[Laser] laser ratings

[Tom Becker]

 > ... efficiency seems to be less than 10%.

Indeed.  I just measured a new 635nm 5wW module using a Coherent 
Lasercheck optical power meter.  While not a thermopile, I've compared 
its readings to a friend's in-calibration Newport meter; it was within a 
few percent at 635nm.

I ran the module at two levels, well below its power-regulation 
threshold and well above it.  At 2.29v the module drew 30mA or 69mW to 
produce 3.5mW output; that's 5% efficient.  At 3.0v and 30mA, it drew 
90mW and produced 5.5mW; that's 6% efficient.

Yours might be more efficient than this one, so 10% isn't unlikely.

Tom