How to protect LD (first build)

Hey, I was wondering if there were any precautions I need to take to protect the laser diode from ESD and heat during installation.
Do I simply use the back of the aixiz module to press the diode into the top? And is 139mA too much current for the P803T diode if I have a heatsink? I've read that 120mA was the safe limit, and there seems to be a wide difference in opinion on the safety of 150mA.

These diodes vary considerably between individuals. One diode may last at 180mA where another blows at 150mA. A safe limit where no diode should blow is 110mA. If you have a couple of diodes around, you'll be able to get one going at 139mA. Keep the soldering time as short as possible to minimize heat transfer into the diode. Pretin any connecting wires so only a momentary touch of the iron is required to make the connection. Follow reasonable ESD precautions, especially equalizing charges between surfaces/items as you move the diode around. Once the diode is in the heatsink and soldered to the output cap and driver, it is pretty safe. As has been shown in detail in other threads (search) you can use the back of the aixiz module and a vise to press the diode in. Best of luck with your build!

Is it necessary to use an ESD safe soldering station when soldering the diode, or is it ok to use just any ordinary soldering equipment?

a normal piece of sh-- radio shack iron will be just fine, no need to buy special eq. for a diode

I personally used a 1990 piece of junk with caked on plastic and rust. Worked fine for me.

Using the back of the aixiz module will only get the LD flush with the back of the housing which may give you issues when you are trying to focus it, use something like a bike brake adjuster to push it all the way in.

Regards rog8811