445nm diodes question.....

[d.weglarz13]

Hello. I am going to build my first blue laser. I have a question about diodes.
The most popular for an affordable price are these:

PL450 single mode
9mm diode
m140 diode

Questions. What are the main differences? I understand the single mode is going to give the best beam profile, and I am interested in the beam mostly. But, at only 150mW its not that powerful. So, what are the main differences between these, mainly the 9mm vs the m140 in terms of beam profile? Im looking for the nicest beam possible for this build. Thanks again in advance for any help.

dave

 

[laser63588]

The different is pl450 single mode 9mm and M140 is multimode.9mm output 1.6W,M140 output 1W.9mm and m140 the same beam profile.haha

 

[Eidetic]

There's no significant difference among various multimode diodes. You'll be using a lens in front of it anyway, and a first build isn't likely for an application where diffraction limited focusing is important.