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

Laser build help

Joined
Jun 29, 2010
Messages
62
Points
8
I'm looking to build a 2+ watt laser using an m140 projector diode, and was wondering if anyone had any pointers on building it, what is a reasonable price to pay for the diode? The average I have been seeing seems to be around $45, can anyone recommend a good reliable driver?
 





IsaacT

0
Joined
Aug 25, 2010
Messages
5,947
Points
83
Google DTR Laser Shop. Buy from him. He has best prices. For build tips, use the search bar and you will find some good info. Also read the stickies.
 
Joined
Aug 14, 2013
Messages
2,655
Points
63
Flaminpyro sells X-Drives. Those are excellent for M140 builds, just watch out, you need a good size
heatsink for the boost drivers.
 
Joined
Jun 29, 2010
Messages
62
Points
8
Which would be better? A boost driver or a buck driver? I know about buck and boost converters, does the same apply here? I'm guessing a boost driver will be used for a lower voltage input supply and a buck driver will be for a higher voltage input supply?
 
Joined
Aug 14, 2013
Messages
2,655
Points
63
A boost can run from a single 18650, but it runs hotter. A buck requires 2 cells, but it runs much cooler.
A buck driver is much easier for a beginner because of the lighter heatsink requirement, but at 1.8A, a
heatsink is still recommended, just not as big. And the thermal contact is not as critical.
 




Top