Significant Features of Semiconductor Emitters related to Optical Radiation Hazards Available to Purchase

Modern optoelectronic semiconductor devices comprise coherent single mode, multi mode laser diodes, “superluminescent diodes”, “high radiance diodes” up to incoherent bulk emitting LEDs-quasi “on a sliding scale”, depending on the design and the mode of operation as well. A simple discrimination between “laser” and “LED” -in those terms we use in safety standards- is deemed nearly impossible. The optical radiation hazard for the retina of the eye is changing accordingly: from potentially hazardous up to real “harmless” in most cases even with “built-in” fuse-like radiation limitations.