First two laser builds

[ilovegm]

After an agonising 2 month wait for all the components to pass through the festive mail service lag.

Here are the two lasers:

LPC-826 @ 400mA (Ebay seller Newgazer)
Using a modified version of the constant current driver found at Rog8811
DC jack input and 3.5mm TRS jack as a safety plug (inspired by Davvo)
Indicator LED lights up when the "safety plug" is inserted. Indicator LED is a superbright clear white LED, I only had these at the moment and it seemed like a retarded idea.
However, I found that it helps me find my way around in the dark when playing with the laser; it is also highly visible even with the goggles on. I might be deluding myself though... :undecided:
Neglected to install a ground screw because I choose to flirt with danger, don't you judge me!

Disclaimer: I know the DC jack is wired wrongly, I used an AC jack's datasheet as reference. DOH. It's fixed and working now.

Here's proof that lasers will burn holes into your wallet, literally.

Having trouble getting my point and shoot camera to capture the beam from this laser even under pitch black darkness (white LED covered of course). Guess the ISO can't handle it...

M-140 @ 1.19A (DTR's lasershop)
Using a constant current driver from DealExtreme, following Grix's video tutorial word for word.
Being new to this hobby, this laser scares the crap out of me.
Also, since this was pretty much plug and play with regards to the building process, I am oddly ashamed at it's existence. Can't really take pride in something that didn't require much involvement on my part...

Further proof of lasers burning holes into wallets.

*Goggles were worn every step of the way, except for outdoor sky shots*

Wishing everyone a great year ahead!!

 

[jander6442]

Thanks for sharing. This is a good start if this is the right hobby for you.

 

[sinner]

I think its great work that you went for a 658 LPC diode hence keeping the heritage/customs for the good ole red first builds.. and a 445nm as a plus!! :beer:

+1 for great work

 

[Moistenator]

Good work with your first 2 builds! I like this thread, Was a good read. +1

 

[TheDukeAnumber1]

Very literal lol, time for a money clip. Nice first builds, your work is pretty clean.

 

[ilovegm]

Thanks for all the kind words

Finally caught the beam on my red laser setup last night, had to borrow a "better" (less megapixels, better ISO) point and shoot camera from a buddy.

Night sky beamshot about 1.5 minutes into the video->

 

[HitShane]

And people say not to use red matches with a red laser. Looked like it worked no problem. I didn't even see any sharpie marks