[Laser] Red Laser Modules

[steve kavanagh]

OK...I'll take the bait and start some activity, since
I am building.

I am trying to source a red diode laser module (low
power, 1-5 mW, with automatic power control good for
at least 0-40 degrees C).  I don't need to modulate it
above 1kHz...I assume I can do that (for square wave
or pulse modulation, anyway) just by switching the
power to the module on and off.  What are your
favourite sources and what should I expect to pay ?

As I intend to try using this in the daytime, has
anyone observed if there are any errors in power
control due to sunlight getting into the power control
photodiode ?

Does anyone know if the lasers in cheap laser levels
work/survive over a reasonable temperature range ?  I
spotted some for sale locally at under CDN$8.00 the
other day, which was tempting.

In the meantime I'm building a breadboard test
transmitter using a CDN$1.95 laser pointer with no
automatic power control (or feedback photodiode), with
a pot for temperature correction, and built-in
thermometer.  With care I shouldn't burn out diodes at
too great a rate !

Steve VE3SMA


	

	
		
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