6 Watt build using a NUBM06, 4.5A SXD-V3 driver, G-2 Lens, china host and 2x18650s

I have almost eliminated the idea of buying a 5W+ handheld laser pre made, for the cash I'd rather just build exactly what I want.

I want to use a NUBM06 diode and this host.


The host is built to use 18650s.

I would like to run it at 4.5A and anything over 5W would make me happy with a goal of an honest 6W.

I need advice on what driver to use, lenses/assembly, who can machine a heat sink to fit the host and diode, etc.

I have never built a laser before but I know how to solder electronics and am good with my hands on fine work (professional gunsmith at one time).

If someone wouldn't mind walking me through this build I'd be much obliged.

Also I will post pictures of the entire process, hopefully resulting in a step by step guide.

Re: Build using a NUBM06 a china host and 2x18630s

4.5 amp SXD and 2 x 18650 IMR

Re: Build using a NUBM06 a china host and 2x18630s

RedCowboy said:

4.5 amp SXD and 2 x 18650 IMR

Click to expand...

I'm assuming the 4.5 amp SXD from DTR is a good option. That would be convenient as that is where I'm planning on getting the Diode as well.

The handle of my host looks thick enough it could be bored out for 26650s, would there be any advantage to going with 26650s vs 18650s?

Re: Build using a NUBM06 a china host and 2x18630s

Yes but you are going to run out of heat sink long before you run out of battery, but the batteries need to be IMR/INR i.e. High Drain with Low Sag.

You will want to get a good thermal contact, use a thin layer of heat sink paste and as snug a fit as possible, waste heat will build up fast....maybe see if one of DTR's 20mm or 35mm solid copper housings can be made to fit.

The SXD is a good driver, it's about 95% efficient and has several protections, but you want the newer one that's fixed output, that is without the little adjustable pot, the older ones with the adjustable pot I would avoid unless you install it and NEVER adjust it, in my experience the pot is flimsy and can be a problem, the fixed output SXD works great, just use heat sink mounting putty to attach the 8 pin chip to the metal of your case.

The under load cutoff for the SXD is 6.8 volts, I have started running 3 cells for longer runtime, but the pocket units I build use 2 x 18650 of the LG or E-fest IMR. So when they get down to 3.6 volts at idle I charge them to a float of about 4.17 volts. When running 3 cells you can discharge then further and they last longer, but 2 good cells work fine.

This is with 2 cells and a G7 LASER SAFETY GLASSES THAT ATTENUATE 450nm ARE A MUST HAVE!

Most people here trust these, I like them a lot. CLICK >>> http://www.survivallaserusa.com/Safety_Goggles/cat1667093_1527285.aspx

Re: Build using a NUBM06 a china host and 2x18650s

I plan to buy DTRs NUBM06 450nm Laser Diode In 35mm Copper Module W/4.5A Super X-Drive(SXD-V3) & G-2 Lens

The original heat sink in the host is a 30mm Dia x 35mm, I wonder if DTR would offer a 30mm version if I asked.

Re: Build using a NUBM06 a china host and 2x18650s

Make sure to order a 3 element lens also, they are 6 dollars and you will see how much better the beam looks at a distance.

I know he has a 20mm copper but I don't think any 30's, but if your heat sink already has a 12mm hole maybe you want to get the full copper 12mm module or drill it out to 20mm.

Re: Build using a NUBM06 a china host and 2x18650s

RedCowboy said:

Make sure to order a 3 element lens also, they are 6 dollars and you will see how much better the beam looks at a distance.

I know he has a 20mm copper but I don't think any 30's, but if your heat sink already has a 12mm hole maybe you want to get the full copper 12mm module or drill it out to 20mm.

Click to expand...

The Diode in the existing aluminum heat sink is about 11/16in/17mm. I have a drill press so I could order a 20mm bit and drill it to that size.

So, Order 20mm module with G-2 lens + the spare 3 element lens.

Drill heat sink to 20mm

Install assembly in Aluminum heat sink.

