Is this a laser diode/driver combo?

[Stephen j gilman]

I was looking at o-like and I had a question about something? Is this a laser and driver combo? Do I only need to connect batterys? And if so how would I focus it?

405nm 500mW laser module /TTL [OL-405-500] - $105.99 : Welcome to O-Like.com, Your source for laser products

 

[Coherent Light]

It's a Lab style Laser. You would have to provide the 12v to the driver, and it focuses from the front via the 2 holes with a tool.

It's also modulated!

 

[Stephen j gilman]

I'm so into this, I want to learn more! I could just search it but... What's modulated? And could I find a 12v battery? Or would I have to use a computer power supply?

 

[Coherent Light]

You could use a PC PS, but a variable bench supply would come in very handy for other uses as well. Modulation turns the laser On & Off remotely Ie. in a projector for shows.

 

[vk2fro]

Depending on the type of modulation, it can either turn the laser head on and off, or vary the power from virtually nil all the way up to the lasers rated power. The former is called TTL and the latter Analogue modulation.

Most quality lasers can switch on and off via modulation over 10,000 times a second. As Coherent light said, it is mainly employed in laser shows, barcode scanners and other uses where the laser needs to be pulsed.