Importance

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Abstract

A hand held laser apparatus containing a semiconductor laser diode switchably connected to a power supply. The output of the laser diode is focused and collimated by a pair of lens. Circuitry is provided to allow for either continuous wave or pulsed modes of operation as well as the capability of varying the pulsewidth of the laser. A guide laser or a light emitting diode is provided to guide the operator. The power level of the guide laser is limited so that it transfers minimal power to the workpiece but provides a visible line of laser light along which the output of the semiconductor laser diode will travel. A photodetector may be positioned between the laser diode and the lenses. Additionally, the amount of current delivered to the laser in continuous wave mode of operation or the pulse width and duty cycle of a pulse may be measured and displayed. Embodiments are provided incorporating a plurality of laser diodes to allow continued operation upon failure of a diode, increased power with the simultaneous use of the multiple diodes, or either alternate wavelength selection or wavelength mixing. Alternative embodiments operate at a predetermined voltage level. These embodiments may utilize a set of batteries such that the entire batteries and control circuitry may be contained either within a portable package or the hand held laser apparatus itself. Such alternative embodiments may be made so as to be disposable upon the discharge of their batteries or the exhaustion of the laser.

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First Claim