810 nm Diode Laser Ophthalmology: the A.R.C. FOX IV 810

Key specifications

FOX IV 810 is a diode laser at 810 nm with 8 W output power in a metal housing. Pulse length ranges from 100 µs to 60 s or continuous wave. It measures 17.4 × 14.2 × 16.3 cm and is supplied with its accessories in a carrying case.

A large colour touch display shows the key parameters in the central field of view, with application-specific colour schemes, so the operator can confirm settings quickly in a dim room or theatre.

The compact housing and carrying case make the laser easy to move between a clinic room, a ward and an operating theatre, and the battery means it can be used where a mains outlet is not close to the patient.

• Wavelength 810 nm, output power 8 W.
• Pulse length 100 µs to 60 s or CW.
• Weight 1.53 kg, battery or mains operation.
• Power limit of 3 W for glaucoma and retinal treatments.

Micropulse cyclophotocoagulation functions

For micropulse cyclophotocoagulation (µCPC) the laser offers energy and time counters, voice output every 10 s or 10 J and a metronome signal every 1 s or 1 J. These aids help the surgeon keep a consistent sweeping rhythm without watching the display. The geometry of the direction-independent µCPC probe tip is protected by patents in Germany, Europe and the USA, according to the manufacturer.

For the broader clinical background see our articles on diode laser cyclophotocoagulation and the micropulse laser explainer; this page covers the equipment.

TCL-DCR, LIO and retinal use

With 8 W the laser also has power to open bony structures in transcanalicular dacryocystorhinostomy (TCL-DCR), and it has a dedicated function for it. Details are in our article on laser dacryocystorhinostomy.

Coupled to the LIO indirect ophthalmoscope through the click-plug system, the FOX 810 supports mobile retinal photocoagulation, including treatment of retinopathy of prematurity, independent of a slit lamp. See ROP laser equipment for the neonatal setting.

Whatever the application, keep a record of settings and delivered energy for each case. The built-in counters make this simpler.

Portable ophthalmic diode laser: how to compare

When comparing portable diode lasers from any manufacturer, ask for documented output stability, battery runtime under typical loads, charging time, probe and fibre costs, display readability and the training provided. Ask for hands-on use with your own probes and workflows. We do not quote other manufacturers' specifications here.

Consider also how many services share the laser. A single portable unit that serves glaucoma, retina and oculoplastics lists can be well utilised, but only if scheduling, probe stock and sterilisation routines are organised. See the ophthalmic laser buying guide and types of ophthalmic lasers.

If several departments will share one laser, agree who owns it, where it is stored and charged and how probes and fibres are tracked, otherwise a portable device can easily go missing or be left uncharged.

Safety, service and next steps

Even a small laser requires full laser safety measures: controlled access, wavelength-specific eyewear, trained operators and a log. Our medical laser safety guide outlines them. Agree on a service and calibration path in the UAE before purchase, since a portable laser that travels between sites is exposed to more handling.

Beckfinity can arrange a FOX IV 810 demonstration for your glaucoma, retina or oculoplastic team. Contact our specialists for a quote and confirm current registration requirements with the relevant UAE authorities.