DIY DVD laser with Dealextreme laser module

Hi to all
I have some question maybe some of you already tried it. I bought a laser module for a DIY project from DealExtreme
this one: sku.5914

I'd like to replace the laser diode with one that I salvaged from a DVD-RW. My question is: Is the laser module driver able to support the DVD diode(voltage, power....), and the diode should be soldered in the exact way as the original one?

I really love the way that this module focuses so is very important for me to replace the original diode for a project that involves a "burning laser"

Please help

The driver that came with the module will not work for powering a DVD burner laser diode, it won't put out enough current to power up the laser. You can buy a driver that will fit that module from here> http://rkcstr.googlepages.com/lpf

It needs a good driver.
Differences:

• Depending on how the diode looks like (open can, short open can, long open can) it needs 300-420mA. the original 5mW diode works on 20mA.
• The polarity of high power lasers is opposite: The DVD diode can is negative instead of positive.
• The 5mW driver uses optical feedback (photo sensor) which is present inside weak laser diodes, but not in the high power diodes. They are external (the mikly chip somewhere in the pickup)

For good drivers, keep a look our for these names: rckstr, DDL or drlava drivers (am I forgetting one?). Never believe those videos or sites that say it will work directly o n 2 AA batteries, or with just a resistor and/or capacitor. (even if they show proof that it works, they are just lucky)

Look around in the Experiments & Modifications section of the forum for these kinds of things.

Nope that driver wont work, it will supply no where near enough current for a burning diode, you should buy a rckstr driver, or even build your own DDL driver.

Thanks for your answers. Thought it couldn't work..... :

Building one won't be a problem for me, that's what I think the best solution. Do you know a fully working one(a DIY project). Of course I could Google it but since here are some experienced builders maybe some can point me to one

Thanks

Diachi said:

Nope that driver wont work, it will supply no where near enough current for a burning diode, you should buy a rckstr driver, or even build your own DDL driver.

Click to expand...

Just from the experience I am going through. I originally thought I could build my own, but I did not wanted to ruining any of my precious diodes. I search for a good driver and one that was not expensive. I found people had good comments about rckstr drivers, so I got a total three of rckstr drivers (one variable and two fixed), excellent products, no problems at all and great support and follow up from him, I cannot overemphasized my satisfaction and my success with my DIY lasers

Right now I am "stuck" in selecting another cheap, DX host for another violet laser... suggestions are welcomed.