VCSELs (Visible)
VCSEL in the visible wavelength range at 670 nm.
VCSEL
The visible VCSEL (Vertical Cavity Surface Emitting Laser) in the red spectral range emits coherent light at 670 nm. The threshold current (typically 2 mA) is smaller by a factor of 10 compared to regular ELEDs or laser diode. The optical output power is typically 1 mW.
The red VCSELs are available in TO-46 housings (with optional lens caps), plastic housings, or as chips. Therefore they are optimally suited for applications that require a small form factor or a low operating current, e.g. portable scanners. Additional applications include position sensing, medical devices and, of course, data transmission systems using plastic optical fibers (POF). The small divergence of typically 2° for the lens cap version allows for an optimal coupling efficiency into the POF.
