Hello LPF

So I'm pretty new to the world of lasers but after 3 weeks of waiting I got my first burning laser, a cheap one from Hong Kong for under 10 dollars.

Laser SD 301 5mw 532nm with focus-able lens
And carries a 4000mAh 3.7V LI-ION battery ( also has a typical Chinese spelling error, it says to keep it away from Shildren

so I'm able to burn matches withing 5s if I hold the laser at about 2.7" from them with the focus ring all the way out, or make anything dark start to smoke, but I've seen videos of people with pretty much the same laser but with 200mw and it takes them longer to burn the stuff, are they just doing it wrong or is mine stronger, I don't believe that mine is stronger though.

Anyway, for my first burning laser I like it allot.

Here's a low quality video of it lighting the match Laser SD 301 5mw lights a match - YouTube

JahRand, I am familiar with that laser, and it is more than possible that you have one that is more powerful than some others. These lasers are cheap and are rated at 5mW for legal reasons, but could be anywhere from 40mW to 200mW. The quality control is virtually nonexistent. The only way to tell is to have it measured, or if you have an LPM measure it yourself. Good luck to you, and welcome to the forum.

well I don't have an LPM and they're too expensive for me to buy, where do people normally measure lasers without they're own LPM? some shop or so? cause I have no friends with lasers or even LPM's here.
I'm curious how much this actually outputs.

JahRand said:

well I don't have an LPM and they're too expensive for me to buy, where do people normally measure lasers without they're own LPM? some shop or so? cause I have no friends with lasers or even LPM's here.
I'm curious how much this actually outputs.

Click to expand...

Welcome to the forums Jah!

There are many trusted members on these forums who own LPM's and will measure it for free, you only pay shipping there and back. Check out this thread:
http://laserpointerforums.com/f70/now-over-60-listed-list-lpf-members-lpms-locations-81288-30.html

-Alex

The Greenlander is correct. That is a good link to start with if you are determined to measure the output of your green 532nm laser.
Greenlander, I like your new avatar as now I have a face to link with whom I am corresponding.

The 301/303 is a fun laser to play around with. The DPSS greens seem to be relatively free of problems, at least compared to the 405nm diodes. If you enjoy this laser for a while and you aren't bored, you should consider building some lasers of your own. DIY is a fun process, and you have total control over what components you use. You probably won't save any money by building your own, but for the money you spend the finished product will be superior to equally-priced company-built units every single time.

Welcome to the forum... cheers!