LDR60K1 vs LDR80K1: Pulse Energy vs Weight
These two modules are unusually close: identical divergence, identical mass, identical envelope. The difference is pulse energy. That makes the choice simpler than most comparisons — and more revealing.
Specification comparison
| Parameter | LDR60K1 | LDR80K1 |
|---|---|---|
| Pulse energy | ≥ 60 mJ | ≥ 80 mJ class |
| Beam divergence | ≤ 0.3 mrad | ≤ 0.30 mrad |
| Ranging accuracy | ±2 m | not published |
| Mass | ≤ 680 g | ≤ 680 g |
| Envelope | ≤ 116 × 52 × 90 mm | 116 × 52 × 90 mm |
| Wavelength | 1064 nm | 1064 nm |
Since mass, envelope and divergence are the same, the only question is whether the extra energy changes your outcome.
What 20 mJ more actually buys
Received signal scales linearly with pulse energy, but usable range grows slowly because of 1/R² losses. Going from 60 mJ to 80 mJ is a 33% increase in energy, which in the ideal case extends usable range by roughly 15%.
Against a 10 km requirement, that extra margin matters in three situations:
- Worse-than-assumed weather. Haze that would put a 60 mJ module below its detection threshold may leave the 80 mJ module still working.
- Lower-reflectance targets. A matte or sloped target returns less; the extra energy compensates.
- Smaller targets. With the same 0.3 mrad beam, a smaller target intercepts a smaller fraction of the spot; more energy keeps the return above threshold.
If your targets are vehicle-sized in clear air at 10 km, the LDR60K1 is sufficient. If they are smaller, darker, or the atmosphere is often poor, the LDR80K1's margin is worth having.
Designation stand-off
For designation, the energy question is sharper: the seeker must see the spot, and seeker sensitivity varies. Extra pulse energy directly extends designation stand-off. If designation is the primary mission, take the LDR80K1.
Which to choose
| If | Choose |
|---|---|
| Ranging is primary, targets are vehicles, air is usually clear | LDR60K1 |
| Designation stand-off is primary | LDR80K1 |
| Operating in frequent haze or dust | LDR80K1 |
| Cost-sensitive, and margin is not needed | LDR60K1 |
Frequently asked questions
Do they weigh the same?
Both are specified at ≤ 680 g in the same 116 × 52 × 90 mm envelope. That makes the LDR80K1 a direct energy upgrade.
Is the LDR80K1 a drop-in replacement?
Mechanically and dimensionally yes. Confirm the interface and thermal load with the supplier, since higher energy means more heat per pulse.
Which has better accuracy?
The LDR60K1 specifies ±2 m; the LDR80K1's accuracy figure is not published in the summary data. Request the controlled datasheet.
Does more energy mean shorter designation duty cycle?
Higher energy per pulse generally means more heat, which can constrain duty cycle. Confirm the qualified cycles for both.
See the designator collection or read what sets range.