advice on first laser buils

I have just ordered the following :I 1 Rohm Laser Diode (100+mW continuous, 240mW Pulsed), TTL Driver and Housing. Requires only 5 solder connections + wire to complete. 6V operation. Focusing Module. A couple of questions,do you think this will fit into a leadlight host, and what sort of performance could i expect when completed,ie,beam visability.burning,if any?

Could anybody also advise on what batteries to use?

I have now received my components,i would really appreciate some help or advise about putting it all together. I am new to all this so please be patient with me.

flyeruk said:

I have just ordered the following :I 1 Rohm Laser Diode (100+mW continuous, 240mW Pulsed), TTL Driver and Housing. Requires only 5 solder connections + wire to complete. 6V operation. Focusing Module. A couple of questions,do you think this will fit into a leadlight host, and what sort of performance could i expect when completed,ie,beam visability.burning,if any?

Click to expand...

Most host's will be impossible to fit this ^^ setup. Along with the driver, and the module, you will most likely not be able to fit it all in. Plus you have to consider the batteries space too. There are definitely ways to fit this in, but the host type is needed before i can help.

As for output, just use a test load, and set it to 125ma-- which on your diode, it should give 90-100mw if I'm correct. Beam at that output will be visible at night, and it should be able to burn dark materials/objects/matches. Todo this use a MM, or a DMM and hook it up in series with the test load. Either make one, or use an LED (using an LED is not the best option. Personally I i would not recommend it for this driver. If it were the Lm317---yeah no problem at all). Here is a good test load to use http://www.rog8811.com/test load01.jpg .As for 1ohm resistors, if you don't have any, PM lasersbee--he sends 10x 1ohm, for $1.00+ http://laserpointerforums.com/members/lasersbee/

Considering your module already has a heat-sink, i would've recommended the MXDL build, but there is no need, as with the MXDL, you order a custom made heat-sink for it. I would PM jayrob and give him the dimensions of your module (even though it is already in a heat-sink--wouldn't hurt it) and he will make and send you a heat sink for around $22-$25. You can then just set you module inside a host--examples: DealExtreme: $9.90 5W LED Flashlight (3xAAA) DealExtreme: $13.50 MXDL 5W 110-Lumen LED Flashlight (3*AAA) DealExtreme: $10.48 MXDL ZD-5W LED Flashlight (2xAA/3V) and you need to specify what host you purchased, in order for him to give you the right dimensioned heat-sink.

Good luck with your build!

Many thanks for your reply. I have contacted the company and they are sending me full instructions on building this laser.I have also purchased a host from them so will be putting the diode and driver into the host. I will let you know how it goes. Thanks again.

I recently finished putting the lasers together. Both have been working fine. Today i turned the current up slightly on the driver and i now have a very dull glow. Have i possibly blown the diode?Turned it back again but still the same,dull. Im not really worried if i have blown it,its early days for me with lasers so i know i will make mistakes. Any input would be much appreciated.

Yup, it's blown. You put too much current on it.