What is the difference between 1550 and 905 LiDAR?
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Difference Between 1550 nm and 905 nm LiDAR Systems
LiDAR, which stands for Light Detection and Ranging, utilizes lasers to measure distances to the Earth. These systems are critical for mapping, surveying, and understanding the physical world. One of the key differences in LiDAR systems is the wavelength of the laser used, particularly between 1550 nm and 905 nm systems.
Safety
905 nm LiDAR: Systems operating at 905 nanometers (nm) are closer to the visible spectrum and are potentially hazardous to human eyes. As such, they must operate under stricter safety regulations to limit exposure.
1550 nm LiDAR: Systems using 1550 nm are inherently safer for human eyes. This allows for higher power levels, improving the LiDAR's performance without posing a significant risk to eye safety.
Performance in Adverse Conditions
905 nm LiDAR: These systems can be more susceptible to interference from sunlight and other atmospheric conditions such as fog or rain, which can reduce measurement accuracy and range.
1550 nm LiDAR: The longer wavelength of 1550 nm is less affected by atmospheric conditions, providing more reliable performance in various environmental situations.
Material Penetration
905 nm LiDAR: Better at detecting hard and reflective surfaces but may struggle with penetration through certain materials like glass or semi-transparent obstacles.
1550 nm LiDAR: The 1550 nm wavelength can penetrate more effectively through certain obstacles, making it advantageous for applications requiring such capabilities.
Cost and Technology
905 nm LiDAR: Generally, systems operating at 905 nm are less expensive and more common, due to the widespread availability of components and technology developed for this wavelength.
1550 nm LiDAR: On the other hand, 1550 nm systems tend to be more expensive due to the higher cost of components and less mature technology. However, they offer advantages in safety and performance that may justify the additional expense for some applications.
In conclusion, the choice between 1550 nm and 905 nm LiDAR systems depends on factors such as safety, environmental conditions, material penetration, and cost. Each wavelength offers unique advantages that make it suitable for different applications.