to decide what kind of laser to start with. For it, you will need the appropriate safety goggles. To build, you'll need a host, aixiz housing and lens, driver, and battery as well as your laser diode. I should warn you that laser diodes can be tricky and finicky to handle at first. Don't be surprised or too disappointed if you blow one or two diodes while learning the ropes. Good soldering skills will help you. If you have an old DVD burner, you can get a red laser diode from it.

TacoHerder · May 1, 2012

Here is a ton of good info over lasers Sam's Laser FAQ - Preface, Introduction, What is a Laser?, Safety

Tech_Junkie · May 1, 2012

spam reported

lasersbee · May 1, 2012

to the Forum....
Don't forget to read the FAQs...the Stickies
and the Forum Rules..
http://laserpointerforums.com/tou.htm

If you plan on buying anything on the Forum....
PLEASE read this first...

6 Steps To Prevent You From Getting Scammed

and PLEASE don't forget to read to this....

39 Reasons NOT to Buy From Wicked Lasers

If you do get a Laser or already have one be sure
to get appropriate Laser Safety Goggles/Glasses...

Enjoy your stay...

Jerry

Marble · May 2, 2012

Thanks for the info guys. I'll start reading the forums and I'll keep you posted on how my build goes when I start it after I've gained enough knowledge. Couple more questions though:

Will a welding mask protect my eyes from laser light (I'm guessing no.)?

And if I want to use lasers of different wavelengths, do I need a different set of safety goggles for each wavelength, or can I buy a pair that works for all wavelengths (Probably different goggles, I bet.)?

Sorry if these are stupid questions, just wanna know.

Dominic · May 2, 2012

Welcome to LPF!

Please, before you post, Read the Rules, stickies, and Listen to people who have a higher authority to you.
Also, try to order a pair of Laser Safety Goggles. Being blind isn't funny.
And if you need something, message an admin, or moderator. I will answer questions too.

Welcome to LPF! Enjoy your stay.

Dominic

Tech_Junkie · May 2, 2012

Dominic said:
Welcome to LPF!

Please, before you post, Read the Rules, stickies, and Listen to people who have a higher authority to you.
Also, try to order a pair of Laser Safety Goggles. Being blind isn't funny.
And if you need something, message an admin, or moderator. I will answer questions too.

Welcome to LPF! Enjoy your stay.

Dominic

Thats Jerry's job.

Plus you're 3 days late.

Eudaimonium · May 2, 2012

Marble said:
Thanks for the info guys. I'll start reading the forums and I'll keep you posted on how my build goes when I start it after I've gained enough knowledge. Couple more questions though:

Will a welding mask protect my eyes from laser light (I'm guessing no.)?

And if I want to use lasers of different wavelengths, do I need a different set of safety goggles for each wavelength, or can I buy a pair that works for all wavelengths (Probably different goggles, I bet.)?

Sorry if these are stupid questions, just wanna know.

You're already on the right track

Indeed, welding mask will not protect you, it transmits too much laser light to be considered sage.

Although it is rare to see goggles that cover three laser colors at once, they cost up to $200 and are very difficult to use, I'd reccomend getting "normal" laser protection goggles.

Also they will commonly protect against two colors at once, for example red-tinted goggles will protect against both blue and green (if they are of acceptable quality).

Tech_Junkie · May 2, 2012

......

Eudaimonium · May 2, 2012

You can keep making fun of noobs all you want, Mark, it won't stop them from coming to the forums each day.

Besides, not everybody knows even what to search for at the beggining - some moderate amount of "spoonfeeding" as you guys call it, is always neccesarry, like it or not.

Problem is when some stubborn people never get off the teat and try to find info on their own.

Tech_Junkie · May 2, 2012

I dont even come in this section anymore, LOL. I was just passing though and made a joke when I read welding helmet. That video is not really making fun of n00bs. It making fun of LPF in general.

I dont mind n00bs. I used to dislike them, but I just ignore them now, and leave them to people with patience. I dont have a problem with people helping them. Thats what we are here for. No?

Eudaimonium · May 2, 2012

Yes.

There's a lot of questions about welding helmets, but I can understand them to some degree - people think it's a way to cut back some expenses and that the trade-off is acceptable while in fact, it is not.

Tech_Junkie · May 3, 2012

Its because people associate bright light with laser beams. They dont realize its the wavelength that matters, not the brightness of the light. You can have the darkest glasses, but if they dont block the wavelength of the light, the light will pass through them like they are not even there. Dark glasses are even worst because your pupil opens up to its fullest. So when the light hits the eye, it absorbs all the light.

Welding helmets are not cheap at all. Its just that most peoples dad usually has one laying around in the garage.

00Giorge · May 3, 2012

I have thought about my gold lens on my welding hood, it is basicly a gold oneway mirror. I have 3 different lenses I might have to do some testing.

Hey, New to Lasers!

Marble

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