Heat Produced by FlexDrive?

[Wolfman29]

Alright, nice!

 

[chipdouglas]

Hey everyone.

Despite my build record, I have never used a FlexDrive before... and the build I am working on right now is the first one.

Now, I have it all set up to output around 413mA (for an LPC), and I have heatsinked the six-pin chip like is usually advised (used a small piece of copper). But, in order to prevent shorts, I wrapped it in electrical tape.

I am planning on using this laser with no duty cycles... at this current (using a 14500 cell for input), will the driver EVER overheat?

I do not. But that shouldn't be a problem. Point is, even if it is both electrically and thermally insulated by electrical tape (I mean completely covered), will it be able to have an unlimited duty cycle at 413mA?

I figure that I will be pumping out something like 300mA or so of current, and with a crappy 14500, I figure I should be able to pump that out for an hour or so. Maybe more?

idk, what are the 14500's 700ma? if you are going to be doing 60 mn runs, i would advise putting a plug socket on the host and plug it in.

but to address your real question, i would say that you are running the flexdrive at a third of its rated current and duty cycle shouldn't be an issue.

 

[Wolfman29]

I don't really *plan* on doing 60 minute runs. But, I just don't want to be limited by a duty cycle. I want to put this laser to the ultimate test.

 

[chipdouglas]

i would say you are fine @400ma to have unlimited duty cycle.