Laser Cutter
The Laser Cutter requires training before use! To begin the training process, click here.
The Laser cutter is an extremely useful tool for prototyping ideas as it is one of the fastest ways to make accurate parts. Some examples of things to use the laser cutter for are; Building robot wheels and parts, engraving trophies/giveaways, making signs, etc. This page is dedicated to the 120Watt Full Spectrum Laser that is located in the Deason Innovation Gym.
Material Usage/What To Cut
Once trained and certified on the equipment, materials are free but we ask that you be considerate and not use more than you need for your project. If using the laser cutter for a class, we will provide materials for that use. If you plan to use more than a reasonable amount, please see a staff member about how to purchase materials to contribute to the community supply.
The laser cutter can etch and/or cut a wide range of materials up to a certain depth — The most common materials we see cut include MDF, acrylic, birch plywood, and poster board. *Please note that some materials don’t work well, and some materials are extremely hazardous to the machine and people. Please check with staff if you are not sure your material will cut safely.
Software
File formats
The laser cutter software is fed through a print driver, so any file that can be printed on the control computer can be sent to the laser cutter. svg files from Inkscape or Adobe Illustrator files are the most common files to be printed through the laser cutting software. PDF files can work as well. The printer control software can directly open XPS files. Windows users can use the “XPS Document Writer” to create an XPS file.
Retina Engrave
Retina Engrave is the software that comes with our Full Spectrum laser cutter. Once you have your file ready-to-go in your vector program (eg. Inkscape or Illustrator), you have to send it to the laser cutter software (Retina Engrave) in order for it to be cut.
Maintenance
Users are responsible for cleaning up after themselves. Make sure you remove any off-cuts from the laser bed, and clean up the counter tops when you’re finished.
Users should not attempt to align or clean the optics!
Resources and Tutorials
Starter Projects