RPMC Lasers Blog

A pulsed laser can meet an application’s wavelength, pulse width, energy, and beam requirements and still be the wrong source if the optical pulse does not occur when the system expects it. For applications that synchronize a laser with a detector, camera, ranging system, experiment, or another timed event, it is important to understand several related but different specifications: triggering, trigger delay, timing jitter, repetition rate, and pulse-on-demand capability. These terms are sometimes treated as interchangeable. They are not. Understanding the difference helps determine whether a standard pulsed laser is sufficient or whether tighter timing control is actually… Read More

In that blog post we cited NATO standard STANAG 3733, which required that the laser beam have a divergence small enough so that 90% of its energy is on target 95% of the time assuming a 2.3 x 2.3 m target.  We went on to explain that most laser designators are designed to be used at distances up to 5 km.  Therefore, one of the most critical factors when choosing a laser source is the beam d… Read More

Peak power is one of the most important specifications when comparing pulsed lasers. A laser with only a few watts of average power can produce peak powers in the kilowatt or even hundreds-of-kilowatts range when that energy is concentrated into short nanosecond or picosecond pulses.

Understanding how average power, repetition rate, pulse energy, pulse duration, and pulse shape interact makes it easier to compare nanosecond lasers, picosecond lasers, and other pulsed sources for a specific ap… Read More

For many years, space applications have steadily increased the utilization of laser diodes for various instruments (mainly pump sources for solid-state lasers). Because of this, organizations have developed qualification methodologies to ensure high levels of quality, performance, and lifetime. In recent years, increasingly complex scientific payloads have required more precise lasers for metrology, calibration, and environmenta… Read More

A near-diffraction-limited single-mode beam is usually the better starting point when tight focusing and spatial resolution are important, such as in high-resolution Raman microscopy. Multimode sources can be appropriate for fiber-probe, bulk-sampling, and other systems where the optical architecture can efficiently use a larger or less tightly focused beam.

But spatial mode is only one part of Raman laser selection. Excitation wavelength, spectral linewidth, wavelength stability, spectral purity, available power, power stability, beam delivery, and the sample itself can all matter jus… Read More

Shorter excitation wavelengths generally produce stronger Raman scattering, while longer wavelengths can reduce fluorescence that might otherwise overwhelm the Raman signal. That is why there is no single “best” Raman laser wavelength for every measurement.

Common Starting points include visible wavelengths such as 532 nm, near-infrared excitation around 785 nm, and 1064 nm for measurements where fluorescence remains a significant problem. Specialty applications may also benefit from UV or other excitation wa… Read More

High-energy nanosecond lasers are often selected around a few practical constraints: wavelength access, pulse energy, repetition rate, cooling infrastructure, footprint, and integration complexity. For labs and OEM systems where water cooling, bulky power supplies, or frequent maintenance create problems, QLI’s air-cooled DPSS platforms can be a strong fit. QLI offers both tunable OPO-based systems and fixed-wavelength Q-switched lasers, giving technical buyers several paths depending on whether the application needs broad wavelength flexibility, maximum pulse energy, harmonic generation, short nanosecond pulses, or specialized pul… Read More

Deep-UV (DUV) lasers at 266 nm are transforming industries that demand ultra-precise material processing, high-resolution imaging, and reliable performance in challenging environments. From ophthalmic lens marking and micro-machining to LIDAR mapping, medical diagnostics, and scientific research, these compact, high-power sources deliver the wavelength, pulse energy, and beam quality needed for next-generation applications. For OEM integrators and engineers seeking robust laser sources, Bright Solutions’ 266 nm portfolio – distributed exclusively in North America by RPMC Lasers – offers unmatched versatility and re… Read More

For any laser to function, there must be more gain inside the laser cavity than loss, and the point at which the laser gain is just large enough to overcome the cavity loss enabling lasing is called gain threshold.  While simple, in theory, this concept of gain threshold can be particularly challenging to understand, particularly when it comes to diode lasers.  Therefore, as part of our ongoing blog series expanding on the topics covered in our Lasers 101 section, we are going to explore the concept of laser diode gain threshold in this … Read More

Researchers at the Laboratoire de Physique des Lasers (LPL), part of the Comomet consortium, achieved a world-record by stabilizing mirSense UniMir QCLs (10–17µm) to a relative 10⁻¹⁴ level—sub-Hz precision at 30 THz. This enables ultra-precise spectroscopy of methanol to test proton-to-electron mass ratio variations over cosmic scales, and supports studies of cold chiral molecules (enantiomers), where heavier species benefit from longer wavelengths (>10µm, ideally >15µm) for lower excitation energies and improved me… Read More

For nearly 30 years, RPMC Lasers and LDX Optronics have partnered to deliver cutting-edge laser diode solutions for the Medical Market, transforming dental systems with customized, high-power diodes. This case study showcases how our collaboration with a leading dental equipment manufacturer revolutionized soft tissue laser systems for periodontal, hygiene, and surgical applications. Explore how RPMC’s expertise and LDX’s packaging innovation can power your next project with the LDX Optronics … Read More

The Medical Laser Market is booming with a surge of aesthetics laser applications, driven by demand for non-invasive treatments like tattoo removal, hair removal, acne therapy, and various other applications. With over a century of combined expertise, RPMC Lasers partners with professionals to deliver tailored laser solutions for these applications. This article explores how advanced laser diodes and systems power these leading aesthetic treatments, guiding you to the right choice with RPMC’s cutting-edge… Read More

