got some time in the workshop today so I got the laser mounted. 5.5w diode laser. Using the Openbuilds plates as quick disconnects for the wiring I’ve made the z quick release. I’ve mounted the laser module on a similar plate making it a simple 5 minute swap when I want to use the laser. Still got loads to learn with the laser. @Mark Carew thanks for the video link for wiring this up. It helped a great deal when sorting the wiring. At giving it a quick test run before I settle down and do some reading. I’m currently using the trial of lightburn software as I’ve heard good things about it. Any others I should look at? And all powered from the AWESOME BlackBox!
That's pretty slick. But I'm curious as to why you didnt just mount it to the side or the front of the spindle mount like I've seen others do.
It’s surprising how much the z axis weighs. Mine comes in at just shy of 5kg as pictured with the Makita mounted.
Off topic but it would be cool if this forum software had a function to automagically convert metric to imperial so I wouldnt have to use google to understand that 5kg is 11 lbs. LOL. But you are right, they are quite heavy.
Just a silly thought? I'm quite good for them. How about, if we could find a way of temporarily disconnecting the Nut Block so the original Z axis remains stationary to one side, and have a second, slim, light grade, Z axis waiting to connect for a Laser? Or....... A light grade second X Axis with a Laser mounted on it waiting for use?
More then welcome, glad to see it helped. Looks like you have your laser dialed in. Really like the idea of your plate swap out, nice job. FYI: We also have updated the docs for 12V diodes like these that have their own 12V power supplies. This allows us to use the 24V power supply for the machine and the 12V for the laser.
A bit more progress last night getting my head around lightburn. Not having the heavy Z on there certainly helps with acceleration. Going to have a play with LaserGRBL later.
Redid the heart and coasters to give to my wife for our 20th wedding anniversary. She was over the moon with them.
Cool! What kind of coasters did you use? Where did you source them? I made my wife a quick one on Sunday to commemorate the living's victory over the dead in a most memorable battle. I use these from Michael's. I did a couple things with travertine tile from Home depot, but it has a ton of small holes in it so it is not ideal.
