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[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

CORRECTIONS: My 20W fiber is 20-100kHz frequency. The Atomstack is the M4 model. Bottom line is, unless you're doing really small jewelry, these 1064nm diode modules are probably not what you're looking for. EDIT #2: I found out the xTool is a 2W diode.

[@krazekilla224]

Atomstack also released the R30 IR laser that can be used on their current laser model frames

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

Good to know! Thanks Chris!

[@krazekilla224]

@@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy Of course, thank you for all you do for this community! I've been using your tutorials but still struggling with my Atomstack X20 Pro. I'm not sure if its picture prep or my speed/power settings. Or both

[@johncolwell2188]

Possibly for PCB's? 2mm of fibreglass and 0.02 to 0.03 of copper.

[@buddhikawarnakulasooriya8692]

Atomstack also not a real fiber laser.

[@HoutmeyersP]

Thanks for posting your vids on lightburn...really helpfull for me as a beginner. You were absolutely right about the slow engraving using a 1064 diode. But apparently coloring metals by oxidising is possible. ( see vid) . An advantage that these 1064 diode lasers have over a much more expensive fiber laser is the way bigger surface it can reach in one go by just using the same frame as a blue diode laser....another is that the power consumption needed to do so is a lot lower than any fiber laser. A 3-4000 dollar fiber laser can only engrave a 200x200mm square while a 1064 diode has a 4 times bigger workplane if used on a gantry frame ( most can do 400x400mm without using an extention kit). If you need to engrave even bigger surfaces than 200x200mm using a fiber laser it going to be a lot more xpensive than 4000 dollar . Its like you say....it does not have the power or speed of a real 20,30,50 watt fiber laser........but it has a much bigger reach.....for most hobbyist like myself that decide to get such a 1064 laser.....speed is not the main factor , for me engraving all metals using the same frame as a blue diode laser at an expense of 500 dollars was. kzbin.info/www/bejne/bX_EhKubqt51Z7M

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

Oh trust me! You're not going to be doing anything that's 400x400mm with these modules; bed size doesn't matter! Did you hear what John said in the video? Over 100 hours of burn time for just those few tests that would have taken an hour or two on a fiber laser.

[@robeccs]

Shooot...Lightburn might as well support you. You are one of the top leading channels that instruct the world of cutting etching laser technology.🍻👏👍🏼

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

Wow, thanks, I appreciate that! 👍

[@rowepjr]

I have purchased the Xtools IR module but have not received yet. I will be using for engraving jewellery and am confident it will do what I want. I considered a fibre laser but the machines in my price range I do not consider worth the extra cost. I will most likely upgrade to a mid range fibre laser in a year or two.

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

It will probably work fine for jewelry Peter, as long as you have the time.

[@UbberMapper]

Saying that the laser manufacture is making fraudulent claims, just because it can only cut thin metal, is equivalent to saying that a welding machine manufacture is making fraudulent claims if their machine can't weld thick metals. Anyone playing with lasers should be intelligent enough to understand that things are built with particular use cases in mind and it is their responsibility to research, ask questions, and verify the product they are considering will do what they need it to do. If you can't be bothered to do this minimal level of investigation then having a laser might prove harmful to your health or the health of those around you. Lasers are not toys. They can be very safe to operate but they can be dangerous too if not handled correctly. Also, the Xtool Infrared laser is 2w output. I can thing of several uses for this machine but the thing I am most excited about it circuit board prototyping. You can do it on a diode laser but its allot more work. The infrared should make it a much easier process.

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

Agreed, but unfortunately most people don't do their research. This is my opinion and it's okay if we disagree...

[@jonsaircond8520]

Yes but it's misleading at best. Scroll through the comment section on any video that is laser cnc related. Manufacturers of alot of consumer makers space things twist advertising to prey on the uninformed and frankly lazy. Ultimately its the end users responsibility to know what they spend money on but fanciful claims make it extremely hard

[@mallorikerr4092]

Xtool doesn't actually recommend their inferred module for cutting metal at all. But jewelry yes. I'm not looking to cut metal at this moment. Someday I'd love to have a Fibre laser but I don't have the money for one. To be able to do Pendent and charms that's what I want to do from precut blanks.

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

@@mallorikerr4092 They spent an awful lot of time showing how they "cut metals" in their live launch.

