5 diodes, 1 driver.

Hi everyone. I'm working on my first build.it includes (5) 5mW diodes and hopefully 1 driver.also I'm trying to configure the smallest lightest rechargeable power source. The reason for the single driver is this: the host isn't a metal case. Its plastic. And I'm trying to secure and protect the system when its dropped...and it will be dropped. Has anyone built anything like this? Is there a thread? The more I read the more I realize there's more to read.
Thanks in advance.
Jim

There's two ways to hook up multiple diodes and one driver

A) In series (prefered)
You need 5x the voltage and the same amount of current that one diode would take.
B) Parallel
You need 5x the current and the same amount of voltage that one diode would take. With this you need current limiting resistors on each diode to make sure one diode doesn't draw more current than it's supposed to.

Can you give us some specs on your diodes...?
Even though you should connect them in series as
ARGLaser mentioned above! :beer:

Jim

5mw 650nm laser diode 5 pack, AixiZ
A link to the diodes I plan to use. I still need lens, and some sort of housing shorter than3/4 inch including lens.any input?

These are perhaps a better deal, they have the module and lens included. Some sort of a driver is also on there.

5pcs New Mini 650nm 5mW 3V Laser Dot Diode Module Head Free | eBay

I was thinking modules would be simpler. What is " head free" mean? For the price I think I need to buy a few anyway.