Beam-shaping optics deliver high-power beams

The development of laser diodes that deliver more than 10 W of output has changed the picture of the laser market. High-power devices now offer many advantages over conventional lasers of similar power levels, such as carbon dioxide or lamp-pumped Nd:YAG lasers. Their high efficiency (>30% wall-plug efficiency) promotes compact size as well as simplicity in power supply and cooling, which make the laser diode an attractive alternative for many applications.