Welcome to Laser Pointer Forums - discuss green laser pointers, blue laser pointers, and all types of lasers

LPF Donation via Stripe | LPF Donation - Other Methods

Links below open in new window

ArcticMyst Security by Avery

First build parts?

Joined
Jul 27, 2009
Messages
46
Points
0
Hey guys, I've been doing a little research and I decided it was time to attempt at a laser build.
I'm going to use the DX 4171 host (I'm assuming it's the new model, since I just ordered it), and I was going to use a PHR-803T diode. What I can't decide is to use a FlexDrive or rkcstr driver. I read that a rkcstr would be better for higher voltages (>5V?), but I'm not sure. Since we're on that subject, I could also use recommendations for which batteries to use. Finally, I was planning on using a Meredith module, and just so that I know I'm not completely confused, the module is basically the Collimating Lens (Meredith Instruments), right?

So, any tips or suggestions?

P.S. If you're reading this, jayrob, I'd also like to get a heatsink (for the 4171), if possible.
 





Joined
Dec 23, 2008
Messages
3,948
Points
63
first if you want a jayrob heatsink, then send him a private message.
next order of business: i am too lazy to look up your host but a flex drive doesn't handle more than 5 vdc. so plan accordingly. also, from dx you can get "AA, and AAA" batteries in 3.6 vdc instead of standard 1.5 also no matter what make your ownd or buy a test load for your driver to set the current.
 

cust11

0
Joined
Jun 21, 2009
Messages
471
Points
0
Like chip said... test load, test load, test load. Do not blindly set a driver, ever. As for drivers, it all depends on your total voltage. I have used both but I prefer small builds so a flexdrive with a single 3.7v lith-ion works best for me. Remember, with the rkcstr you need to run 2-2.5v over (7-9v for a PHR) because it is a linear driver so it has some voltage loss.

You want suggestions on batteries?? The 10440 is the 3.6v AAA size and the 14500 3.6v is the AA size. If you do buy lith-ion batteries, try to get them "protected" which will keep you safe from overcharging and other "fun".

-Mike
 
Joined
Jul 27, 2009
Messages
46
Points
0
Okay, test load, got it. As far as batteries go, maybe I worded my question wrong. I wasn't asking about a specific battery recommendation, but rather for a battery configuration. I guess I was hoping that someone who has used the host before would share some knowledge. From what I understand, the flashlight itself uses two AA batteries, so I was hoping to keep that setup if possible. If I use two 14500s, then that would equate to 7.4V, which would be too much for the FlexDrive, correct? Also, from what I can tell, the host is decently sized, so the form factor shouldn't be a problem (which I why I was leaning towards a rkcstr driver). But would 7.4V be enough for a rkcstr? Doesn't the diode itself require like 4-5V, or am I missing something?

And could anyone verify that the Meredith module that I was looking at is correct? (This one)
 

cust11

0
Joined
Jun 21, 2009
Messages
471
Points
0
If the host uses 2 AA batteries just rewire the battery holder to make one of the holders "blank" and use it to keep a spare battery. There you go a 4.2v (overcharged) power supply for your host.

-Mike
 
Joined
Oct 26, 2007
Messages
5,438
Points
83
Yeah, that's not a bad idea to have the spare. Since the voltage is < 5V, you'll want to use a flex-drive.
 

jayrob

0
Joined
Sep 21, 2007
Messages
9,862
Points
113
The popular 4171 host takes 2 X CR123, or 2 X RCR123 rechargeable batteries.

I like this host with a FlexDrive using a silicon diode before the driver to drop voltage from 2 X CR123 primaries.

For a red build, a rkcstr driver works great with 2 X RCR123. I understand that some use this same set up on blu-rays as well. That would be 8.4 volts at full charge. So as soon as the batteries sag some, the rkcstr driver may drop out with a blu-ray.

But I have not tried that configuration... Just looking at the numbers.

