DIY PLTB450B 450nm Laser Build

[oahu99]

Hey guys,
After reading about the Osram PLTB450B diode, I decided to order one from DTR in a copper module.
I had a spare block of aluminum sitting around collecting dust so I made it into a heatsink.(The blue heatsinks are just for show)

I think it turned out great but I'd like to know some of your opinions on it.
Here is a picture from the side showing the set screw and both heatsinks.

Here is a picture of the driver. It is a basic LM317 driver slimmed down a bit with a tactile momentary switch.

Here is the laser on the LPM. I have it running 650ma for ~500mw out. I'm not driving it at 1.6W because my dad doesn't want me to run it much over 500mw.

Lastly, I would like to mention a bit about safety. With ANY burning laser, whether 50mw or 1W, you must wear laser protective eyewear. And no, a welders mask won't work...:san:
I strongly recommend Eagle Pair Glasses.

In all, this is my first Class IV laser (sort of..), and my first time machining, and I think it turned out great. I would appreciate any tips or comments about the new laser!

 

[Speedy78]

Very nice! Glad you have a sense of safety when dealing with high powered lasers!

 

[crazyspaz]

Cool little setup. One idea you could do (and something i have been meaning to do with a laser at some point) is get a trimpot wired in parallel with your other resistor(s) to have an adjustable power. Or maybe a switch to enable some other resistors, and have a high-medium-low, or whatever. Just a thought.

Also for the heatsink, you should have the top part of the module in the heatsink, it looks like you have it kinda halfway.
EDIT: Der, you do have the top part in the sink. My eyes work gudly

 

[Nprlaser]

Interesting build, especially with the large heat sink. I like!