Need help on Stonetek 16x DVD Burner diode

[laserdude101]

I recently got my stonetek diode today, and It was bright, but then when I next plugged in the battery, the beam is dim, please help me ASAP.

 

[iskor12]

Did you read all of the FAQs?
Never plug a laser diode directly to a battery. You will kill it. (THe diode)
You need a laser driver that will limit the ammount of current that goes to the diode.

 

[laserdude101]

Well I did use a driver that I made is that ok or is it not.

 

[billg519]

We would need lots more info in order to help you properly. What kind of driver? LM317? What current was the driver set to? What batteries are you using?

 

[Gryphon]

^ exactly, using a homemade driver is fine, i've done it several times, the question is was it set up correctly

 

[laserdude101]

It went fine, then the diode went dim, I exactly followed the video from PhazonXL, but I don't know whats wrong.

 

[iskor12]

We understand that, but we still need more information.
What did you set the current at?

Could you post a link to the video?

 

[laserdude101]

Well, this is all I know fron the top of my brain, I was using a 9v battery, and if you want more, here is a link:

YouTube - DIY: How to build a laser diode driver

That's all I can tell what I know, by the way, if you watch the video guys, you might be able to understand.

EDIT: The pot is just there to adjust the brightness, it's actully not needed.

 

[iskor12]

Did you use a pot or not?
The pot really is needed. It controls the amount of current supplied to your diode. To much current=dead diode.
This is actually a good video.
This is what you made...am I right?

You Killed your diode from to much current. It's a noob mistake. It happens to all of us. Buy/find another diode and give it a try again, except next time set the current to the proper levels first.

 

[laserdude101]

Thanks for the help guys, this time I did use the pot and it is good as new again, thanks again.