Laser power control arrangements interrupt power to a laser used in
electro-optical readers upon detection of an over-power condition not
conforming to preestablished regulatory standards. In one embodiment,
during an operational mode, a difference between laser drive currents at
two operating points is compared to a difference between laser drive
currents at the same two operating points during a calibration mode. The
over-power condition is recognized when the difference during the
operational mode exceeds the difference during the calibration mode by a
predetermined amount. In another embodiment, the laser is only energized
to emit the beam at a reduced power level well below regulatory standards
for staring at even if a motor drive failed.