The main difference between continuous laser and pulsed laser lies in the output mode and time characteristics of the laser. The following are their main differences:
1. Output mode:
Continuous laser (CW): Continuous laser provides continuous laser output, and its laser output is continuous in time without interruption. This laser is suitable for applications that require stable and continuous laser energy, such as laser communication, laser surgery, material processing, etc.
Pulsed laser: Pulsed laser outputs laser in the form of pulses, that is, the laser energy is concentrated in a very short time. This laser is suitable for applications that require high peak power and fast response time, such as laser marking, cutting, ranging, laser radar, etc.
2. Power and energy:
Continuous laser: The output power of continuous lasers is generally low, but they can work continuously for a long time, so the total energy output can be very high. Suitable for applications that require a lot of energy, such as laser welding and material processing.
Pulsed laser: The instantaneous power of the pulse of the pulsed laser is very high, but because the output time is very short, its average power is relatively low. However, due to the high peak power in a short time, pulsed lasers show stronger penetration and accuracy in some specific applications.
3. Application fields:
Continuous laser: Due to its stable output energy and continuous working mode, continuous lasers are widely used in various fields that require stable laser energy, such as laser cleaning, manufacturing, laser cutting and laser welding.
Pulsed laser: Pulsed lasers are often used in fields that require high peak power and fast response time, such as lidar ranging, fiber optic communication, material finishing and medical laser applications.
4. Technical implementation:
Continuous laser: Continuous laser output can be achieved by continuously providing energy through a stable pump source.
Pulsed laser: Pulsed laser output can be achieved through Q-switching technology, mode locking technology or pulse pumping. Q-switching technology produces short pulses with high peak power by quickly releasing stored energy, while mode locking technology produces a series of ultra-short pulses.
5. Other characteristics:
Continuous laser: Usually has lower peak power and higher average power, suitable for precision processing and mass production.
Pulsed laser: It can provide laser pulses with high peak power, which is very suitable for applications that require fast and accurate measurement, such as lidar and optical sensors.
In general, continuous lasers and pulsed lasers have their own advantages, and the choice of which type of laser depends on the specific application requirements.
