Looking to build a 500mW laser

[ssbowtie1]

Hey guys I'm a total newb to the laser world. We are attempting to use a laser at work so I have been assigned with the great task of building one properly before my manager destroys another diode :crackup:

Normally I would research and read forums for weeks before I figure out the best build setup, but I'm at a bit of a time constraint at work. I already spent all weekend and today reading up.

I need to build a 500mW 405nm setup. I have narrored the setup to this:

Diode: 405nm 600mW Violet/Purple Laser Diode from 12x Blu-Ray - eBay (item 260722200156 end time Apr-14-11 13:51:25 PDT)

Driver: Micro BoostDrive Tiny Laser Diode Boost Driver 405nm - eBay (item 260739351814 end time Apr-18-11 14:11:56 PDT)

Test Load Kit: Heavy Duty Test Load Kit for Laser Diode Driver 3000mA - eBay (item 260705531970 end time Apr-08-11 01:37:40 PDT)

Housing: 12x30mm Aixiz laser module housing blank for 5.6mm LD | eBay

Lense: 12x30mm Aixiz laser module housing blank for 5.6mm LD | eBay

I have a DC Power supply since an enclosure is not needed at this time. Does anyone see a problem with this setup? Will the housing keep the diode cool for short bursts or do I need an additional heatsink for the power output I'm trying to achieve?

Any additional tips or advice is appreciated!

 

[Kevlar]

Everything you've listed looks good.

What do you mean by short bursts? With the diode only in an AixiZ module, running 500mW, I wouldn't run it more than 30 - 45 secs.

Here is a heatsink: Lab style heatsink for 12mm laser modules [M0020] - $20.99 : Modwerx Shop

It will give you longer run times.

EDIT: Actually, the module and lens you listed are the same. The module comes with an acrylic lens, which you shouldn't use with this powerful diode. Get a glass lens: http://aixiz.com/store/product_info.php?cPath=40&products_id=140

The link for the heatsink also sells the same diode, and AixiZ module for cheaper than the fleebay listing. :beer:

 

[ssbowtie1]

Thanks Kevlar.

Actually I meant to post this for the lense: Glass lens for Aixiz 12x30mm laser module 405nm 445nm - eBay (item 260684420819 end time Apr-26-11 10:14:13 PDT)

I have the general idea of how to wire everything up, but are there any tutorials floating around that I can reference?

I'm a bit concerned about using the power supply as opposed to a battery, since its a current/voltage adjustable power supply. Should I just order some batteries instead?