Laser Pointers/Toy Issue

[Scott Wohlstein <KKE-S.Wohlstein@kwkid.com>]

As specialists in the laser field, we have been watching this issue take
shape for almost 10 years now.  The approach (right or wrong) has been
for the manufacturers to do the right thing (compliance with
21CFR1040.10 and .11), and watch the imports (IEC825).

Unfortunately, most of the devices are made off-shore.  The FDA/CDRH is
overworked (filing/application functions alone)- enforcement? forget
about it.  Some of the newer semiconductor laser technology developed
for communications, CD, DVD, etc.. (read lower wavelength/higher energy)
is passed over in the race to reach the market and finds its way into
pointers.

Look for a related and controversial article in the upcoming September
issue of Lasers & Optronics (http://www.lasersoptrmag.com).

As a solemn note:  We anticipate the emergence of Class IV diode devices
to appear from either the soviet block countries within the next year.

S. Wohlstein
President, Photonics Specialist

--
SDLI
P.O. Box 1190
1429 Elk Street
Franklin, PA  16323
Sales- 1-800-909-SDLI (7354)
Direct-1-814-437-7354
E mailto:SDLI@kwkid.com
Site:  http://www.kwkid.com/SDLI

Photonics Solutions, Worldwide


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