Building my first laser-445nm

[udanis]

Hey all, after purchasing a few lasers with mixed results and reading mixed review of the arctic and o-like lasers I think the best option would might be to make a laser using quality parts. (the only other option I see is purchasing a CNI laser)

I'm considering going the oh-so popular 445nm route, mainly because of the cost of the diodes. ($40-$50 for an "A140") I also plan on using jayrob pocket mini kit with the flexdrive and the (from what i see on the forums) typical aixiz module. I would also get the Copper Heatsink

The 2 questions I am looking for answer for:
1. Does this seem like a reasonable setup?
2.What current should the flexdrive be set at to have reasonable duty cycle and still have a fair amount power?

Thanks Guys For Helping The New Kid
Alex

 

[TTerbo]

If its your first laser i dont reckomend you making a 445...start of with an LCC or a PHR
and get some more experience..
cheers

 

[udanis]

If its your first laser i dont reckomend you making a 445...start of with an LCC or a PHR
and get some more experience..
cheers

I tried doing a forum search on "LCC" and "PHR" and came up with nothing. Can you point me in a direction?

 

[Prototype]

LCC and PHR are diodes, the LCC is capable of 200mW of red and the PHR is capable of ~100mW of violet, which would burn stuff well. They're also cheaper, so if you mess up you don't blow $40 at one shot.

 

[udanis]

LCC and PHR are diodes, the LCC is capable of 200mW of red and the PHR is capable of ~100mW of violet, which would burn stuff well. They're also cheaper, so if you mess up you don't blow $40 at one shot.

Are there any reliable and popular sources from the usa for these diodes?

Or should I just contact the forum member listed here http://laserpointerforums.com/f39/wtb-2-phr-803t-diodes-my-laser-zippo-project-53817.html

Would 110ma be reasonable to push into this diode with the heatsink?

Thanks for the help

 

[Prototype]

Both Modwerx and HighTechDealz are reputable stores and are both owned by members of lpf.


Edit: 110mA for the PHR is okay, but I'd stick to 90mA for long life.

 

[goninanbl00d]

Rayfoss has the PHR sleds for only $9.50 each without shipping, and it's the cheapest price of them all.

If you're unsure about anything concerning parts, check out The Build Guide- there's a link in my signature.

The LCC is one of the easiest diodes to keep alive, feed them 200mA and they'll put out 150-200mW and have a very long life.

These lower-powered lasers are both great ways to learn how to handle a laser safely. Get yourself a pair of goggles to go with them.

 

[Kevlar]

You could also opt for the GGWH20L sled from: HighTechDealZ - 405nm 6x Blu Ray GGWH20L Sled

It's only $36.00, comes with a 6X 405nm diode AND a 16X LCC diode! You get a 405nm diode that can run safely at 190mA for around 200mW and red diode at about the same all in one sled.

 

[udanis]

Thanks for all of the input. Let me tell you what's appealing to me.

I was looking at the HighTechDealZ - 405nm 6x Blu Ray GGWH20L Laser in Aixiz Module
Driven at 190mah. This will fit Jayrob's pocket mini, correct?

Thanks
Alex

 

[Kevlar]

Yup, it will fit. And good choice for your first build, you won't have to mess with extracting it out of the sled.

You can order the "Hot Option" from Jayrob. He will include the laser driver pre-set at whatever current you want. Then all you have to do is insert the Aixiz module into the heatsink, tighten the set screw, and solder the driver leads (+ and -) to the diode. You might even be able to request Hightech deals to solder some lead wires onto the diode for ya, just ask him.

Plus you will have the LCC red diode for another day, another build.