The acronym LASER stands for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. Unlike conventional light sources, laser light exhibits unique properties: it is highly monochromatic (narrow spectral width), highly directional (low divergence), and coherent (meaning the light waves are synchronized in phase and direction).
The lasing process begins with spontaneous emission, where electrons in an excited state transition to a lower energy state, releasing photons. When one of these photons interacts with another excited atom, it triggers stimulated emission. This specific interaction causes the excited atom to release a second photon that is identical in phase, wavelength, and direction to the incident photon.
A laser system typically consists of three fundamental elements:
1. Pump Source (provides energy to the system)
2. Gain Medium (or Laser Medium, where excitation occurs)
3. Optical Resonator (mirrors that amplify light through feedback)
Lasers are categorized by the physical state of their gain medium into four main types: Solid-state (e.g., YAG, YVO4, Ytterbium), Gaseous (e.g., CO2, Excimer, Argon), Liquid (e.g., dye lasers), and Semiconductor (e.g., laser diodes).
Lasers are also classified by their output wavelength, ranging from Infrared and Visible Light to Ultraviolet and X-ray.
In terms of application, visible lasers are essential for alignment and leveling, while invisible lasers are often used for marking. Furthermore, the high energy density of lasers is utilized in industrial processes such as cutting, welding, and material ablation (vaporization), as well as in medical procedures using laser scalpels.
- Related words:
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- Laser Oscillation
- Semiconductor
- Laser Diode (LD)
- Fiber laser
- Pump Source
- Constant Current (CC) power supply
- Laser Diode (LD) Driver
- CW (Continuous Wave)
Recommended products
Matsusada Precision's programmable DC power supplies provide the stable and precise power essential for various components in laser systems, including pump sources (such as laser diodes), cooling systems, and control electronics.
