I ordered a 30mw laser from Optotronics on Monday and it arrived via US Mail yesterday. I certainly can't complain about the rapid shipping. I was disappointed with a couple of features such as an off-center and stiff switch, but the owner called me personally and said that he would replace it, no questions. He was very gracious and accommodating. Oh, and I need to include the following disclaimer: I have no intention of using the 30mw laser as a pointing device in public but as a research tool. Honest. I was surprised that to the naked eye the 30mw appears only a little brighter than my 5mw. It tested at 33mw, so I'm sure the difference is solely in perception. I think the 30mw could safely be used in a regular crowd of star party attendees without anyone thinking that it is too bright - it just isn't in my opinion. And since the point (no pun intended) isn't to draw attention to the laser but to just have it visible in moderate light pollution or moonlight, I don't think that I would be inclined to go brighter. I don't need to burst balloons, light matches, burn through CD's or go to prison. Kim
Kim, the 5mW unit(s) you are comparing it to may well be higher output than 5mW. 30mW is a good choice. Be careful to not burn it out. Most diode lasers do not have a continuous duty cycle. Powered-up times should generally be under one minute, then shut it down for ten or twenty seconds. I don't think you need to worry about the laser police knocking on your door.
participants (2)
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Chuck Hards -
Kim Hyatt