New to lasers!

[jallis11]

Hello everyone,
I am completely new to lasers and dont know a whole lot about them. I am very interested in the science behind them and want to learn how they work and what it takes to build them. I ordered parts to build a 1w 445 nm laser and should start that in a few weeks. I ordered the parts from DTR and survival laser and also ordered a good pair of goggles (OD4+ 190-540nm & 800-2000nm).
I will create another thread in the right section for when i build it. Could you guys guide me to some good books, videos, or articles i could read to get a better handle on the science behind lasers?

Glad i found this forum :thanks:

Also, i have been reading about IR filters and was wondering if i need to worry about that with my laser.

 

[Razako]

No, you don't need an IR filter for a 445nm laser. Only green 532nm and yellow 589/594nm lasers use those for the most part.

 

[Sta]

Welcome to the forum. Seems you're getting off to a running start!
We're glad to have you here, enjoy your stay. Can't wait for your build thread!

 

[NightExplorer96]

Welcome to LPF jallis11!

-Alex

 

[BowtieGuy]

Welcome to LPF jallis11! :beer:
Looks like you off to a good start, glad to see that you've considered safety goggles before you build.

Take a look at "Sam's Laser FAQ" site for a lot of laser knowledge!

Have fun, be safe , and enjoy your stay here at LPF!

 

[RedCowboy]

Welcome

Learn, contribute, enjoy, and remember that laser safety is our life blood. :beer:

:gj: on getting the laser safety glasses.

 

[jallis11]

Yea i knew goggles were a must especially because i got a powerful laser as my first one haha. In a few weeks you guys can expect my build thread. Will probably have alot of questions haha.

 

[Antharak]

Welcome to the forum. Good to see you are thinking abut safety, that should always be first. +rep for that. :wave:
What host are you getting from Survival Lasers?

 

[Alaskan]

Welcome brother of the coherent light

 

[jallis11]

I ordered the C6 flashlight host

 

[dden4012]

Just a quick tip about lenses. G2 lenses are for close up burning and engraving. 3 element lenses are for better beam shaping at the sacrifice of some burning power. This isnt all there is to it but worth mentioning to the newcomer. I thought the G2 was simple better since it was 3x the price. Thats just not how it works.

 

[jallis11]

Thanks dden, I didnt know that. I got a G2 lens so guess I got the right one. I received all the parts in the mail and will start building it today.