Most of you folks are probably aware of this already, but for those that aren't, just because your laser isn't emitting visible light doesn't mean that it ain't emitting something.
The only reason i knew this is having read misc. threads and perhaps followed a few links here, where I learned that even though your laser may seem dead it could be emitting IR. So, many thanks to the name forgotten LPF user that lead me to this useful info,
I am going to attempt to attach a picture of my broken 405nm emitting what appears to be UV, and most likely IR too. It's the best picture I could get hiding behind my laptop while trying to hold the unit steady I don't think it's due to low battery, a I have swapped out 4 different fully charged cells with the same result. No visible light is emitted even a couple of inches in front of lens, only visible using camera.
Lesson being, just cause it ain't shinning, don't go staring at the lens while pushing the on button. What ever is being emitted is likely not good for you.
The only reason i knew this is having read misc. threads and perhaps followed a few links here, where I learned that even though your laser may seem dead it could be emitting IR. So, many thanks to the name forgotten LPF user that lead me to this useful info,
I am going to attempt to attach a picture of my broken 405nm emitting what appears to be UV, and most likely IR too. It's the best picture I could get hiding behind my laptop while trying to hold the unit steady I don't think it's due to low battery, a I have swapped out 4 different fully charged cells with the same result. No visible light is emitted even a couple of inches in front of lens, only visible using camera.
Lesson being, just cause it ain't shinning, don't go staring at the lens while pushing the on button. What ever is being emitted is likely not good for you.