Solder leads to existing switch and ground.

Thread heat sink/diode assy to body.

Drill clearance for lens adjustment into host nose cover.

Thread on cover, install batteries and I'm good to go...

Re: Build using a NUBM06 a china host and 2x18650s

You will get 5w out of a NUBMO7E and it's much brighter and nicer you will really like this diode more!

NUBMO7E on the right at 4w with a 3 element SXD V3 4.5a
NUBMO6 on the left at 3w with a G2 SXB V8 3a

Re: Build using a NUBM06 a china host and 2x18650s

badboybilly said:

You will get 5w out of a NUBMO7E and it's much brighter and nicer you will really like this diode more!

Click to expand...

Got a link to a seller?

Preferably with options like DTR is providing.

Re: Build using a NUBM06 a china host and 2x18650s

DTR has it buddy!

Re: Build using a NUBM06 a china host and 2x18650s

badboybilly said:

DTR has it buddy!

Click to expand...

Thanks found it.

It looks like it has to be pushed fairly hard to make 5w.

The NUBM06 isn't being pushed to make an honest 6w.

Do you mind explaining the finer points of using the NUBM07E over the 06?

I like the color.

Re: Build using a NUBM06 a china host and 2x18650s

It's your choice but if u want a little more power go for a NUBM44
If you want a buitifull bright beam even in the day go for the NUBMO7E
If it's your first build even a 9mm is powerfull I hope you have eye were first!

Re: Build using a NUBM06 a china host and 2x18650s

AaronT said:

Thanks found it.

It looks like it has to be pushed fairly hard to make 5w.

The NUBM06 isn't being pushed to make an honest 6w.

Do you mind explaining the finer points of using the NUBM07E over the 06?

I like the color.

Click to expand...

The NUBM07E has a much more cyan color. It's also significantly brighter than a NUBM06, though it is also more expensive. But it won't last very long if you push it to 5W. So if you are looking for burning power get the NUBM06.

Re: Build using a NUBM06 a china host and 2x18650s

STA I see you have damaged you NUBMO7E
People have killed there NUBMO6 also u can't expect any of them to last forever being pushed double there spec sheet max!

There not expensive my NUBMO7E is going strong 8 months later, but like I said if it's his first build he should go with a NDB7875!

Re: Build using a NUBM06 a china host and 2x18650s

badboybilly said:

It's your choice but if u want a little more power go for a NUBM44
If you want a buitifull bright beam even in the day go for the NUBMO7E
If it's your first build even a 9mm is powerfull I hope you have eye were first!

Click to expand...

I went for the 06 over the 44 because of divergence. I figured a 33% tighter beam made up for 15% less power.

I sort of assumed the same thing might apply for the 07E vs 06 argument.

Sta said:

The NUBM07E has a much more cyan color. It's also significantly brighter than a NUBM06, though it is also more expensive. But it won't last very long if you push it to 5W. So if you are looking for burning power get the NUBM06.

Click to expand...

I think if I were to build a laser based on the 07E I would keep it to 4.5W.

I like the idea of running the diode where it is most efficient rather than to get every last mW out of it. Especially when you have $100+ tied up in one component.

Now that I've seen the specs I'm really set on a 6W NUBM06.

Re: Build using a NUBM06 a china host and 2x18650s

badboybilly said:

The NUBM07E has a much more cyan color. It's also significantly brighter than a NUBM06, though it is also more expensive. But it won't last very long if you push it to 5W. So if you are looking for burning power get the NUBM06.


STA I see you have damaged you NUBMO7E
People have killed there NUBMO6 also u can't expect any of them to last forever being pushed double there spec sheet max!

There not expensive my NUBMO7E is going strong 8 months later, but like I said if it's his first build he should go with a NDB7875!

Click to expand...

I already have a 2W, I have torn all my lasers down to the diode at one point or another, repaired non working lasers.

I also have appropriate safety glasses.

Weather I am building a 50mw, 3w, or 6w is academic at this point.