Post #2386355
2026-05-09 19:14 UTC
Replies (2)
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@BigDanishGuy@sh.itjust.works 2026-05-09 21:14
Suitable applications of 1w lasers light engraving ultra light cutting mischief and miscellaneous shenanigans medical (I guess it’s in the range for tattoo removal, but power rating for these lasers are stated weirdly) fiber optic communications Tasks 1w lasers are unsuitable for any kind of pointing, besides cases where you wish to permanently damage your audience. As I recall the cheap lasers have an issue with the quality of their wavelength. Both in contamination and precision. Which leads glasses not being effective.
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@Tiresia@slrpnk.net 2026-05-09 22:15
If you want to use these in an uncontrolled environment, definitely get the appropriate laser safety glasses (such as these) as well, and have anyone you don’t want to blind who are anywhere nearby or in line of sight close their eyes. Even the scattered reflection off glass or the metal of a camera mount can burn people’s retinas permanently, and depending on the surfaces it could scatter a few times and still have enough power to cause damage. This means if a target is near a highway, you could blind passing motorists. If it’s near buildings, you could blind people peeking from windows. Treat a 1W laser like a power tool. Amateurs can learn to use them safely, but you want to learn from guides rather than from mistakes.