Hi all,
I just began using arduino but I'm an electronic newbie.
I did an order from futurlec.com and I also ordered the first laser in this page Laser Diode
Specifications:
Red High Quality 10mW Laser Diode
Long Operating Life
Operating Voltage: 2.3V
Operating Current: 45mA
Optical Power: 10mW
I thought it was esear to use but I was wrong.
After a little search I found this schema
It is usable for my laser too?
What is the resistor value to use in my case?
Thanks
p.s. multipost in Arduino Forum ? International ? Italiano section
Obviously I'll merge all the answers from a thread in the other
My only concern would be that he states his module requires 2.3V, where the circuit has 3.3V or 5V (from the Arduino) powering the module. Running at 5V may be possible, but it might shorten the life of the laser module (having a real spec sheet might help).
According to here:
The 3.3V regulator can handle a max of 50 ma of current; 45 ma seems to be cutting it close...?
I think an external supply capable of supplying 2.3V and 45 ma of current may be called for; the control circuitry, though, can stay the same.
Ok - wait a minute - he's referencing the laser -diode- offered on that page - not the laser MODULE. A laser -diode- is going to need a little more than that circuit to operate properly (without it burning out); it needs the proper voltage and current control...
What that circuit shows that the OP posted is a control for a laser module, but shows a diode in place of the module (which is incorrect). The OP is referencing the data for the diode on futurlec's page - which is not what is called for in the circuit.
The OP should either use the laser -module- that futurlec sells on that page, or investigate how to properly build a power supply for a laser diode (which can then be controlled by the circuit already posted).
Simple laser diode supply schematics can be found here:
You might consider adding a resistor in the power supply that will limit the current to 45ma when connected to a 5v power supply instead of the 2.3v. Probably depends on the assumptions made in the specs.
