Proper Operation of Laser Rangefinders
Lasers are high-intensity light source radiation devices. High-power lasers can be used for cutting and welding metals, so laser radiation can cause severe harm to the human body, especially human eyes. Extra caution must be taken during operation.
There is an internationally unified classification system and safety warning labels for lasers. Lasers are divided into four classes (Class 1 to Class 4). Class 1 lasers are safe for humans; Class 2 lasers cause minor harm to humans; Class 3 and higher lasers can cause serious injury. Special care must be taken to avoid direct exposure of the laser beam to human eyes.
In the early 1990s, several major European and American companies successively produced commercially available semiconductor laser diodes, bringing revolutionary advances in the practical application value of lasers. Other types of lasers have complicated laser generation mechanisms, resulting in large size, heavy weight and high power consumption, which greatly limit their application. The emergence of semiconductor lasers solved these problems. As semiconductor laser technology matures and prices gradually decrease, their production volume and application fields keep expanding. Judging from the current development speed, they have very promising application prospects.
Semiconductor lasers feature small size, light weight, high reliability, high conversion efficiency, low power consumption, simple driving power supply, direct modulation capability, simple structure, low cost and safe operation, boasting an extremely wide range of applications. Examples include optical storage, laser printing, laser typesetting, laser ranging, barcode scanning, industrial detection, test and measurement instruments, laser displays, medical equipment, military applications, security monitoring, field detection, construction levelling and marking instruments, laboratory and teaching demonstrations, stage lighting and laser shows, laser level gauges and various marking and positioning tools.
Some unique advantages make semiconductor lasers highly suitable for military applications, such as field ranging, gun aiming, firing simulation systems, dazzlers, submarine communication guidance, fuses and security systems. They can be powered by ordinary batteries, making it feasible to equip some portable weapon systems.
Currently commercialized semiconductor lasers cover wavelengths including 370 nm, 390 nm, 405 nm, 430 nm, 480 nm, 635 nm, 650 nm, 670 nm, 780 nm, 808 nm, 850 nm, 980 nm, 1310 nm and 1550 nm. Among them, 1310 nm and 1550 nm are mainly used in optical fiber communication. The band from 405 nm to 670 nm belongs to visible light; 780 nm to 1550 nm is infrared band; 370 nm to 390 nm is ultraviolet band.
Innovative products and professional technologies lead the trend of the ranging industry. Featuring diverse types, complete specifications, high precision and easy portability, these products facilitate selection and operation for users and satisfy the application requirements of various industries.
