Thanks for the info, question answered! I was under the impression that if I passed an absolute rating the smoke would fly away, and I'm not sure how to put the smoke back in the parts so they work again.
I have a related question as well, I have been looking at this diode's data sheet and it says absolute maximum rating is 1.7A and not to exceed maximum ratings.
But I also notice DTR sells it with a driver configured for 2.4A
What am I missing? I figured absolute meant absolute, but apparently...
Steve, thanks for the info and link, I was only aware of Thor labs before, and thanks Gabe for the info.
Something else I was wondering, if I use a lower powered diode and expanded the beam to about 1" collimated, how do I calculate weather or not it's safe to look at without eye protection...
I was thinking that more lenses would create a cleaner beam with less divergence, and that the Keplerian style had an advantage in beam quality.
If that's not the case, then I should just go with the simpler beam expander designs.
Ok, yes this is what I was wondering, so by moving the exit lens of the beam expander while everything else stands still adjusts focus distance, and I will want to start with 3 inches of throw for experimenting.
Also what happens if the beam entering a beam expander is not collimated, but is...
I have been trying to wrap my head around beam expanders to design my own. I think I understand a majority of how I want it to work but have a couple questions.
I plan to have the laser come out of the diode and pass through a PCX or G2 lens to be collimated.
After that I would pass it...