PS3 Blu-Ray Laser Diode
As if I didn’t already have enough going on this week, I just did this:
Parts were approximately $60, using the PS3 replacement drive assembly and other recommended items from various how-tos on the Internet. Essentially, the diode is removed from the disc assembly, installed in an old 5mw red laser housing, and connected to a brand new LM317 based power supply. I am well on my way to building an adorable little blue laser pointer for far under $100. It is really more purple than blue, but it looks pretty cool. Right now I’m still too afraid to crank up the juice to see how bright it can get.
According to some random forum post:
lasing threshold: 27-28ma
working current/voltage: 4.4v @ 30-40ma
output:
30mA 2.68mW
35mA 9.45mW
40mA 13.3mw
45mA 17.0mW
I can at least verify the lasing threshold was accurate–I do not have the appropriate equipment to measure power output.
And of course, I couldn’t have done it without information from Sam’s Laser FAQ, specifically the article examining Blu-Ray Laser Diodes.
Looking forward to your first lightsaber.
Comment by Jerry — February 19, 2008 @ 2:52 pm
Your work is interesting to say the least.
I saw something somewhere about your software being used
with a couple of speakers and mirrors to produce
2k or so ILDA images? is that correct.
I use windows and would be interested in any suggestions on doing something simliar
Also, I enjoy putting holes in black garbage bags and melting butter with my DVD burner diode :)
Sean
Comment by Sean — February 28, 2008 @ 10:05 pm
Sean,
Thanks for your interest. There has really been a lot of different laser related work over the last several years. The first generation of laserline software used audio output and speakers/mirrors to draw, but the quality wasn’t so great. It was lots of fun though, and if you have questions I can help provide you with information about how to build the hardware setup. I’m not sure if there is any existing windows software; are you a programmer or looking for existing software? For best results, you may need to modify your sound card to remove the bypass capacitors on the output.
Soon I’ll post more info about the blu-ray pointer project soon; the tiny enclosure has come together really well.
-Joey
Comment by Joey — February 29, 2008 @ 12:28 am