[@bokerlong03]

I agree as well but if I may, I'd like to add this. In my case, I thought I had done at least a modicum of research to make a purchase. I ended up getting the Xtool laser for under 500 on sale and have been using it for about 1-2 months. In that time I can, like I said agree with your overall statement in both regards to the machine and the user. I had naively believed that using this laser would open my market of materials and it has, but my expectations where way too high. I think it's a cool laser and probably has it's usage plus I don't ever plan to get rid of it. Looking back I wish I had a better idea of what I wanted to do and was better able to ask the right questions. Rich, great video as always. Respectfully

[@VinnysProjects]

0.02" aluminum is used for front panels for electronic equipment. It's printed and cut then glued to a thicker front frame.

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

I'm sure there are plenty of uses, just not in the hobby laser realm.

[@UbberMapper]

I don't know why so many people are confused. Xtool did a 1 hour stream showing what it could do and clearly stated that it was a 1064nm infrared laser. Why do so many people think its a fiber laser?

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

I think people are assuming it's a fiber because fiber lasers also use the 1064nm diodes.

[@epicetches4155]

That is strange. It’s clearly not a fiber laser. They were calling it IR laser anyways.

[@mr1enrollment]

Given two lasers of equal power and wavelength the ability to cut or mark depends on: 1) Spot size, each pulse of energy occupies an area, the smaller the area the more intense. The more intense == higher temperature at the spot. 2) Frequency, this is how often the pulse of energy is delivered. The higher the pulse rate the more packets of energy that are delivered to the spot during an interval of time. Each 'shot' of energy raises the temperature at the spot. I suspect the fiber laser spot size is much smaller than that of the simple 'diode' lasers. Therefore given two 10watt lasers, one a 'simple diode' the other a fiber laser, the fiber laser will cut/mark more quickly. NOTE ALSO: Different metals have different heat capacity, and heat conductance. Copper spreads heat more quickly than Stainless Steel, so the heat delivered at one rate may not raise the temperate at a spot fast enough to cut or mark the same way as it may on Stainless Steel. { please correct me if I am in error in anything above }

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

These are just a waste of money IMO.

[@merrillalbury8214]

Like the labeling of lasers. Where the output is not listed. Seems to have gotten better recently as most got wise to the mislabeling.

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

Yes it has Merrill! They are noticing all the complaints on anti-social media!

[@SwervingLemon]

Marco Reps tore down a unit that was using a 1064nm laser and it turned out to be about a 3W ND:YAG end-pumped laser with a chromated gate. Absolutely right, no frequency control nor even pulse width control. That was a galvo laser and about half it's mass was the galvo. The rest of the assembly was sitting on a TEC with a heatsink and fan and you almost certainly couldn't fit that 3W assembly into the package that Ortur and X-Tool are shoving it into, but I saw a breakdown of the X-tool one and it was surprisingly similar. Their insane claim is 200kw pulsed operation on some of them. Given pulse width and fixed freq., their power supply is only 12v and 8A so max output would have to be less than 50w for sure. It's a mess what they'll advertise. Those units you showed are also not fiber. They're ND:YAG end-pumped just like the X-tool but with a more substantial laser module. The good news is that the lightburn team has said they're going to include support for lasers like the ones you showed so long as they didn't do any weird proprietary stuff with the control boards.

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

Awesome! Thanks for the post. And yes, the cheap alternatives I showed are indeed pump lasers, but at a much higher power. xTool has confirmed theirs is a 2W.

[@fpsurgeon]

This is an interesting take on 1064nm laser diodes. The videos on KZbin by people who actually have used this laser module show some pretty nice engravings of bare aluminum (not anodized or coated), copper, etc. For engraving metals other than stainless steel, the 1064nm diode seems to be a good option. Have you watched those examples or actually tried a unit out?

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

I have watched them, and I have not tried it. But my friends in the maker community have. The amount of time it takes to simply anneal the surface is incredibly high. As I said in the video, if you're doing extremely small pieces, like jewelry, you might consider this. But otherwise, it's not worth the time and without frequency control, you're very limited on what you can do.

[@brianblather]

@@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy So, I'm just getting into this whole laser thing, and it does sound as though a fiber for metal is the way to go. Specifically, I'm interested in the 3D effect on brass, copper, and stainless coin blanks. Can I get that effect with a fiber like the 20w Monoport?

[@yertelt5570]

They may have cut metal in the online demo but xtool makes no mention of cutting anything on their 1064nm page. They only claim improved plastic engraving and the ability to engrave all metals. If you've already purchased a diode laser and just want to engrave jewelry or the occasional copper, tin, gold, silver, or brass tags, business cards, etc I would say the 1064nm head would make sense. If you find yourself getting enough orders for engraving metals other than anodized aluminum or stainless to pay for a fiber make the jump then. It would be nice if xtool provided some material settings for 1064 head though.

