Scanning Laser Devices and Methods with Multiple Range Emission Control Pulse Sets

The embodiments described herein provide systems and methods that can improve performance in scanning laser devices. Specifically, the systems and methods emit first emission control pulse sets that are used to detect when objects (e.g., persons) are within a relatively close first safety range. Then second emission control pulses to detect when objects are within a second safety range. Then, higher energy long-range pulse sets are conditionally emitted only when objects were not detected within the first and second safety ranges with the first and second emission control pulse sets. The use of first and second emission control pulse sets can provide for improved reliability of nearby object detections, while still meeting the energy limits needed for eye safety.