SenKat's GB Reds: Closed can vs Open Can operation

[Greyfox]

Since I have yet to receive a power meter, I'd like to bounce this off of everyone that had a chance to try it.

I've purchased a bunch of the GB diodes, and so far, each one has performed far better for me after removing the can and the built-in window. I'm wondering if it's more than just thermal differences, but that the window causes a loss in optical output?

 

[MarioMaster]

Re: SenKat's GB Reds: Closed can vs Open Can opera

the window only serves as another material the laser beam must travel though before being the final output - removing the window makes one less obstruction and will give you a higher ouput.

most people however prefer the diode to be closed can as open can diodes are very fragile and easily broken

 

[a_pyro_is]

Re: SenKat's GB Reds: Closed can vs Open Can opera

But whenever I end up getting a nice power meter I plan to find out just how much more power.
GreyFox, what method have you been using to remove the can? Pics please if you can

 

[Greyfox]

Re: SenKat's GB Reds: Closed can vs Open Can opera

I've just been using a handheld dremel with a cutting wheel to remove the can. Of course, I take the time to clean it up and remove the splinters, but I haven't yet killed one this way. *knocks on wood* I've found much brighter, cleaner output without the window in the way. I've also been able to run it reliably at higher output as well. Once I get the meter and the replacement panel for my laser power supply, I'll be testing these little suckers to see what they can really do.

 

[Rhith]

Re: SenKat's GB Reds: Closed can vs Open Can opera

Well you're more daring that I! If I had the money to get a few spare diodes I might be tempted to do that though...

 

[m3-dude]

Re: SenKat's GB Reds: Closed can vs Open Can opera

Could you describe your technique on removing it?  Do you just cut around the outside in a circular pattern? etc?

 

[Gazoo]

Re: SenKat's GB Reds: Closed can vs Open Can opera

My hands are not steady enough to even think about attempting this.. ;D But I am sure removal of the can does allow more light to pass through. How much more is a very good question. I was thinking if only the glass were removed it might be around 5% more (a very uneducated guess). But I wonder if the top of the can is not allowing all of the light to pass and blocking some of it. I will be looking forward to the results.

 

[Greyfox]

Re: SenKat's GB Reds: Closed can vs Open Can opera

Could you describe your technique on removing it? Do you just cut around the outside in a circular pattern? etc?

Yes. I very carefully cut away sections in a circular pattern. The casing is very thin, so I use a slow-speed setting, and check often. I then clean up the ragged edges, pick away any chips, and inspect the diode.

 

[wooooooolazer]

Re: SenKat's GB Reds: Closed can vs Open Can opera

I think this would help alot, i cut open a dead one for practice and found the glass that the light goes thru is infact blue and reflective, well wouldnt that mean that the blue would absorb some light and some more would be reflected? This might increase the output a good amount.



...lazer.... ;D ;D ;D

 

[Kenom]

Re: SenKat's GB Reds: Closed can vs Open Can opera

I've no doubt it helps. How much is a different matter. 2% increase at 170mw is 3.4mw
is it worth the effort to potentially cut into the bar itself? that's a question you gotta ask yourself. I've cut many of the heads off and hanv't seen any noticable increase in diode power. I'll do some experimentation and see what kind of increease were seeing

 

[wooooooolazer]

Re: SenKat's GB Reds: Closed can vs Open Can opera

IT might not be that much but for me i basicly have to because there is a nice spot of black melted plastic on the lens of it :'( So i basicly have to or its not gona burn anything, Its not that hard to cut it all the components are on one side and in about 20 sec i got mine open look perfect on inside to ;D


....lazer..... ;D ;D ;D

 

[Krutz]

Re: SenKat's GB Reds: Closed can vs Open Can opera

so, noone with a powermeter tried this yet?
i will, when i have one!

in fact, i have a nice 635nm diode, which i ripped the positive pin out and cracked the window. i already cannibalised a window from another diode to install, but didnt finish it yet.. the pin could be soldered too..
but yeah, why not just leaving the window off altogether?

manuel