High Powered FoxAlien 40w Diode Laser (10w Output)

[@ruizd14]

Thanks, I bought the FoxAlien 4040-xe with the 40-watt laser bundle and the instruction booklet that came with the laser module did not seem to mention what the P/S was for until I watched your video. Now I know I will be able to get 100% power. Thank you, James Dean Designs!

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Glad I could help

[@foxalien_official]

Thank you, James! You made a great video again! This video is full of details and instructions. Really love it!😄

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

You're very welcome! Its a great laser

[@mikekiske]

@@JamesDeanDesigns Hi. What is the lifetime (in hours of work) of this laser module running at 100%? Thanks.

[@ericeinsmann5559]

James, another great video! You answered several of my questions in the same video! #1. No, most cnc machines can't power a 10 watt laser out of the box. #2. Yes, the extra power supply comes with the FoxAlien laser. I am looking at getting this and hooking it up to the Proverxl 4030. It's a shame you don't have access to X Tool in the UK. Maybe they should change their name to X Fool. 😁 Thanks again

[@ivorsingh1245]

Very impressed with the brasso idea. Im ordering some to try on the acrylic nightlights. Will be neater than cnc. Thanks for all your time and effort. Its appreciated

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Glad it was helpful!

[@JohnColgan.]

Great video, lots of good info. Impressive piece of equipment,, amazed how well it cut through materials. You'll need to update all your material/cut libraries again now !!

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

I am terrible for stuff like that, I have no material libraries setup

[@Treacle1959]

Hi James. I sent FoxAlien a message last night regarding 40w laser to fit 4040-xe verses buying a separate unit like a reizer mega. (pros and cons) but didn't really get any information this morning when i looked for the answer it just said the 4040-xe supports laser. I already know that as it was in my message to them?. luckily your video popped up in my notifications and it answers everything i was looking for. I was going to buy it as a bungle in January but at the time they where having shipping problems and the 4040xe was already in the UK warehouse. It is a pity they haven't got laser stock in the UK warehouse because i would purchase immediately after watching your video. great work and please keep them coming.

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Shipping and stock is still a nightmare for a lot of companies at the moment unfortunately :(

[@mauricecanney7472]

Great tutorial as always. I have a genmitsu 3018 with a 500w spindle upgrade. Will this laser fit/work with my machine?

[@roheetpatel8378]

More great detail and insight. Fabulous video JD.

[@stevehotchkiss7198]

Just bought a FoxAlien Masuter Pro, and was wondering if there is somewhere I can import recommended device settings. Especially material settings

[@velvetnightmare3133]

THANK YOU!!!

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

You're welcome!

[@rsilvers129]

Why even call it a "40 watt laser" when it is a 10 watt laser? It makes it hard for companies to compete with using real numbers.

[@Dancopymus]

This is marketing strategy. 40 Watt is actually the power consumption as the optical power is 10 Watt.

[@slightwave]

We live in a world where marketing has won over engineering

[@Cosmic.Collie]

I was wondering about the same. It is absolutely useless, just pure misleading. If a laser has an optical output of 10W, then it's a 10W laser.

[@luisjustavino454]

Good afternoon greetings, what configuration should be used to achieve these results on acrylic with the Brasso.

[@mikeratko7180]

Mr Dean, I have 3 questions about the 40W FA laser module on a Masuter Pro table: 1) what is fastest linear speed in x and y axis? 2) what limits the linear speed of the FA table? The controller? 3) have you tried doing photos on aluminum business cards with the FA 40w module? Thank you in advance for your consideration. Sincerely, mike

[@SRH58]

This is way cool.. I love the Brasso on acrylic idea for night lights. 🌙 Are the 40w output units available like I see are coming out now on regular machines? I jave a 6012 that I would set it up on...

[@yo-yo_7]

James, I need to know the exact name of that purple colour. It’s amazing. I’d appreciate your reply.

