green current

[neutrino]

Hi all,

I have an old 50mW green laser that has no driver. I want to connect it up to a Flexmod. Any idea of the current I should start the driver at?

Cheers
Rich

[dnar]

Most 50mW DPSS modules run around 150-200mA current to the IR LD.

Start at 100mA and slowly bump up, the output should increase proportionally to a point, then start to drop off. You want to be just before the peak of the curve.

You may notice that once you go "over" the peak, reducing the current will not provide as bright an output due to overheating the crystals.

Make sure the module is adequately heatsinked first.

[neutrino]

Thanks, I'll give it a go later.

Cheers
Rich

[Lazerjock]

Be careful. I've blown up my share of those lasers. I count 8 sitting here. I started replacing just the pump diode after a while.

Lazerjock

[neutrino]

DOH, too late - it went pop. Anyone have a source for 12mm green modules?

Cheers
Rich

[dnar]

The dealexteme.com 50 & 200mW modules are ok for the price. Look under "DIY" in the lasers section.

[neutrino]

Thanks, I'll have a look shortly.

Cheers
rich