Microvision produces pico projector prototype with "direct green" lasers

Microvision Inc. said it has created benchtop prototypes of a pico projector utilizing the first "direct green' laser samples from two leading manufacturers, taking the first step toward the commercialization of PicoP display engines using such lasers.

Microvision used red and blue laser diodes and frequency-doubled "synthetic" green lasers—infrared lasers manipulated to reduce their wavelength to produce a green light—to create a full color image. Complex multiple components held to tight tolerances are integral to the conversion process, creating numerous manufacturing challenges.

Direct green lasers produce green light natively, thereby easing the laser design and manufacturing processes. They can be manufactured in the same way that red and blue lasers are made today, leading to reduced cost and rapid scalability.

Synthetic green lasers are harder to make and the existence of just two manufacturers further constrain their availability. At least five companies have already announced efforts to manufacture direct green lasers, with some targeting late 2011 and mid-2012 for commercialization.

Industry researcher Yole Development believes that the direct green laser market could reach $500 million by 2016.

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