Homemade DVD Burner Laser Help

Hi,

I am wondering how I would go about building a laser using a "LM317 Voltage Regulator Board" as from DIY LM317 Adjustable Voltage Regulator Power Supply Module w/ Rectification - Blue - Free Shipping - DealExtreme I currently have this circuit board, but I am not sure if it is possible to create a functional, long-lasting laser with it. Please bear with me as I am new to this hobby.

Thanks in advance for your replies.

Wire it up with two batteries and make sure the current output is stable and around 300 -350 mA max for a red. You may have an LPC 826 etc, which can actually take a higher current (even up to 550 mA), but you probably don't know the exact diode you have. If it's a PHR purple diode stick to 120 mA max. A linear will run a purple too, so don't worry, but you will need 2 bats.

I'd suggest reading up on your drive to determine what diodes are actually in there ie search on the forums for similar builds and go from there. Take anti-static precautions and don't heat the diode pins too long. Last suggestion would be to buy a proper laser driver from the forums it will probably be safer and kinder on your diode than a cheap DX LED driver. Good luck :beer: