405 nm laser pen from eBay has irregular dot shape

[ixfd64]

I noticed the dot of my 405 nm laser from eBay has a very irregular shape - it's as if there is a large "solar prominence" sticking out of it. The camera I'm using doesn't capture the dot very well, but here is a rough picture:



Does this mean the diode has defects, or is it normal?

 

[Speedy78]

To stick with the solar theme you have what appears to be a nice CME going on there. Its a little blurry but it looks like it could be a reflectiin or something like that inside the laser. Does it have a cap on the front? If so is it unscrewable? If it is try the laser without the cap.

 

[Tmack]

It could be as simple as a small piece of dust creating this. Check that the lens or aperture is free of debris

 

[KRNAZNBOY]

If your diode was defective it would not be lasing at all. Try cleaning the Lens.

That is normal for cheap pens.

:beer:
-Matt

 

[Tmack]

Looks like a small reflection from some dust/lint. Still looks strong so it's nothing to really worry about.

 

[ixfd64]

That is normal for cheap pens.

I figured that was the case. As the saying goes, you get what you pay for.