Basics
How lasers work, which types of laser there are and what the power in watts means.
Engraving, cutting, marking: laser processes explained
What happens when you engrave, cut, mark and anneal, how deep and photo engraving work, and which laser type can do which process.
Gantry or galvo: which laser design suits your projects
Gantry or galvo: how both laser designs work, how fast they are, how big the work area is and what each one is suited to.
Laser types compared: diode, CO₂, fibre, infrared and UV
Diode, CO₂, fibre, infrared and UV: wavelengths, suitable materials, cutting power and rough prices of the five laser types at a glance, with a table.
Understanding laser power: what watt figures really tell you
Optical or electrical power, spot size, power density and combined diodes: what is behind watt figures and what more power actually gives you.
What is a laser engraver? How it works, uses and starter equipment
How a laser engraver works, what you can engrave, cut and mark with it, open and enclosed machines, and what you need to get started.