Digitallaser

Digitallaser is a term used in the optics and photonics industry to describe laser systems that integrate digital control with laser emission to produce programmable, high-precision light sources. In digitallaser configurations, a digital controller modulates output power, pulse timing, beam steering, and beam shaping in real time, enabling complex light patterns and rapid switching that advance capabilities beyond traditional analog control. The technology spans multiple laser types, including diode, fiber, and solid-state lasers, and commonly uses components such as high-speed digital-to-analog interfaces, field-programmable gate arrays, software-defined control, galvanometer scanners, and spatial light modulators. The result is a digitally programmable light source that can be customized by software to match a range of tasks.

Applications of digitallaser include microfabrication, additive manufacturing, laser marking and engraving, surgical and therapeutic procedures, ophthalmic devices, materials processing research, and advanced metrology. In manufacturing, digitallaser enables precise contouring, multi-pass or multi-parameter processing, and rapid prototyping by adjusting wavelength, power, pulse duration, and scanning patterns under software control.

History and development of digitallaser reflect the convergence of digital electronics with laser technology. Early demonstrations date to the 1990s and 2000s with digitally controlled laser diodes and modulators; the term began appearing in industry literature in the 2010s as electronics and software matured. Today, digitallaser describes a class of systems rather than a single standard, with vendors offering varying implementations and configurations tailored to specific applications.

Safety and standards: Digitallaser systems, like other laser-based devices, are subject to laser safety regulations and standards addressing classification, enclosure, interlocks, and protective eyewear. Compliance commonly follows standards such as IEC 60825 and ANSI Z136.1, along with manufacturer-specific safety procedures.