Lasers and instrumentation used in the biotechnology industry for applications such as DNA sequencing and flow cytometry are typically based on fluorescence excitation of dyes attached to the sample under investigation or by exciting natural fluorescence of biological molecules. Most of the instruments are based on continuous-wave (CW) lasers in the visible wavelength range. More specialized applications use UV excitation with pulsed or Q-switched lasers. In addition, fluorescence can be used to label certain biochemical reactions in the event multiple tests are done simultaneously. Fluorescence excitation is also used in confocal microscopy where the fluoresced light can also be used for imaging purposes to achieve 3D rendering.

JDSU lasers used for biotechnology instrumentation applications include argon-ion and helium-neon gas lasers and frequency-converted CW and pulsed DPSS lasers.