Diode lasers primarily transmit light, specifically within certain spectral regions depending on the semiconductor material used in their construction.
Diode lasers, also known as semiconductor lasers, are compact and efficient sources of light. Unlike traditional lasers, they don't use a gaseous or liquid medium. Instead, they rely on a semiconductor junction to generate and amplify light through stimulated emission. The wavelength (and therefore color) of the light emitted depends on the material composition of this semiconductor.
Here's a breakdown of the spectral regions in which diode lasers transmit:
- Near-Infrared (NIR): This is the most common emission range for diode lasers. NIR lasers are widely used in applications like fiber optic communication, barcode scanners, and laser pointers.
- Visible Light: Diode lasers can also emit visible light, primarily in the red and blue regions of the spectrum. Red diode lasers are found in DVD players and laser pointers, while blue diode lasers are used in Blu-ray players. Green diode lasers are created by frequency doubling infrared light.
- Mid-Infrared (MIR): Some diode lasers are designed to emit in the mid-infrared region. These lasers are used in applications like gas sensing and thermal imaging.
| Spectral Region | Wavelength Range (nm) | Common Applications |
|---|---|---|
| Near-Infrared | 780 - 2500 | Fiber optic communication, barcode scanners, laser pointers |
| Red Visible | 630 - 670 | DVD players, laser pointers |
| Blue Visible | 400 - 480 | Blu-ray players |
| Mid-Infrared | 3000 - 30000 | Gas sensing, thermal imaging |
It is important to note that while "light" is the general answer, the specific wavelength (and therefore color or infrared classification) of that light depends on the specific design and materials of the diode laser.
