Consumer demand for miniaturization of electronic devices such as cell phones and smart cards, and for increased optical storage, has been rapidly gaining in traction. This trend is impacting innovation of laser systems and, in turn, the market for numerous products that are best produced using laser technologies. For instance, the use of lasers in the manufacturing of wafers has enhanced their quality and end value immensely. As the demand for miniaturization of electronic devices keeps growing, the need for laser technology to enable this trend will correspondingly increase.

This Frost & Sullivan research service focuses on the most recent advances in laser systems worldwide. It provides in-depth definitions of the most popularly used laser technologies and includes analysis of the diverse applications that utilize lasers. Besides vital information on stakeholder assessment, regulatory issues are a part of the study. The latest technical innovations, restraints, drivers, and challenges have also been dealt with in the analysis.

Increased Deployment of Lasers in Materials Processing Applications

Processing applications for semiconductor and macro industrial materials are swiftly being taken over by lasers due to the superior quality of the end products. "The lack of chipping, debris generation, and excessive thermal loading that is associated with traditional diamond saws is propelling deployment of lasers in applications such as soldering, welding, drilling, and cutting," explains the analyst of this research. Certain semiconductor lasers also have the advantage of high-speed laser pulses for high-resolution, high peak power and range, which when combined with a focused wide beam, can be used for applications such as laser radar for distance and speed measurements.

Marking is a co-related segment demonstrating large potential for growth in both semiconductor and macro industrial processing. It is essential for product traceability, meeting security standards, industry coding standards, and addressing warranty issues. Laser durability, lack of toxicity, and waste disposal in comparison to chemical or mechanical marking are driving adoption of laser technology for marking applications.

R&D Focus on Laser Technology for Defense and Security Applications

The multiple speed-of-light capabilities of high-energy lasers ensure its inclusion in numerous projects by government agencies such as the U.S. Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA). These findings are also likely to be utilized in commercial applications in the near future.

"A suitable example of military laser is the controversial U.S. airborne laser program involving the development of a laser that can be fired from aboard a Boeing 747 to destroy long-range enemy missiles in the air," says the analyst. "Another instance would be the joint Israel/U.S. funded mobile tactical high energy laser program designed to track and destroy multiple artillery projectiles in flight." The rise in international terrorism and the recent Iraqi conflict have fuelled R&D efforts in the defense sector and are likely to be a long-term driver for laser technologies.