PAQ-4C IR Laser Teardown (1993-1996 Board Rev 0.0)

These are decommissioned full power units that had their lens busted with a screwdriver. Upon Dissasembly I found the outer lens cracked, the focusing lens was undamaged, but the laser diode's glass was busted. Despite this as you can see the unit still works. The PCB although we'll made doesnt seem too complex, the main IC appears to be a TLC251C but I still need to document voltages and currents around the board to ID a suitable replacement laser diode and all of the other components.

The end goal is a printable DIY full power laser that anyone can make for ~$100. Using the PCB layout I plan to have custom PCBs made to fit a more modern LAM format, reusing as much as possible from the original PAQ-4C. The turrets seem possible to print as well out of nylon, the only hurdle there is the spring which has indentations and prevents the turret from walking/provides the clicks you feel and hear.

Tools used for the teardown: Dremel with cut off wheel Drill Press Flat head screwdriver for prying Razor blade Isopropyl Alcohol Dental floss picks for cutting through glue seams

Completed Units:

Housing removed:

Power Switch/Crane Port Assembly:

PCB uncovered:

Turret Dissasembly:

Light Pipe Dissasembly: