Laser Module Board HW-493

DESCRIPTION

The Laser Emitter Module incorporates a small red laser diode similar to what you find in a laser pen.

KEY FEATURES OF LASER EMITTER MODULE:

• 650nm Red Output
• Brass construction with acrylic lens
• Built-in current limiting resistor
• 5V Operation

You can use this laser emitter to torture your cat, put red dots on the ceiling or combine with a light sensitive receiver to create an optical intrusion alarm or communication link.  Remember to never look straight at any laser diode while it is operating or point it at someone’s eyes, as eye damage is possible even with relatively wimpy type like this one.

To test, simply connect up to 5V and ground.  The device includes a built-in 91 ohm current limiting resistor and draws about 30mA.  It can be powered directly off some MCU pins or an additional series current limiting resistor can be added to reduce the drive current.

The output has some focus capability by turning the brass lens holder.

Module Connections

There is a 3-pin header on the assembly for making connections.

1 x 3 Header 

• ‘-‘ = Ground
• Center pin = Not typically used.  Connects to 5V pin via 10K resistor so can be used to sense whether diode has power.
• S = 5V (typical)

OUR EVALUATION RESULTS:

These can be interesting modules to play with as they are simple to operate and inexpensive, yet there are a number of possibilities for exploring advanced applications with them.

The lenses are inexpensive plastic pieces and can vary quite a bit in their ability to focus to a small spot.  They may also accumulate small plastic chips on their inner surfaces from handling.  If the spot size is not sufficient, it can sometimes be helpful to unscrew the lens and ensure the surfaces are clean.  Just be careful not to lose the inner spring.

The module is rated at 5V, but it will operate down to 3.3V at reduced intensity.

We also have some other laser options available below that you may want to consider as well.

BEFORE THEY ARE SHIPPED, THESE MODULES ARE:

• Sample inspected and tested per incoming shipment.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS