Laser pointers are not cheap gadgets. Depending on the power of your laser pointer and where you made the purchase, it could easily cost you hundreds of dollars. It is therefore very important to take good care of your laser! Laser diodes within your laser pointer or portable laser are usually rated for at least 5000 to 8000 hours. If maintained properly, it shouldn’t have any issues exceeding the rated usage time. In practical terms, if you use your laser for 2 hours a day every day, your laser should last you for 7 to 11 years!
Laser Maintenance Guidelines:
- When not in use, remove the batteries. Leaving the batteries inside any electronics device may cause corrosion of the battery terminals leading to other problems.
- The aperture lens of your laser pointer is very sensitive to dust. Even a small spec of dust on the lens will cause your laser to have a “spotted” laser beam. Therefore, keep the lens covered when your laser is not in use. If you do not have anything to cover the aperture, use a small piece of masking tape. Some portable lasers have lens covers to prevent the entry of dust, keep the lens cover closed when your portable laser is not in use. If the lens does become dirty, make sure to clean the lens using proper cleaning procedures as provided by your laser’s instructions manual.
- Stored it in a dry place ideally in room temperature. The humidity should be no more than 45% with temperatures between 0 to 40 degrees Celsius.
- Lasers are sophisticated electronic devices with delicate optics. Handle your laser gently and with care. Do not drop your laser pointer.
If you follow this guide, you should have no problems exceeding your laser’s rated lifetime.
