Just a lurker emerging from the shadows

Hello all! I've come back to this forum several times in the past when planning to do a build but never pulled the trigger and made anything. My name is Spencer, I'm 22, and I'm from Tulsa, OK. I'm an electrical specialist in the USAF and an engineering student at Oklahoma State University. I can't seem to control myself when it comes to an interesting project, I just can't not over-commit. It's a sickness I just can't shakethinking: not that I would anyways...).

As far as lasers go, I've owned several pens over the years and have always been fascinated. My ~30mW green pen died when I moved last month so I've decided to do a build or two. I'm decently familiar with the site and have an idea of two lasers I'd like to do. I intend to post the build log since I'm getting all my information from all you wonderful vets:worthy:, so I thought I'd make an account now and say hi.

Good intro, nice to see someone who has done some reading and is familiar with the forum. Welcome to LPF.

Alan

Thanks Pi! The more I read here, the less I think I know. This place is a sink hole of information though, I always seem to have 2 windows and like 30+ tabs open.:banghead: It's a deadly circle.

Welcome to the forums. Nice intro btw

Welcome--excellent intro.

Sounds good SpencerThoughts--you will have fun here----it is a lot laser related information in one place for those willing to use 'Search"

If you don't want to build one just yet--have a look at JetLasers----they make high quality professional level lasers at reasonable prices-----maybe one of those would be good while you are gathering the will and informatio to build your own See: JETLASERS.ORG will give you a nice overview

Hey Encap, thanks I've actually been shopping around JetLasers, DragonLasers, Lazerer, and O-like but I'm really wanting to do a build. I'll probably pick up a ~50-100mW 532nm since I'm not really sure I should start my first build with a 532, but I really want one. I'd REALLY like to do a 520nm with PL250(50mW 520nm PL520 Green Copper Laser Module w Microboost Driver Aixiz Glass | eBay), but i need to do a little more homework before I pull the trigger. Ideally I'd like to do a 520nm, and a 405nm to start out, hence the endless wall of tabs reading through these forums for the last few days.

Welcome aboard!

-Alex

Hi Spencer, those wave lengths are good for your first two builds at around 50mW. Welcome to the forum. Have fun, be safe and please don't ever point a laser at an aircraft.

Haha I'm starting to think that's a theme here... (http://laserpointerforums.com/f37/anyone-owning-pointer-larger-read-90838.html, and repetitive link to https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gmL_M9MhfAo) :lasergun:

Also, opinions on the safety glasses I'm planning to order oke:? For me (Black sport-wrap laser safety glasses with high clarity polycarbonate laser protective filter for use with 190-532 nm KTP, Argon, and CO2 lasers) for guests with the 405nm I plan on making a bit more powerful (Uvex S1933X Skyper Safety Eyewear, Black Frame, SCT-Orange UV Extreme Anti-Fog Lens - Safety Glasses - Amazon.com At least that's the plan as of now.

SpencerThoughts said:

Also, opinions on the safety glasses I'm planning to order oke:? For me (Black sport-wrap laser safety glasses with high clarity polycarbonate laser protective filter for use with 190-532 nm KTP, Argon, and CO2 lasers) for guests with the 405nm I plan on making a bit more powerful (Uvex S1933X Skyper Safety Eyewear, Black Frame, SCT-Orange UV Extreme Anti-Fog Lens - Safety Glasses - Amazon.com At least that's the plan as of now.

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There are good laser safety goggles here that are reasonably priced and do the job well Safety

SpencerThoughts said:

Thanks Pi! The more I read here, the less I think I know. This place is a sink hole of information though, I always seem to have 2 windows and like 30+ tabs open.:banghead: It's a deadly circle.

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You read my mind here! I keep so many LPF tabs open, always reading, and always realizing just how much I DON'T know. Anyway, welcome! Glad to have you along on this voyage of discovery.

Not to :horse: but it is one of the if not THE biggest threats to our hobby right now because of all the fools pointing lasers at aircraft