532nm module Driver: Is this unit "ok"...?

Hi2all,

I'm afraid I know little about drivers. I do know that some manage to draw power form various batteries always delivering the same amount of current to the LD and others seem to vary wildly based on the input voltage (such as my DX Dilda & O-Like 532nm module).

My recent O-Like 532nm 120-150mW module tends to vary greatly depending on wether I use a 3.0V (4.3V fully charged) or 3.6V (5.4V) CR123A. The former puts out 96mW while the latter 130mW... . The module should be able to put out 120~150mW using a 3.0V battery, afaik... :thinking:

This may or may not be ok, but I noted a couple of resistors were bridged by solder and wanted to ask if this is ok (they may be used serial for the same path, I don't know...).

Attached, an image of a prior module's driver and the current module's driver with the bridged resistors.

Please let me know if you think this could have a bearing on the output, thanks!

Based on the fact that those solder points are directly connected by a trace, that bridge should not be a problem.

ElektroFreak said:

...that bridge should not be a problem.

Click to expand...

Thx for the info :yh: Btw, I should have included pic(s) of the entire driver (which I will do).

Is it possible to identify the driver type based on said pics? Can I expect the driver to deliver more power linearly when I introduce more power (i.e. 3.0V vs. 3.6V)? Not all drivers (meaning those on Dildas, 532nm modules, FlexDrive, Rckstr, etc.) act the same way to a change in input as some are able to "boost" the ip to the necessary required op.

Well, at laest current, if not voltage... :thinking:

Yes, a very noob question, I know... :yabbem:

That looks like a fairly run-of-the-mill IR diode driver similar to those used on almost all cheap green pointers. It should give more output voltage and current for more input voltage, but whether or not it is truly linear I have no idea.

I just received a 90-100mW o-like module, and I'm wondering.. is it safe to run it w/ a 3.6V rcr123a? I've only used a 3.0V rcr123a, but I'm wondering if a fully charged 3.6V would be safe?

Edit: nvm, I see on their site it ways it can handle from 3.0V-4.2V. I saw it said that before, but for some reason I was thinking a 3.6V fully charged was MORE than 4.2V.. but now I remembered correctly.

Traveller;

Based on the large change in output power, I would say the driver is linear in output vs. voltage applied.

BTW, The CR123A should not be charged to more than 4.2 VDC, as it damages the battery. I would use the CR123A regardless, and you can always adjust the pot slightly for the level you want.

LarryDFW