Laser Wiring Diagrams

[Rachel]

Hello all ,

I'm building another Laser Since its time to get festive!

However I recently came across this wiring diagram:
https://i.stack.imgur.com/uchBl.png

I've always only used a resistor across lm317 in my circuits. and not a capacitor or the 1N4001 Series.

Would it benefit me using a capacitor and a 1N4001?

thanks

 

[Spectre Gadget]

The capacitor and reverse diode are used to arrest spikes and surges, to protect the laser component. It's not necissary, but it will give a great amount of reliability if used.

 

[Rachel]

Hi Spectre Gadget,

Okay great, thanks for explaining this to me, I think I will buy these component for my circuit then.

 

[Rachel]

Don't suppose you know if these take a required amount of voltage too?
I will check the data sheet - head room or drop out voltage I am referring to

 

[diachi]

Don't suppose you know if these take a required amount of voltage too?
I will check the data sheet - head room or drop out voltage I am referring to

They don't affect drop out voltage.

 

[Rachel]

Cool thanks diachi

 

[Cyparagon]

The capacitor and reverse diode are used to arrest spikes and surges

No. The diode helps protect against reverse polarity (but does little to help even this). It does absolutely nothing in normal operation.

The capacitor helps prevent oscillations.

 

[Rachel]

So should I Scrap the 1N400 Series and just buy the 16V 10uF Capacitor?
I'm running my system at 7V with 4A So will the cap in the Wiring Diagram be okay?

I read somewhere that as long as the cap is higher than the voltage required it is fine. But what about the Amps? Do I need to be concerned with this?

and I really Dont think I'm going to get the polarity wrong!...