[@craftymoonwitchcosmicmoons1348]

Hello. I've been watching your videos. I have the 40w laser on my mastuero pro. I'm using 1/8 baltic birch and it's taking 10 plus passes to get through. Settings 350/100. What am I doing wrong? Help!!! Se

[@edj23109]

hopefully you can help me, I have 4040-xe that I added a fox alien 40w laser, I am using lightburn software. Now for the issue I can not get it to cut thru 3mm bass wood, I have run it all the way down to 10mm/m at 100% power.I use the the 30mm spacer to focus the lens. Can you give any ideas. Thanks Bruce

[@fossfix]

Great video James as always, I bough the Foxalien 4040 cnc with the 40w laser i was wondering what the other power supply was for since it could be plugged straight in the cnc controller, the information you gave was a light switch moment. A change in my wiring set up is due THANKS.

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Glad it helped

[@arjenveninga5038]

Hi James, very interesting to see this laser cut through the 12mm pine. Did you set the focus point at the surface? or did you add 6mm focus distance? would it help? I know that the laser is not meant to cut through thicker wood, but would setting the focus point half way through impact the cut quality?

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

It would have been to the surface or just 1 or 2mm below. If you set it too low it will struggle to cut through it initially and just burn the wood

[@benjamindau]

Bonjour, Est ce que ça coupe du chêne de 5 mm même en plusieurs passe? Merci 🙏🏼

[@johnkirk7147]

Hi James I have just got the 3020WM and 40 Watt laser after watching your videos, which i was impressed with. The thing that really struck me was that you used brasso to engrave the acriylic, which turned out great, so i was wondering if you could give me an idea of the power and speeds that you used. I would be very grateful if you could.

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Hi John, Best thing to do is just run a short test because the thickness of the brasso and the type of acrylic will make a difference but ultimately you can use lower power or faster speeds as you're only really lightly melting the surface

[@myonks2]

I cannot get my acrylic to engrave with the brasso trick you showed in this video. do you have more info about it anywhere?

[@rodboorman4989]

Hi James another great video I have got the 3018 pro CNC but i do yo use the ortur laser master 2 pro for lasering as I do find it better as it is solely for lasering. So my question would be do you think that the foxs alien 40w diode laser would work on the ortur laser master 2 pro, keep up the good work, awesome videos

[@h.a.6790]

Hi James, there’s a Chinese company releasing 20W(power output) diode laser next month. In my opinion, even with a more powerful diode, laser will just pass through clear material which is the biggest drawback for diode.

[@markgarrett2971]

Would you happen to know which model?

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Yes, xTool. Be interesting to see what it does. That is a huge drawback to diodes, they have their uses, particularly doing NWT tiles, some of them come out amazing

[@CESAR_H_ARIAS]

Yes but you can always use some black tempera paint or a black underside sheet

[@CESAR_H_ARIAS]

@@JamesDeanDesigns yes but that xtool diode laser isnt going to be cheap

[@jrendt2157]

do you think this could be added to the Jinsoku LC-60A? I know you reviewed the LC-60 Recently. Thanks for the great info as always.

[@theeburningbeard]

I have an LC-60A and am wondering the same thing. Hopefully he has an answer for us. 👍

[@FRIENDSofCAP]

I haven’t FoxAlien 4040 XCCNC machine. I’m looking at the 40 W laser but I want to know can it cut aluminum like 6061 or 5052 or 7075 aluminum and if so, what thickness per pass and how many passes and what is the maximum thickness I’m guessing 6.35 mm or a quarter of an inch??? Also do they make a more powerful laser like an 80 white with a 21 optical cut/engraver??? Realizing of course, that with an 80 water have to have a definite separate power supply. Please advise at your earliest convenience.

[@rem5137]

I know this video is a year old but im replacing my Genmitsu LC-60A and was wondering how Foxalien as a brand is. Cant find mant reviews? I have a couple Genmitsu lasers but want to branch out

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

They are good as a brand. They are a little smaller than sainsmart but equally their customer service is brilliant which is why I opt to work with them. You will find reviews about them on places like amazon

[@rem5137]

@@JamesDeanDesigns I appreciate your reply! As you know there are so many other brands out there it can get overwhelming researching them all over again. I think im sold on the Foxalien brand! Cheers!

[@2davydo]

I just received my San smart LC60A laser. for the price on sail for 299.00 shipped it has quit a lard working area. but was wondering if it is possible to get a more powerful laser mo-dual for it have been checking out the laser tree 20w optical output and also the lynee 10w along with the NeJe 12 and 24w model. will they fit my machine and if not is it possible to modify the mounting or tweek them to fit the mechanism.

