LED swap question

[imagehunter]

Hmmm... going by what I can tell, the pad for the 'fire' red LED is probably a fixed 3.3v 20mA source to power that specific LED. So you should be able to calculate any resistor you may need from that assumption. LED diodes can be overdriven a bit so long as there is a way to dissipate the heat (just like a high powered LED now that I think about it) but it would be at a reduction of the lifespan of the diode.

I'm willing to blow out the laser (which I've powered with 6 volts straight to battery and it was fine) I just don't want to blow the board.

[Forgetful Jedi Knight]

The board seems to be designed to power that specific led type. I think the diode should work, as long as you don’t try to change the power source.

[imagehunter]

thanks for your help guys, I'll let you know how it goes.