Duty cycle???

[Arshus]

Its funny. It would be even funnier if the guy who last posted 4 years ago would respond again..like right now :crackup:

 

[RA_pierce]

couldn't you just use PWM to run the laser? I mean if the power to the laser is pulsed than it wouldn't be in a solid on state for longer than its duty cycle - and if the PWM is high enough POV would make us think that it is actually steadily on and not rapidly cycling on and off.

Ignoring how old this thread is...

Sure you could do that. But that is essentially a duty cycle.
Also, CW keeps the average power high.

 

[Arshus]

Hey RA, you know if Z-bolts lasers are usually overspec?

-Sal

 

[daguin]

The internet, like Silicone, is forever

Peace,
dave

 

[Arshus]

lol dave, I dont even wanna know what that pic was!

-Sal

 

[RA_pierce]

Hey RA, you know if Z-bolts lasers are usually overspec?

-Sal

Uhm... Z-bolt sells FDA compliant lasers. So, no.
The 5mW pens they sell have a photodiode monitoring the output. This APC circuit makes sure the laser outputs a continuous ~5mW.

You might get 6-7mW from one, but the only way you are going to get more than that is if you modify it yourself.

 

[Arshus]

Thanks RA Did you modify your z-bolt green?

 

[RA_pierce]

Yes. I replaced the crystals and turned up the current a tad. And it's become a habit of mine to fix the alignment of the optics for a more concentric beam with all my green lasers.

 

[Arshus]

Wow. You've been doing this for a while. I assume the best 635nm pen I'm going to get is a DIY or a homemade version from an LPF member then.

On a side note, what did you think of my new O-like 532nm?: http://laserpointerforums.com/f52/o-like-400mw-532nm-very-overspec-60413.html

I'm curious as to what type of feedback you would have on these "cheap chinese units"

-Sal