First Build

[CapeClover]

Just did my first build. Not fully completed yet but the risky parts seem to have gone smooth so far. It's a simple build. Basically a LPC-815 long can diode, aixiz module and rckstr driver running off 2 - 3.7 V lithium cells in series. The nice part is that I didn't ask a single question for this build. I read the material that has been posted here, used the search feature, used google, spec sheets, etc. You can accomplish a lot when you take the time to read.

After adjusting the current and then soldering the leads taking care to avoid static and avoid overheating the diode I tested the diode running it very conservatively at 290 mA. It lit up fine and everything looks good. I kept the run times very short because I don't have it in a heat-sink yet. Tomorrow I'll mount it into a heat sink and I'll see if I can raise up the current. I hear that these particular diodes can take around 350 mA -380 mA I hears some people push them up over 400 mA. However, I dunno of I'll push it that high.

In any event thanks for all the great info on this site. it was a big help in getting this project as far as I did without anything blowing up...

 

[rocket689]

Awesome job! :gj: I respect that you spent the time to research instead of just asking like most other newbs. :beer:

 

[Kevlar]

Yes. +1 for you sir!! :beer: That's for doing your research first and not just starting a thread "Help building a lazor plz!!".

Feels pretty good having a successful build huh. Well now you're hooked. Hold on to your wallet!!! LOL.

I'm going to send noobs to this thread when they say "I've used the search and I can't sift through 30 threads looking for my answer".

Congrats on your first build!!

 

[lasersbee]

I like it when a new member can research on his own
and accomplish a build...:gj:

How about some pics of your build....:yh:


Jerry

 

[rocket689]

Haha. Well said, kevlar. I like this guys initiative. +1 to you, buddy for your initiative.

 

[RJFlash]

COOL! :gj: ...That sounds a lot like what I did...
Not long ago, I was a noob with laser diodes, but not so much anymore since I did all my research online for myself, and I learned a lot!!
My first test was actually a 1000mW 808nm, which I overpowered and it took a dump in about 5 minutes, OOPS!....
My current project is 240mW 650nm in a custom-mod flashlight host, and that's going good so far!

...My next will be a 1500mW 445nm with a custom made heat sink, a Micro FlexDrive V5,
and a modified Adjustable Focus CREE Q5 torch host, along with a key switch that I'll add for safety!
(decent hosts can be purchased from eBay for dirt cheap! ..many under $15! -from China, but who cares, cuzz they are in good shape and they can do the job!).

Btw, the 1.5W 445nm LD will come from DTR (http://laserpointerforums.com/members/dtr/)!

dtr-lpf on eBay: (eBay My World - dtr-lpf)

 

[aryntha]

Very nice. Post pics if you can? I think we'd love to see it.

 

[RJFlash]

yup... I'll be posting pics here after I finish and test em'!
...I'll also likely post some vids on youtube of it burning stuff!

 

[CapeClover]

First and foremost, I want to thank everyone for the kind and encouraging words.

Fortunately I have some background with electronics as it has been a hobby of mine for many years. Decades ago I built a 0.5 mW He-Ne laser. However I was new to laser diodes. I figured, instead of flooding the forums with dozens of noob questions that have probably been asked time and time again. Let me see what the search function brings up I wasn't disappointed. There was more than enough info to get me through my first build.

Yes, it is very satisfying to accomplish a successful build. Much more satisfaction than simply buying a ready made laser... although I have quite a few of those too.

Now I am already thinking of what to build next. Maybe a blue-violet laser build.

Meanwhile I am running this laser at about 340-350 mA. I could probably push it harder but I think I'll leave it be for now. It has a lot of burning power... lights red wooden matches in a fraction of a second and cuts black CD cases. I have it sort of JS'ed together. I am going to try and assemble it into some sort of a host. I'll also see it I can get a few pics or videos up soon.