do these parts make a laser?

[superh90x]

3 fresh AAA give about 4.8v, are you sure the batteries could be the problem?

 

[The Lightning Stalker]

I'm not 100% sure, but on mine there is a big increase in current between 4.8 - 5V. It refuses to deliver the full current at less than 5V.

 

[superh90x]

Sounds fair, I'll try that in the morning, what batteries do you use? Or should I use? Perhaps a 9volt? (Lol probably would break something)

 

[The Lightning Stalker]

Yes it would. I don't usually use batteries. I have a variable voltage power supply based on an LM338K. You might want to try 5 nickel batteries or a cell phone charger. Make sure you measure the voltage under load right where it enters the board. Cell phone chargers can have thin wires and crummy regulation, thus a bad voltage drop.

 

[Kookapeli]

The TTL uses another 5V on top of what you're using, don't connect it to the TTL as it's not needed, 3AAA's should be fine with this