I am sorry to point this out, but I can't help it. My kids watch this show "Fetch with Ruff Ruffman". It's mostly an ok kids show. However, there was a problem. In one episode, some kids were in the desert and measuring temperature with (they said it several times and it was even a quiz question at the end) - a LASER. Here is the device they used:
This is an infrared thermometer with a LASER aiming system. The laser is only there to help you aim. The temperature is determined by measuring the infrared radiation from the object. You don't even NEED the laser. Those ear thermometers work the same way, but they don't have lasers.
I guess when a laser is involved, it just makes it so cool that it must be the most important thing. I am going to put a laser pointer on my computer - that way people can say "look, that computer runs on LASERS."