The new technology Diode-pumped YAG lasers are a leap forward in laser marking technology. The new YAGs combine the best features of the traditional YAG laser with the best features of small CO2 laser technology.

The new YAGs are different from traditional Flashlamp YAGs in that the troublesome power, maintenance and facilities requirements of the flashlamp YAG are gone.

The flashlamp pumping method requires a huge amount of energy. The flashlamp is a high-powered (typically 15,000 watts) flashbulb, which when fired pours photons into the lasing medium to create the laser beam. This is inherently dangerous and requires three-phase power supply. Diode-pumped YAGs require regular 110/220 a/c at 500 watts.

The Diode-pumped Nd:YAG simply uses a diode laser to excite the lasing medium. The Diode YAG is therefore less expensive to operate (much less electricity) and much safer.

Flashlamp YAGs require water cooling, usually involving a large and expensive chilling system, with a water supply and liquid piping. Diode YAGs are air cooled, eliminating chilling requirements.

YAG flashlamps can have a life expectancy of a few hundreds of hours before they burn out . Replacing the flashlamp is an expensive and tricky process requiring a trained technician. Given the frequency of this service, owners of Flashlamp YAGs need to have a trained laser technician on staff, as well as a supply of spare parts. Diode YAGs, on the other hand, are rated to last 15,000 hours before they need to be replaced. This lack of periodic maintenance makes the Diode-YAG much less expensive to operate!