850nm 2.3W IR Laser Diode TO-18 Night Vision Infrared Emitter
850nm 2.3W IR Laser Diode TO-18 Night Vision Infrared Emitter
850nm Infrared Laser Diode – High-Power TO-18 Package for Night Vision Systems
Upgrade your night vision builds, IR illumination projects, or security camera setups with this high-output 850nm infrared laser diode in a compact TO-18 package. Delivering up to 2300mW (2.3W) of continuous infrared output at 850 nanometers, this diode is an ideal component for DIY electronics enthusiasts, camera modders, and engineers who need reliable near-infrared illumination.
Key Features
- Wavelength: 850nm near-infrared — optimal for silicon-based image sensors and night vision cameras
- Output Power: Up to 2300mW (2.3W) — high-intensity infrared output for extended range illumination
- Package Type: TO-18 (5.6mm metal can) — industry-standard housing for easy integration into existing driver circuits
- Compact Dimensions: 10 × 6mm — space-efficient for tight PCB layouts and custom enclosures
- Infrared (IR) Emission: Invisible to the naked eye, making it ideal for covert illumination and surveillance applications
- Durable Metal Can Construction: Provides reliable heat dissipation and mechanical protection for the die
Common Applications
- Night vision camera illumination and enhancement
- IR security and surveillance lighting
- DIY laser and photonics projects
- Machine vision and optical sensing systems
- Remote sensing and rangefinding prototypes
Technical Specifications
- Wavelength: 850nm
- Max Output Power: 2300mW (2.3W)
- Package: TO-18 (5.6mm)
- Dimensions: 10 × 6mm
- Emission Type: Continuous wave (CW) infrared
Safety Notice
⚠️ Laser Safety: This is a high-power infrared laser diode. Always follow proper laser safety protocols. Never direct the beam toward eyes or skin. Use appropriate IR-blocking safety eyewear when operating. Infrared radiation is invisible and can cause eye injury without visible warning. Refer to OSHA Laser Hazard guidelines for safe handling practices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is an 850nm TO-18 infrared laser diode used for?
A: An 850nm TO-18 infrared laser diode is widely used in night vision camera illumination, IR security lighting, machine vision systems, and DIY photonics projects. Its 850nm wavelength falls in the near-infrared range, making it highly sensitive to silicon-based CMOS and CCD image sensors commonly found in security and night vision cameras.
Q: What does the TO-18 package mean for a laser diode?
A: TO-18 refers to a standardized 5.6mm metal can package used for laser and LED diodes. It offers excellent heat dissipation, mechanical robustness, and is compatible with a wide range of laser diode driver boards and mounts, making it straightforward to integrate into custom circuits or commercial laser modules.
Q: Does this 850nm IR laser diode work with standard laser driver boards?
A: Yes — the TO-18 package is an industry-standard form factor compatible with most adjustable constant-current laser driver boards. Always ensure your driver circuit is rated for the diode's forward current requirements (typically 2–3A for 2.3W output) and includes proper current limiting to protect the diode.
Q: Is the infrared beam visible to the human eye?
A: No. At 850nm, the emission is in the near-infrared spectrum and is invisible to the naked human eye. However, it can be detected by smartphone cameras and silicon-based image sensors. Always treat it as a live beam and use appropriate IR-rated safety eyewear during operation.