LASER Transmitter/Receivers

This set of two circuits forms the basis for a simple light wave transmitter. A laser beam is modulated and directed towards a receiver that demodulates the signal and presents the information, such as voice or data. The assembly is straightforward and requires no specialized components except for the laser itself, which is available from K Industries. In the transmitter schematic, no ballast resistor is included because most small laser power supplies already incorporate one. However, variations may require the addition of a resistor.

The described circuit consists of a transmitter and a receiver, forming a basic light wave communication system. The transmitter utilizes a laser diode to emit a coherent light beam, which is modulated to encode the desired information. The modulation can be achieved through various techniques, such as amplitude modulation (AM) or pulse-width modulation (PWM), depending on the application requirements.

In the transmitter schematic, the laser diode is powered by a suitable power supply, which may include a built-in ballast resistor to limit the current flowing through the diode. If the power supply does not include this resistor, it is essential to calculate and add an appropriate resistor in series to prevent damage to the laser. The modulation circuit can consist of a simple transistor switch or an operational amplifier configured for modulation, depending on the complexity of the information being transmitted.

On the receiving end, the receiver circuit typically employs a photodiode or phototransistor that detects the incoming laser light. The photodetector converts the light signal back into an electrical signal, which is then demodulated to retrieve the original information. The demodulation process involves filtering and amplifying the signal to restore the quality of the transmitted data. Additional components such as capacitors and resistors may be used to optimize the performance of the receiver circuit.

Overall, this light wave transmitter and receiver circuit is an accessible project for those interested in exploring optical communication technologies, offering a practical application of laser technology for transmitting data wirelessly.This set of two circuits from the basis for a very simple light wave transmitter. A LASER beam is modulated and then aimed at a receiver that demodulates the signal and then presents the information (voice, data, etc. ). The whole thing is very easy to build and requires no specialized parts execpt for the LASER itself. LASERs are available from MW K Industries. 1. In the transmitter schematic, no ballast resistor is shown because most small LASER power supplies already have one built in. Yours may differ, and a resistor may be needed. 🔗 External reference