Need Help!- Laser Engraving 101

[jweinhold]

I am looking into buying a Laser Engraver. Is there a book out there like "Laser Engraving 101"? There is a lot of information out there, but none of it really tells you anything. From what I can see there are at least 2 different types of laser engravers CO2 and something elses, glass tubes metal tubes. Any info you all could supply me with would be greatly appreciated. Do’s don’ts pro’s and con’s. At this point I know very little about laser engravers, so if you could get me pointed in the right direction that would be great!!!!!

I currently program 8 different CNC routers (3,4 and 5 axis) and have been using Alpha-Cam as well as writing parametric programs from scratch for over 10 years. So I can only assume the software shouldn't be a problem.

Thank you in advance for your help,

Jeff

[zax15uk]

Jeff,

Sam's Laser FAQ http://www.repairfaq.org/sam/laserfaq.htm#faqtoc is as close to a 101 as you'll find.

There are many options; the most important decisions are wavelength and power etc. The easiest way to determine what you need is to tell us the application and budget.

Zax.

[DIFF OVER]

I understand cost is an issue. Trumpf Vectormark. Find your rep and get a demo. There is amazing info taught at a demo. I have given hundreds of demos on their machines. I truly believe in the product, not as a salesman, caus i am not, but as an AE.