Laser Pointer Forums - Discuss Laser Pointers | High Power Lasers

Hey guys,

I've been viewing the forums for the past coupe of days now and believe this would be a good place to start as I'm serious about getting into lasers.

Currently I ripped out a 16X dvd diode from an old computer and made the classic nooby mistake of slapping it straight up into some double AA batteries Currently it is still giving out a red beem but no where near as powerfull as it was, for a lense I am using an old lense cover from a cheap laser I bought somehwere a while ago. I also have the IR diode but don't feel comfotable using that yet as I have herd they are pretty dangerouse as they are near invisible.

So, I decided to join here as I require some help I am looking to build a laser running at around 150 - 200mw using a X16 dvd red diode, I think the best route for me to take would be buying a pre-made aixiz housing unit with the diode in place, as I dont have a vice to press it into the casing, So do you think it would be worth purchasing two of these just incase something goes wrong with the first? I guess that this would also mean I have to purchase two drivers?

And I will also purchase a AMC7135 driver or a driver from here stonetek which is pre assembled. (How do you go about adjusting the ma output? and what output will I need to run the 16X diode from that site? ) which is what I would prefer to do as its from stonetek which is where I would be buying my pre-made diode and aixiz modules from.

And I was wandering if these drivers suitbly match the diode and module I will be using, OR is there another suitable driver I can buy preferably from stonetek as I would prefer to purchase all the items I need from one site as that way I can keep track of them a little better and I know when it arrives I can start building straight away , and will the AMC7135 fit into the back of the aixiz module, or will I need to purchase something that goes around the aixiz module or can I just use the laser straight from there? with out the need for like a torch casing or something.

Another quick question is once the driver has been solderd to the diode, from there is there a way to use a double, AA battry holder with + and - wires coming out as a power source? or am I missing something that you need to buy to use as a power source.

Also, I am going to purchase some goggles as I value my eyes and don't want to screw them up lol, can someone suggest a decent pair I can purchase that will protect my eyes from the kind of diode I will be using?

I'm sorry about there being alot of questions but I just want to make sure I get it done correct way to minimilze cost and also so I get the best results I can