Update: (11/16/09)

I received some orders from DX, and unless they sent the wrong items, they have changed their 4171 host again.

The ones I received will fit an 18650 battery. And the head is completely different on the inside. So my current heatsink design will not work for the latest ones. (hopefully it was a mistake, and they just sent me the wrong hosts)

See picture comparisons here:
http://laserpointerforums.com/f39/fs...5-a-22512.html

Just making it known because the 4171 has been such a popular host...




If you like the popular DX sku 4171 host, and want to do your own build, I have the parts list and information all here in one place for you!

Here is a list of everything you will need. Take time to read the threads that I have linked here. This is a very good build. It is a 'pumped up' version of Daedal's original 'DIY Laser Torch'. Daedal is commonly referred to as DDL.

The differences are:
* The open can diode
* The heatsink
* The use of the 3 ohm resistor, instead of 2 x 10 ohm resistors and a pot. No pot, and just the 3 ohm resistor at the LM317 will give you the 420mA's. (about 245 to 250mW’s with an acrylic lens – 290 to 300mW’s with a Meredith glass lens, depending on the efficiency of the diode)
* Heatsink needed! As well as the 3.6 volt batteries. (DDL driver) His laser thread doesn't mention the silicon diode and cap, because he covered that in his driver thread. He shows pictures of those components in his build.

DDL's original 'Laser Torch' thread is here:
http://laserpointerforums.com/laser_...ad.php?t=26402

DDL's driver thread is here:
http://laserpointerforums.com/laser_...ad.php?t=26339


As far as individual parts for this 'upgrade', I sell the heatsinks... Shown here:
http://laserpointerforums.com/f39/fs...nks-22511.html
I make heatsinks for three different MXDL models. Fit for the module of your choice!

Or a 'Host/Heatsink' Combo kit with options for a FlexDrive pre-installed and current pre-set... Shown here:
http://laserpointerforums.com/f39/fs...5-a-22512.html

Note: There are two style 4171 hosts that I make heatsinks for. As well as two style heatsinks. See pictures in the thread linked above.

I do have glass lens modifications that will increase power. 26% for blu-ray and 20% for red (vs AixiZ acrylic back opened) See my signature below.

But for other hosts, I make heatsinks and host/heatsink kits for several different hosts... See here:
DIY Laser Projects & Heatsinks


For a blu-ray build with this 4171 host, it is probably better to go with a FlexDrive, and 2 X 3.0 volt lithium primaries. (CR123) You would still have to put a silicon diode before the driver for this set up. (for details on this, see my Host/Heatsink Combo Kit linked above)

That said, I believe there are people using the 4171/rkcstr set up for a blu-ray build. Using 2 X 3.6 volt RCR123 rechargeable batteries. (8.4 volts at full charge) But the voltage will soon drop below the needed amount for current regulation, and the output power will drop as the batteries drain.


4171 build:
Here are links to where you can buy all of the other parts needed for the build:
* Host: DealExtreme: $12.66 MXDL 5W Lumileds CR123A 6V Flashlight (red build)
* Open can diode drive to harvest: (LPC-815 sled)http://laserpointerforums.com/laser_...ad.php?t=22495 (and if he is out, there are a bunch of people selling these in the BST and/or Group buy sections)
* AixiZ module: Aixiz Modules : StoneTek Electronics, Your Laser Parts Store
* Meredith Module and 5.6mm adapter: Meredith Instruments
* Batteries: DealExtreme: $4.90 TrustFire Protected 3.6V 880mAh 16340/CR123A Batteries (2-Pack)
* Charger: DealExtreme: $6.71 DSD 18650 CR123A Charger Black

Driver parts:
* LM317: Digi-Key - LM317TNS-ND (Manufacturer - LM317T/NOPB)
* 3 ohm resistor: Parts-Express.com:*3.0 Ohm 1W Flameproof Resistor 10 Pcs. | resistors RESISTOR power resistor power 10 ohm resistor 10 ohm 1 Ohm Resistor
* Silicon diode: Digi-Key - 1N4001DICT-ND (Manufacturer - 1N4001-T)
* Capacitor: Digi-Key - 478-1911-ND (Manufacturer - TAP476K016SCS)
* FlexDrive: http://hacylon.case.edu/ebay/laser_d..._FlexDrive.php
* Batteries for FlexDrive build: Energizer Lithium CR123A 3V Photo Lithium Battery
* rkcstr driver: rkcstr.com, Micro-Drive and laser diode electronics

My MXDL page showing the FlexDrive upgrade: DIY Laser Projects & Heatsinks

I have a couple of documents and ‘tips’ on doing this build using my custom heatsink. In my ‘Driver Tips’ document, you will find a good schematic of the original DDL driver. (these two documents may take a minute to download)
http://www.sonic.net/~jayrob/MXDLDriverTips.doc
http://www.sonic.net/~jayrob/MXDLHeatsinkTips.doc


UPDATE: The (new style) 4171 host is a little different, and the differences are shown here:
http://laserpointerforums.com/laser_...ad.php?t=22512





* FS: 650-G-1 Glass Lens Fit For AixiZ! - 25% increase in power for RED!
FS: 650-G-1 Glass Lens Modification! - Fit for AixiZ - 25% Increase for Red!

Very well sticked. Nice organised jay! Keep up the good work

I know that DDL had something similar, but since his original 'Laser Torch' has evolved so much, and with the availability of more drivers and stuff, I thought it would be a good reference for all of the parts and options in one spot!

Hope it helps!
Jay