OSRAM Opto Semiconductors Introduces World's Smallest Continuous Wave Laser
Munich, Germany — Proving the old adage that good things come in small packages, OSRAM Opto Semiconductors is introducing the smallest and first surface mountable (SMT) high-power laser for continuous wave (cw) mode in the world at this year's Laser 2007, World of Photonics in Munich, Germany on June 18-21. The new continuous wave laser from OSRAM offers the latest in cutting edge technology in a dustproof, powerful and cost-effective package.
"OSRAM Opto Semiconductors is pleased to once again introduce an innovative, first-to-market product with our new continuous wave high-power laser," Ellen Sizemore, director, LED/IR marketing, OSRAM Opto Semiconductors Inc., said. "This revolutionary compact laser system is ideal for applications in the industrial, automotive and the medical sectors, where robust and technologically advanced product is increasingly called for," she added.
With a footprint of only 6.0 X 4.5 mm², and a thermal resistance of 2.5 K/W, the tiny cw laser unit from OSRAM yields an impressive output of up to 6 W and emits light at a wavelength of 810 nm through a prism that directs the laser's light upwards. These capabilities allow the cw laser to be placed in any location on a circuit board, a marked improvement from the past when it was restricted to just the edge. In addition, the good thermal conductivity of its base allows the laser unit to be soldered directly onto a metal core board so that heat loss is minimized.
Boasting operating temperatures that range from -40 to +100 degrees Centigrade, the new continuous wave laser from OSRAM is capable of withstanding harsh ambient conditions, particularly in the industrial and automotive sectors.
The new laser's SMT capabilities, as well as its compatibility with modern production processes such as reflow soldering, render the component suitable for volume applications such as night vision systems, closed circuit television, traffic monitoring and medical applications such as hair removal.
Additional versions of the OSRAM cw laser in wavelengths of 940 and 980 nm are currently in development.
About OSRAM Opto Semiconductors
OSRAM Opto Semiconductors GmbH of Regensburg is a wholly owned subsidiary of OSRAM, one of the world's two leading lighting manufacturers in the world. It offers its customers solutions based on semiconductor technology for lighting, sensor and visualization applications. The company employs more than 3,500 people worldwide and operates sites in Regensburg (Germany), San Jose (USA) and Penang (Malaysia). Sales for the fiscal year ending September 2006 totaled more than EUR 500 million.
SOURCE: OSRAM Opto Semiconductors