joule theif to run diode directly?

[dailydriver]

Hey guys/gals,

I'm trying to fit a laser diode into a Maglite Solataire Flashlight.

I was wondering if it was possible to remove the driver circuit and run the diode directly off of the Joule Theif? Will this damage the LD or should it be okay.

I just want a small laser pointer that uses one AAA. I hate watch cell batteries.

 

[bobobob121]

You kinda need the driver to prevent power spikes

 

[spyrorocks]

You could use a capacitor to prevent power spikes, but the driverboard itself helps regulate current.

 

[dailydriver]

It's running off 1.5V. If I have a cap in it. Do you think there's going to be enough current to kill it? I hate to waste a LD trying it, even though it's just a generic LD. But I just want a small nice looking laser pointer. No burning involved. ;D

 

[MarioMaster]

1.5v isn't enough to run a laser, and you still need a resistor to limit current otherwise the diode is likely to die

 

[Switch]

1.5v isn't enough to run a laser, and you still need a resistor to limit current otherwise the diode is likely to die

If you just want a regular red pointer powered by one AAA you could take this for 4 bucks http://www.dealextreme.com/details.dx/sku.999  :-/ It has a twist on/off feature, but I'm sure it wouldn't be hard to change it with a clicky constant on tailcap.

On an offtopic note, Spyro , isn't it suppose to be "Don't laze me , bro!" ?That is , if your sig is supposed to be a laser adaptation of the famous phrase of the year 2007 as I guessed

 

[dailydriver]

1.5 can be used to power a LD by using a "Joule Thief." Have have made the circuit and tried it, but with the driver circuit, I feel it isn't bright enough. I tried it without the driver circuit and it seems to be the same brightness with one AAA as if the driver circuit was on it and using 3V.

Switch, that laser is cool. It's out of stock though. Thanks for the link.