Which host for first build ??

[Tabish]

I have decided to get a host/machined heatsink from Jayrob but I cant decide which one lol.

This is for my first phr build.
I will be using a rckstr v3 driver

I'm thinking either 4171 or 3405. Or maybe the side button 3aaa but I don't like that one as much.

Any suggestions ???

 

[samsomiler]

I think the 4171 looks better

 

[jayrob]

Blu-ray or red build?

When considering a build, always first consider the diode/driver/battery supply needed...

For a red diode, the rkcstr is great with the 4171 using 2 X RCR123 rechargeable batteries.

I believe people are using the same set up for blu-ray, but I would imagine the voltage would soon drop below the needed amount to continue to regulate current with a blu-ray/rkcstr in this set up.

However, I have not tried it!

Perhaps others can chime in on this...

I would think that for a blu-ray, using a 3 X AAA host like the 3405 may be better. Using 3 X 10440 batteries will be 12.6 volts at full charge. But I would think that under load, the batteries will soon drop below the 12 volt max recommended voltage for the rkcstr, and it should be fine.

However, this should be confirmed with rkcstr. If anybody is running 3 X 10440 with a rkcstr/blu-ray, perhaps you can chime in here and give you experiences...
Jay

 

[Tabish]

EDIT: Deleted

 

[rkcstr]

Others I've heard have used my driver with 3x3.7V lithiums, even with the max voltage, without a problem. I would suggest not going past that point, but I think the ~12.6V should be OK. Also, if you are concerned, a silicon diode in series with the driver input will drop the voltage ~0.7V, bringing you closer at the peak voltage to the limit of the driver. It may decrease your total operation time, though.

Going any farther than ~1V over the rating may cause a blown component, though. That may manifest as either the circuit not turning on, or possibly shorting the battery, depending on whether the MOSFET goes open circuit or short. So, if the laser suddenly shuts off, it is good practice to actually turn it off and make sure the batteries aren't just dead. I don't think it would cause any harm to the diode in that case, though.

 

[Tabish]

What about 2x 3.6v???