What is a pulsed diode laser?

A pulsed diode laser is a type of laser system that utilizes a diode as its laser gain medium and produces laser light in short pulses. Diode lasers are semiconductor devices that convert electrical energy into optical energy through a process called stimulated emission. Pulsed diode lasers are distinguished by their ability to emit laser light in brief and controlled bursts or pulses rather than in a continuous wave (CW) mode.

Key characteristics of pulsed diode lasers include:

Pulse Duration:

Pulsed diode lasers generate short-duration pulses of laser light. The pulse duration can vary from microseconds to nanoseconds, depending on the specific application requirements.

Wavelength Range:

Diode lasers cover a broad range of wavelengths, from visible to infrared. The choice of wavelength depends on the application, with different wavelengths being suitable for various purposes.

Pulse Repetition Rate:

The pulsed diode laser system can be designed to emit pulses at a specific repetition rate. The repetition rate is the number of pulses produced per unit of time, typically measured in hertz (Hz).

Applications:

Pulsed diode lasers find applications in various fields, including medicine, material processing, communications, and research. They are used for tasks such as laser surgery, laser marking, range finding, and spectroscopy.

Compact Design:

Diode lasers are known for their compact size and efficiency. Pulsed diode lasers are no exception, making them suitable for integration into compact and portable systems.

Efficiency:

Diode lasers are generally energy-efficient, converting a high percentage of electrical power into laser light. This efficiency is beneficial in applications where power consumption is a concern.

Controlled Energy Delivery:

Pulsed diode lasers provide precise control over the energy delivered in each pulse. This control is crucial in applications where accuracy and reproducibility are important.

Applications of pulsed diode lasers include laser rangefinders, lidar systems, laser engraving and marking, medical treatments (such as tattoo removal and dental procedures), and scientific research.

It's important to note that the specific characteristics of pulsed diode lasers can vary based on the design, intended use, and the requirements of the application. The development of semiconductor laser technology has led to advancements in the performance and versatility of pulsed diode lasers across a range of industries.