Diode Macro Photo

[Exerd]

I took this photo of a diode I harvested out of an old DVD burner. I got the red diode, and then this diode is presumably IR? I have not tested it yet as I don't have a proper supply at the moment. I was curious to know what the crystal is that is attached to the diode front, if anyone knows. I didn't have any plans for this diode, other than a possible IR illuminator pen for my night vision.

 

[Slipstream]

thats such a good pic that i can se the cracked window

 

[Eudaimonium]

Slipstream, only the little crystal on the diode is broken, it should be removed ASAP, it only gets in the way and I am not entirely sure what purpose does it serve.

Removing it does not effect the diode performance in any way, I am not sure why is it there, it is found on almost every IR diode 780nm

 

[photonaholic]

judging by the curvature it looks more like a lens to me. very short focal point.

 

[ElektroFreak]

It is a lens, but that's only necessary for the operation of the drive the diode was removed from. It can be removed with no adverse consequences.

 

[Exerd]

Yeah, that surely is not a "window". I assumed the block was there to help preserve a certain output spectrum range, such as to filter IR too high or too low in the spectrum. Assuming that a filtering would be needed, anyways.

I'm removing the block, I just wondered what the crystal was on these diodes for to begin with.

Edit: A lens makes better sense.

 

[photonaholic]

It is a lens, but that's only necessary for the operation of the drive the diode was removed from. It can be removed with no adverse consequences.

That's where the very short focal point comes into play, the disc is sitting right on it (almost)