This video was posted by Phazonx at metacafe and I don't think he has posted a link to it here at LPF:
(CREDITS GO TO DAEDAL FOR DESIGNING THIS LASER DIODE DRIVER, AND TO PHAZONX (LPF USERNAME) METACAFE USERNAME PHAZONXL FOR MAKING THE VIDEO)
http://www.metacafe.com/watch/1011559/diy_how_to_make_a_laser_diode_driver_circuit/
Newbies, a driver or circuit regulates and limits the current going to the laser diode so it doesn't die.
IF YOU CONNECT THE LD (LPF slang for laser diode) DIRECTLY TO THE BATTERIES IT CAN DIE INSTANTLY, AND EVEN IF IT DOESN'T IT STILL WON'T LIVE FOR LONG.
(CREDITS GO TO DAEDAL FOR DESIGNING THIS LASER DIODE DRIVER, AND TO PHAZONX (LPF USERNAME) METACAFE USERNAME PHAZONXL FOR MAKING THE VIDEO)

http://www.metacafe.com/watch/1011559/diy_how_to_make_a_laser_diode_driver_circuit/
Newbies, a driver or circuit regulates and limits the current going to the laser diode so it doesn't die.
IF YOU CONNECT THE LD (LPF slang for laser diode) DIRECTLY TO THE BATTERIES IT CAN DIE INSTANTLY, AND EVEN IF IT DOESN'T IT STILL WON'T LIVE FOR LONG.