I built a small 2W laser and have been using it sucessufully on my cnc to engrave pictures into wood. I have removed my laser and flexmod from my cnc to trouble shoot some issues. My laser can handle up to 1.8 amps. I have been running it at 1 amp but decided it is time to turn the power up. If I remove the diode from the flexmod and connect my amp meter it reads 1.8 amps when the potentiometer is at 5V. If I reconnect the diode and turn the potentiometer to 5V the flexmod shuts off and the red light comes on. With the diode connected I can not take the current past 1.14 amps or it will shut off. I have tried 5V 12V 19V and 24V power supplies thinking it could possibly be a problem of overcoming the internal resistance of the diode but this did not help. I really hope someone has some suggestions? I am knowledgeable in electronics but this one has me stumped.