[@markgarrett2971]

Great review. Do you know if this would connect to a shapeoko CNC

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Not 100% sure to be honest, if they have a laser port then yes it probably will but I've never used a Shapeoko

[@dasbo1fan]

When I use it on maple hardwood it just burns doesn't engraver. Do you know why?

[@hansdegroot8549]

Great video. Thanks for sharing. For one reason or another I can't open replies on comments that are made. That's a big pity.

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Thank you. Sometime that happens when the comments have been removed or deleted. I had something the other week where KZbin kept deleting my reply, it would show like there was a comment but it had actually been rmeoved.

[@hansdegroot8549]

@@JamesDeanDesigns Thanks for your explanation. And thanks for fixing (again) the replies. Now they're all visible.

[@jamalkurdi3194]

Can you cut acrylic with 40w Foxalien laser diode, if yes what speed and power, please advise...

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Yes you can. Can't give speeds though as it depends on the thickness, the colour and the type of acrylic

[@jamalkurdi3194]

Hello James...does a 40w Foxalien laser diode gives you a full power when you are running the laser from the control box or must be plugged in straight to the power to give 100%, please advise...

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Will depend on the control board bit most will need the external power supply to run at full power

[@waynelindberg2603]

James, First I want to thank you for all the great video's you have produced. Informative and easy to understand. I just received my FoxAlien 40w laser and tried the same cut test as you did but didn't get the same results. These are all at MM/MIN 100% power 1 pass, 250 it cut through, 300 it almost cut, left a few spots on the back side that didn't penetrate. 350 - 500 didn't penetrate through at all. I have a 4040XE with the work sitting on a honeycomb bed. I have an air assist 32 watt pump that starts with a 1/4 inch hose that is reduced to 1/8 inch hose run through the cable chains to the laser and a brass air assist nozzle I got from Lazer Wizard. Is there anything you can suggest to increase the performance? Thanks

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Truthfully the wood can make the biggest difference. I typically only cut balsa or basswood. But if a company has used lots of glue, it will struggle to cut through that. The other thing to do is a focus test to ensure its actually focused correctly when using the block.

[@essexgary]

Hi James. Just want to double check... the 40W laser needs a PSU to operate at full power?? I only ask because when I asked FoxAlien about a PSU they said not needed as works fine at full power with no PSU. only the 80W laser needed a PSU.

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Yes thats correct. I believe the only machines they said it didn't need a PSU for was the Reizer and Reizer Mega. Perhaps they have since improved the efficiency but I have heard of that

[@gianpierodemaio]

Hi James, can It cut 6mm MDF? Can you tell lightburn settings to do this? Ciao

[@neira.francisco]

And which will be the best (dollar by performance) laser for the 3018?

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Difficult to answer as it really depends what you are trying to achieve. for example if you just want to engrave basic materials the the cost of some of the lower powered lasers are quite cheap now, however if you do want to cut stuff out then you need a more powerful. Some of the cheaper, non-branded laser can be much better value if all goes well, but as soon as something goes wrong and there is no customer service you essentially have a paperweight

[@jujhaarai]

Laser engraver maestro

[@cheekyoscar1353]

james : can you confirm that the small little cable comes in the box , been on the company website and it's not in the picture nor is the power back . I have however spoke to the company via Facebook messenger . and he did say the lead does come in the box and does the power unit !! not too sure what he meant by that ( power unit on the laser or the power supply unit with a Uk plug ?? ) after having a long chat im still not convinced , posting to UK & lot of money to import charges I'll be interested to see if anybody else can confirm this ... thanks . all your videos have been fantastic I have learned so much it's unbelievable . thank you ..

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Hi, yes FoxAlien confirmed with me directly that all these lasers get shipped with the power supply. I'm not 100% sure why they do not mention this in their site - I will recommend they update it to say so.