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

Yeah, I agree.

[@jeryart]

did you notice that the ATOMSTACK literally says "fiber laser power with 1064nm infrared" ???????? and there you are trashing xTool 🤦‍♂️🤦‍♂️🤦‍♂️

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

Apples to oranges 🍏🍊 Yes, they shouldn't have the word fiber anywhere in their description, I agree, but this is a 10x more powerful Galvo laser with an F-Theta lens and K9 dual optical lenses that can actually do projects in a reasonable amount of time. It's far superior, and a complete machine for just a few bucks more - but still not a fiber. And you're right! I'm not a fan of xTool! I can give you 100 reasons why, starting with their proprietary crappy firmware and ending with their tutorials on how not to use a laser engraver! Just like their toy robotics from Makeblock, it's geeks launching a product that was never field tested and tweaked. Yep, just like many hobby laser companies!

[@wesdresen9994]

great video with real information. At least some of the problem is people made the jump from etching metal to it being fiber. It is a simple IR diode.

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

Well said!

[@richardknezevic7371]

I purchased a fiber laser and spent the money, their fast, EASY TO USE. and portable 20 watt is more the fine to do metal, the stuff I printed on plastic metal and timer is crazy as so, 'Lightburn should support your channel ,

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

Thanks Richard!

[@oliverkocher-themusicalpun5781]

Do you know anything about the Ikier 20W Fiber Laser module that can be used with their K1 series? Is it any good? is it a hack?

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

There's no such thing as a fiber module Oliver. It's a 1064nm module, not fiber, and no, I know nothing about it, sorry.

[@macroby]

Hello, I am writing to you from Italy, so please forgive me if you find grammatical errors due to my poor English. I fully agree with you that products like Xtool advertise misleadingly and that this 1064 nanometer IR Laser module is not a Fiber Laser at all. From the size of the module itself it is already clear that it cannot contain a very long Ytterbium-doped fiber and its pump diodes. However, according to my research, there are other forms of creating IR lasers at 1064 nanometers, for example there are glass rods doped with Neodymium - Yag which, appropriately pumped with laser diodes, emit a laser at this wavelength and are quite compact, compared to fiber lasers, if compressed are accepted to obtain a low power output of a few watts. It is likely that the Xtool module is made with this technology and not fiber. However, both the fiber laser and the Neodymium-Yag laser are part of the category of solid state lasers, and in both cases they can reach high powers of tens of kilowatts of optical power and can operate both in pulsed and in CW. . It is certain that those who have a professional need to cut different types of steel of various thicknesses are often directed to fiber lasers of different KW of power. Those who only need to engrave some medals occasionally for hobby use, then this Xtool module can also be fine. Those who have a professional need to go beyond simple engraving and do something like high definition photographic engraving or 3D engraving on any type of metal surface, then I would dedicate myself to purchasing a fiber laser (preferably Mopa) for between 50/ 80 watts of power with galvanometric scanner, finances permitting... kind regards. Ps: I noticed from the manufacturer's website “iKier” it makes a true fiber laser (iKier K1 Pro 1064 nm) at 20 watts of optical power at a relatively low price.

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

Your English was perfect, thanks for the comments! The xTool 1064 is just a pump diode.

[@jostapleton3414]

BS! xTool never claimed it's a fiber laser. It's a red laser and if people just assumed it is a fiber laser, then they need to do more research.

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

Woah, easy there! I never said xTool claimed it was a fiber! I said they're launching a 1064nm diode laser and people are *assuming* because it's the same diode used in fiber lasers. It's not a red laser, it's an IR (invisible) laser diode.

[@shahindezfouli5108]

Please answer me ,which laser is good for cutting 15 mm iron or 15 mm stone ?

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

None that I know of.

[@Samcraftcom]

I cannot agree more with this video!!! Nothing irks me more than these companies saying these are fiber lasers when they are no where close to that! Another great video Rich!

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

Thanks Sam! *Glad to see you back Brother!* They don't actually call it a _Fiber Laser,_ but it's insinuated.

[@Stinkerbelle62]

Thank you for clarifying what this new thing is. As a complete novice I was getting deeply confused. I appreciate that you made the distinction between cutting and engraving and the speed at which it functions.

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

Glad it was helpful!

