Which type of laser is classified as a near infrared system?

The diode laser is classified as a near infrared system due to its emission of light in the wavelength range of approximately 700 to 1000 nanometers, which falls within the near infrared spectrum. This range is particularly beneficial for various medical applications, including tissue penetration and effectiveness in laser therapy, as the near infrared light is absorbed differently by biological tissues compared to other wavelengths.

In contrast, other lasers mentioned have different characteristics. The CO2 laser emits light in the far infrared range (around 10,600 nm), which is highly absorbed by water in tissues, making it ideal for cutting and vaporizing tissue but not classified as a near infrared system. The Er:YAG laser operates at a wavelength of 2940 nm, which places it in the mid-infrared range, also primarily absorbed by water but not categorized as near infrared. The excimer laser typically operates in the ultraviolet range (around 193 nm for the argon fluoride excimer), which is outside the near infrared spectrum entirely. Thus, the diode laser stands out as the only option that fits the classification of a near infrared system.