Warske
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- Mar 10, 2009
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Disclaimer: This project isn't for everyone. The skill level and build time required is practically zero. You won't build up your anticipation waiting for parts to arrive from China, and it costs less than most of you can afford. 
There is no wow factor here. I'm posting this because a few folks may find it useful.
This is a simple, low cost ($2) way to create a project box which includes
- wiring and holder for 3 AA batteries
- on/off switch
- room for an AixiZ module and some electronics
It doesn't have the heatsinking properties of a metal flashlight, but for lower powers or shorter duty cycles, it works just fine. Of course, you can add a heatsink, either inside or outside the box, and use if for a burning laser if you want.
This technique is useful for creating a light source for optical testing, since it stands at a convenient height without the need for a tripod and clamp.
I prefer to use AA batteries because I have a lot of the NIMH rechargeable variety. They have high capacity, are inexpensive, and have a relatively stable output voltage which results in a stable optical power output.
The battery holder is available from a number of suppliers and in 2 and 3 cell configurations, as well as AAA. I bought these at my local Radio Shack for $1.99 ea. Catalog #: 270-409
http://www.radioshack.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2062253
It is designed to hold 4 cells, but is easily modified to hold fewer (3 in this case), leaving room for other parts.
Picture descriptions:
- Some modifications are required. Remove one set of connectors and move the one attached to the red wire to make a 3 battery connection.
- DX 5 mW red AixiZ clone with driver #59145. Focus ring is made accessible outside the box. http://www.dealextreme.com/details.dx/sku.5914
- 5 mW green salvaged from a $10 ebay pointer. This works better on 3.6 v and now puts out much more than 5 mw.
- 5 mW green mounted internally. Beam shot through steam.
There is no wow factor here. I'm posting this because a few folks may find it useful.
This is a simple, low cost ($2) way to create a project box which includes
- wiring and holder for 3 AA batteries
- on/off switch
- room for an AixiZ module and some electronics
It doesn't have the heatsinking properties of a metal flashlight, but for lower powers or shorter duty cycles, it works just fine. Of course, you can add a heatsink, either inside or outside the box, and use if for a burning laser if you want.
This technique is useful for creating a light source for optical testing, since it stands at a convenient height without the need for a tripod and clamp.
I prefer to use AA batteries because I have a lot of the NIMH rechargeable variety. They have high capacity, are inexpensive, and have a relatively stable output voltage which results in a stable optical power output.
The battery holder is available from a number of suppliers and in 2 and 3 cell configurations, as well as AAA. I bought these at my local Radio Shack for $1.99 ea. Catalog #: 270-409
http://www.radioshack.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2062253
It is designed to hold 4 cells, but is easily modified to hold fewer (3 in this case), leaving room for other parts.
Picture descriptions:
- Some modifications are required. Remove one set of connectors and move the one attached to the red wire to make a 3 battery connection.
- DX 5 mW red AixiZ clone with driver #59145. Focus ring is made accessible outside the box. http://www.dealextreme.com/details.dx/sku.5914
- 5 mW green salvaged from a $10 ebay pointer. This works better on 3.6 v and now puts out much more than 5 mw.
- 5 mW green mounted internally. Beam shot through steam.
With a 2xAA holder and a 14500 and green module. However mine isn't closed as I lost the other half of the battery holder lol 