An Erbium-doped glass laser rangefinder module utilizes a laser medium made of glass infused with erbium ions, operating at the eye-safe wavelength of 1540-1600 nm. Its principle relies on generating short, high-power pulses at this longer wavelength, which are safe for human eyes yet highly effective in penetrating atmospheric haze. The key advantages are inherent eye safety (Class 1 M), superior performance in adverse weather conditions due to reduced atmospheric scattering, high output power for long-range measurement, and excellent thermal stability. This makes it the ideal solution for military rangefinding, forestry, aviation, and any application where user safety and environmental resilience are paramount.
In the world of precision laser ranging, the Erbium-doped glass laser rangefinder module stands out as a superior technological solution, prized for its unique blend of performance and safety. This advanced module uses a solid-state laser whose active medium is a special glass host material doped with Erbium ions (Er³⁺). This specific design delivers critical advantages for demanding professional and military applications.
How Does an Erbium Glass Laser Rangefinder Work? The Principle
The operating principle follows the standard time-of-flight (ToF) method but is distinguished by its laser source. Inside the module, the erbium-doped glass rod is energized, typically by a flashlamp or laser diode. This energy "pumps" the erbium ions to a higher energy state. When these ions return to their ground state, they emit photons at a specific wavelength centered around 1540 nanometers (nm).
This 1540nm light is generated within the glass medium and formed into an intense, short-duration laser pulse. This pulse is directed toward a target, and a high-speed photodetector in the module measures the time it takes for the reflected pulse to return. Using the known speed of light, the module's processor calculates the exact distance with high accuracy.
The Key Advantages of Erbium Glass Laser Technology
The choice of erbium-doped glass as the lasing material is not accidental; it provides distinct benefits over other laser types like Nd:YAG (1064nm):
Inherent Eye Safety: This is the most significant advantage. The 1540nm wavelength is classified as "eye-safe" (Class 1M). Light at this wavelength is strongly absorbed by the aqueous humor (the fluid in the front of the eye) before it can reach the delicate retina. This drastically reduces the risk of retinal damage, allowing for safer operation in environments where there is a risk of accidental exposure to personnel or friendly forces.
Superior Atmospheric Penetration: The 1540nm wavelength experiences significantly less scattering and absorption in the atmosphere compared to shorter wavelengths, especially in challenging conditions like haze, fog, light rain, and smoke. This results in more reliable and longer-range performance when it is needed most.
High Output Power: Erbium-glass lasers are capable of producing very high peak power pulses. This enables the module to achieve long measurement ranges, even for targets with low reflectivity (low-reflectance targets).
Robustness and Thermal Stability: The glass host material is highly durable, resistant to thermal shock, and less sensitive to temperature fluctuations than crystal-based alternatives. This leads to a module with excellent reliability and stable performance across a wide range of operating temperatures, from cold mountains to hot deserts.
Primary Applications
Due to its combination of power, safety, and environmental resilience, the Erbium-glass laser rangefinder module is the preferred choice for:
Military and Defense: Used in handheld and vehicle-mounted rangefinders and designators where eye safety for troops is a non-negotiable requirement.
Forestry and Surveying: Its ability to penetrate slight haze and canopy cover makes it effective for terrain mapping and forestry management.
Aviation and Meteorological: Used in altimeters and systems for measuring cloud base height.
Industrial Automation: Applied in scenarios where high-power, eye-safe ranging is necessary around human workers.
Conclusion
The Erbium-doped glass laser rangefinder module represents a perfect synergy of safety and performance. By leveraging the unique properties of erbium ions, it delivers long-range, accurate, and reliable distance measurement while prioritizing the well-being of operators and bystanders. For any application where operational success cannot compromise on safety, this technology is the definitive solution.
Explore our high-performance, eye-safe Erbium Glass Laser Rangefinder Modules designed for demanding professional applications. Visit our website to view technical specifications and contact our experts for integration support.
905nm Laser Rangefinder Module(Semiconductor Plused Laser)
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| A1000A/1200A/1500A | A1500B | A2000A | A2500B | A2500A/3000A |
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Model No. | A3000A | A2500A | A2500B | A2000A | A1500B | A1500A | A1200A | A1000A |
Wavelength | 905nm |
Measuring range | ≥15~3000 | ≥15~2500 | ≥15~2500 | ≥5~2000 | ≥5~1500 | ≥10~1500 | ≥10~1200 | ≥10~1000 |
Accuracy(m) | ±2m | ≤±1(≤400m); ≤±(L×0.3%) (>400m) | ±1(≤300m)、±2(>300m) |
Accuracy Rate | ≥98% |
Frequency（Hz） | Single Shot、1、2 | Single-shot /Continuous | Single Shot、1、2 |
Interface | TTL |
Voltage(V） | 4.5～5.5 | 4.5～5.5 | 4.5～5.5 | 3 ~ 5 | Typical value: DC 3.3 ; Operating range: 3.3~5 |
Standby power(W) | ≤1 | ≤1 | ≤1 | ≤1 | ≤0.65 | ≤0.65 | ≤0.65 | ≤0.6 |
Installation | Bottom-end mounting | Front-end mounting |
Environmenta Grade |
| ROHS 2.0 |
Protection Grade |
| IP67(lens) |
Dimensions(mm) | ≤50.5×49.5×29 | ≤50.5×49.5×29 | ≤50.5×37.5×22.5 | ≤26×25×16 | ≤26×25×13.5 | ≤Φ23×46 | ≤Φ23×46 | ≤Φ24×47 |
Weight（g） | ≤62 | ≤62 | ≤45 | ≤13 | ≤10.5 | ≤18 | ≤18 | ≤20 |
Special Design | Power-off zero standby mode |
Note:We offer professional OEM/ODM services including solution design and manufacturing for all products, and have a full-process technical support team.
