Second build complete: 445nm M-140 in SH-032 (Pic Heavy)

So after about 5 weeks of ordering parts, testing, waiting, testing some more, and getting my labels my build is finally complete. I decided I wanted to go with another SH-032 host, matching my Jayrob SS DIY green kit that I built a while back. I love the feel of this host so much that I am going to complete my collection with this host in other wavelengths.

I first went with a benboost mini v5 set at 1.58A, but I hadn't drilled out the pill yet, and I broke the IC off trying to file down the heatsink (copper bar) that came epoxied on it (not smart I know). Anyways, I ordered a 1.9A 16.8mm round adjustable x-boost driver. After fiddling with it for what seemed like forever, I just left it running at 1.5A (the pot wouldnt change the current). I contacted Cliff and Lazeerer regarding it and Lazeerer has agreed to send out a new one set at 1.7A (my intended current) so I can rule out my readings, and mail this one back so that he can determine the problem (most likely I broke the pot).

Total parts/invested:
-Aurora SH-032 host = $24.00
-Copper Heatsink (Jayrob) = $41.00
-M-140 Diode in Copper Module w/3-element lens = $60.00
-Benboost mini v5 (broke) = $14.00
-1.9A round X-boost = $19.00
-AW 18650 3100mah battery = $19.00
-Goggles = $18.00
-Thermal epoxy = $5.00
-Warning label = $1.50
TOTAL = $201.50

I know for the amount I spent I probably could gotten a nicer one already made, but building it is more than half the fun for me...

Even at 1.5A I am extremely happy with this laser. It is super bright, I wont use it unless goggled up. As soon as I get the new driver I will add some pictures of the insides. These are good for now :beer:

445nm and 532nm



445nm




Beam Shots






Both lasers are on... the 445nm is so strong it overpowers the small 50mw o-like module....


And some test burning my son and I did


Thanks for looking!

Re: Second build complete: 445nm M-140 in SH-032

Great build there! Great job and I was just thinking like an hour ago about how I wished I had all the wavelengths in the SH-032 host. Such a great, clean host to work with. Love it! +rep for you! :beer:

Re: Second build complete: 445nm M-140 in SH-032

Thanks man!

Nice build man Looking great for second build only :beer:

Great job! I have to agree with you...building a laser is much more fun than just buying one, especially if its your own build and not just a kit.

BTW have you considered a custom focus adapter? They look much better than the standard aixiz ones and you wont burn your fingers! Here's a build I did with a similar host, the small sun, and one of flaming Pyros hydras. Food for thought... +1 :beer:

I am so happy to see other parents building lasers and responsibly using them with their children!

I have a budding physicist daughter (13) that helps me build and tune our lasers. On our VERY similar 445nm build, she helped me solder our selectable 3A test load and everything! We were surprised on our first test whilst focusing the beam, we accidently burnt a tiny spot in the white kitchen paint! D'oh!

That is a beautiful host and a very nice build. I hope you get many many years of enjoyment with your son and your lasers.

Cheers!

grainde said:

BTW have you considered a custom focus adapter? They look much better than the standard aixiz ones and you wont burn your fingers! Here's a build I did with a similar host, the small sun, and one of flaming Pyros hydras. Food for thought... +1 :beer:

Click to expand...

Wow man that looks amazing! I was scared the SH-032 wouldnt be able to pull off those hydra style adapter, but you have showed me otherwise. Actually I have been fighting (in my head) over which custom adapter I want. I like the ones Jayrob makes (his EZ knurled ones) but flaminpyro has got some beautiful ones with the little glowing tritium recessed into grooves. I WILL get a custom focus adapter though after I have landed on the one I want.

scumbagatheist said:

I am so happy to see other parents building lasers and responsibly using them with their children!

I have a budding physicist daughter (13) that helps me build and tune our lasers. On our VERY similar 445nm build, she helped me solder our selectable 3A test load and everything! We were surprised on our first test whilst focusing the beam, we accidently burnt a tiny spot in the white kitchen paint! D'oh!

That is a beautiful host and a very nice build. I hope you get many many years of enjoyment with your son and your lasers.

Cheers!

Click to expand...

My son is only 8, but he absolutely loves all things laser like I did at his age (and still do). Its soooo awesome to hear him explaining laser stuff to people, like that it should be treated like a loaded gun, only used with goggles, that the blue "bar" is a result of a multimode diode (that one made me smile). I have always been interested in lasers, but his interest and how quickly he picks up the tech stuff has made it kind of "our" hobby. Definitely wouldnt be the same if I didnt have someone to share in my awe....

Thank you guys for the kind words! :beer:

Hey Corey, congrats! It looks great, good luck to you and your son in your laser endeavors

Thanks Bruce! Love your avatar btw! :gj: