IR filters

I have only been around LPF for a week or so and am still figuring out search techniques so please bear with me.

I am wondering the purpose of the IR filter and does it restrict the output power? I did take it off on a 10mw i bought and the dot changed size at a distance but the beam size seems the same. The dot seems more faint but still lights up the room. Is it time for readjusting of the lense?

The "IR" filter is a coated lens that blocks out Infra-Red light. Green lasers emit IR because of the process it takes to get the green light. you do lose power with an IR filter. Is your 10mw a green one? :-?and where did you get it. I ask because the cheap green ones from china don't usually come with one. as for the focus. I don't recall seeing a green one with a focusable lens. Maybe you could take a pic? Red and Blu-ray diodes do not need IR filters. hope this explains a little bit. Other wise go to the sticky about DPSS lasers!!!!

michael

I'm getting some mixed reviews about IR light, some have told me its okay, others say its bad and could someone tell me why an IR filter is recommended?

Is IR light from a green laser dangerous just because IR is bad? or because it is not visible and we may shine it into our eyes without realizing it. If neither are correct could somebody tell me why its harmful?

ohisthatright said:

I'm getting some mixed reviews about IR light, some have told me its okay, others say its bad and could someone tell me why an IR filter is recommended?

Is IR light from a green laser dangerous just because IR is bad? or because it is not visible and we may shine it into our eyes without realizing it. If neither are correct could somebody tell me why its harmful?

Click to expand...

That's pretty much right. It just depends on who you ask. But even the people who say it's bad agree that you don't need an IR filter for lasers under 50mW. 10mW would probably put out less than 7mW of IR, which won't be dangerous unless you get hit with the green too.

Oh, and BTW, this search might be easier.
http://www.google.com/search?q=...&sitesearch=laserpointerforums.com