A diode laser is a type of laser that uses a semiconductor as its gain medium. It works by passing an electric current through the semiconductor material, which causes it to emit light. This light is then amplified and focused to produce a coherent beam. Diode lasers are compact, efficient, and can be found in various applications, including optical communication and laser pointers. These lasers are known for their versatility and can operate at different wavelengths, depending on the materials used. Commonly, they are used in devices like CD players, barcode scanners, and laser printers. Their small size and low power consumption make them ideal for many modern technologies.