[@evandergonzalez6630]

I have a problem, my laser don’t switch off when change to position from engraver A to engraver B, is a masuter pro Cnc and 80w laser

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

You will need to set the machine to laser mode. Adjust your $32 settings. It should be $32=1 for laser

[@DaynaBrown-l3p]

I'm struggling with cutting through MDF, I have tried several settings on my FoxAlien 40w and can't seem to get it. I can do a test cut at 90 mm/mim and 90% 2 passes- cuts fine with a square. But when I go to cut a file (example: sunflower earrings), it doesn't cut through? Any idea why?

[@JZee49]

Outstanding job James very informative. Is there a reference that list what machines this will work on?

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Thank you 🙏 Not really to be honest, which is why I think they give the power unit with it to make sure it will work on anything running a standard 3 pin laser connection

[@TheTeller2012]

Hi. I know I send my question kind of late on your video but hopefully you read and response. I bought a CNC (Masuter Pro 800W router and 40W laser). The router works just fine but when I switch to laser it did not emit any light. I got the $30=10000, $32=1, Set up fire button with power 20%(already reach maximum). But it still does not generate any light (power). All the jogging, testing of the CNC are ok (run correctly) it just did not emit any light. I check cables and connections and all are good. What is your suggestion?

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Your $30 setting needs to match the Smax value in in your laser software. By default this is usually 1000 in the laser software so either up the software to 10000, or drop your $30 down to 1000.

[@sams-pg7hj]

For engraving glass with the tempera paint method with air assist on a rotary, what do you suggest for speed/power settings?

[@Dancopymus]

Hi James, I don't know if you've already done the test but, is this laser compared to the Sculpfun S10 laser? Thanks for the review.

[@stevegillard9461]

Hi James. I have just ordered the 40W laser. I noticed you had an air assist on your laser. Is this really needed if i am only doing 'beginner/hobbyist' work?

[@jamesbrennan4727]

can the 40w laser with that came with the Vasto be install on another FA laser frame using the new power suppyl cable that came with the 40w laser???

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Yes, I believe so. It draws the power from that separate supply so in theory will work on nearly any machine

[@tigertran01]

Can I replace my Sainsmart LC-60A laser with this?

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Yes, I believe you can. You will probably need to use the power adapter but you should be able to mount it fine

[@ianthompson367]

Hi James ... having just ordered a machine bundle with the laser (by clicking your affiliate link!) I was keen to find out more. I think high pressure air assist is cooling the cutting surface more than is optimal. It occurred to me tha maybe using a beefy workshop vaccuum cleaner with a small bore pipe near to the cut point might just be better at the job .. have you tried that? I'll certainly be giving it a go when my Vasto drops through the letterbox...

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

First, your Vasto is not fitting through a letter box 😆 I think think there was a few issues with the high pressure test. There was no moisture trap at really didnt help either. A vacuum could work, it's a test I haven't tried yet

[@dougeing6521]

James, does the extra power allow the user to engrave ceramics quicker and hotter?

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Yes. Hopefully I'm going to get some tests done engraving ceramic tiles using the NWT method and show the difference in lasers

[@dougeing6521]

@@JamesDeanDesigns Excellent! When you do your tests please include your settings as a starting point for people.

[@richarddick4969]

Just wondering if I buy the 40 watt laser for my 4040-xe does it come with the 12 volt power supply or do I need to purchase that separately.

[@mathewmartin4729]

Really good video so i purchased this to have foxalien cancel it saying they no longer sell this in the uk, can you recommend an alternative?

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Thats annoying. They always have shipping issue with the UK as they go through amazon and when stuff sells out it takes ages to get them back in. If you contact them, they will sometimes ship directly from China but it costs a little more. Ive not used another laser of this strength but NEJE seem to have a good reputation.

[@merrillalbury8214]

It would appear that at 12vdc it would work with the Ortur Lasermaster 2, not pro. ?

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

I don't own an ortur so I'm not sure to be honest. Most lasers run on 12v but it would seem the Pro circuit uses 24v, although the diode is 4.5v

[@Manfredi-G]

can this be installed on the Genmitsu PROVerXL 4030?

[@ClarencePanchison]

James, question I have a Reizer system just added the 40W laser head. When cutting 3mm ply the max speed I can use is 100 mm/min in a single pass to get a cut that is clean through any faster the cut is not completely through. Is there something I am not setting properly to achieve the cutting speeds you are indicating in this video?

