Laser Pointer Forums - Discuss Laser Pointers | High Power Lasers

Can somebody please help me with this part. I received my new diode today (from Stone Tek) and I need to measure what resistor I should use for it. Do I need a 1/2 watt or 1 watt and so on... I also have a multi meter so im good to go. Do I turn the dial on the multi meter to the A ~ or which one is it? Also how exactly do I go about doing this. Do I just put the multi meter prongs on the - and + leads of the diode by itself or what because it seems as though if its under "load" which im assuming means hooked up to power then wouldnt it just kill the diode when you power it? Sorry for the stupid questions but I just want to be extremely careful with this 3rd diode since I cant afford to keep buying and burning these things up :'(. I would really appreciate the help with this part as this is the only step I need to complete my laser.

Thanks