Precision Laser Machining Consortium Fosters Diode Array Development

The Precision Laser Machining Consortium is promoting the development of diode pump arrays, components critical to diode-pumped solid-state lasers. Diode pump arrays are used commercially to improve the speed and precision of advanced industrial laser machine tools for making aircraft, spacecraft and automobiles. The consortium, funded by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, has allotted additional money to companies to develop new designs, products and techniques for producing the arrays. In addition to the consortium's original member, SDL Inc., new companies include Opto Power Corp., Semiconductor Laser International, Spire Corp. and Star Medical.