[@DwightStebner]

I have been concidering a 1064nm module for engraving metals. I have researched the Xtool and atomstack , ...and no where do they claim to Cut metal. I can Not afford a $4500.00 jpt fiber. so am concidering this 1064nm module as an addon to what i have now.

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

They claim to be able to, and talk about about cutting metals in several of their live videos Dwight.

[@DwightStebner]

@@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy Hi, thanks for the quick response. I only want to be able to engrave metals as i only have diode laser now. Not much room or budget for a complete machine. I believe your statement of cutting 0.02mm thickness metal is true. But what is that? Useless!!

[@blondefoxcreations]

We just received our xTool 2W IR laser module. I wish I would've seen this video before we ordered it.

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

I'm sure you'll find a use for it! No regrets! Make it work for you....

[@timt1346]

Just FYI, the seed is what creates the light to start. The pumps amplify it.

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

Uh huh... I don't always say what I mean 🤪

[@douglasmitchell4063]

Thanks for the info! I’m sure you just saved people from making a $500-600 mistake.

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

That's why I made this video Douglass! Lots of folks asking me if these new "fiber lasers" are worth the money.

[@douglasmitchell4063]

@@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy Rich, I am really wanting a CO2 laser. I’m torn between Monport and Omtech. The machines look enough alike to be brothers . I have read they are built in the same factory. I have read good and bad reviews on Monport, but I guess there are good and bad reviews on all of them. I would sure appreciate an expert opinion. I’m looking at a 60 watt. They are inline with my budget. I don’t know if I should get auto focus or not either. I’m going have to buy you a cup of coffee! 👍

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

They are both from the same factory Douglass, but if you use my coupon code, you'll get 10% off the Monport. All of the sellers are just exporters. None of the companies actually make them.

[@douglasmitchell4063]

@@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy Hey Rich. Thank you for the reply. I did see the 10% coupon. That will certainly help!

[@douglasmitchell4063]

@@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy Before I buy a Monport; is it possible if I buy a 60 watt laser now, to upgrade it to a 80-100 watt later? Same machine, but make it more powerful. Thanks again. Trying to get my mind made up to pull the trigger.

[@ProfessorDIY]

I am not sure why people are even confused - they clearly state these are IR (Infrared Lasers)

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

Because novices and hobbyists don't realize the difference.

[@prc37388]

You are awesome Rich with the Lightburn tutorials. You've been a huge help in learning how to use it. Thank you sir.

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

Glad you like them!

[@queencityteashop]

Hi, I need to engrave powder coated cups and have flexibility to do maybe a wedding ring or jewelry from time to time. I'm overwhelmed by the content on YT. What's the best type of machine to buy for projects like that?

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

A Co2 and a Fiber.

[@mohammedalmatalqa7954]

The thing is regarding the quality of engraving is it the same??! A honest answer pls.. skipping time and speed

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

I don't know what you mean. This video was my opinion.

[@mohammedalmatalqa7954]

@@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy i know bro and i totally respect it.. but what i mean is on engraving with this 1064nm on plastics or wood or some metal is the quality of the image or text the same of fiber laser? Because i saw on some fiber laser can do 4K pictures

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

No, fiber lasers are completely different. This has no frequency control, so you can only adjust speed and power.

[@youtubeurevil]

To give you an Idea in our company we work with Trumpf (no not your ex-president) 6kw co2 fiber (laser output power) to cut steel , aluminum and stainless up to 14 mm thickness (depending on the material type) Absorbed power for the whole machine is around 32 amps at 400 volt (do the math its astounding how much power gets lost due to cooling air filtration etc )

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

6kw! 🤪 Holy crap, that's expensive!

[@ernestespinosa24]

What do you think about Atomstack MR20 1064nm 20W Pulsed Fiber Laser Module, i didn't see yet any reviews about this laser,do you think it's worth it? Thanks!

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

I don't know anything about it Ernest.

[@ernestespinosa24]

@@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy oh! okay 👍 thanks my friend!

[@jameseler2898]

Thank you I was interested in upgrading from AtomStack P7 10W but now I'll stay away from the Infrareds

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

Yeah, they're more of a marketing gimmick IMO James.

[@kennethrich2107]

Rich, have you tried using Cermark with a Diod Laser? Did it work? What was the results ?

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

Yes, it didn't work well at all.

[@kennethrich2107]

@@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy I was afraid of that....thanx

[@slugobuddy]

Im looking to do just a makers mark on my knives, and maybe a name or something on the blade, would you still say no to the 1064nm?

