Hello from Miami

So, I've been lurking for years, and finally decided it's time I get back into this.

I started this hobby in the 80's when I built a HeNe with my dad for a science fair project.

Eventually ended up smoking the tube with RP, but the bug took hold.

In 2001 or 2002 I bought one of the first wicked lasers, a green DPSS 532, putting about 100mw downrange. I was blown away.

Since then I've had a few interesting lasers, and have used lower power units to do lightbench stuff (just messing around really)..

So, now today.. I've dreamed of a REAL burning laser since I was a kiddo - and with the NUBM44, that dream has come true. Bought a module (30mm copper, HUGE mofo) from DTR, and had him set it at a conservative 4A on the driver. Seeing what this does, I can't see any 'need' to drive it harder, this is 'enough' for now.

Was happy to pick up a couple good deals in the forum here, and am now SUPER over-spent. That 'cheap' module blew up into four figures QUICK!

Anyway, more about me, ECMMS professional (maintenance software - fortune 500 companies are primary customer) - geologist (mineralogist) by training/degree. I like light - photography, infared, lasers, LEDs, etc. Fascinated by the physics of it, as well as the application.

Other stuff - locksport (I can open most locks in well under a minute), paintball, fine writing pens (fountain), and whiskey (about 300 bottles open at the moment)..

I think that covers the important stuff. Hope to be a part of the community here for a while, thanks for the warm welcome so far, and great deals (and help!)

Although I have seen you posting. An official welcome to the forum for you.
I got 7W out of my NUBM44 before it burnt my lpm sensor, so it is very likely to be more. Stay safe, that laser is very dangerous. It will smoke wood in the time it takes to flip a switch on/off. What goggles do you have?

Welcome to LPF Cory, It looks like you're no rookie with lasers, but be sure to get proper safety goggles if you don't already have them! :beer:

Be safe, have fun, and enjoy your stay! :yh:

Welcome!

CurtisOliver said:

Although I have seen you posting. An official welcome to the forum for you.
I got 7W out of my NUBM44 before it burnt my lpm sensor, so it is very likely to be more. Stay safe, that laser is very dangerous. It will smoke wood in the time it takes to flip a switch on/off. What goggles do you have?

Click to expand...

Hehe. Good advise.

I have several pairs, OD4 or so for the 532 stuff. Did just pick up a set of eagle pair OD4 (thinking I should grab a pair of the OD6 - any input from you guys on that?)...

Hell, I even actually bought some eye patches, in case I'm doing anything even relatively stupid, so I can cover an eye below the eye pro (don't trust OD4 to stop a coherent beam at this power level, not at all...)

And, I did find out that my usual heavy cardboard backstop is insufficient. There is now a 1" long black line on the back of a chair. Clearly FAR more power than I've ever dealt with, but I'm learning respect very quickly here.

OD 5+ will be plenty. Just avoid any dangerous situations and use common sense. Do that and you will be just fine.

Please remember that the NUBM44 is a huge fire risk. It is so dangerous and burns most things you put in front of it.

Welcome to the forums!

-Alex

CurtisOliver said:

OD 5+ will be plenty. Just avoid any dangerous situations and use common sense. Do that and you will be just fine.

Please remember that the NUBM44 is a huge fire risk. It is so dangerous and burns most things you put in front of it.

Click to expand...

SO true. And yes, I do, and will. Frankly, I mentally refer to it as my 'laser scalpel" I've already put just the tiniest bit of the tip of my finger into the edge of the beam path trying to adjust it while operational, that was my one and only warning.

Welcome to LPF, the nubm44 was definitely quite the shocker for me too. I've got one, it's my highest output power laser, though my favourite is definitely my 07e. It's the brightest I've got and the best baby blue colour you can get from an affordable diode.

Ouch, I don't recommend getting any part of your body in front of 7W of laser. I remember burning myself with 2w.
The 465's are amazing, brilliant wavelength and power. What's not to like.

Put your old avatar back!

Welcome,
and I also set my NUM44 purposely at 4A more for diode protection before I learned from members they are a work horse. Still though at 5.7W it is brutal and way more than enough. I don't tend to use it much as its still overkill but sure nice to have..
Is that 30mm module from DTR a typo?? have to check to see whats he's up to

Edit: well what do you know he has some "35mm" modules for the 9mm diode's!

Yes, even though I love the power. It is overkill I admit.
Brutal, that's a good description.

Hehe. I'll get the avatar back asap. ;-)

I understand the reason for your insistence, I feel the same way every time I look in the mirror.. LOL ;-)

Thought that was an actor

Alaskan said:

Thought that was an actor

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Well, hell, that's the nicest thing anyone has said to me this week. Thanks!

I am an actor though. I play an adult in this little production called 'Life' .. challenging, but generally a rewarding role to play. ;-)