It is a pretty well known fact that whenever you are considering to buy laser pointers there are some legal rules and regulations set forth by the United States FDA that you must keep in mind. Because of their ability to shine a beam for long distances and produce a good amount of heat, laser pointers are restricted to low output powers of 5mW or less. However, there are certain safety features that can be incorporated into any laser to allow for greater strengths, such as a keyswitch, led indicator, aperture shutter, safety interlock, etc. If you know where to look you can find models with all of these already in place for you.
The reason for such regulatory nonsense is actually quite important considering powerful lasers that you can buy pretty cheap are becoming more and more available through the web. Today, you can find laser pointers online that can light matches, pop balloons, and shine for more than 20 miles, so some simple safety measures really makes sense for technology this advanced. The light amplification gadgets have become so widely accepted even the US military designs and uses green and infrared pointers for training and field combat exercises.
In the past these military lasers were reserved for just that, military use, and were off limits to us, the general public. But no more. Today for far less than you may think, people all over the country and globe are utilizing all that advanced lasers have to offer. Whether turning their beams towards the sky for stargazing and astronomy, conducting experiments, giving a presentation, or any of the other practical applications laser pointers provide today; it seems there are very few limitations to the use of powerful lasers.
But like all good things, the difference in quality from one laser to the next is substantial. Manufacturing powerful lasers that will last a long time is more complicated than you may think and many companies have really dropped the ball when it comes to quality control standards. You can find a 100mW laser pointer in a range of prices, but not all of them will work and function equally. Just like a BMW is nicer than a Ford (subjectively), so to are certain lasers more valuable and functional than others.
So, how can you keep from buying a laser pointer not worth your time? Simple. Do some research. The internet is just flooded with valuable information on any topic you can possibly imagine, so before you buy, put in the research time. Do a google search, see what is out there that you can afford and compare different models from different brands to determine which suits you the best and offers the best value and reputation. There are very few brand names in the laser pointer world, but the ones that are around have been at the forefront of laser technology for several years.
Furthermore, its a good idea to know what you are looking to buy a laser for. This way you can gauge what type of power output you are looking for and also what color beam frequency will suit your needs the best. Lasers are offered in green, red, blue, yellow/orange, infrared, and even now violet or blu-ray. Some of these colors are only offered by one world class technology developer, but this doesn't mean the cost has to be outrageous. Do some looking around and compare reviews and specifications from one laser to the next to determine which is the best value for you individually. Remember, knowing where to look can save you a ton of money and save you from a cheap laser that is not always going to be the best buy.
James has written and spoken for more than a decade on the changes in laser technology and their ability to find use in everyday life. His preferred retailer to buy laser pointers is world class developer Think Lasers who offers the web’s widest laser variety at the finest prices and is the only USA based laser distributor.
by: Jim_Bradley
admin | 
10 23rd, 2009| 
