Minimum width of host torch

Ok well I'm still undecided on what torch to buy to convert into my laser torch. I've got a couple in mind but I was wondering, using DDLs driver, aixis unit, etc. Whats the minimum width the gurus here would recommend? Something like the Ultrafire Cree C8? Thats about 21mm width at the head. So I'm guessing inside it would be around 16mm across? It's hard to know what to choose, especially from somewhere like dealextreme that takes two weeks to ship haha.

Also, whats the thoughts on using normal AA batts? I would like some rechargeable lipo's but I'd be worried about using the charger in a UK wall socket. So need some info there please!

Medd

It depends whether the torch you choose has a suitable driver already or if you'll be supplying one, and what you have in mind for mounting and heatsinking the Aixiz module.  There are any number of solutions.
With just 2 AA batts, it limits your options to a boost circuit or just a hack with a resistor that will sag right away IMHO - Or have people out there successfully used a low VDrop regulator with just 2 AAs and a GB diode?
If you want to use LiPolymer batts and you buy a charger that was designed for them I wouldn't worry - just don't use anything *not* designed to charge them.

He wasnt worried about the charger, he was worried about putting it into a wall socket in the uk, they give more voltage tham ones from america.  You can buy a convertor for the wall socket to change the voltage to about 120v, i dont think they are very much.

[move]....lazer.... ;D ;D ;D...lazer.... ;D ;D ;D...lazer.... ;D ;D ;D...lazer.... ;D ;D ;D...lazer.... ;D ;D ;D[/move]

I just wanted to put my 2 cents in here. I havnt seen many people using lipos for their lasers and I actually am.

I am using a 180 mah 7.4v lipo pack from team losi micro t. It is nice and small and fits insid emy garrity that normally holds 3 AAA.

The charge does not last long at all. There is a chance that my battery and charger could be completely F*&%$ed.
I have had problems with them not working properly. But if the charger says the pack is charged...I think its charged.

I seriously have maybe 20 mins total run time if even that. My laser never stays on for more than 2 mins. Im not using it all day just here and there and it dies out pretty fast.

I figured this might help you choose wich power source to use. There are also those lithium batteries that are AA sized that out put 3 point something volts. 2 of them and DDl's driver and your all set as it calls for 6 volts in.

Just trying to help out......

Just looked this up, google 14500 batteries.

they die so fast because there only 180mah, that will last almost no time at all, and they will start to sag because they dont hold much power.

...lazer... ;D ;D ;D

Well "they" only counts for "my" battery pack. I already know why mine dies out so fast. But I also know that I have never seen any lipo so far that is small enough for this application that will have a higher capacity than 250mah. They do make lipos that are well above the 1000mah range but they are 3s or 3 cell packs that are a whole lot bigger than wanted for this type of application and they certainly wont fit inside a torch.

My point was that maybe he reconsider using lipo as power source.
Thanks for the input but I already understand why it doesnt last long.

Cheers for your comments guys, I had pretty much decided on some duracell m3 AAs or something like that. If it eats batts, meh. Won't be using it everyday anyways.

One of my thoughts was could I use the driver out of one of the torches I've been thinking about. I think it's pretty much out of either the Ultrafire Cree C8 or the Romisen Cree RC-N3.

If I can't use the driver or it can't be modded then I would definatly use DDLs driver. In fact I would probably go that way anyway. Better to build my own and take control of the power right?

Medd