If you've been lusting after a laser cutter machine but don't have the space, finances or genuine need for a full-sized unit - but still want to have some fun and cut smaller objects ... then you can make your own desktop mini laser cutter. The "Microslice" is brought to us by Instructables user "SilverJimmy" and is designed to have a workable surface area of around 80 x 80 mm. However it's a neat project, and by using inexpensive stepper motors, an Arduino with external driver board and (ironically) some other laser-cut parts you can have your own desktop version burning away in no time:
By following the instructions and using the supplied design files, the project should be approachable to many hobbyists - so visit the Instructable to get started. And for more, we're on twitter and Google+, so follow us for news and product updates as well.
If you're an experienced Arduino user and interested in more advanced Arduino projects such as the "MicroSlice" above - get yourself a copy of "Practical Arduino" by Jonathan Oxer and Hugh Blemings:
Create your own Arduino-based designs, gain an in-depth knowledge of the architecture of Arduino, and learn the easy-to-use Arduino language all in the context of practical projects that you can build yourself at home. Get hands-on experience using a variety of projects and recipes for everything from home automation to test equipment. For more information and to order, click here.
Comments
Jump to comment formRick Linnabary Jr. said:
Would love to make a larger version of this desktop laser cutter !!! One more project that I could do with the Arduino that I am learning about how to use !!!