Diode vs. Fiber Lasers: Which Is Best for Your Rangefinding Needs?

Have you ever wondered which laser source is ideal for your electro-optical system? Whether you are evaluating laser rangefinders for a new platform or upgrading an existing system, understanding the key differences between diode and fiber lasers will help you make informed decisions for your specific requirements. At Safran Vectronix, we offer both, Diode and Fiber laser for measuring distances up to 30km.

Multipulse Technology in Diode- and Fiber Laser

All Ultisense Laser Rangefinders (LRF), whether Diode or Fiber Laser, are based on the Multipulse Technology and we will briefly explain this principle as it is often referenced in this context. Instead of relying on a single laser pulse and its corresponding reflection for the final range calculation, Multipulse LRFs emit multiple of ultra short laser pulses. This approach allows accurate and reliable range calculations
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Diode Lasers – economical for ranges up to 5km

Diode lasers are compact modules that emit light directly from the laser diode into the optical channel. They typically produce an oval-shaped beam with a relatively large divergence of 1 mrad or more. Thanks to their small size and low weight, diode lasers are ideal for portable systems such as rifle-mounted sights, handheld devices, or compact targeting sights.

Key advantages:

• Compact and lightweight – ideal for ranges up to 5 km
• Competitive cost

Limitations:

• Large beam divergence can limit targeting precision at longer ranges
• Temperature sensitivity and wavelength drift can lead to performance reduction in demanding environments

Fiber Laser – efficient for long range measuring

Fiber Lasers utilize an optical fiber to guide the light directly from the laser diode to the optics. At the same time, the special optical fiber amplifies the light thousands of times, while keeping its initial beam properties. This is crucial for precise targeting and reliable measurement over long ranges, while keeping moderate optic sizes. Additionally an infrared pointer (eye-safe for alignment or 3B for pointing) can be integrated in the fiber laser, ensuring boresight stability between LRF and pointer in any condition. Fiber lasers are easy to recognize, as they typically feature a (detachable) laser box with the fiber housed inside.

Key advantages:

• Superior beam quality and wavelength stability ensures accurate and reliable measurements, even in demanding conditions
• Small beam divergence for precise long-range targeting
• Highly energy efficient with low power consumption
• Coaxial pointer as an option

Limitations:

• Larger form factor than short range diode lasers due to laserbox
• Higher costs due to advanced components and manufacturing process

Read more here: Safran Vectronix fiber lasers … and what you need to know.

Short Application Guide: When to Use which Technology

Diode Lasers

Best for compact, lightweight electro-optical systems, with measuring ranges up to 5 km. The larger beam divergence is not a drawback for these moderate distances.

Fiber Lasers:

The right choice for long-range applications above 5 km, when precise targeting for reliable measurements is essential. Superior beam quality and low power consumption of fiber lasers makes them perfect for advanced long range LRF systems.

Find out more here: Safran Vectronix fiber lasers … and what you need to know.