Wanting Information (Beginner)

Hi everyone! I've been reading over these forums for the last few days, and I'm finding that I'm very interested in all of this stuff.

I've decided I want to build my own laser, and my end-goal is to build a powerful laser (hopefully ~500mW or higher output). However, I think I need to know the background and science behind it all before I attempt to build one, as I think it's more important that you know what you're doing (other than following a set of instructions) and know how it works.

Basically what I'm after is all the information you can give me related to the science behind the lasers and the building of them. I'll be focusing on handheld lasers, so preferably stuff that relates to that.

If you have any resources you can share with me regarding tutorials, laser science (preferably handheld related), how to build lasers, the parts of a handheld laser and what they are, and so fourth, I'd be truly grateful

Keep in mind that I'm pretty much going from 0 knowledge regarding lasers, so I'll need to obviously start basic.

Thanks guys!

Well it's simple really. Ill keep it short (on iphone).

Get a diode. Find out +/-/case pins.
Get a driver. Like flexdrive.
Put diode into aixiz module.
Solder diode to driver.
Put module into heatsink.
Put hs into host.
Find a way to make battery connections to driver (like case negative)
Insert lens in aixiz module.

Check out jayrobs kits.

The science: google "solid state lasers"


Oh and you will have to set the current on the driver. Preferable with a test load.

Welcome to the forum. :wave:

Also have a look at the guide link in my sig. It gives a lot of clues as to where to find what you're after. I doesn't spoonfeed you; more gives the signposts so you can find it yourself. This will also help you find your way around the forum as well as learn about lasers. For a good starter kit see my recent review in the, "Reviews", section, (funnily enough! ) - http://laserpointerforums.com/f52/odicforce-entry-level-laser-kits-53349.html

Good luck and there's loads to take in! It may take time but it's worth it to take it slowly. We're not going anywhere, so there's no rush.

Have fun and stay safe!

M

Thanks Morgan and Tabish!

Morgan, I just bought that laser kit That should be fun. Do you recommend getting a power output meter (what's the proper term for this?) so I can test the output of my lasers? If so, what one would you recommend.

Oh and which goggles do you recommend?

What tools will be important to me if I decide to make this a new hobby? Cheers