Pimp my spirograph!

This is a show-off of my mod of the Eurolite LAS-7 (and my first instructable :). The original spiro costs around 50€ more. Well, you get a 5mW red laser that is barely visible... What a deal LOL. If you want something better, you can buy the LAS-8 which has 5mW green laser inside and costs "only" 100€ and more...
Stop that crap! These lasers aren't worth the money. Because of this, I managed to buy it for 13€ from a guy on electronics forum and decided to put inside some REAL laser. Here's what I did.
I actually made 2 versions, the first with 250mW red laser and then with 50mW geen laser.
You can also see the mod here: http://laserpointerforums.com/f47/eurolite-las-7-upgrade-59360.html#post838805

Step 1 Parts

The spiro - I don't know where you can get it for such low price, you may find some on ebay or so

VERSION 1 (red)
laser: LPC-815 http://www.modwerx.com/shop/laser-components-c-2/lpc-815-20x-dvd-burner-laser-lens-assemblyred-laser-diode-p-2?zenid=vmn6cp5441gi4a5tq3auupate2
laser housing (Aixiz module): http://www.modwerx.com/shop/laser-modules-spare-lenses-c-12/laser-focusing-module-for-5-6mm-laser-diodes-adjustable-focus-p-11?zenid=vmn6cp5441gi4a5tq3auupate2
diode driver: LM317 and 3.5ohm/1W resistor
small heatsink

VERSION 2 (green)
laser: http://www.dealextreme.com/p/30mw-532nm-green-laser-module-3v-11-9mm-26888
heatsink
voltage stabiliser: LM317 + 240ohm resistor + 5Kohm potentiometer

+ some wires, wall PSU (9-12V, 1A or more) and another small heatsink

Tools used: soldering iron, hex-key, pliers, hot glue, DMM

Comments

[jordomaller]

you could build your own spirograph for less than that setup and just get a hand held laser 4 motors is soooo much better and it only takes minor wiring and soldering skills

[3zuli]

of course, but that simple diy spiro won't change the modes automatically or according to music ;)

[Ceiling cat]

Laser light show!