The light sources were evaluated for detection limits for various biological stains. The evaluated stains had been made during prior research and stored at room temperature for approximately 2 years. The stains were a serial dilution made from semen, saliva, and sweat specimens and were examined using both laser light sources and the high-intensity quartz arc tube. All of the instruments tested proved to be excellent for the detection of body fluid secretions. The Luma-Print light had a better detection rate for the semen, saliva, and sweat stains examined. The detection rates were the same for both the 18-W and 200-mW lasers. The major disadvantage of the 18-W laser is its cost compared to the other instruments. Other disadvantages are its higher power consumption, immobility, and plasma tube replacement cost. 6 tables, 21 figures, 5 references. (Author abstract modified)