• Image

    Danger: Red and green laser pointers

    April 25, 2013
    After testing 122 commercially available laser pointers, researchers at the National Institute of Standards and Technology found that 90% of the green and 44% of the red pointers did not comply with federal safety regulations. In fact, they often emitted more power than allowed, and green lasers also tended to put out unacceptable levels of IR light as well.

    After testing 122 commercially available laser pointers, researchers at the National Institute of Standards and Technology found that 90% of the green and 44% of the red pointers did not comply with federal safety regulations. In fact, they often emitted more power than allowed, and green lasers also tended to put out unacceptable levels of IR light as well.

    Machinedesign Com Sites Machinedesign com Files Uploads 2013 04 11327 Sm Laser Dange
    A NIST safety officer and the device used to measure the properties of handheld laser pointers.

    The tests used randomly selected commercial devices labeled as Class III or 3R and sold as suitable for demonstrations in classrooms and other public spaces. These lasers are limited under the Code of Federal Regulations to 5 mW in the visible portion of light and less than 2 mW of IR light. But half the pointers exceeded twice that limit at one or more wavelengths, with one putting out 66 mW, more than 10 times the legal limit.

    According to ANSI, lasers that exceed the federal limits should be subject to more rigorous controls, such as user training, to prevent injuries.

    Resources: National Institute of Standards and Technology

    Continue Reading

    Sponsored Recommendations

    March 31, 2025
    Unlike passive products - made of simple carbon springs - the bionic prostheses developed by Revival Bionics are propulsive, equipped with a motor and an artificial Achilles tendon...
    March 31, 2025
    Electric drives are a key technology for the performance of machines, robots, and power tools. Download this guide for an introduction to high-quality mechatronic drive systems...
    March 31, 2025
    Discover the world of maxon drive technology: motors, gearheads, sensors, controllers, and accessories. Configure your drive system online, including all relevant product and ...
    March 31, 2025
    Share current page XSun designs and manufactures a drone that is both energy-independent and can make its own decisions, for fully-automated missions. The company needed reliable...

    Voice your opinion!

    To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Machine Design, create an account today!