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

No, it would be okay for that, as long as you have a lot of time on your hands. A 10W or better diode laser will be able to do the same thing.

[@slugobuddy]

@@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy definitely got time at for my hobby! thanks for the reply. I will be checking out more of your light burn videos so when i get a laser i might be a little more prepared to engrave a knife or two! THANKS AGAIN!

[@dannyrhodes13]

If I want to engrave on silver and copper coins, what machine would you use?

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

I would use the fiber laser Danny.

[@elwoodfanwwod]

Clearly this isnt a fiber optic laser. Clearly you have experience. Personaly Im not anywhere near the market for fiber but I am excited by the possobility of IR. I would very much apreachiate youre opion if it was based on real world facts and not just presale conjecture most likely biased by the money you have already invested. If you get youre hands on one Id love to hear your thoughts especialy if theyre still negitive.

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

Hi David, my opinion was negative on the marketing, not the 1064 module itself. If they marketed it as a module for very small jobs, like a jeweler for instance, I would have a positive opinion.

[@sio2709]

Meanwhile companies seem to be more clear about the type of laser source they use and call them simply IR lasers. These 2W 1064nm modules are neither fiber nor diode lasers, but q-switched solid state lasers. They are pumped by a 808nm diode, while the active laser gain medium is a Nd:YAG crystal emitting at 1064nm. To get powerful pulsed output, they use Cr:YAG crystals to achieve passive q-switching. The laser pulses can reach several 10kW peak power at ns pulse width, while the average power is ~2W. You cannot control the pulse energy or frequency (because of the passive switching), but the characteristic is comparable to fiber lasers. What's next? How about converting the 1064nm pulses to 355nm by THG techniques? UV pulse lasers are popular in industry but still very expensive.

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

Exactly....

[@kennyrobman7390]

So what kind of laser should you get if you want to actually cut metal?

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

A 50W or greater fiber laser.

[@nwmi493]

where the rubber meets the road $$ if ya wanna play ya gotta pay lol 50W + @@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy

[@notastreamer7992]

Does this include the atomstack m4?

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

I don't know anything about the M4.

[@JORGINHODONASCIMENTO]

Great video, thanks. Would you say, based on your experience, that either brand and sculpfun 10W can do engraving on 304 tumblers? I don't care about cutting metals, i just want to engrave but make it a decent looking work.

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

Sure, they can both do that.

[@dafyddgould9485]

could you share your thoughts on the new Ikier 20w (Fibre) IR laser pls

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

No, I don't have one.

[@johnsanders8168]

Interesting rant. I think you are reading into it far more than is there. I have the IR laser for my D1 and I routinely engrave copper and brass medallions as signage for my wood turnings . . . .I save $3.00 each by making them myself. The price of the laser will pay for itself in about 10 months! What makes you so negative?

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

They way they market it using all of the bullet points of a fiber laser when it's not. I thought I covered that John.

[@davidelder5399]

I was curious after seeing the XTool video at the weekend, the speed was the give away. Great video as always & thanks for sharing your knowledge with us newbies

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

Thanks David👍

[@sammygordon9850]

So the Monport 20 watt fiber is Lightburn compatable? not seeing that on the site.

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

It sure is. Fiber support for EZcad2 is brand new in Lightburn.

[@jeryart]

is XTool claiming this is a fiber laser?? I don't think so! why do you keep using the word "deceptive" they are just saying what it can do but people will use it for whatever they want and I think the main purpose of the laser is to engrave.. and finally have YOU actually tested the 1064nm in order to be making all this claims???

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

Woah! Easy there!🙋‍♂️ I never said *they claimed* it was a fiber laser. What I said was, people are getting the impression and thinking it's a fiber. I got well over 100 messages from people asking if it's a good "fiber laser" to buy when they launched it within a day. What I said was, I thought the marketing was deceptive, bringing this market in the hobby laser world as a practical 1064nm laser, because it's not. And yes, I have the right to my opinion, just like the xTool "fan boys & girls" have theirs. (Apple vs Android flashbacks!) Why would I want to test something that would take six hours to do a simple 300x300mm material test grid?? Yes, I have two of them from two different manufacturers, and they'll both wind up being wall art eventually. Don't BARK at me! Hit the thumbs down and move on! Try and be happy! My opinions are just that, and shouldn't matter at all to you! 🤪

[@TripleJAu]

OK.. As a newbie to this field here's where I am confused.. 1) Are you saying unless one spends 5k plus it's no good? 2) I am sure I have watched some videos here with gear less then 5k.. Hence my confusion.. Any one that clear it up would be fantastic

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

Nope, I gave several examples of fiber lasers that are a good starting point from $1400 to $2000.

[@Now-YouKnow]

ok I just want you to know I am REALLY REALLY not happy with you right now I swore I was done spending money and I just bought the monport 40w co2 (thanks) I have no clue where I am gonna put all this stuff :) and yes I had bought the X1 pro and infrared laser 2 days ago :(

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

😊 Time to build a new hobby shed! 🤪

[@Eric-bh6ie]

Will it cut through 1/4 wood?

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

No idea Eric, I don't have or want one.

[@stevedonalson5675]

I ordered a 20Watt XTool D1 Pro with the 1064 nm laser. They gave me a discount. I was going to order a 20W D1 Pro anyway. I will receive it hopefully by Tuesday. It definitely is not a fiber laser. My theory is, there is one or more laser diodes and no fiber resonator is present. There is probably no room for it. I’ll find out soon. I’ll let you know what I fine.

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

I'm 99% is just the pure diode. You would need the seed diode to fire it with a fiber combo, so that would put the cost out of range.

[@stevedonalson5675]

@@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy I agree, curiosity got me more than anything else. I wanted to 20W D1 Pro and for a little more I got the 1064 as an add on. They could be adding diodes like they do on the 10 and the 20, I doubt it. They never mention power the power of this thing. It may be pulsed, but I’m with you, I think it’s fixed frequency. I’ll find out next week. I’ll let you know what I can do and can’t do.

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

I found out it's one, 2W diode Steve.

[@stevedonalson5675]

@@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy you nailed it. You were saying you thought it was a 2 watt diode. I saw a video showing the Atomstack with 2 diodes 808nm combined with the 1064 nm. Regardless, they, XTool, are being vague on the specs for a reason. Maybe a rush to market. I personally think it’s way overpriced for what it appears to do. You can’t see the reflection. Any stray reflections can be potentially dangerous. Yet, they were walking around the machine without safety glasses for a lot of the live stream. Until, I guess someone mentioned it. If the head had any significant power, it could have a bad day for the crew. It still may. Time will tell. Thank you for the heads up on the power. Eat some boudin for me.

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

@@stevedonalson5675 Thanks!

[@LSEngraving]

good call. it seems these companies are setting themselves up for many upset customers.

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

Right on Patrick, my thoughts exactly!

[@PhilippinesDarrellCheeks]

Thanks Rich - I was questioning this myself - glad you confirmed.

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

Glad to help!

[@loganfreeman8237]

good to know that saves me some money because they always advertise the staff as it would be perfect but reviews shows then the reality

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

True Logan.

[@loganfreeman8237]

@@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy is it possible to contact you through phone or email as well?

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

Lots of folks do. Contact info is in the show more section below the video.

[@snapah]

Would the laser modules fit other laser gantries of the same make? Like the r30 on the x20 frame from atomstack? Or would it need a different board?

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

I don't know, I don't have one. But any module can be wired to fit any laser if you're experienced at tracing the pinout.

[@snapah]

@@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy oh okay thats good to know, just a shame I'm not skilled enough 😅

[@HoutmeyersP]

@@snapah On all previous lasers from Atomstack it needs another circuit board ( they will provide you with that) it also needs an additional power source of 12 volts to make the 1064 work.....the X20 uses a 24 volt to move the gantry and power the blue diode. In the kit you also get a attachment to mount the 1064 infrared head. I think its the same sliding mount but now with clamping scews at the side......as the knob to lower the blue diode laser will no longer work on the 1064 infrared. For the X20 you can leave that new mount for both a blue and infrared head in place ( so it fast to change heads) . The other Atomstack laser users will need to replace that mount every time according the head they want to use.

[@snapah]

@HoutmeyersP thanks very much for the reply and the great information

[@georgechambers3197]

Are youu saying 1-2 mm/sec or mm/min? Some difference there. Funny thing I'm up to my ears in lasers and I'm building a larger plasma table to go with my other plasma table. Too many fires in the iron. 😁Thanks for the clarification on these 1064 laser modules though. And thanks for the video!

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

mm/sec George.

[@georgechambers3197]

That's still faster than my diode laser. Thanks for the reply!

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

That's 60-120mm/min George. I do anodized aluminum business cards on the diode at 800mm/min.

