Laser-Line Mirrors vs Broadband Mirrors: Matching Optical Glass Mirror to Light Source
Laser-Line Mirrors vs Broadband Mirrors: Matching Optical Glass Mirror to Light Source Choosing the wrong mirror for your optical system is a costly mistake. A mirror that performs beautifully at 532 nm can fail catastrophically at 1064 nm, and a broadband coating that works across the visible spectrum often lacks the damage threshold required for high-power laser applications. This article breaks down the structural differences between laser-line mirrors and broadband mirrors, helping you match the optical glass mirror to your specific light source. We will compare coating designs, performance metrics, and application fit so you can specify with confidence. Key Takeaways Laser-line mirrors deliver peak reflectance (typically >99.5%) at one specific wavelength, making them ideal for high-power laser systems. Broadband mirrors offer consistent reflectance across a wide spectral range (often 400–700 nm or 800–2000 nm) but at lower peak values. Damage threshold is the deciding f...