Need a 1W blue laser for activating channelrhodopsin? This is a very inexpensive and relatively simple project to do yourself. Buy the kit here. The web page is not a stellar example of design, but the video above is easy enough to follow.

Starting with an inexpensive but overbuilt metal flash light, a laser diode and optics are fitted, along with an upgrade to the power supply to source the 1A needed for the diode. The diode itself is about $55, the total price is under $200.

It might not be rock stable, but even the $3000 solid state lasers I’ve used flicker like crazy. For many applications, this is tolerable.

The usual Labrigger disclaimer applies.

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