[@jamesdufrene3572]

Is this laser more powerful than the xtool 60w (10 output) laser? It sure looks that way.

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

I cant unfortunately as I don't have the xtool and wouldn't want to mislead anyone. Every manufacturers have different ratings and are not always 100% honest with the output power so it's difficult to know without a side by side test

[@jamesdufrene3572]

@@JamesDeanDesigns what are the differences between the foxalien pro and the 4040 xe. which one is the best bang for the buck? Also, what more can be done with the 300 watt spindle than the 60 watt spindle? or could I just get the dewalt or makita spindle for more power?

[@212nailbender]

James, great tutorial ! Can you provide a link or name of the power pack you've used in this video ? I knew my 4040xe controller seemed to bog down and light went out for several seconds, essentially ruining my job. I need this power pack. Thanks foe " enlightning" me and my laser tree 10 watt'er.

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Hi, FoxAlien supplied this with the laser but it's just a 5a 12v power supply. Assuming you bought yours from FoxAlien, just reach out to them and they should send you one

[@212nailbender]

Actually, I got mine from LaserTree"80w". it is 10w out. It put a heavy pull on my 4040Xe controller.I think I'll hard wire it in, does it come with spec sheet ? maybe a pic? Thanks James, I know your a busy guy, I think I know how, power from new power supply to the laser, one wire from controller to laser? Thank You .

[@mikeledee8786]

I have a xtool D1 10watt, also the Foxalien Masuter Pro. I am looking for a 20 watt output laser and hoping that Foxalien had one like that, any suggestions? Thank You

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

This is FoxAliens 20w output laser 😁 kzbin.info/www/bejne/mIKmlniwpNtgp9E

[@mikeledee8786]

@@JamesDeanDesigns Thanks very much

[@Roy_Tellason]

When doing those really deep cuts, how out of focus is the beam at the surface? I am thinking that you would end up with a v-shaped cut, perhaps.

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

You probably would. I dont imagine it to be a huge V but I suspect it wouldn't be a perfectly vertical cut. It's one advantage of having a longer focal length is that the cut ie likely to be closer to vertical

[@JoelCourtney-l6h]

What psi does the air need to be hooked up to?

[@thatguyisunoriginal8822]

Great video all around! Would you be interested in sharing the FB page for upgrades?

[@jigsey.]

That's very impressive my k40 can't cut like that...

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Really? I still believed K40's were more powerful than this

[@jigsey.]

@@JamesDeanDesigns I had a eleksmaker 5w diode, I got the k40 as an upgrade... Still no able to cut like you can...it's very hit and miss... I'm sorry I got rid of the eleksmaker

[@Graeme758]

How does this produce 10w optical output when other Chinese manufacturers need 80w? Has anyone done an independent test of output? This is the same double laser system used by the Neje. Without an independent test I'm thinking they are just quoting the input of each laser, not the combined total, I am not convinced that they have increased efficiency by over 100%.

[@firehawkfriend8863]

Would love to see a comparison of this and the xTool D1 in terms of cutting power

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Sadly that is one comparison I am unlikely to do. xTool offered me an D1 to test last year but restricted people in the UK and Europe from viewing their site. I don't know any other manufacturer which operates like that and given I am in the UK I turned down their offer as I cant review a product that people cant access. Hopefully they will change their approach if they have not done so already.

[@Adrian_G444]

@@JamesDeanDesigns i was just about to get xtool but for the same 2k range you spend on xtool d1 bundle with two lasers (blue and infrared), instead you can get a foxalien blue laser and cnc machine and a rotary roller. i think is a fantastic kit within the price range, rather than buying a cheap co2 laser. i can save the money and move straight to fiber galvo for marking and use this cnc for cuts. I personally like more how a cnc cuts rather than a fiber laser. Plus in the 2k range you can have it all. cnc can cut easily in metal too. lasers are passing 10k range to cut in metal.

