Driver choice

I've been into lasers for a while, but I'm totally new to building them. Now I want to build a 1w 405nm single mode laser in the future, of which I will likely be purchasing the diode from DTR's store. The only thing that I'm really confused about, is what driver to get.

I know there are whole modules with diode, driver and lens included, but I'd like to build my laser completely by myself without any pre-built parts. How can I know what exact driver is needed for a 405nm, 532nm or any other wavelength diode?

I've seen a thread about many different drivers. Minimum and maximum currents and so much more, but how can I know before purchasing which of them will work the best for that specific diode?

Learn about each type of driver, and look up diode datasheet (or see what is said on DTRs site/diode threads). Many of the diodes you can get from DTR have threads on here with alot of info.

Also, never use a boost driver with red or IR diodes. They will fry the diode.

I also would recommend avoiding linear drivers if possible. Their not too bad at low currents, but for higher currents definitely avoid.

Linear or non-switching drivers have more problems than others? Due to heat?

Laser Project said:

Linear or non-switching drivers have more problems than others? Due to heat?

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Nothing wrong with them except Heat and the lower Eff , the heat isn't so much a issue in fixed builds but more in handhelds due to small sizes and also that Vin has to be above the dropout of the regulator plus the load voltage .

If you get a low drop out regulator it isn't as bad as say suing a LM317 that drops over 2V + 1.25V over resistor that sets current but as most builds are done with set voltage sources 3.7V-4.2V LiPos Ect its hard to actually get close to the minimum dropout so in the end its a lot of wasted power .

The answer to your question is to look at testing info or the data sheet for each diode as ChaosLord stated. Then you find a driver that is set at or can be adjusted to the correct current for that diode. The 405nm 1W that you buy from DTR will need 450mA to 650mA, 650mA and a G2 lens probably to get 1W.

As for linear drivers I am not sure anyone is still making any small ones for a hand held laser, but if you make your own driver they are easiest, but they are better suited for lab lasers where you are not so limited by space and can heat sink the driver and put a fan in the box, then they are OK even for high power lasers, but not as practical in a hand held unless it's low power.

Alan

Pi R Squared said:

The answer to your question is to look at testing info or the data sheet for each diode as ChaosLord stated. Then you find a driver that is set at or can be adjusted to the correct current for that diode. The 405nm 1W that you buy from DTR will need 450mA to 650mA, 650mA and a G2 lens probably to get 1W.

As for linear drivers I am not sure anyone is still making any small ones for a hand held laser, but if you make your own driver they are easiest, but they are better suited for lab lasers where you are not so limited by space and can heat sink the driver and put a fan in the box, then they are OK even for high power lasers, but not as practical in a hand held unless it's low power.

Alan

Click to expand...

Okay, I think I got it. Thanks! I will be posting my build before I purchase the parts to get it checked by more experienced members though. Wouldn't want to risk blowing up a diode.