Communicating with lasers, Pages (1) (2) (3) (4)

 

by Robert F. Gonsett, W6VR, as edited by Tom Farley (continued)

 

Pictured is one of two full-duplex voice-modulated laser setups constructed by Kerry, N6IZW. Each uses an ordinary 0.5 milliwatt red 'pointer' laser ($2.80) as the transmitter. Because a laser beam is very narrow, the apparatus is aimed with the aid of a rifle telescope (the black cylinder on top). Precise positioning is accomplished with two micrometers mounted on the metal bar below and to the left of the telescope.

 

The laser itself is mounted to the white colored block just under the right end of the rifle scope. The laser appears as a small black object on the right side of the white block, and is about the diameter of a fountain pen.

 

The distant white colored PVC pipe contains simple voice modulating electronics and a low powered LED good for short range communications and testing (won't communicate many miles, only the laser will do that). The PVC pipe closest to the camera contains the laser beam receiving equipment. Having both sending and receiving equipment at each location allows full duplex communications (being able to talk in both directions at the same time, like a telephone).

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