dvd burner LD specs?

hey guys

where could I get DVD LD power ratings? I bought 3 broken 16xDVD burners, to yeld some nice LDs, just waiting for post. I toasted 2 DVD LDs by unknown [smiley=cry.gif] [smiley=cry.gif] [smiley=cry.gif] way (I use DDL`s driver), and I want to avoid frying these new pieces. Is there any way to find out WHEN it is enough and dont crank current up any more??? :-?

what about PD feedback controller? /DVD burner LD has a PD, doesnt it? :-? /

[smiley=dankk2.gif]

-ice-

Sorry, but most DVD burner diodes do not have an internal PD.
It is very hard to look at a laser diode and then find a datasheet for it. You'd be better off I think ordering some from StoneTek as we do have a datasheet for these, and they have been pushed very hard with outstanding results. Then once you're more familar with running LDs go back to those 3 drives to harvest the diodes.

In short, there is no way to find out how much power is too much for a laser diode without killing it. But you can get close if you have a laser power meter with which to look for the 'knee'. Just search for 'power curves' over the last three months and you'll find some good stuff. But please ignore the first result as it is nothing but drama
/me hates drama.

so what is 3rd pin there for?? /according to Sam`s laser FAQ, it COULD be a PD... I measured mVolts at pins when shining flashlight into LD, and voltages matched Sam`s description pretty close :-? /

I will have to risk those dvd LDs, as shipping from US to europe is waaaay over my bugdet [smiley=laugh.gif]. and no, I dont have laser power meter . oh god, this hobby sucks [smiley=undecided.gif] . I will just stick with 2,5 - 3 volts @ < 200mA ?...