Where do I start?

smither · Jul 24, 2017

Hey, I'm new to this and was wondering where to even start. I'd like to get straight to building something if possible, even just a good reference to a beginner burning laser. Please help if you can!:thinking::bowdown:

Radim · Jul 24, 2017

Welcome to LPF,

that is a very easy question to answer - start with studying lasers and laser safety, after that you might consider further steps.

Enjoy and stay safe.

smither · Jul 24, 2017

Thank you, will do!:thanks:

Radim · Jul 24, 2017

You are welcome.

Next steps on the list depends on what laser you wish to build and the most important one is the selection of appropriate safety eyewear. After that you should be ready to proceed with build. Search LPF for information (there is google search bar at the bottom) and do not hesitate to share your project here.

smither · Jul 24, 2017

Is there a basic build that wouldn't be too expensive and would teach me the overall basics of how to put these things together that you've come across?:thinking:

Radim · Jul 24, 2017

For easy builds check this link:
Survival Laser International Home

I would like to mention some specifics of the community here:
1) It is very helpful.
2) It is very experienced.
3) It is creative in finding solutions.

Because of this you should specify your question more:
1) What is your budget on this project?
2) For what purposes you consider to use your laser? (Do not be afraid of detailed description.)
3) What preference for laser you have?
4)... (Add here anything you consider relevant.)

Without these points the community cannot give you complex help as there are many lasers and hosts available and each combination might be better for different purposes.

If you are new to lasers I would strongly recommend to stay in class 3B (IIIb) to gain experience before jumping into class 4 (IV).

BTW: Add your location into your profile to obtain best recommendation - maybe there are even some LPF members near you.

Lifetime17 · Jul 24, 2017

Hi Welcome ,
As Radim said safety first then decide on a type of build. I think you would be inclined to start with a plug n play host. This is where you just solder two wires on the 12mm diode module and use some shrink wrap to insulate the joints. here are a few pics in sequence to show some prepping steps. use the search to find other building techniques ..

Rich

Radim · Jul 24, 2017

Here you are - member experienced in nice builds (and selling them as well) gave you an answer.

Nice, Rich.

lasersbee · Jul 24, 2017

Good advice from the above members.
I would say the "place to start" would be the
Welcome section of the Forum so that the
Forum Community can know a little something
about you and your other hobbies.
It also makes it easier to answer some questions
you may have if we knew what part of the globe
you were situated. You can easily add that to your
profile.

Jerry

BobMc · Jul 24, 2017

"Where to start" you've got the best part already, the desire to build. Now it just a matter of putting the pieces together. Inbetween DTR and Survival Lasers you can get everything you need to build. Including safety glasses which are a must. Enjoy be safe and welcome.

https://sites.google.com/site/dtrlpf/home/diodes

Survival Laser USA Home

Or if you live somewhere where they will ship completed lasers, it gets even easier,

Survival Laser International Home

Just remember, as stated before, please read up on laser safety. There's no "do over's" eyes don't grow back, yours or someone else's. Be safe!

Lifetime17 · Jul 24, 2017

Hi Radim
Yes a P&P would get him going with really no frustrations involved. Plus a little reading up on some builds he should have one up in no time.!SL has some safety glasses for 42.99 lower left corner on the site . Like to see what he comes up with.

Rich

paul1598419 · Jul 24, 2017

If you are looking to build your first laser I would go to DTR's website and maybe opt for the M140 diode build. With an appropriate single element asphrical lens you can get 2+ watts out at 445nm. It's a blue laser and quite affordable.

LinK: https://sites.google.com/site/dtrlpf/home

diachi · Jul 24, 2017

paul1598419 said:
If you are looking to build your first laser I would go to DTR's website and maybe opt for the M140 diode build. With an appropriate single element asphrical lens you can get 2+ watts out at 445nm. It's a blue laser and quite affordable.

LinK: https://sites.google.com/site/dtrlpf/home

...Does OP have experience with anything even remotely that powerful? I sure as hell wouldn't be recommending just jumping on in at 2W with no prior experience...

paul1598419 · Jul 24, 2017

He wanted a burning laser to build. I suppose if he turns out to have absolutely no knowledge about the safety of working with these lasers, he should start at a lower power. It's difficult to gauge the age of new members here as there have been quite a few teens and younger joining. Got to admit, for the money, the M140 is about the biggest bang for your buck out there. It will most certainly burn paper, wood, skin, and of course eyes.

Lifetime17 · Jul 25, 2017

Hi,
Maybe Smither will chime in and let us know more about him. I think if he doesn't build his own he can still get a 2+ from other sources. So a 2+ watt is no biggie the diode is affordable and plentiful and it give him experience in learning. And if he comes out shining great, this thread gave him enough safety talk and that was emphasized all good.

Rich

smither · Jul 25, 2017

Thanks to all of you for your input, actually helped me a lot!:thanks:

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