A laser pointer is a handy device that emits a powerful laser light. It looks like a pen with a button that when pushed, makes a diode laser emit a red or a green beam. It is usually powered by two or three AAA batteries, and it can project to 150 to 3,000 yards away.
A laser pointer is commonly used in lectures and classes for enhancing LCD projections, charts, maps, and video presentations. It should be carefully handled, though, as it can cause serious eye injury when viewed directly.
Types Of Laser Pointers
Kinds of Laser Pointers include the following:
Class 2 laser pointer
A class 2 laser pointer emits low laser power of less than one megawatt.
It can project up to 150 yards away.
Its light is safe enough not to damage the eyes when viewed directly.
It usually comes in the form of a pen.
It is powered by several AAA batteries.
It is ideal for venues where the use of the more powerful class 3A laser pointer is banned.
Class 3A laser pointer
A class 3A laser pointer emits a high laser power of two to five megawatts.
It can and can project up to 1,000 yards away.
It uses diode laser to emit a red light in the 630 to 680 nm wavelength.
It can damage the eyes when viewed directly within 25 seconds.
It usually comes in the form of a pen.
It is powered by several AAA batteries.
Green beam laser pointer
A green beam laser pointer emits a very high laser power of up to 15 megawatts.
It can project up to 3,000 yards away.
It emits a distinct green light in the 532 to 1064 nm wavelength.
It usually comes in the form of a pen.
It is powered by several triple-AAA batteries.
It is extremely dangerous to use especially when viewed directly or when used unsupervised.
Choosing Laser Pointers (Buying Tips)
Grip: Choose a laser pointer with a rubberized grip or body to prevent it from slipping from your hand.
Switch: If you intend to use it for teaching or lecturing, look for a laser pointer with a switch at the top that allows you to turn it off easily when not in use. Certification: Only use a laser pointer certified by the FDA to ensure its safety and quality.
Laser power: If you intend to use it with children around, look for a laser pointer with a low laser power of not more than five megawatts.
Safety information
Never look directly into a laser beam or aim a laser pointer at a person, as it can cause serious eye injury.
Do not lend a laser pointer to a child especially when left unsupervised.
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