ISO 17526:2003涵盖了描述、估计和预测各种类型激光器长期行为的术语和定义、试验方法和评估程序。 它定义了激光寿命的术语，并规定了确定寿命的试验程序和基本方面。它适用于寿命是一个关键问题的所有类型的激光器，包括用于电信的半导体激光器除外。

ISO 17526:2003 covers terms and definitions as well as test methods and evaluation procedures to characterize, estimate and predict the longterm behaviour of various types of lasers. It defines terms for the lifetime of lasers and specifies test procedures and fundamental aspects for the determination of lifetime. It applies for all types of lasers for which lifetime is a critical issue, including diode lasers except those used in telecommunications.