8
Diode laser overview: how it is done and how to manage it
Chapter 2
Main unit The main unit contains all the technology necessary for the production of the laser beam and to be able to interface with external accessories. It differs in shape, weight, size and build quality depending on the active medium and the intended use of the device (" 2.2 and 2.3 and ! 2.10-2.12). The chassis/case is the enclosure of the unit. It must first protect and isolate the internal components from the external environment, effectively behaving like a shell. Among the most commonly used materials for the construction of the case, there are plastic and polymeric materials that can be printed and adapted according to the specific needs of the manufacturer. They can, for example, integrate display and control housings.
" 2.2 445 nm blu desktop diode laser (Zoetec, Padua, Italy) Specifications
Among metallic materials, aluminum is sometimes used, which acts as a Faraday cage, performing the function of isolating the internal environment from any electrostatic field present outside it. Traditional units are static, typically removable, and require dedicated support and constant connection to the power source. Due to their size and heavy weight (sometimes over 10 kg), they are generally placed on special electrified carts. With due caution, they can be moved short distances within the clinic. In the case of transportable units, the overall dimensions are contained and the weight varies from 5 to 10 kg. Technological advances nowadays allow the creation of miniaturized components, making it possible to assemble high-performance portable devices. Portable or even handheld units are able to reach a total weight of less than 1 kg. In relation to type, model, manufacturer, the following components can be identified on the main unit by observing its chassis:
Laser class
4
Ä on/off button;
Laser source
Diode
Weight
2200 g
Ä security key;
Dimension (L×D×H)
28 × 26 × 28 cm
Wavelength
445 nm
Maximum power
4 W, CW
Pulse frequency
0-20,000
Emission mode
Single, repeated, pulse train
Ä pedal connector;
Software type
Preset, customizable and assisted
Ä service connector (for example serial/USB);
" 2.3 Portable diode laser (Pocket Laser®, 88Dent, Pero, Milan, Italy). Highlighted pocket dimensions and low weight, less than 1 kg Specifications Laser class
4
Laser source
Diodo
Weight
0,7 kg
Dimensions (L×D×H)
10.1 × 16.4 × 4.5 cm
Wavelength
915 nm
Maximum power
6 W, CW nominal power; 10 W max
Pulse frequency
20 Hz - 15 KHz
Emission mode
Single, repeated, pulse train
Software type
Preset, customizable and assisted
Ä key/button/emergency lever; Ä display; Ä commands (sometimes integrated into the display); Ä power connector; Ä connector for remote locking device; Ä cooling vents; Ä optical output-connection for means of conduction. The power key allows the clinician to start the system making the device operative. It can be on the front or back of the unit. Some units additionally have an ignition/security key. In the event of malfunction, emergency or necessity, the operator can immediately stop the activity of the diode. The key in charge is generally red and placed in a clearly visible and easily accessible position of the unit. The display can be reduced to a simple LED panel with multiple digits or can be a real liquid crystal display, monochrome or color, with low or high resolution. A simple control panel is usually sufficient to control the device settings. Configurations that provide touch-sensitive keys or in any case without continuity