Acne, affecting up to 50 million Americans annually, is the most common skin condition in the U.S., often requiring persistent treatment. Short-wave infrared (SWIR) laser diodes in the 1400–1500 nm range offer a breakthrough by targeting sebaceous glands to reduce oil production, minimizing lesions with minimal side effects. For dermatology professionals and OEM integrators, selecting the right SWIR laser diode is key to delivering effective, FDA-approved acne treatments. This article explores how SWIR diodes power acne therapy and guides you in choosing the ideal solution, spotlighting RPMC Lasers’ SWIR laser diodes for precision and reliability in the Medic… Read More

For over three decades, LDX Optronics has delivered high-power multimode laser diodes, powering cutting-edge applications in Medical, Defense, and Industrial sectors. As RPMC Lasers’ exclusive North American partner, LDX offers an unmatched range of wavelengths (400–1900 nm) and power levels (up to 40 W), with industry-leading packaging expertise. This article explores LDX’s diode solutions, their applications, and how to select the right laser for your needs, spotlighting the LDX Optronics portfolio for superior pe… Read More

In the realm of spectral imaging, tunable lasers, with their ability to meticulously adjust their output wavelengths, serve as the cornerstone for various spectral imaging applications. From the delicate tissues of a biological specimen to the robust components of industrial machinery, tunable lasers play a key role in identifying the composition of materials and imaging intricate features. This versatility not only enhances the precision of imaging but also expands the horizons of scientific discovery and technological i… Read More

Laser diodes have transformed dental procedures, particularly crown troughing, by offering fast, precise, and bacteria-eliminating solutions. For dental professionals and Medical OEM integrators selecting a laser diode, understanding the requirements for crown troughing is crucial. This article briefly explains the role of laser diodes in dental applications and outlines key considerations for choosing the right infrared laser diode, highlighting RPMC Lasers’ LDX-IR-FC fiber-coupled laser diode for optimal pe… Read More

Photoacoustic imaging, also known as optoacoustic imaging, is a cutting-edge biomedical technique that combines optical and ultrasonic methods to create high-resolution 3D images with chemical specificity. For researchers and OEM integrators selecting a tunable laser for this application, understanding the laser’s requirements is critical. This article explores photoacoustic imaging and outlines key considerations for choosing the right tunable laser, highlighting RPMC Lasers’ Q-Tune tunable DPSS laser for superior pe… Read More

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) revolutionizes cancer treatment by using red laser diodes to activate photosensitizing drugs, offering a non-invasive alternative to surgery or radiation. For Medical & biomedical professionals and OEM integrators, selecting the right laser diode is critical for effective, targeted treatments. This article explores how red laser diodes power PDT and guides you in choosing the ideal solution, spotlighting RPMC Lasers’ LDX-VIS-FC fiber-coupled laser diode for dermal, subdermal, and endoscopic app… Read More

The global laser hair removal market is booming, projected to reach $2.8 billion by 2028, driven by demand for precise, non-invasive treatments. Laser diodes, holding over 39% market share as of 2020, lead this growth thanks to their efficiency, compact design, and cost-effectiveness. For aesthetic professionals and OEM integrators in the Medical Market, QCW (quasi-continuous-wave) laser diode stacks offer the perfect solution, outperforming traditional flashlamp-pumped systems like Alexandrite and Nd:YAG lasers. This article explores the principles of laser hair removal, why QCW stacks excel, and how to select the right system, spotlighting RPMC Lasers’ JOLD-Stacks for optimal pe… Read More

The Q-TUNE series of tunable OPO lasers from Quantum Light Instruments offers cutting-edge solutions for advanced laser applications, including spectroscopy, photoacoustic imaging, and remote sensing. With four distinct models—Q-TUNE, Q-TUNE-IR, Q-TUNE-G, and Q-TUNE-HR—these air-cooled, user-friendly systems deliver precise wavelength tunability, high pulse energy, and reliable performance. Each model is tailored to specific research needs, ensuring flexibility and efficiency for scientists and engineers across diverse di… Read More

Helium-neon (HeNe) lasers are renowned for their excellent beam quality and reliability in continuous-wave (CW) operation, making them a staple in application like spectroscopy, holography, and interferometry. For professionals selecting a laser source, understanding HeNe laser technolgoy and specifications is key to choosing the right solution. This article explores the fundamentals of HeNe lasers, the history of their development, and critical considerations for selecting the ideal H… Read More

Q-switched lasers are essential for generating high-energy, short-pulse laser outputs in applications like laser machining, LIBS, and Medical procedures. Selecting the right Q-switched laser—active or passive—requires understanding their operational principles and trade-offs. This article briefly explains passive vs active Q-switching lasers and outlines key considerations for choosing the best Q-switched laser, highlighting RPMC Lasers’ solutions for y… Read More

Once thought to be impossible, blue, green and UV laser diodes have now become commonplace.  These lasers are being used in a wide range of applications from blue-ray players to commercial lighting & displays to copper welding.  In this post, we are going to take a look at the underlying material properties of semiconductors, GaN in particular, and how it has led to the development of blue, green and UV las… Read More

Tattoo removal is a growing industry, driven by the demand for effective and safe solutions to remove unwanted tattoos. For professionals looking to invest in a laser source for tattoo removal, selecting the right laser is critical to achieving optimal results while ensuring safety and efficiency. This article briefly explores the tattoo removal process and outlines key considerations when purchasing a laser source, highlighting specific products from RPMC Lasers that meet the needs of this application in the Medic… Read More

Expertise in Space and Aerospace Lasers For over 27 years, Bright Solutions has delivered customized pulsed Diode-Pumped Solid-State (DPSS) lasers, with more than 16,000 units deployed worldwide. Employing 60 professionals, including 30 laser engineers and PhDs, and holding ISO 9001:2015 certification, their expertise drives space and aerospace missions, powering LIDAR, ranging, and Free-Space Optical Communications (FSOC). Provid… Read More