DIY Laser Etch

1.Decide on a laser etchr to fit your needs. Lower priced "starter" laser etchrs are suitable for small business use or if you only plan to do a small to moderate amount of etch.
2.Choose a graphic design software program and install the software.
3.Hook up the laser etchr to the computer. Turn the laser etchr system off and connect a USB cable from your computer into the USB port located on the right side of the etchr near the back.
4.The Dashboard print driver should be included on a CD-ROM with your laser etchr. This is how the laser etchr sends signals to your computer through the USB cable. Set up the IP address on the laser etchr. Set up the IP address on your computer in the Local Area Connection icon; choose the IP address that corresponds with the laser etchr system you purchased.
5.Use your downloaded graphic design software to create the design you would like to etch.
6.Using your dashboard print driver, center your design, logo, or letters. Measure how much space is needed and define within the driver. Set the print parameters to match the size of the materials. Place the material in the laser etchr and activate the Red Dot Pointer from the dashboard driver.
7.Acrylic and wood are the most popular materials to be etch. When etch acrylics, the back of the material is commonly used; remember to reverse your artwork before printing to mirror the design.
8.Use a soft cloth and isopropyl alcohol to remove smoke and debris from the table after every use. Clean mirrors and lenses using a cotton swab and an optics cleaner; pure ethyl alcohol works well as an optics cleaner.