wannaburn - Not quite from scratch. I used a module and driver from o-like, rather than trying to find and match crystals and a driver diode. This o-like module is the first Chinese green laser I have encountered that was actually to spec and came with an IR filter. I wanted my laser to have 200mw, so with my experience with Chinese greens, I figured that I better buy the biggest module and hope it gives half power. Well, this module has its rated power, so my laser came out great. One thing I should mention is divergence. The more expensive handhelds that are known to be high quality (nova, opto, laserglow, etc.), have better beam specs. This laser has a beam spot size of about 3/4" at about 40 feet, so not very tight. However, I could add a beam expander to it that would attach to the shroud, doing this might allow some long range baloon popping. It does pop baloons no problem across the room. By using the o-like module, all I had to do was machine a heatsink for the module, and a battery compartment, the shroud around the IR filter, a trim ring, and a brass cap for the firing button.
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cyparagon - Costs of this build are as follows :
O-like.com - 400-450mw green laser module $528.00 (USD)
O-like.com - Collimation, IR filter, and Driver $ 15.00 (USD)
Metal - Aluminum stock for machining $ 10.00 (USD) approx
Other - Clicky switch, screws, etc. $ 2.00 (USD) approx
(note - I already had some 18650 batteries and a charger from DX)
TOTAL COST (MONEY) $555.00 (USD)
Time - To machine and anodize parts 4.5 hours
- To assemble, fit, and test 1.5 hours
TOTAL COST (TIME) 6.0 hours
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"Generic RPL" - that's a neat name for it !
It does have power, but with divergence, a real RPL will have better beam specs. However, I am happy with this build, I got a green burner with a very visible beam, even with normal room lighting. I should point out that goggles are a must at this power level !!! This is dazzling bright to begin with, the spot on a white wall at 12 feet is uncomfortable to look at, goggles absolutely required !!! The beam is spectacular (like any powerful green) when used as a star pointer (no aircraft around!!!) or used in fog or a snowstorm.
For the cost in money and time, I think that I did well on this project. If you have access to a lathe, these modules from o-like are worth considering. I will probably get a 120 - 150mw o-like module to make a pointer style green for my laser collection.
Note that if you order one of these modules from o-like,
you will NOT get the IR filter unless you order the collimation and driver upgrade for $15.00 extra. The IR filter is attached to the collimation assembly
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Happy New Year to All !!!
