need a good laser under $30

[Brock]

I need small laser with on/off rather then momentary. I would like a bright, maybe 635nm? I am new to lasers, but they would often come in really handy at work. Oh I would like it sort of pen size, maybe 2 AAA or smaller? Again the switch is the big thing.

 

[Spec]

Re: need laser with on/off rather then momentary

Sadly the pointers these days do not come with an on/off switch, just a momentary.

If you are not opposed to soldering you could make a true toggle. Or better yet get one of these:

http://www.abeland1.com/RemoteSwitch.htm

and cut the button off and wire a true switch there.

I do apologise if your not interested in a green DPSS unit, most of my experience is with gas lasers and 532nM leadlights.

If you do go this route, please make sure to obey the duty cycle as to not destroy the pointer.

 

[Brock]

Re: need laser with on/off rather then momentary

Yes, as I look I am noticing that I can't find any with switches. I did see that tail switch at Abe's, so I suppose I could use a similar small rubber band. My intention isn't to leave it on a long time. Green would be nice, but I see they are a lot more $. I am worried about breaking or loosing it, where a sub $30 unit wouldn’t be as big of a deal.

Ok, at that price range I was thinking about this
http://www.abeland1.com/RedLaserPointer635nm.htm
there are so many on ebay, but I don’t know which are really good ones.

 

[Spec]

Re: need laser with on/off rather then momentary

The few extra dollars you will spend with atlasnova are worth it in my opinion.

Far less hassle, quick shipping, good product, and he speaks english. I value that in a seller. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif

 

[Brock]

Re: need laser with on/off rather then momentary

OK, I took the plunge, my first laser after a couple of 100 lights /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif

 

[Spec]

Re: need laser with on/off rather then momentary

I hope you enjoy it. I know I do.

Hey? want to see a "real" red laser?

http://www.specwhore.com/temp/laser/hene/

Definately not portable /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif

 

[14C]

Re: need laser with on/off rather then momentary

Brock, I hope you have a cat..... /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/evilgrin07.gif

 

[gorn]

Re: need laser with on/off rather then momentary

Radio shack sells a laser level for $15 you can take the laser unit out of the level and then you have a really small, maybe 2 1/2 long laser with an on/off switch.

http://www.radioshack.com/product.asp?catalog%5Fname=CTLG&product%5Fid=63-1059

I just notice when testing the URL. It has a $5 off coupon. So it is only $9.99

 

[Brock]

Re: need laser with on/off rather then momentary

14C, nope no cat, just small children, don't worry I won't let them play with it or shine it anywhere near their face. I think our 1 year old will be quite confused and fascinated by it, I am sure the 2.5 year old will quickly find me to figure out what I have and want it to examine, so maybe its not such a good idea after all...