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Laser Light Shows, And Equipment

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Published: April 10, 2007

The power and versatility of lasers are undeniable. With widespread use in medical industries, technical industries, military industries, etc., they are changing the world in a variety of meaningful ways. But anyone who has ever been to a concert or nightclub knows that lasers have another use, one that is every bit as impressive: the laser light show.

Starting perhaps as an oddity, laser light displays have gone far past planetarium shows and can now be seen in the hottest clubs and biggest stadium concerts all over the planet. Today's laser light show equipment is a complex blend of high-end lasers, machines, and advanced software that combine to produce truly impressive results that are sure to delight a crowd. There are also options for individuals looking for laser light show equipment to give a party, venue or show that extra degree of punch and excitement.

Laser Quality- Lasers can vary greatly in power output and brightness, and these differences will be visible in the final product of a laser light show. However, there are a few factors to keep in mind. First of all, remember that a higher power laser does not guarantee a better laser light show. Though a higher-grade laser will produce a brighter and more striking light, a similarly impressive effect can be achieved with multiple lower-grade lasers. Furthermore, any laser light show machine with an output over 5mw is considered potentially harmful and will require an operator's license, a necessity that may make it less practical for the casual enthusiast.

Projector- The projector is the mechanical scanning device that will actually direct the laser light against the projected surface. Depending on the intended effects, a laser light show may need two or more individual scanners to produce complicated effects such as writing, x/y scanning, or 3 dimensional looking imagery. Depending on what scanners are chosen for a laser light show machine, there will be a difference in the overall options of what laser light show effects can be accomplished.

Controller- The controller is the device that informs the projector on where and how to direct the laser light. In some of the more basic and inexpensive systems, the controller may be an inclusive device with simple button controls, however, for the more powerful, expensive and complicated systems the controller tends to be a dedicated computer or CPU unit with a complex software interface. A well-operated controller system can also make up for lower quality laser components if run with skill and creativity.

Selecting the right system really depends on the size and scale of the laser light show. If the complicated effects are important, invest in a controller and projector with the capabilities to achieve the effects. Invest in quality lasers to achieve a powerful and bright display. Also, consider a cheaper, all-in-one package for light shows at casuals bars or parties.. Laser light shows are, if not the most meaningful application of the technology, certainly among the most exciting, and there are laser light show machine options for every budget and need.


Sources:
"Laser." Wikipedia. 15 Mar 2007. 15 Mar 2007. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Laser.
"Laser Lighting Display." Wikipedia. 15 Mar 2007. 15 Mar 2007. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Laser_lighting_displa y.
Professor Mark Csele's Homebuilt Lasers Page. 15 March 2007. http://www.technology.niagarac.on.ca/staff/mcsele/ lasers/index.html
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