[@Utube2Itube]

Does anyone know if these type of laser modules will engrave golf balls? I would love to create my custom logos on golf balls this way. Obviously I only want the engraved surface to turn dark without removing material as that could affect the aerodynamics ☺️

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

I imagine they will. I used to have some golf balls somewhere so I'll try doing one 👍

[@GeistYT]

only thing missing, How in the world do you adjust the Z ? I was hoping this was an all encompassing video :(

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

The Z is adjusted based on the machine it's fitted to so it. If its a cnc machine then you just jog the Z up or down in the software. If its a laser with only 2 axis then you just manually raise it up or down.

[@GeistYT]

@@JamesDeanDesigns hmm, yeeah ive tried that in lightburn, its a masuter pro

[@ibcwhite]

Another great video! If the actual output of the 40w is 10w, does that mean that the output of the 20w is only 5w? If so (and doing the math), then the 5w only really puts out 1.25w??

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

There is no set ratio and I believe the lower powered ones are technicallymore efficient than the high powered ones, for example I think I saw one of the new 20w output lasers by another company had an input of about 130w.

[@s197babeblue]

Guys, I have this laser and it doesn’t cut at all like in the video. 3mm of plywood doesn’t even cut it with 100% power at 100mm/m with one pass. I did the replacement and I still have the same problem. All the settings seem ok, but is there anything I don’t consider? I’ve been looking for a solution for over a month

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Are you using a separate power supply and the splitter I show in the video? Air assist also seriously helps when cutting. The other major factor is the ply wood. I use balsa or basswood ply most of the time. This is a lighter plywood, but you can get plywood which is more dense and therefore harder to cut

[@s197babeblue]

@@JamesDeanDesigns Yes, I use the separate power supply as in the video. Does it have any effect on power? I have the Masuter Pro. I will also try with other woods as you recommend.

[@bacskaicsego8021]

Is it compatible with the Genmitsu 3018?

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Yes and no, as mentioned in the video the width is 40mm so its too wide for a standard spindle holder on a 3018 unless you have an upgraded one. Alternatively you could zip tie or fix it to the side but the 3018 can run this laser though

[@ericeinsmann5559]

Do you have a link to the file for the Marvel Mayan calendar showing in the background? Thanks

[@BarefooterDude]

+1

[@mandolinman2006]

I'm curious if this could cut mother of pearl.

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Genuinely have no idea. I dont even have one to test

[@alexrobles7744]

does this laser only work with foxalien products or can it be used with other things like the proverlx

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Should be able to work on any machine that has a laser output, the ProverXl does so it will be fine on that

[@jameskuhn7559]

When cutting the 12mm piece, how many passes did that take to get through?

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

I think I reference it in the video. Off the top of my head I think maybe 7 or 8

[@jackhelm9852]

Sorry for what is likely a stupid question but I assume this head will only work with FoxAlien boards? This can't be put on another maker's laser can it? (Such as an Ortur?)

[@h.a.6790]

You may need a custom bracket to mount it onto the backplate of your machine, you should check with the manufacturer to see if it's compatible. For instance, Sculpfun S9 laser module can fit a wide range of machines.

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Im 95% sure it will work as they try and keep hole positions in a similar location. If you send me the sizes of the bracket of your laser via instagram or facebook I can check for you

[@samsee23]

would this laser engrave stainless steel?

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Depends on your definition of engrave. Engrave usually means to remove materials and this will not do that, but it will mark stainless steel and can actually colour it red and blue

[@samsee23]

@@JamesDeanDesigns thanks. I’m looking at a sainsmart laser that outputs 5.5w. Would that mark stainless do you think?

[@BrentHeadbergHarborViewPhotos]

I am running a Foxalien Masuter Pro and the 40w Foxalien laser. I am using Lightburn 1.2.04 when the 40w laser is attached. I don't seem to get 100% power when I use the recommended $30=100 $32=1 GRBL settings. Lightburn documentation suggests that certain controllers require a different $30= value. Do you have any experience with these settings?

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

$30 should be 1000 not 100 but crucially you need to make sure the Smax value in lightburn is also set to 1000. This ensures the software and laser are running the same power commands. Also are you using the separate power supply with the laser?

[@BrentHeadbergHarborViewPhotos]

@@JamesDeanDesigns I finally figured that out. Yes I am using separate power supply that came with the laser head.

