My 405 construction checklist.

[mfo]

Yeah... there are differences in diode efficiency.

I would say that the 'normal' PHR's will give you about 110mW's @ 125mA's through AixiZ acrylic.

Which means right around 140mW's using the 405-G-1 glass lens.

If you go for less current, like maybe 100mA's, you can expect around 85mW's - AixiZ acrylic. (107mW's - 405-G-1)

But since it is only a $10 dollar diode, most push them to 125mA's...

Also, the glass lens is needed when you get to the 6X power or higher. But an acrylic lens will be fine for a PHR build.

Of course, it will still be better with the glass lens, and you will always have it for your future 6X or 8X!
Jay

Thanks Jay, I'm going to bring it to 120mA. There's really no chance of burning out the diode with that current, right?

 

[jayrob]

Thanks Jay, I'm going to bring it to 120mA. There's really no chance of burning out the diode with that current, right?

I wouldn't say 'no chance', but it should last a while if you don't abuse the run times.

Get into a habit of using a 1 or 2 minute duty. Your lasers will last longer.

Igor was writing about a theory of his, that it may not be necessary to use a duty cycle, but I always figure, 'it can't hurt'!
Jay