Simple question

Sorry for this easiest question (I ve gone through some you tube videos but still would like to ask)

If I hook up the laser diode with laser driver is it enough to burn something... I mean - I have a bare laser diode connected to laser driver do I need lenses or collimmator or some optics? My diode can handle 350mA and its from DVD burner thats all I have so far......

Thanks a lot

simple answer: You need a lens to focus the light into a tight spot in order to burn somehing.

Well 445nm 1W can burn through CD even without any optics at very short distances. But generally yes, optics are a must for burning.