daguin said:
[quote author=sarbanes link=1216353249/0#7 date=1217118527]
I did not know that. Thought it was just illegal to use them in public w/ out a variance, and perfectly legal to own/use indoors.
Lasers over 5mW imported into the US MUST be equipped with the FDA approved safety features (lock out, shutter, delay, etc.) Most of the lasers imported (including the Dilda) do NOT have these features so they are and have been illegal to import. If they are caught at the border, they are confiscated.
Peace,
dave
[/quote]
Hey Dave,
Tnx. for the info. Thinking a few steps ahead, I would think they wouldn't want to push it too much, as all a manufacturer would need to do (to make an otherwise high power laser the FDA does NOT really want Joe Public owning), is make a few safety modifications, and its legal to sell. Its not like a controlled substance, so you can own it (even if you have no license). I think this is where my confusion came in, regarding the difference in laws as far as usage, versus mandatory feature/power. If they confiscate it, do you ever get what they affectionately call (from FDA), a "Love Letter"? People who order *small amts.* of branded drugs (which also happen to be certain controlled substances<in US) , and have their package seized, will often get such a letter. It warns you not to trust drugs from any other country (I'm sure if it doesn't have the FDA's blessing, it must be poisonous!, right? Oh, and it might also be affordable, but who cares about that.) I figured you'd maybe get a letter informing you, and if you want to contest it and try to claim your laser, you can. If you don't care, you just ignore it (probably the safe/smart thing to do.) Weird. So no US citizen/govt. entity (even if they have the proper license), can, technically, legally order such a device (over 5mW and devoid of the proper features)? I can imagine a number of unique and ridiculous situations, where the US’s own laws would be stifling and limiting, to say the least. Even if some government agency wanted to buy one just to use as an example (for customs, or whoever), it would be illegal to do so I suppose. I’m really wasting my thought on a meaningless topic!
