I have one of the jTech Photonics lasers installed on an MPCNC 3d printer/laser engraver I scratchbuilt.
Does it work? You betcha! Beautiful detailed images and simple operation. You should be familiar with light G-code use and possibly a bit of programming depending on how you install it. You will also need to fabricate a mount and do some experimentation for power and speed for your material. Also, some light wiring duties. I am not sure how the SB would interface with the laser controller. You might have to use the SB prototype 3d printer software to drive it, as it can run off the fan PWM speed control.
Is is it fast enough to be profitable? IN NO WAY IS IT FAST ENOUGH. I did some tap handles in exchange for beer, but each lasering was smaller than an index card and took about three hours each! Sure you can make it go faster, but when I read the sizes the original poster wanted, I had to comment on it. It is not a practical solution to your problem.
That being said, it sure is cool.
It sure is dangerous as well. My MPCNC is about 3x3 and has an open frame. It is surrounded by walls and machinery on three sides, but the top is open. I have a simple laser shield panel on the front and wear laser safety glasses. I was a bit lackadaisical my first day of setting up and paid for it with gritty welder's eyes from being stupid a few times. I also watched it start a controlled fire in just a few seconds, when I tested what happened if the laser was just on, but not moving. When it runs I am about 15-feet away working at my bench wearing safety glasses while I work or on the other side of an open partition wall with a webcam running a live stream on desktop. In terms of destructive power to property from fire and instantaneous blindness just from being in the same room, it is THE MOST DANGEROUS TOOL I OWN.
The thought of a laser running on an open frame 4x8 Shopbot is interesting, but I can not imagination an installation that would be more dangerous, without EXTREME safety precautions, especially if you work with others that could be harmed by stray beams. These laser systems are fully enclosed for a reason.
For small, simple hobby stuff done for fun, it was a worthwhile purchase for me, because it is just for occasional use and just to learn. I have built several CNC machines from scratch and if you are familiar with the technology, it is a fun build.
You better be careful, because when it is running, this the reality-
When turned on, you have a loaded weapon firing invisible lasers while you intentionally try to start a fire for several hours at a time in your shop. It is serious business.
-update- And you need ventilation/smoke extraction too! Not fun to breathe the laser fumes.
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Seriously you are quite right about the safety issues but I still got a good laugh. Thanks for posting. Russ
