Low power solid state lasers have come a long way in the last couple years.

In the past low power and expensive laser diodes were not practical. The 5.5W laser module shown here changes that.

A complete kit can be purchased for as little as $149.99.

Included with kit:

  • Laser Module

  • PWM Controller

  • Power Supply

  • Safety Glasses

  • Connectors

The kit can be purchased here:

SainSmart 445 Laser Module Kit

What can you do with a 5.5 watt laser

With the power of a 5.5 watt laser you can now effectively make templates and stencils using 90lb cover stock.

This template was cut in a single pass in under 2 minutes.

These particular templates were cut out of 90lb stock (.0007” thickness) were used to layout some 3-1/2” hard drives for a particular project I am working on.

The small holes that are placed at the cut points allow me to quickly and accurately mark the mounting holes.

In addition to templates and stencils on card stock we can cut up to 6mm craft foam in a single pass. These can be used as stamps, gaskets, and other various parts.

The Process

In this series I will show you how I connected, wired, configured, and tested a 5.5 Watt 445nm laser to the KRMx02.

In addition to the laser module I will be showing you how to install a depth probe so that you can automatically focus your laser.

The Components

5.5W 445nm Laser Kit

The kit can be purchased here:

5.5W 445nm Laser kit

8mm Bearing Block

A set of 4 can be purchased here:

8mm Bearing Block

8mm Shaft

You need a 7-1/2” long 8mm shaft for the focus probe. Here you can purchase a 300mm shaft that can be cut to length.

You can purchase one here:

8mm x 300mm Shaft

8mm Lock Collars

You will need two of these.

A kit of 10 can be purchased here:

8mm Lock Collar Kit

Roller Ball Switch and Filter Kit

Other Parts Needed

Requirements

The laser upgrade requires the Quick Change Z Plate upgrade to the KRMx02.

See the full write up here:

Quick Change Z Plate

The laser module requires the KRMx02 controller upgrade.

See the full write up here:

KRMx02 Controller Upgrade