Learn More About NIR Lasers
Near Infrared (NIR) laser sources are perhaps the single most diverse category of solid-state lasers; with IR laser diodes, diode-pumped solid-state (DPSS) lasers, flashlamp pumped solid-state lasers and fiber lasers all emitting in the IR laser spectrum. IR laser diodes are capable of extremely high-power outputs, up to several kilowatts in the case of diode laser stacks, making them ideal for machining applications such as cladding and welding. Near Infrared pulsed lasers are also available with an extensive range of pulse widths and peak powers. IR fiber lasers can not only produce high output powers, but they are also able to provide extremely narrow linewidth (and therefore long coherence lengths) making them ideal for a wide variety of LIDAR applications.
Typically, NIR is shortened and referred to as simply IR (infrared). However, IR is also used to generally define any wavelength within the entire set of infrared wavelength regions, beyond ≈ 750 nm:
Near IR laser wavelengths, typically between ≈ 750 to 1400 nm, pose a particular eye safety hazard, as wavelengths within this region are easily transmitted through the eye to be focused on the retina. These wavelengths do not trigger the blinking reflex, making them that much more dangerous if proper eye-safety procedures are not adequately followed. However, infrared lasers emitting around 1.5 µm are considered “eye-safe” as the bulk of the energy is absorbed by the eye’s cornea and lens, protecting the retina.
Our Near-Infrared Laser Products
We offer many different laser types with NIR output, including Single Emitter and Multi-Emitter Laser Diodes, Laser Diode Arrays (Bars) and Stacks, Distributed Feedback (DFB) and Volume Bragg Grating (VBG) Laser Diodes, VCSELs, Multiple Wavelength Lasers, Laser Diode Modules, Line Modules, Pulsed & CW DPSS Lasers, Pulsed & CW Fiber Lasers, Ultrafast Lasers, Microchip Lasers, MIL-Spec Lasers, Fiber Amplifiers, DPSS Amplifiers, Tunable DPSS Lasers, and Raman Probes. Our NIR products are available with up to 3 kW average power, options for single-mode or multimode, free-space, fiber-coupled or line generation output, and various packaging options and integration levels from component to OEM to turnkey systems.
When selecting an NIR laser, several features and specifications must be considered. Some critical factors include the wavelength of the laser, which determines its specific absorption characteristics and its ability to penetrate different materials; the power output of the laser, which determines its intensity and the amount of energy it can deliver; laser beam quality, which affects its focusability and its ability to maintain a stable beam over long distances; and pulse duration, which determines its ability to produce short bursts of energy or continuous output (continuous wave or CW).
Some Near-Infrared Laser Applications
NIR lasers are used in a wide range of industries, each with its own specific applications and benefits. In the manufacturing industry, NIR lasers are often used for welding, cutting, and marking applications, due to their ability to deliver high power outputs and precise control. In the healthcare industry, NIR lasers are used for a variety of purposes, including laser surgery, laser therapy, and diagnostic imaging. They are beneficial for these applications because NIR light can penetrate tissue and other materials more deeply than visible light, allowing it to be used for sensing and imaging purposes. NIR lasers are also used extensively in research and development, particularly in spectroscopy and microscopy, where they can be used to study the properties of materials at a molecular level.
Some popular NIR applications include LIDAR, Night Vision, Laser Designation, Range Finding, Micromachining, Interferometry, Holography, Gas Sensing, Machine Vision, Multi-Photon Microscopy, Fluorescence Lifetime, Flow Cytometry, Optogenetics, PDT, Dental, and many others.
How Can We Help?
With over 25 years experience providing NIR lasers to researchers and OEM integrators working in various markets and applications, and 1000s of units fielded, we have the experience to ensure you get the right product for the application. Working with RPMC ensures you are getting trusted advice from our knowledgeable and technical staff on a wide range of laser products. RPMC and our manufacturers are willing and able to provide custom solutions for your unique application.
If you have any questions, or if you would like some assistance please Contact Us here. Furthermore, you can email us at info@rpmclasers.com to talk to a knowledgeable Product Manager.
Alternatively, use the filters on this page to assist in narrowing down the selection of NIR lasers for sale. Finally, head to our Knowledge Center with our Lasers 101 page and Blogs, Whitepapers, and FAQ pages for further, in-depth reading.
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