can one measure mW with a DMM?

[saypat]

Hi all. Received my 1st laser today, a green super spec from Swim. Had no idea what to expect. The spot is rather small, cannot see a beam inside in the daytime. I will try it outside tonight in the DARK! I like the laser a lot, seems well built. I'm using rechargeables.
I think I read something about measuring the power of a laser with a Digital Volt Meter. Anyone confirm this, or how to to do it? Sheeesh, I am curious as to the output, who isn't? The threads also seem rough on mine, hard to screw it down. Anyone else experience this. What do you put on threads?

Appreciate any input for a 1st timer. Thanks very much in advance.

patrick

 

[lasersbee]

To put it simply............... NO...

You will need a calibrated Laser Power Meter...


Jerry

 

[Polonium210]

You can't measure mW output without an LPM as LasersBee has stated.

You can however measure the current at the tailcap in mA and get a rough estimate on that with the diodes datasheet.

 

[Bluefan]

You can't measure mW output without an LPM as LasersBee has stated.

You can however measure the current at the tailcap in mA and get a rough estimate on that with the diodes datasheet.

Nope, it's a green, that means the wavelength of the pump diode matters a lot and that varies from diode to diode.

Also:
http://laserpointerforums.com/f44/rant-usage-mw-nm-units-general-66575.html?highlight=rant

 

[Polonium210]

Ah, I missed the part where he said it was green.