Cheap ghetto laser

[gogoflips123]

This is my first homemade laser,so it's pretty weird
I didn't use many parts for this (because I don't have any :yabbem: )
I ordered a 50~60 mW laser module from ebay.
Looks like less than 50mW...I'm not sure.

An old battery charger circuit with its battery.
Also, I used two pieces of wire because I didn't have a switch...

Here are some pics:

 

[dmacrae]

I like your style. I've since made it better, just looking for an enclosure.

 

[grainde]

Interesting. Can you not extend the switch from the module driver with eg a piece of rubber to the outside of the case? That way you could use the switch on the driver. You might also like to consider attaching the module a little more securely, as it may come loose if you move the box around? Last suggestion you could also move the module to the edge of the box too. That way you can adjust the focus more easily and the module will be more secure if it protrudes slightly. +1 and keep up the good work! :beer:

 

[gogoflips123]

Thanks for the feedback! :yh:
I was thinking about extending the button too,but it can only be turned on by the two wire touching..
I should secure the module a little more :thanks:

 

[bdgreenb]

you could just solder the button in between the "button" wires, and jump the button the on module with a little solder or a wire

 

[gogoflips123]

Good point..but I ran out of solder :undecided:

 

[Netphemera]

I used an old 8mm tape case. It like the design because the case is clear and it is easy to hold in your hand. I punched a few holes in the case. One to screw in the LED heat sink for the laser emitter and the second for the micro switch. It's designed so that you can hold it in your hand and easily switch it on or off using one hand.

 

[dmacrae]

Ha ^^^ I like that :beer:

 

[gogoflips123]

Wow, good design!

 

[Strahany]

That looks pretty awesome. A case of "it looks so bad that it looks good"!

It's definitely unique!:beer:

 

[Spectre Gadget]

If you live in a neighborhood, go for a bike ride on heavy trash day. Someone will be throwing out an old stereo, computer, or some other degraded electronics.

If you live in apartments, that's even better because people throw out stuff all the time. Go dumpster diving.

Either way, you should be able to find a switch in someone else's garbage. Most pieces of scrap electronics have several. If it's an old computer you've also found heatsinks for your project box!!!