getting started

[chipdouglas]

hey jason, there is no "auto adjust" feature.... laser diodes will suck in all the current they can which is why we do not hook them up to straight batteries. a phr will pull the current of a 12x if you let it but it will die! you need to use a dummy load to set the current of your driver.

michael

 

[hakzaw1]

sorry hakzaw, i wasn't putting you down at all. the majority of the population learns by trial and error. i was only telling him the cheapest way to start in the diy way.

micheal

N/P Micheal- thats true(unless you damage the diode- like I did-(back to square one!!) I seem to be much better at error than trial.

I can't thank all of you enough. I think my first build is going to be the easiest and least labor intensive just to get my feet wet. I am looking into the phr-830 sled. I found an aixiz module and a rkcstr driver for about 20 bucks. I'm still investigating heatsinks. I'm trying to do as much homework as I can. Hopefully soon ill be giving advice to guys like me. Again, thank you all.

You are welcome Jason-- be sure to read up on everything about diode extraction and pressing into the Aixiz module-best to practice on one that you don't care about first. Also don't forget about 'shorting the caps', E-static protection, and duty cycling too.--good luck--HAK

 

[Greenmechanic]

Welcome to the forum.

 

[Cheech]

Building a DDL driver is very easy and highly recommended.
you can buy all the parts a RadioShack for about $6

 

[2COR C4 V6]

Welcome Jason. Good to see you on here. Drop me a line..... or just see me in the office if you need some help.

 

[jasons first build]

Thanks. To 2COR C4 V6 I've got a comprehensive list of what to buy and where to get it so hopefully my next post will be showing off my first laser. Hopefully it will be a working first laser!