Could I use the lens in dvd writer for collimating laser from diode? There is one single lens that is large enough to be practical in a pointer but i don't know if it's useful for collimation
Maybe. The focal length is very short though, so you'll have to put it very close to the diode. If it works, the beam will be smaller, but also more divergent.
I tried this once to make a "g lense" on the cheap. It couldnt get close enough to focus but I think its because I used the barrel from an acrylic lens. The glass lens barrels are longer so it might work.
have you tried it yet I was wondering because I actually want to do the opposite I want to make a real small dot at a short length is fine in order to do a laser burner/etcher thing would be nice to know your results and what you can tell us, also what is actually inside the sled?
there should be somesort of mirror or prism and well the lens that points toward the dvd. would be nice to know what you have accoplished the data might be invaluable for my project
share details and pics if possible plz
terramir
Actually what i want to do is a diy module that can be used in focusing and collimation, i did it but with poor results cause i have alignment issues that cause a lot of loss in power , i didn't use the lens from the dvd sled yet cause I'm a little busy these days but I'm sure it can focus the laser cause this is what it does in the dvd writer