Thanks. Basically, I'm trying to have the diode lase as brightly as possible when the user bridges the contacts. By dropping the resistor value, do I run into an issue with the transistor I'm trying to use?
...But I am an uneducated buffoon when it comes to EE.
I'm wanting to use a 3V lithium CR1220 button cell battery to power a cheapie 3V 5mW red laser diode rated for 20mA.
Here's my shopping list:
Lasers...