Is my LPC-815 diode damaged?

Or am i just doing something wrong here?

I'm powering my LPC-815 diode using a 9v battery and a rkcstr driver set to ~370mA (i have tried currents slightly higher and lower as well). And all I'm getting is a weak little laser, like one of those keychain lasers you get at a drug store.

Is it possible for these diodes to damage to a point were they are just emitting a weak laser? Or is something wrong with my connections, power source or driver?

This is only my second DIY build, i have a PHR i built a few weeks ago with a similar set-up that is working great.


~4' away

Are you sure the battery is still good (you have to test under load)? I've heard that the 9V batteries aren't really able to deliver the high currents that a LPC needs. How did you set the current?

As the diodes age, especially when they're overdriven (or overheat), it's possible that the output power declines - though that usually happens in a nearly instantaneous matter where the laser turns into a weak LED.

Also it looks like your diode isn't focussed properly.

^ True, try a different battery set up for testings sake, not as permanent alternative, just so you can pin point the problem

Looks like either a dead diode or dead battery. 9v batteries aren't good for something drawing 400mA, so that could be your problem. That is also what diodes look like when they die, I have had bad luck with LPC 815 so it could also be dead.