Power Clarification

I just recently built a 445nm with an m140 diode. I'm using a 1.5amp driver and it was really incredible! But now two days later, I feel like its not as bright as it used to be. My friend could see it from his house, now he can't? I don't recall anything going wrong. Is there anything to look for, or any similiar situations?

C6 Copper Heatsink. 2 Ultrafire batteries 16340 rechargable, 3 Element Lens.

Dropbox images

https://www.dropbox.com/sh/ut6uae9p5ftedao/rZvdN8Mlty/Laser

Have you charged your batteries? After 2 days at such a high amperage, crappy batteries will need to be recharged pretty regularly.

Oh yes, I have 4 of them and a DMM, right now they are at 3.95v. The first thing I did was charge them but I'm still not feeling it. I bought two 18650's just waiting on the extension tube.

I have exactly the same laser, you can see it here: http://laserpointerforums.com/f65/assembled-m140-c6-pic-heavy-83543.html It is very powerful but I have found that the batteries only last a few minutes before there is a power drop and they need recharging. Also be sure your lens is properly focused. If its not the batteries or the lens out of focus then something could be wrong but its likely the batteries.

Alan

Pi R Squared said:

I have exactly the same laser, you can see it here: http://laserpointerforums.com/f65/assembled-m140-c6-pic-heavy-83543.html It is very powerful but I have found that the batteries only last a few minutes before there is a power drop and they need recharging. Also be sure your lens is properly focused. If its not the batteries or the lens out of focus then something could be wrong but its likely the batteries.

Alan

Click to expand...

Funny story, you were my inspiration and I copied your exact build haha.

That's great, I am glad I could help. I just recently did another one a 9mm here: http://laserpointerforums.com/f65/assembled-445nm-9mm-stainless-steel-host-pic-heavy-85997.html I am hoping it will help a few people learn how to build a laser. I hope to do another one but I don't know how soon I can do it. Best of luck with your laser.

Alan