Power required to test Diodes (dvd drive)

Hello,

I work in IT and I have a passion for taking things apart and salvaging pieces of old hardware we have laying around. I extracted two diodes from an old dvd drive and I'd like to test them to see if they work. The problem is I think in my tinkering I already fried both, I'm assuming one is IR and the other is red laser since they both were extracted from the same drive. My go-to power supply is a modified USB cable, (I'm at work so I have to improvise just about everything) and when I checked the + and - to the diode I get no light and after a few seconds some melted solder and smoke, so I feel pretty confident that I fried them both. I'd like to try again with some more diodes (I have hundreds of drives laying around) but what's the best way to test them and get light using your typical office supplies?

Hook them up to a driver. Search around the forum, there are tons of guides to making them as well as pre-made ones for sale by some members. Your problem is hooking the diode up to a USB cable, it supplies WAY too much voltage for a red LD.

Laser diodes are current hungry ie if you dont limit the current with a driver they will effectively fry themselves. Becareful with the IR too, as it will seem very weak. It isnt and could easily damage your eyes.

Build yourself one of these Current regulated drivers...

http://laserpointerforums.com/f42/diy-homemade-laser-diode-driver-26339.html


Jerry

You can contact us at any time on our Website: J.BAUER Electronics