Demystifying Laser Lights Terminology

Lasers are complex devices with specifications that can be confusing. To help you better understand key details when shopping for laser products, this blog will explain the most common terms in straightforward language using real-world examples.

Laser diodes produce the actual laser beam. The main types include:

IR Diodes for invisible infrared beams.

RGB Diodes for visible red, green, and blue laser beams.

Laser Modules integrate multiple diodes and optics into one unit.

High-quality diodes from reputable brands like Osram ensure optimal efficiency and brightness for your laser light show.

Besides manual control knobs, common laser programming options include:

DMX Control – Connects to a lighting console to choreograph laser shows, synchronizing actions with music and integrating with party lights.

ILDA – Uses PC-driven laser show control software to project graphics, text, and animations.

Standalone – Built-in show modes such as sound-activated and automatic modes.

When considering programming options for your dj lasers, assess your needs and technical skills.

Multiple laser diodes can simultaneously project beams of different colors. The number of beams indicates how many are in one unit. For example, a 3-beam laser has independent red, green, and blue lasers.

More beams allow for more vivid and complex effects, perfect for party lighting lasers and laser disco ball setups. Three or five beams are sufficient for most DJs seeking a balance.

One of the most important laser characteristics is wavelength, measured in nanometers (nm). This determines the color of the laser. Different wavelengths produce different visible colors:

405nm – Purple

532nm – Green Laser

638nm – Red

445nm – Royal Blue

For multi-color effects, dj lasers combine multiple wavelengths such as red, green, and blue into a single unit. Alternatively, wavelength mixing can create a spectrum from a single laser diode, ideal for full color light show.

This indicates the power output of the diode, measured in milliwatts (mW). The higher the power, the brighter the projection:

Low power: less than 100 mW (Class 3R lasers)

Medium power: 100-499 mW (Class 3B lasers)

High power: 500 mW+ (Class 4 lasers)

The venue size and ambient lighting determine the ideal power requirement for your laser projector.

Scanners guide and control the laser beam's movement using mirrors:

Galvo Scanners use tiny mirrors to quickly control the beam for creating graphics.

Polygon Scanners use rotating optics for faster, more complex effects.

Hybrid Scanners combine both types for versatility.

Higher-quality mirrors allow for faster scanning speeds and greater accuracy, essential for animation laser light effects.

Scanning speed, or KPS, indicates how fast the laser can scan, measured in thousands of scans per second (kps). This determines how quickly the device can clearly project animations and graphics.

Low-speed lasers (less than 4KPS) are suitable for simple laser beams effects.

High-speed lasers (12KPS+) are ideal for club environments with complex graphics.

20KPS supports highly intricate animations like detailed logos or text.

While laser terminology can initially seem complex, understanding key specifications like wavelength, scanning speed, power output, and control modes can accurately inform you about a laser's capabilities. Knowing these features helps you choose the laser that best fits your DJ needs, whether it’s for laser light show, holiday projector, or party lights.

We hope this blog demystifies laser terms and makes your purchasing decisions clearer. If you need any guidance in selecting professional laser lights to enhance your events, let us know!

Explore the cutting-edge laser lights from Newfeel Laser Lights for your next spectacular laser light show!