Automation Technology MCS 1280 Series, User Manual

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MCS Manual Rev. 1.4 7
Laser Safety
Automation Technology´s compact sensor series have an integrated laser (Laser = Light
Amplification by the Stimulated Emission of Radiation) module, which has to incorporate
additional safety features, depending on the applicable laser class.
Laser Safety Classification
The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) and the U.S. Center for Devices & Radiological
Health (CDRH) enforce strict safety requirements for lasers and laser products.
The relevant standards, IEC 60825
– 1 (2001-08) and 21 CFR 1040.10/11 (CDRH), classify lasers
into several categories. The regulations regarding the different classes applicable to the used laser
are given here for the IEC 60825-1 standard.
Laser Categories
The classification of a laser product is based on the laser power measured according to the
methods defined by the IEC standard. The classification refers to the wavelength range between
400 nm and 700 nm.
This corresponds to the maximum light power measured through a 7 mm aperture, measured in
distances given in the standard. The limitations for the classification of the laser classes are then
the following.