An optical reader in one embodiment can include a substrate defining an opening and solder pads coupled to the substrate proximate the opening. A laser diode including first, second, and third electrical leads can also be coupled to the substrate. First, second and third solder pads can be provided on the substrate and the first, second, and third electrical leads of the laser diode can be coupled to the first, second, and third solder pads. An optical reader in another embodiment can include a substrate having a first surface and a second surface. A laser diode assembly configured to emit a laser beam can be coupled to the first surface and an illumination assembly that can include light emitting diodes can be coupled to the second surface.