Lazer safety

[hjalmar1234]

The internet articles I've found thus far only give vage recommendations for safely viewing holograms. What are the exact recommendations and to what kinds of hologram do they apply?

[John Klayer]

Lazer?

[lobaz]

Most display holograms are intended to be viewed in common white light. Usually you need a point light source, i.e. a light that casts sharp shadows. For example a LED torch provides excellent hologram illumination.

Holograms that require laser illumination are quite rare outside our small world of holographers. However, if you have one, it is the best to use a common 5-10 mW laser pointer without the front lens. (You can unscrew it or saw it off if it is glued.) Such a laser light spreads in space, i.e. it is not focused to a single narrow beam. Such "unfocused" (properly said, uncollimated) light is perfectly safe.

Do not use more powerful lasers unless you know what you are doing.

[hjalmar1234]

Thanks again Lobaz. I'll bother you with more questions once I've read one or two books Hopefully said questions will be more interesting.