Theralase TLC-1000
Superpulsed therapy laser systems at 905nm
Important Notice
ColdLasers.org does not sell Theralase products. This page is provided for educational and comparison purposes only—for practitioners researching superpulsed laser technology or evaluating different manufacturers in this category.
📰 In The News
Theralase has been in the news regarding regulatory issues. The Ontario Securities Commission announced a settlement over allegations of stealing thousands from investors. Practitioners should conduct due diligence on any manufacturer before making significant equipment purchases.
About Theralase TLC-1000
Theralase is one of three major manufacturers (alongside TerraQuant and Lumix) that believe superpulsing technology produces better results than standard pulsing or continuous wave lasers. Their TLC-1000 product line uses superpulsed 905nm wavelength as the primary energy source.
This represents a philosophical difference from traditional photobiomodulation, which focuses on target dosages as the key efficacy measure. Superpulsing proponents emphasize the frequency and pulse characteristics as critical for treating different conditions—a concept also popularized by Erchonia with their low-power frequency-based approach.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is superpulsing and how does Theralase use it?
Superpulsing delivers extremely short bursts of very high-power laser light (nanosecond pulses) rather than continuous output. Theralase uses 200-nanosecond pulses at approximately 10 kHz frequency. This allows 50,000mW peak power without tissue heating—the laser is "off" more than it's "on." The brief, intense pulses are claimed to penetrate deeper than equivalent average-power continuous lasers.
How does Theralase compare to TerraQuant?
Both use similar superpulsing technology at 905nm with comparable power levels. The main difference: TerraQuant offers 3 wavelengths while Theralase uses 2 (905nm infrared + 660nm red). Build quality appears similar—both use injection-molded plastics with membrane keypads. TerraQuant is typically available through more distribution channels.
Why is Theralase only Class II instead of Class 3B or 4?
Despite 50,000mW peak power, the superpulsing duty cycle (laser on-time vs off-time) results in very low average power. Laser classification is based on average power and potential for harm. Since the laser is off most of the time, the average output stays low enough for Class II classification—making it available for home use without the restrictions of higher-class devices.
Can Theralase really penetrate 4 inches?
Theralase claims up to 4 inches of penetration with their 905nm superpulsed beam. This is a marketing claim based on the physics of short, high-power pulses. Independent verification of such depth claims is limited. The 660nm red wavelength is claimed to penetrate only ¼ to 1 inch. Actual therapeutic depth depends on many factors including tissue type and treatment parameters.
What is the difference between superpulsing and hyperpulsing?
Superpulsing (used by Theralase, TerraQuant) has a low duty cycle—the laser is off more than on, allowing very high peak power safely. Hyperpulsing (used by PowerMedic, Lumix) has a high duty cycle—the laser is on more than off, delivering higher average power. Lumix Series 3 combines both superpulsing and continuous wave for a hybrid approach.
Does Theralase really treat cancer?
Theralase has made claims about cancer treatment with their "Photo Dynamic Therapy" approach using multi-wavelength lasers. These are experimental claims. The only other company making similar claims (Q1000) was shut down by the FDA. Practitioners should be cautious about cancer treatment claims and verify regulatory status before considering such applications.
Where can I buy Theralase products?
Theralase products are sold only through their regional sales representatives—not online. This direct sales model means you'll need to contact the company for pricing and availability. ColdLasers.org does not sell or distribute Theralase products.
Superpulsing Technology Explained
The Theralase approach uses physics to achieve deep penetration without thermal risk:
By delivering 50,000mW in bursts of only 200 nanoseconds at ~10 kHz frequency, superficial tissues don't have time to heat up, but the high instantaneous power achieves better depth penetration. This is the same principle used by TerraQuant, Lumix, and other superpulsed systems—though each manufacturer implements it differently.
Theralase Product Line
Desktop Controller System
Battery-operated rechargeable desktop controller that works with 3 optional interchangeable probes. The base unit provides power and control while different probe heads address various treatment needs.
50,000mW peak power. Used for point treatment, acupuncture points, smoking cessation, weight loss protocols.
Superpulsed 905nm plus 2× 660nm red LEDs (~25mW). Red light indicates active treatment area.
Superpulsed 905nm plus 4× 660nm red LEDs. Larger coverage for joints and muscle treatment.
Handheld Cordless Emitters
Self-contained battery-powered units without external controller. Fully portable for mobile practitioners or home use.
Technical Specifications
About the Dual Wavelengths
The 660nm red LEDs in Theralase cluster probes serve a primarily practical purpose: they illuminate the treatment area and provide visual confirmation that the laser is active. At only ~25mW average power, the therapeutic contribution of the 660nm wavelength is minimal compared to the 50,000mW peak power at 905nm.
This is actually an important safety feature. The 905nm infrared beam is invisible—without the red indicator lights, a user might accidentally look directly into an active emitter putting out enough energy to cause eye damage. The visible red serves as a warning and treatment guide.
Theralase vs. Other Superpulsed Systems
Theralase
- 50,000mW peak power
- 2 wavelengths (905nm + 660nm)
- Class II classification
- Desktop + handheld options
- Direct sales only
- Made in Canada
TerraQuant
- Similar peak power range
- 3 wavelengths
- Class II classification
- Similar probe options
- Wider distribution
- Similar build quality
Both systems use similar superpulsing technology. TerraQuant's additional wavelength and broader availability may be advantages for some practitioners.
The Superpulsing Philosophy
Theralase and similar superpulsed systems represent a different approach to photobiomodulation. Traditional PBM focuses on delivering specific energy dosages (joules) to tissue. Superpulsing proponents argue that pulse characteristics—frequency, duration, peak power—are equally or more important than total dose.
Dosage (joules/cm²) is the primary efficacy factor. Wavelength matters, but delivery method (pulsed vs continuous) is secondary.
Pulse frequency and characteristics are key to treating different conditions. High peak power enables deeper penetration without the risks of high average power.
Combines superpulsing with continuous wave output to get benefits of both philosophies in one system.
Marketed Applications
- Chronic pain conditions
- Joint pain and arthritis
- Back and neck pain
- Sports injuries
- Smoking cessation
- Weight loss protocols
- Acupuncture points
- Wellness treatments
- Companion animals
- Home pet care
- Veterinary practices
- Equine therapy
- Photo Dynamic Therapy
- Cancer research claims
- Multi-wavelength protocols
- ⚠️ Verify regulatory status
⚠️ Considerations
The Ontario Securities Commission settlement raises questions about company governance. Conduct thorough due diligence before purchasing.
Claims about cancer treatment are experimental and controversial. The FDA has shut down other companies making similar claims. Verify current regulatory status.
Products sold only through regional sales reps—not available online. This limits price comparison and may mean higher costs.
The 4-inch penetration claim is based on theoretical physics of superpulsing. Independent clinical verification of such depth claims is limited.
Despite high peak power, the low duty cycle means very low average power. Treatment times may be longer than continuous wave Class 4 systems.
Exploring Therapy Laser Options?
We carry a range of therapy lasers with various technologies, active manufacturer support, and full warranties.
ColdLasers.org does not sell, distribute, or represent Theralase products. This information is provided for educational and comparison purposes only. Product specifications are based on manufacturer claims and may not reflect current offerings. Always verify details directly with the manufacturer.