Our site is under construction and the information will be updated as we continue to test the prototyping machines

Operating the VersaLaser

Safety considerations

It's important NOT to cut PVC (polyvinyl chloride). Cutting PVC with the laser cutter generates noxious and corrosive gasses that could damage the machine and/or the user.

The laser cutter can easily start a small fire, especially on paper and cardboard. This can become can become a large fire, etc., so it's important to monitor the laser cutter when you're using it and to use the appropriate intensity for your materials.

Steps for operating the VersaLaser and the VersaLaser Driver

• Bring your files to the RP lab
  
  
• Make sure the USB cable is connecting the laser cutter to computer (it runs under the table)
  
  
• Open the Fan for the laser cutter (behind the versa laser machine)
  
• Open your file on the available software
  
  
• Click print and select the VersaLaser 200 and click print again (below is an image from Adobe Illustrator)
  
  • (This sends the print job to versa laser print queue) and asks about your materials
    
    




• Power up the versaLaser from the versaLaser driver menu
  
• It will begin homing the laser cutter
  
  




• Choose your materials and specify its thickness
  
  
• Choose the intensity of the laser (-20 to +20)
  
  • The intensity varies according to the thickness and rigidity of the material you need to cut.
    
    




• View your drawing in the versaLaser driver view window (cut lines should appear red and engraving lines should appear blue)
  
  
• Click on the start button to begin the process
  
  
• The driver window will indicate the time and will show your drawing as it is processed