See this thread for good pictures of the FlexDrive set up in that host, as well as pictures of two versions of heatsink styles:
http://laserpointerforums.com/laser_pointer_forums_3/forum/showthread.php?t=22512
Jay
 

cust11

0
Joined
Jun 21, 2009
Messages
471
Points
0
Jays kits are full of win! If you are looking for a simple build go with something from him.

-Mike
 
Joined
Jul 27, 2009
Messages
46
Points
0
Okay, after considering Jay's post, I think I'm going to go with the FlexDrive and diode configuration, like he said. I was also reading up on the 405-G-1 today, and I stumbled across this on eBay: 405nm Laser Module.
I guess what isn't clear in my mind is how the diode is actually connected to the driver. Seems like I'm missing a part, because it looks like the module contains the lens and is just assembled above the diode. And would this fit your heatsinks, Jay?
 

cust11

0
Joined
Jun 21, 2009
Messages
471
Points
0
Okay, after considering Jay's post, I think I'm going to go with the FlexDrive and diode configuration, like he said. I was also reading up on the 405-G-1 today, and I stumbled across this on eBay: 405nm Laser Module.
I guess what isn't clear in my mind is how the diode is actually connected to the driver. Seems like I'm missing a part, because it looks like the module contains the lens and is just assembled above the diode. And would this fit your heatsinks, Jay?
.

Something is missing.. the driver which is the brigde between the batteries and driver. Like you mentioned in the above post, go with the flexdrive from Drlava.

-Mike
 

jayrob

0
Joined
Sep 21, 2007
Messages
9,862
Points
113
That's a custom module that I could make a heatsink to fit, but I have lenses that are custom fit into an AixiZ brass lens nut so that they will thread into any AixiZ module.

The diode shown in the drawing is an illustration of how the diode must press into the module.

You can get diodes pre-installed into AixiZ modules from a couple of different trusted members here at LPF. One is here:
http://hightechdealz.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=4

If you are building a red, I have a Meredith glass lens modification that is fit for AixiZ as well: (best for red)
http://laserpointerforums.com/laser_pointer_forums_3/forum/showthread.php?t=22501
Jay
 
Last edited:
Joined
Jul 27, 2009
Messages
46
Points
0
Okay, so in that case I think I'll go with an AixiZ module. Jay, I'll PM you later about the heatsink and 405-G-1 lens, once I get some more information.

So, the basic setup is:
Host- 4171
Diode- PHR-803T
Heatsink
Module- AixiZ
Lens- 405-G-1
Driver- FlexDrive
Batteries- 2 x 3.0V CR123

Anything looking wrong?

Also, I was looking into the current draw to set the diode to. My basic goal is to give it a decent life while having maximum thermal power. I read somewhere that 150mA is a good point for power, but that seems a bit high. Any suggestions?
 
Joined
Jan 2, 2009
Messages
11,800
Points
0
If you want decent power and a longer life skip the PHR and lens and go for a 6X GGW diode. You'll save $10-$20 and have more power than your original configuration while retaining good life. Then if you want even more power later buy the lens.
 
Last edited:
Joined
Jul 27, 2009
Messages
46
Points
0
But the 6x is like $159.99. How would I be saving money? The PHR is only like $12.
 

jayrob

0
Joined
Sep 21, 2007
Messages
9,862
Points
113
Yeah... with a PHR build, you should be ok with just an AixiZ acrylic lens.

That said, you would still get a 26% increase in power using the 405-G-1 glass lens.

And if you upgrade to a 6X, you will need the glass lens, because with the kind of power you can get out of a 6X, the acrylic lens will degrade...
Jay
 
Joined
Jan 2, 2009
Messages
11,800
Points
0
Scopeguy sells GGW sleds, which BTW come with a nice red diode too, for $61. As for lens degration you can always buy anoher aixiz module for $4 (Scopeguy sells them too) and swap the lenses. It takes a while to degrade. Or if you have the spare cash go for the G-1 and get even more power. Just check out the BUY SELL TRADE section for Scopes threads. He may even harvest if you ask him nicely.
 




Top