Adjusting Current With Multimeter?

[paul1598419]

It's true that a dummy load isn't an exact match for a laser diode, but all we are doing is to set the maximum current the driver will allow the diode to run at, so it doesn't need to be. In high power builds, where the driver runs hot and needs heat sinking, this extra current will cause your setting to be lower than you think it is. I suppose there are cases where it becomes difficult to measure the current at the output of the driver, but one should always expect that reading to be higher than the LD is drawing, especially in higher power situations.

 

[Cyparagon]

I think what Jors is saying is that with a linear regulator (only), current IN is the same as current OUT, in accordance with KCL. Since the current is the same in all parts of the circuit, it doesn't matter where your ammeter is.