Question regarding Laser Diode Drivers

[MARK1992]

Hey guys, quick question. Searched around Google and here but couldn't come to a conclusion about my question.

Can a laser diode driver from a red laser be used on a violet laser?

Correct me if I'm wrong but they use different output currents right? (Lets assume I want to maintain a long diode life, and not fry it) So is it safe to assume that if i dial down the output current to a suitable one for the violet, it possible to use the same driver set-up for a violet as well?


Many thanks,

-Mark

 

[Bionic-Badger]

Red laser diodes require about 2-2.5V or so to turn them "on" while violet diodes need around 5-5.5V. You'll need to see if your drivers support those kinds of ranges. Boost-type drivers, ones that take a lower voltage and can provide a higher voltage, can usually accomodate any output voltage (within spec), whereas voltage regulator-type drivers need to have a higher input voltage than their output voltage (again, dependant on spec). So you'll need to consult the manual for the driver you want to use to know specifically its capabilities.

Edit: Oh and to clarify, current is current. Some laser diodes are able to handle higher currents and therefore usually higher outputs than others. It depends on how they're made and their spec. It's not like the voltage requirements which are generally consistent with wavelength.

 

[chipdouglas]

what power red is the driver coming from? but any case you will need to set the current. because the reds and violets have different volt and current requirements a driver set to ..... lets say 100mw won't be 100mw for a violet.