How to Measure the Laser Output

Among other functions, solar cells can be used to measure the output of low yield lasers.

It is fairly simple to measure the output of a laser using a solar panel and a multimeter. All you will need to do is compare the base energy output of solar panels with the energy output of the solar panel with the laser shining on it. One of the simplest lasers to use for this project is a laser pointer, which can be obtained at a relatively low cost from many stores. For an added level of complexity you could record such variables as the amount of energy lost when beamed through various substances and over distance, or even test how the flame of a candle affects the laser beam.

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Laser pointer
Solar cell with lead cables
Multimeter
Notepad
Pencil
Jumper cables with gator clamps

Instructions

- 1
  
  Clamp the gator cables to each end of the multimeter and attach the other end of the gator cables to the solar panel cable leads. Ensure that the polarity is correct; if it is incorrect, the readout will appear as a negative number on the multimeter.
- 2
  
  Record the base energy output of the solar panel you are using with your notepad and pencil. Test using both voltage and milliamp readings.
- 3
  
  Activate the laser pointer while directing the beam at the solar cell.
- 4
  
  Record the voltage and amperage of the solar cell in the notepad.
- 5
  
  Calculate the voltage and amperage of the laser by subtracting the base readings from the readings taken when the solar cell was receiving the laser beam.

Tips & Warnings

There are a number of interesting variables which can increase the complexity of this sort of test. Try passing the beam through a variety of materials, such as a flame, smoke, liquids of varying translucency, and set gels such as jello, while recording the levels of energy resistance encountered.
For an added challenge, students can disassemble the laser pointer and manually control its laser energy output with a laboratory power distribution unit. The laboratory power distribution unit sets the amount of energy leaving the laser to a known level and also determines the margin of error of the solar cell testing method.
Never aim a laser at a living being, as it can cause severe and permanent eye damage.

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YouTube: Using a Multimeter

Photo Credit Solar Panel image by kuhar from Fotolia.com

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How to Measure the Laser Output

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