Lasers are sometimes quoted to have a lifespan of over 80,000 hours. However Justin from LaserGlow says the actual lifespan is closer to 5,000-10,000 hours. According to Justin, the 80,000-hour figure applies only to ideal lab conditions. Does this mean that a laser can theoretically last 80,000+ hours if you take perfect care of it?
Also, what part of a laser is more likely to break first? The pump diode? The driver? The crystal?
Also, what part of a laser is more likely to break first? The pump diode? The driver? The crystal?