LaserUser.com Forum (formerly RDWorksLab)

I'm looking at CO2 lasers and really trying to decide what I want and build vs buy. I currently have a 3D printer and a homemade CNC making random stuff people ask for and things I dream up. There are things that lasers do better, so I'm interested in adding the capability - mainly cutouts and engraving (with a rotary option in case that comes up). I'm thinking 50W for now, but open to any thoughts.

So, really just looking to start the evaluation process and this seemed like a good place to get some information. Looking forward to learning a bunch from this group.

You are wise to study the field a bit and we have a couple people building their own lasers. The Ruida 6445 controller is good in my humble opinion and you might look at the Lightburn software with that- it is inexpensive and very capable. Read all you can and then ask any questions you might have. Gene