Gadgets Direct?

[dnar]

Does anyone have any experience buying from GadgetsDirect.com.au?

I am looking for a replacement 532nm and they have the same model I just bought from DX that died. Yes it is more expensive, but being an Australian online store, I figure I won't suffer loss with customs and all the hoo-har that now surrounds laser imports.

200mW 532nm Green Laser Module (3V 11.9mm) (Green Lasers Category) - $110.95 : Gadgets Direct - Cool Gadgets at Great Prices

 

[bobhaha]

You wont have any problems importing just a laser module... I have ordered quite a few, never had any problems.

To answer your question, no I have never had any experience with that company and I'm pretty sure you will get no where near that power rating...

 

[goninanbl00d]

That looks to be the same module that DX sells.

Same distorted tech specifications, and there's no way a 200mW module would only draw 250mA.

I wouldn't bother with it. Check some of the stuff on eBay out, or go to O-Like- they have some quality modules.

 

[dnar]

Yes, it is iddentical the one that just died. DX also reported 250mA, however mine was 650mA. It bloody bright, I am guessing just over 100mW as it burnt matches.

They also do the same 100mW unit, thinking of trying them out.

I didnt think you could buy modules on eBay? Will check them and O-Like out.

Thanks.

 

[dnar]

What do you think about this?

532nm 200mW Green TEC (10,000 Hr) Laser Diode - eBay Stage Lighting, Lighting Effects, Stage Lighting Effects, Electronics. (end time 01-Sep-10 11:33:39 AEST)

 

[goninanbl00d]

eBay does have modules, and thankfully they aren't restricted.

However, I'd recommend staying away from any module that looks like this:

100mW 532nm 3.7V-4.2V /Laser Diode Module/Green Laser - eBay (item 260541725135 end time Aug-19-10 19:22:17 PDT)

It'd be no different to the DX ones. I had one that died on me. Also, stay away from Laserlands. They're reputation when it comes to modules isn't too pretty either.

Here's one at 100mW that'd be worth trying:

100mW 532nm12x60mm /Laser Diode Module/Green Laser Beam - eBay (item 260542698956 end time Aug-22-10 02:15:10 PDT)

Rule of thumb: stay away from anything that looks like the ones from DX (large resistor, big red switch, body shape). They all probably use the tiny crystals that'll burn out before you know it.

EDIT: Try putting 1W or so of IR through this crystal and see how long it lasts:

Such small crystals just can't handle the power.