Measuring Ultra High-Power Laser Pulses: Why Power from Pulse Matters

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Danny Stein

Director of Product Marketing, Laser Power Measurement

Accurately measuring the power output of ultra-high-power lasers is important but not always easy. This is especially true for lasers that operate in short bursts rather than continuously, such as those used in defense and directed energy applications.

Traditional power meters are built for continuous-wave lasers and require the laser to run steadily for extended periods to deliver reliable results. But what happens when your laser can only fire for a few seconds, or less?

That’s where the Power from Pulse method comes in.

The Challenge: Measuring Short, High-Power Pulses

Lasers operating at tens of kilowatts or more often can’t run continuously due to thermal, technical, or safety constraints. In many real-world applications like directed energy systems, lasers emit brief, intense pulses lasting just a few seconds.

However, conventional power meters typically need 40 seconds or more to stabilize and provide accurate readings. If your laser pulse only lasts 10 seconds, that delay makes traditional methods impractical.

The Solution: Power from Pulse

Power from Pulse is a measurement technique purpose-built for these short, high-energy bursts. Instead of relying on continuous operation, it calculates power by analyzing the heat absorbed during the pulse.

Key Benefits:

  • Direct, Accurate Results: Ideal for environments where continuous operation isn’t feasible.
  • Faster Measurements than traditional methods.
  • Handles Extreme Power: Supports lasers up to 100kW.
  • Simpler Setup: Some systems don’t require chillers, reducing cost and complexity.

Why It Matters?

  • Precision: Ensure accurate measurements even in pulsed-mode operation.
  • Efficiency: Accelerate development cycles with faster feedback.
  • Cost Savings: Reduce infrastructure needs with simpler thermal setups.

Who Should Use It?

If you work with ultra-high-power pulsed lasers, especially in defense, or industrial settings, Power from Pulse offers a practical, efficient, and accurate way to measure laser output under real-world constraints.

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Danny Stein

Director of Product Marketing, Laser Power Measurement

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