[dorkbotpdx-blabber] Power supply question

[Mykle Hansen]

On Dec 16, 2008, at 10:53 AMTuesday, John Brown wrote:

> I am trying to power 2 laser diodes that need ~4.5V and 50mA. I don't
> want to use batteries to power them, and have a box full of old power
> transformers.
>
> If I can find one that puts out 9V, can I run these in series and have
> them work? If the mA are really high, say around 1000mA, will that
> create a problem?

i was going to say "sure, no problem" until i read this:

   http://members.misty.com/don/laserdon.html

i guess you want to really carefully regulate that voltage,
and/or perhaps a current-regulated supply is better?
there's a link to a huge FAQ about how to build this.

-m-

p.s. CAUTION: DO NOT LOOK INTO LASER BEAM WITH REMAINING EYE!

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