[@georgechambers3197]

I've done some but didn't remember the speeds I do remember using 10% power though. Thanks for the reply!

[@Mark-oj7yt]

Hello There, new to the channel, and enjoying the knowledge you give out! I’m interested in owning my first Fiber Laser. I am looking at the Monport 20Watt can you speak on this laser and company? Thanks !

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

Welcome aboard Mark! I have had a very good experience with Monport. That's why I have partnered with them! They have the best pricing out of all of the exporters, and my coupon code makes it even better.

[@stevephillips2997]

Thank you so very much Rich. As always, thank you for your timely and knowledgeable information.

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

My pleasure Steve!

[@willsievwright9870]

Greetings from the UK Rich. Thanks for all you time making these - they are great. Do have a question for either you or the subscribers. I am just a hobbyist, have a bog standard 3018 laser and CNC - anybody know if I can just buy upgraded laser module - say 10w can't seem to track down online? Thanks, Will

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

You can Will if the pinout of the wiring matches and your power supply can handle it.

[@garypio2241]

I ordered the atomstack r30 , i hope i didnt get screwed , they say its ir fiber

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

Well the dot size is .03mm Gary, and if it were a fiber, it would be more like .003. I looked at the ad for it on their website, and while they do mention fiber once (probably a typo), I don't see it anywhere else. I also don't see anything about frequency control. It's probably going to be a regular 1064nm diode module. You won't get a real fiber laser at this price point.

[@garypio2241]

@@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy thanks for the info

[@BitSmythe]

1:55 Nobody said nor claimed anything at all about being a “fibre” laser.

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

Okay! 🤪

[@looksofficial8949]

does daja s4 include fiber laser?

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

What's a daja s4?

[@looksofficial8949]

@@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy mr. Carve s4 sir

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

There's very little info on this machine which leads me to believe it's just a 1064nm & 455nm machine without frequency control, so I would say based on the limited information, I can't confirm if it's a fiber laser or not. They certainly want it to appear to be, and it might be, but I don't know.

[@looksofficial8949]

@@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy Yes I think maybe Like atomstack m4. Last question sir. This is just your input or recommendation for me, who is a beginner. Is there a machine that can engrave stainless steel, engrave silicon, rubber, lycal and plastic? Please give me input from those of you who already have experience.

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

Yes, any fiber laser can.

[@aislinciarcia2846]

ugh..knowing nothing about laser engravers i just purchased (yesterday) the Xtool D1 Pro 20W WITH the 1064 infrared laser, as well as all the other accessories they listed as "frequently purchased with". that is an expensive mistake

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

Well, you can still do jewelry with it Aislin! A friend recently told me they paid $39 for a ring engraving.

[@aislinciarcia2846]

@@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy lol....i imagine that would take very precise centering and i am still struggling with how to tell the machine where my material is and framing it without grinding against the back of the machine, lol. i have watched soooo many videos and still cant get it

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

@@aislinciarcia2846 Did you watch this one? kzbin.info/www/bejne/pKa2i4F7pNacjbs

[@CESAR_H_ARIAS]

Diode lasers are the kings of bad advertising. Neje started at 80w lol now they are at 10 i think. (I have one for engraving not cutting)

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

It's getting better, and there are uses for these new 1064 diodes, just not in the hobby market.

[@staltus]

Thanks for the info, I had wondered about that head.

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

Any time Steve!

[@generalpattonpending7256]

great topic, you really cleared up the hype, thanks

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

Glad it was helpful!

[@benjaminklyeisen2080]

Sorry, that' just not true. I own a xTool F1 and it has a 2W IR laser. With this I engrave my product labels. The label is 53 by 37mm. Has some text, symbols and a QR code on it. I run the laser with 200mm/s and 200 lines/cm at 75% power. With this setting I get on bare aluminium in under 2 minutes. With my first 5W diode laser I could burn into the same aluminium for hours and nothing happens. So for me this 2W IR laser is perfect at the moment and I am very happy with it.

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

Glad to hear it!

[@rsnsol2490]

Thanks, you just saved me a mistake.

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

Glad I could help!

[@douglasmitchell4063]

Thanks for all you do Rich!

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

My pleasure Douglass, thanks for the support!

[@rebeccareulet131]

Thank you so much for this awesome information.

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

Any time Rebecca, thanks for watching!

[@fierceflyer5]

Great info, very helpful

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

Glad it was helpful!

