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How is a bare laser diode driven correctly?

A bare laser diode needs a constant-current driver – not a simple voltage supply. Reason: the diode has a very steep current/light-output curve. Even 5 % current variation can destroy the diode. Concrete requirements: 1. Constant-current-regulated supply at the operating current specified in the datasheet (e.g. 1.6 A for Nichia NDG7575). 2. Soft-start (no abrupt current jump). 3. Protection against voltage spikes on the supply side. 4. Adequate heat dissipation via a heat sink (typically < 30 °C junction temperature). 5. ESD protection during handling – bare diodes are extremely ESD-sensitive.