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Laser in daily life and technology

The remarkable properties of laser radiation resulted in many technical applications. It is used in production technology, for measurements, spectroscopy and holography. Laser-shows are very popular but compliance with protection measures is mandatory. Semiconductor lasers also known as laser diodes have important advantages. Therefore low power laser diodes are used in every day life, e.g. in laser pointers, laser printers, and CD/DVD players.

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What is laser radiation?

Laser is an acronym for "Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation" and relates to the way of radiation generation. The laser is a relatively recent invention. It was for the first time realized in 1960 with a synthetic ruby crystal. In order to produce a laser beam a laser medium has to be energized by an external energy source (referred to as "pumping"). Many materials as e.g. solids, semiconductors, dyes or gases are used as a laser medium.

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