Hi,
I got the laser working as expected.
I've followed the Jtech manual on the connections and got it working.
You can check it here:
jtechphotonics.com/?page_id=3905
Here's the connection to the controller:
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The power source i've used:
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You will have to connect the + and the - to the laser and the + and the - of the PWM also to the laser, you cannot use the negative power source and connect to the negative of the PWM output.
I will try to explain:
Laser Power + to Power Source +
Laser Power - to Power source -
Laser PWM + to PWM + of the machine controller
Laser PWM - to PWM - of the machine controller
The view from the front of the laser:
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From the top:
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I've also used a MPX connector so that if needed i can connect and disconnect the laser at any time:
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Here's the connector type:
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This kind of connector is rated for 35A so it's more than enough for my laser. It draws 3A and the PWM current is very low, so no issues here.
One of the first tests i've made:
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And now some short video also from a test:
dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/18756250/20161215_224017.mp4
With the PWM output you are able to control the laser output power.
I dont know what software you are using to generate the code but you just need to change the "spindle speed" and that will be propagated to the PWM proportionally.
I managed to do some engraving generating the gcode with vectric. I've also used the "mach3 laser" post processor that Jtech have on their site.
jtechphotonics.com/?p=3851
In my opinion it needs some improvement. When machine moves to the place where it will start to cut, it activates the laser but stays on that place a few moments, for instance if I want to cut some balsa wood it will burn the wood too much while in that position.
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Maybe someone can help improoving this post processor it would be great! Jtech have just released the post processor for UCCNC, I will give it a try as well.
As for picture engraving with laser, i've tested the PicLaser software but i was unable to set it to my machine, by the way its an 840...
Again if someone could help on their experiences with picture engraving it would be great!
Well for now this is my 50 cent on this matter. Please feel free to comment and ask questions if needed.
Regards,
Rodrigo