[@craigjulespallister1286]

Hi James, I’ve got the FA 40w laser I’m having problems etching slate have you done anything on slate with the 40w? I have ran a few test cards but some etchings seem to be lighter than others at the same settings? Any advice please

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

It could be the slate to be honest, it's a natural product at the end of the day. The way to tell is if you run the same tests on something else like wood and thats more consistent then it's the slate. Also make sure the slate is level with the laser

[@craigjulespallister1286]

@@JamesDeanDesigns , thank you I was starting to lean the way of the slate being the issue, although tonight I’ve changed my settings yet again but got far better results using a second pass at lower power. Acrylic is my next project, you used brasso any alternatives also what about the metal idea underneath, I’ve heard/seen people using galvanised but maybe I’m wrong surely laser etching with galvanised could be dangerous ie toxic?? Love your videos and advice great work, I’ve used your links for purchases so hope you get something in return to support your channel.

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

@@craigjulespallister1286 thank you, that's really appreciated. Yes, lasering certain products will give off toxic fumes. I dont really know enough about all the different materials to know which are toxic and which are not but just make sure you're well ventilated. Just experiment and see how you get on. You just need something to catch the laser beam on the surface. Saw a comment earlier about someone using a damp paper towel and lasering on to that which engraves the acrylic. Something I had never thought of.

[@woodturner1954]

Again a 40 watt that only outputs 10 watts. Why not just call it a 10 watt laser to start with? It a marketing scheme to confuse people who don't read specs.

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

I completely agree and is why I mention this is nearly every laser video. It is designed to essentially mislead the market. and make people think they are buying a more powerful. It would not be as bad if manufactures listed straight away in the title 40w input/10w output

[@brunofocant2481]

It works at 12V 2A, so 24W max input power. Divide by almost 5 to get the real laser output power. This "40/10W" laser can't be a real 10W Laser, never. The best diode actually have a 5W output power under factory specification (could reach 7.5W with more current but shorten the diode life a lot). Actually, the only way to get a real 10W laser output from diode is to combine 2 diodes in the same laser head (like Neje or xTool 10W lasers).

[@brunofocant2481]

It operates at 12V 2A, so 24W maximum input power. Divide by almost 5 to get the actual output power of the laser. This "40/10W" laser cannot be a real 10W laser, ever. The best diodes actually have an output power of 5W according to factory specifications (they could go to 7.5W with more current but would greatly reduce the life of the diode). In fact, the only way to get a true 10W laser output from a diode is to combine 2 diodes in the same laser head (like the 10W lasers from Neje or xTool). I have a NEJE A40640 laser, which seems to have a true 10W laser output. It cuts 22mm pine at 200mm/min and 7 passes or 5mm poplar plywood at 200mm/min 1 pass 100% success (it could do it at 240, but not with 100% success, depending on knots in the wood or glue filled holes in the plywood sheets).

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Hi Bruno, I get the feeling you didn't actually watch the video or do your research before posting this? I'm guessing you completely missed the section where I break down how they achieve the 10w output by running 2 x 5w diodes together? It also draws more than 2a, in fact it is 3.3a which is why they supply you with a separate 5a power supply. Why do say divide by 5 as well? I don't think that is the scientific method for converting input to output given that most 5w diodes have an input of 20w. Focal length makes a big difference with DOC and these two lasers have different focal lengths. At the end of the day, they are a reputable company going for many years so they have to get their power rating checked before going to market. As for the differences between this and the NEJE, well I cant really answer that as I don't have both to compare.

[@ammerudgrenda]

You should watch the video before posting a comment.

[@212nailbender]

'for' not foe.

[@Jimmeh_B]

So, the laser market is STILL carrying on with these rubbish, made up power ratings. I wish one of these channels would just buy a laser power meter and test these "40 watt" lasers so we can get an ACTUAL power spec. The least you could do is tear the thing down and extract the laser diode, get the part number off it and at least attempt to track down a data sheet. These are probably the same old, 2nd hand blue diodes from laser diode arrays, extracted from laser projectors that have been flooding available on ebay for years. They range anywhere from 2-5 watts and make all sorts of claims about being "binned" and "tested" to up to 8w optical output, except for the unrealistic listings suggesting 14 or 20 w optical output. This is no different to the days of ebay listings for "high voltage generators" capable of 1 million volts or more. It's maddening. Personally, I don't want the laser for an engraver set up. I would like to know the actual specs, like if it's a single or multi mode, beam profile, fast and slow axis divergence, and the actual optical power output and at what threshold voltage and at what "steady state" temperature, instead of listening to people banging on... repeating whatever the "sponsor" told them, verbatim and without question, in order to score themselves some more free kit.

