THORLABS CPS450 Collimated Laser Diode Module Mw Elliptical 4.5 Beam Housing

( Brand: Thorlabs ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: CPS450 ), ( Model: THORLABS CPS450 ), ( Part Type: Laser Module Housing ), ( Country Of Origin: United States )

Review THORLABS Collimated Laser Diode Module 450 Nm 4.5 Mw Elliptical Beam Housing

The **Thorlabs CPS450 Collimated Laser Diode Module** is a precision-engineered, high-performance optical component designed for applications requiring a stable, well-collimated blue-violet laser beam at a wavelength of **450 nm**. This compact yet robust module integrates a **4.5 mW** laser diode within a **custom elliptical beam housing**, ensuring optimal beam quality and minimal divergence for reliable performance in optical experiments, metrology, or industrial inspection systems. The laser diode operates at a nominal wavelength of **450 nm**, making it ideal for applications in fluorescence imaging, holography, or spectroscopy where a compact, coherent light source is essential. The elliptical beam housing is meticulously crafted to minimize beam distortion, providing a **highly uniform output profile** with minimal astigmatism, which is particularly advantageous for precision alignment tasks or interferometric setups. The module features a **Tecnical-grade laser diode** housed in a thermally stable enclosure, incorporating a **collimating lens assembly** that ensures a **divergence of less than 0.5 mrad**, delivering a near-parallel beam over extended working distances. This design eliminates the need for additional optics, simplifying integration into optical systems while maintaining exceptional beam coherence. The module s **low-power output (4.5 mW)** ensures safety compliance with Class 3R laser regulations, making it suitable for educational, laboratory, or field applications without requiring specialized containment measures. Additionally, the **compact footprint** and **standardized mounting interface** allow for seamless integration into existing optical benches or custom setups, while the **durable aluminum housing** provides protection against environmental factors, ensuring long-term reliability. Whether used for alignment verification, optical testing, or as a seed source in more complex laser systems, the CPS450 offers a precise, cost-effective solution for demanding optical applications.

**Pros and Cons of buying a Thorlabs CPS450 Collimated Laser Diode Module (450 nm, 4.5 mW, Elliptical Beam Housing)**

### **Pros**

1. **Precision and Reliability** Thorlabs is a well-established manufacturer known for high-quality optical components. The CPS450 is designed for stability, with a collimated output that minimizes beam divergence, making it suitable for applications requiring consistent performance.

2. **Compact and Integrated Design** The elliptical beam housing and integrated collimating optics reduce the need for additional external components, simplifying setup in lab or experimental environments.

3. **Moderate Power Output (4.5 mW)** The 4.5 mW output is sufficient for many low-to-moderate power applications, such as fluorescence imaging, alignment tasks, or basic optical experiments without requiring high-power alternatives.

4. **Wavelength (450 nm)** The 450 nm wavelength is useful for applications involving blue light-sensitive materials, fluorescence excitation (e.g., certain dyes or biological samples), and optical trapping experiments.

5. **Compatibility with Thorlabs Ecosystem** If you already use other Thorlabs components (e.g., mounts, beam splitters, or detectors), this module integrates seamlessly with their product line, reducing compatibility issues.

6. **Good for Educational and Research Use** The module is often used in academic and research settings for demonstrations, prototyping, or low-power experiments where cost efficiency is preferred over high power.

7. **Durable Construction** Thorlabs components are generally built to last, with robust housing that protects internal optics from environmental factors like dust and minor vibrations.

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### **Cons**

1. **Limited Power for High-Demand Applications** At 4.5 mW, this module is not suitable for high-power applications such as material processing, high-resolution microscopy with deep tissue penetration, or large-scale optical experiments requiring significant illumination.

2. **Elliptical Beam Shape** The elliptical beam profile may not be ideal for all applications where a circular or Gaussian beam is preferred. This could require additional optics (e.g., beam expanders or cylindrical lenses) to achieve a round output.

3. **Cost Relative to Power** For the price, the 4.5 mW output may feel underpowered compared to higher-wattage alternatives, especially if you need more consistent or higher-intensity light sources.

4. **No Built-In Safety Features for High Power** While 4.5 mW is generally safe for most lab environments, there are no integrated safety mechanisms (e.g., automatic shutoff or power regulation) beyond basic design precautions. Users must still adhere to laser safety protocols.

5. **Potential for Beam Quality Issues** Collimated laser diodes can sometimes exhibit non-uniform intensity profiles or slight divergence over distance. Users may need to characterize the beam and adjust optics accordingly.

6. **Limited Customization** Unlike some high-end laser systems, this module offers minimal tunability in wavelength or power output. If your application requires precise wavelength control or higher power, you may need additional components.

7. **Dependence on External Power Supply** The module requires an appropriate driver (not included) to operate, adding to the overall cost and complexity of setup.

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### **Ending Conclusion**

The **Thorlabs CPS450** is a practical choice for users who need a **low-to-moderate power, blue (450 nm) collimated laser** for applications such as **fluorescence imaging, alignment, or basic optical experiments**. Its strengths lie in **reliability, ease of integration with Thorlabs systems, and suitability for educational or research purposes**. However, it is **not ideal for high-power applications** and may require additional optics to optimize beam shape. If your requirements align with its specifications particularly if you prioritize **cost efficiency, compactness, and compatibility with existing Thorlabs equipment** this module is a solid investment.

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### **Recommendation**

- You need a **low-power (4.5 mW), blue (450 nm) laser** for **fluorescence, alignment, or prototyping**.

- You are already using Thorlabs components and want seamless integration.

- Your budget is limited, and you do not require high-power output.

- The elliptical beam shape is acceptable, or you can easily correct it with external optics.

- You need **higher power (e.g., 100 mW or more)** for applications like **high-resolution microscopy, material processing, or deep-tissue imaging**. In this case, a **higher-power diode laser (e.g., Thorlabs CPS561 or similar) or a solid-state laser** may be better.

- You require **circular beam output** and are willing to invest in additional beam-shaping optics.

- You need **wavelength tunability or precise power control**, which this module does not offer.

- You are working in a **high-vibration or harsh environment**, where additional stabilization (e.g., active feedback systems) may be necessary.

For most **academic, educational, or low-power research applications**, the CPS450 is a **good value** and a **reliable workhorse**. However, for **industrial or high-performance optical setups**, a more powerful or customizable laser may be necessary.

Details:

Collimated Laser Diode Module, 450 nm, 4.5 mW, Elliptical Beam, 11mm Housing, mfg date 04.2018, SLOC KDK 104.

part #: cps450 prices

• $131.45-$250.00

specifications industrlasemr:

• brand: Thorlabs
• mpn: Cps450
• model: Thorlabs Cps450
• part type: Laser Module Housing
• country of origin: United States

returns industrlasemr:

• method: Money back
• paid by: Seller
• policy: Returns Accepted
• time: 30 Days

seller industrlasemr:

• city: Redwood City, California
• # reviews: 4532
• rating: 100.0%

offer industrlasemr:

• sold: 0
• best offers: True
• quantity: 1
• options: Ship-to-home
• started: June 6, 2026
• availability: In Stock

shipping industrlasemr:

• type: Fixed
• cost: $6.50
• class: Economy
• service: Economy
• transit: 4-7 Days

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general industrlasemr:

• Medical/Lab Equipment Attachments Accessories > Lamps, Bulbs Laser Components > Laser Modules Heads
• condition: Used

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