What is the difference between a pulsed laser and a continuous wave laser?

The distinction between pulsed lasers and continuous wave lasers is primarily based on the manner in which they emit light. Pulsed lasers emit light in short bursts or pulses, which can vary in duration and frequency. This allows for a high intensity of light to be delivered in a very brief timeframe, making pulsed lasers particularly effective for applications that require high peak power, such as precision cutting or medical procedures.

In contrast, continuous wave lasers produce a steady, uninterrupted beam of light. This steady output is advantageous for applications where consistency in power and energy delivery is important, such as in laser engraving or certain types of materials processing that do not require the intensity of a pulsed output.

The clarity of this fundamental difference in operation leads to the selection of specific types of lasers according to the requirements of different applications. Therefore, the characterization of pulsed lasers as emitting bursts of light while continuous wave lasers provide a consistent beam accurately captures the essential operational difference between the two types.