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Let's just be clear, some things I pay for, some things are sent to me but it took a hell of a lot of time and effort before anything was sent to me for free. Next, my target audience are beginners who quite frankly don't care about data sheets and part numbers, they just literally want to know what the laser is capable of and whether it meets there needs. And finally, the reason I started doing CNC videos is bacuse none of the videos I was watching met my needs, so instead of being negative and moaning about all the KZbin videos you don't like, being a troll and how you think we're all just after freebies, how about buying the laser your self, stripping it down, doing all that work, record it all, narrate it all and then post your own video because until you're doing that, you really don't have any ground to stand on for criticising others 👍

[@Jimmeh_B]

@@JamesDeanDesigns troll. lol Cool man. Keep repeating bogus marketing bs. Sorry if I came across a bit blunt, but perhaps you could widen your audience? I can tell you, there is a large group of enthusiasts looking for actual specifications on these lasers, and it's frustrating for us that everything you look at is just more of the same parroted bullshit. Click bait title after click bait title about "40watt lasers" that are not. Sadly, I don't have the time, or the capital to start a YT channel. But if I did, I wouldn't be having a go at people who criticise me for parroting bullshit. Mostly, because I wouldn't be parroting the bullshit for clicks.

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

@@Jimmeh_B you clearly have time to watch lots of videos and put lengthy replies, so yes you do have the time to make videos. All you need to make a KZbin video is a phone that records which I'm fairly certain you have, no real capital needed. Truthfully, the reason I don't strip them down is because I don't know enough about all the components and I have no issue admitting that. I've been into CNC and laser for 2.5 years (as a hobhy) at which point I was an absolute beginner and I still preach now that I am a beginner. I dont come from an electrical engineering or coding background or anything like that. It sounds like you probably know more than me and again I have no issue admitting that. I also have no issue with people making suggestions on how I could improve my channel, I take on a lot of feedback...but there is a huge difference between positive criticism and your angry response. You want to be angry at me for using the information I have to hand, then feel free. Most of my videos have over 96% positive ratings so 🤷‍♂️

[@Jimmeh_B]

@@JamesDeanDesigns TBF, you did at least include the (10watt output) in the title. You're far from the worst of the channels out there.

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

@@Jimmeh_B 😆 I will take that as a compliment! The issue is if I post it as a 10w, and FoxAlien call it a 40w, then people think I'm reviewing something different and if FoxAlien call it a 10w but their competition call theirs a 40w then it makes FoxAlien look less. Its a bad cycle and I completely see the frustration. If you want me to strip it down and give you any details I will certainly try. You can then possibly teach me what I'm actually looking at inside of these things

[@navyvet69]

Thanks for the tutorial! I have a question on the thicker wood and maybe a test. You calibrated the laser to 30mm above the wood surface then started the burn. I wonder at what distance away from the 30 mm it’s cutting ability is diminished? Perhaps you could set the laser distance to the 30mm plus the thickness of the material (like 19 or 20 mm or 3/4inch ). So you would have your focal point at the surface set to say 50mm and it would show what it’s cutting ability would be towards the bottom. Not counting as you said sap, fumes, etc. if it does make a big difference perhaps you could find a different focal point say 20 mm above the surface so as to split the difference as long as that distance is still deemed adequate. Seems it would have twice the cutting power at the bottom that way as it would with the original focusing distance of 30mm. Would be something else to consider maybe?? Thanks again from Texas!

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Definately worth a shot to see if it works

[@ukrywondodoma]

40 w and 10w output power ?? You measure this ??

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

I didnt at the time of making this video but have done since and can verify its a 10w output, and their newer laser has been tested at 20w output

[@1shubing]

Could I use this on my Genmitsu PROVerXL 4030 V2 ?

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Yes, it should work on that machine