First Laser Questions

[sunny342]

Hello LPF members, I planning to build my first burning laser pointer and I have some questions.

So first off I could not decide whether to use a 405nw or 650nm laser diode, but after some searching I think ill go with the red because its more visible and the dot is more focused.

So will this work:
650nm 20x DVD Burner Laser Diode in Aixiz Laser Module Housing [LPC-815 in Aixiz module] - $22.38 : High Tech DealZ, Simplifying the LASER Hobby!
with
DDL driver (daelal's driver)

Are all the part for this driver avalible at radio shack?

And how long will the laser last if I use this driver?

Next Do I truely need a heat sink and if so is there a cheap diy way of making one?

Where can I find the cheapest pair of safety goggles for this wave length?

Thanks In Advance:thanks:

 

[billg519]

Two suggestions :

Don't cheap out on goggles, get good (certified) ones. You only have one pair of eyes and will be making a powerful laser ...

Use the search button, all of your questions have been answered in detail in previous posts. Also examine the stickies here, they are very informative.

Welcome to LPF.

 

[cust11]

Hello LPF members, I planning to build my first burning laser pointer and I have some questions.

So first off I could not decide whether to use a 405nw or 650nm laser diode, but after some searching I think ill go with the red because its more visible and the dot is more focused.
More visible yes, better focus.. depends on the lens. Not better by any means though
So will this work:
650nm 20x DVD Burner Laser Diode in Aixiz Laser Module Housing [LPC-815 in Aixiz module] - $22.38 : High Tech DealZ, Simplifying the LASER Hobby!
with
DDL driver (daelal's driver)
That will work fine.
Are all the part for this driver avalible at radio shack?
At most locations, yes
And how long will the laser last if I use this driver?
That depends on the current run through it as well as luck(to a degree). It should last you a very long time.
Next Do I truely need a heat sink and if so is there a cheap diy way of making one?
Jayrob and a few others make some pretty sweet kits! I just built one this week! Check out the B/S/T setion.
Where can I find the cheapest pair of safety goggles for this wave length?
Don't skimp in this department. Your eyes can not be replaced! Just make sure whatever goggles you buy are certified and at least OD 3. Check the safety forum for more info about goggles.
Thanks In Advance:thanks:
Very welcome.

Welcome to the forums and your new addiction!

-Mike

 

[chipdouglas]

first thing red does not focus to a finer point than blu-ray. but it is a moot point because our eyes can't focus either to their max potential.

next..... not all radio shacks sell the same electronics. mine does not sell the capacitors need or the 1 ohm resistors to make the test load.

3rd.... good luck

 

[sunny342]

thanks alot guys ill order it today and go to radio shack and get cracking on that driver

 

[The_Muffin_Man]

Spend the extra on a good heatsink. It will lengthen the duty cycles and make the laser last longer in general.

Class IIIb Green Laser Modules - > 5 mW for OEM Products, Research, Hobbies

It is the 4th on the list. I will be ordering one for a scanner of mine. I already have one too! It is very very nice. It was actually my first build aswell.

You may also like to use this:

LPC-815 laser diode in focusing module w/heatsink - $29.99 : Modwerx Shop

It has the diode already installed in a heatsink with the focusing module. Then all you need is a driver (you can also get that at modwerx) and batteries.

PM me if you need any help. Im happy to help.

 

[sunny342]

thanks man