[@NeoDon1]

This is the best Laser Channel on KZbin, Period! Thanks Rich, Cheers

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

Wow, thanks Neo!

[@JZee49]

Well done sir you opened my eyes to something I had not really given much thought to. That list of names at the end has really grown. That says a lot about your knowledge and how you present it. Thanks for everything you do

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

Thank you Sir, it surprises me every time I look at it! 😊

[@davelambert8898]

Waiting for you to actually test one :)

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

Not sure they'll send me one Dave if they see this video 🤪

[@victorreppeto7050]

I appreciate the information. Because of your video I'm not going to get ripped off. However, you complain too much. You told me you were going to tell me what these 1064 nanometer infrared lasers could do. But all you talked about was what they can't do and what a rip off they are and you repeated yourself over and over and over again.

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

I tend to do that...

[@zakspop]

You forgot Atomstack. They have one too.

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

No I didn't. I mentioned the M4 in the video and in my pinned comment.

[@mirafly2007]

He means you did not mention the Atomstack R30 Infrared Laser Module Fiber Laser

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

I didn't know about that one.

[@Roelasia]

As you said at 5:30 you should not talk about something you don't know of. ;)

[@oscarmayorga7461]

I think laser diode machines are just about to become not a viable product, the price is really up, now I can buy a 50w 400mmx400mm CO2 machine for almost the same price as 20w laser and all the extra accesories

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

Awesome!

[@Animalwon]

2 watt Lasers? What a disappointment. I wasn't looking for a fiber laser but I *was* excited to think that we're almost to the point where I Diode Lasers are on the path of replacing old Laser technologies. But even though we are on the path to replacing CO² Lasers, the low power of these diodes brings back memories of waiting minutes for the original IBM PC (8086) to boot up!

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

Diode lasers will never replace the Co2.

[@johndiego3105]

That is why I will always listen and take Rich’s advice and recommendations.

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

Thank you John!

[@NeoDon1]

Another great video and info from you Rich. Please check your email for a question about camera alignment, thank you so much.

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

Will do!

[@NeoDon1]

@@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy Thank you Rich

[@epplers]

You obviously don't have or used one. I use it to engrave tumblers and it is my go to with metals at much faster speeds than you claim. Also they never claimed it to be fiber. You shouldn’t do a video on something you have not used.

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

When I did this video, nobody had one. And I do believe most of the points I made were valid. I did talk about what it would be useful for.

[@Crits-Crafts]

Do you think that these would allow us to engrave on glass or clear acrylic without painting them first? That's what I was interested in

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

More than likely.

[@rowepjr]

They will not engrave glass. They are supposed engrave transparent acrylic but not as well as opaque.

[@salamhasson7432]

Hello friend, thank you for this frankness and accuracy in your words and the wonderful information that everyone is ignorant of. Yes, we really enjoy and benefit a lot from your experience. Thank you again. I have a question. I use the L.B program and the new version is 1.2.01 and it works great with the laser diode machine, but when I use it with the co2 laser machine, it cannot find the machine through the USB port. Why ?🤔 is there a special version to co2 laser machine ?

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

Yes Salam, you have to upgrade the license to the DSP version to use a Co2.

[@salamhasson7432]

This is very kind of you for a quick answer. If I upgrade to DSP, can I use both ? ( Diode laser and Co2 lasers )

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

Yes, you won't see a difference in the software.

[@en2oh]

What is the point of this video? I haven’t anything that looks like $500 laser..

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

I think it's pretty self explanatory.

[@TheUnofficialMaker]

You are the man!

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

Thanks!

[@geraldlamothe6091]

You get what you pay for...😂

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

So true Gerald!

[@BitSmythe]

5:05 It’s irresponsible to publish something claiming what they don’t have, if you haven’t done the research and repeatedly “guessing” what’s in there or what it can do. Do you have one? Have you asked for specs? *PLEASE REMOVE THIS VIDEO* until you qualify your data! 13:04. Do *YOUR* research before badmouthing this product.

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

No thanks! I'll keep my opinions! BTW, 505 was a spot on assumption and verified. I'm not _"badmouthing"_ anything but the marketing, which is, in fact, deceptive.

[@harleyhord9348]

👍tell it like it is!

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

Always Harley! At least my opinion....

[@GaryRose]

Maybe you should research before digging something you know nothing about.

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

I did Gary; this is my opinion, and you're free to disagree. Try and be bit nicer though 😊 Life is too short!

[@lonniedupont]

👍👍👍👍👍

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

Thanks for watching Lonnie!