First Proper 1.6W 445nm Build Static(ESD) Questions

So my first Osram 445nm 450nm 1.6W PLTB450B diode that I bought off a website arrived today. I have yet to open the box because I am worried about shocking the diode. The first 250mw 650nm red laser that I built was before I started reading this forum. I did not use any ESD precautions except washing my hand every time before touching it. Amazingly it is still alive. After reading many threads on laser death due to ESD I am now paranoid about even opening the box that holds it. Because this is my second build I don't really have any special static prevention measures. Any advice on what to do to not kill my new laser diode? I don't really have to ability to purchase grounding apparatus and so I would appreciate any suggestions or tips on how to handle it properly. Or maybe I'm just over paranoid.
PS. I bought 2 just in case I kill one I don't want to go and order another.
PPS. Once I get it into the AixiZ module do I still have to worry about static?
PPPS. For this build do I have to indent the diode it into the module or can I just make it flush? I bought a 3 element lens and a M9 lens all rated for 445nm. Which one should I use for best power output?

When I built my 445 the only precautions I used were touching the back of my pc case to ground myself ever now and then, turned out fine, also did a 635 but I killed it with my terrible soldering skills.

Also shorting the diode leads will prevent ESD damage (I think) I had my leads shorted when I pressed them into the module.

Good luck

3Pig said:

When I built my 445 the only precautions I used were touching the back of my pc case to ground myself ever now and then, turned out fine, also did a 635 but I killed it with my terrible soldering skills.

Also shorting the diode leads will prevent ESD damage (I think) I had my leads shorted when I pressed them into the module.

Good luck

Click to expand...

Thanks for the reply, I will try that :thanks: Anyone else have an answer?

The Osram PLTB450B has an ESD protection circuit built in so I wouldn't worry about it.

Just make sure to short the driver leads before soldering them to the diode.

will manners said:

The Osram PLTB450B has an ESD protection circuit built in so I wouldn't worry about it.

Just make sure to short the driver leads before soldering them to the diode.

Click to expand...

Thanks for the reply

As long as you touch something like a computer case to discharge anything major on your body, you're more likely to fry your diode by not properly discharging any leads or drivers you're soldering to the diode itself. Usually what happens is that someone solders a capacitor or wire that has the charge on it, and because that wire is not touching anything else, it discharges specifically through the diode. Just holding the diode or module will probably not cause any problems.