[Laser] Diode Care and Feeding (Was: How to Collimate LED?)

[Bob Williams]

On Sunday 09 February 2003 10:42,  David N0YMV, wrote:

> They're predominately current mode devices, so don't worry too much about
> the voltage, regulate the current.  You can use an LM317 design for
> reasonable sized arrays or some switching arrangement for larger ones.
>
If I understand right, the issue with LEDs is primarily one of junction 
temperature as a result of average power at the junction.

I have a tiny array of 3 Radio Shack IR leds rated for 100 mA that I pulse at 
about 1 amp, ~800 Hz, 8% duty cycle.  They seem quite happy, without any heat 
sinking.

Bob AA1ZC
FN31xk