Sharp today announced the "GH0641FA2C" red semiconductor laser designed for applications including small projectors and head-up displays.

The company will start mass production of the new laser by the end of March.

By optimizing the combination of materials and structures, the new 640nm laser features a high light conversion efficiency (33%) and high brightness. Sharp took advantage of its already applied technology for DVD / CD disc laser diodes for the development of the new product. The maximum optical output and threshold current of the diode are 150mW and 55mA (standard), respectively. With an optical output of 150mW, its operating current is 182mA (standard) and operating voltage is 2.5V (standard). Its peak oscillation wavelength is 642nm. Its beam spread angle is 9° in the horizontal direction and 17° in the vertical direction.