xTool P2 CO2 LASER CUTTER | FULL SETUP AND ACCURACY TESTING

[@PerrydeVick]

I really enjoyed this video! Thank you for leaving all your tiny mistakes in this video! Seriously, it makes me feel so much more confident about being able to figure this machine out once it arrives. (I ordered one last week.) I really appreciate you not editing this to a smooth fake veneer. It is nice to know that a newbie to laser engravers can figure it out easily. I also now know what little hangups to expect.

[@WoodNerds]

Thank you for the feedback! I screw up all the time haha. I figure sharing will help others screw up less! Thanks for watching!

[@KimmiePhoto]

This was THE BEST set up video I’ve seen!!! Well done!!! My laser arrives tomorrow!!

[@WoodNerds]

Thank you Kimmie! Congrats on the new purchase, I really like mine! Check out my newest video to make sure your gantry is square before you start the other calibration!

[@justice2255]

Now that is an awesome tool. Can't wait for the other two videos.

[@WoodNerds]

It is awesome! I’m setting up the conveyor system this week and playing with it. New videos coming soon!

[@richardjones8236]

This was very cool. Mine came in a few days ago and I'm about to get started.

[@WoodNerds]

Awesome! Pretty neat device to have. I just got a much larger industrial sized machine after enjoying my experience with the xtool.

[@SamakiBanks]

Will be setting up my P2 hopefully tomorrow and will use this as my instructions :)

[@WoodNerds]

It’s a sweet machine! I hope the video helps make setup easy! Thanks for watching!

[@Savage_Viking]

Got one, firing it up today. Great vid.

[@WoodNerds]

Thank you! Awesome! Hope to get some good use out of it!

[@juleeetik7toki]

Greetings from Tucson!! Thank You for showing setup etc. I just got the chance to set mine up and my fire button was depressed too. Scared the ish right out of me as I thought it was DOA. 😂

[@WoodNerds]

Hey! Lol! That’s how I felt. I was checking connections and wiggling wires! I then remembered I was goofing off and depressed it. Figured keeping that in the video might help someone else in a panic.

[@GroundedConceptsLLC]

This video helped a lot. Thanks brother

[@WoodNerds]

I’m glad! Thanks for watching man! Cheers!

[@TinkeringJohn]

When running the test, do it like the xTool video shows with the head at the far right end. If it is good, you are done. If there is a mis-alignment, then do a more extensive check.

[@WoodNerds]

Not sure why you feel the need to tell me what to do lol. Do how you like… Angles compound so checking at every stage is the most accurate way to validate. Arguing against the most accurate way seems like a funny stance to take. If your beam is not hitting the previous mirror in the center and you adjust based on the head being at the far end, when the head is on the close end (the left) there is a chance it’ll be off at that location. Sure, the variance might not be enough for it to miss the entry hole for the beam but I’d prefer to be precise when it comes to a $4,000 machine.

[@TinkeringJohn]

@@WoodNerds I am not telling YOU how to do it (LOL), since you have already done it (who's arguing?). I'm letting others know that it is not necessary to do it the way you did. I'm going by the procedure that xTool (the manufacturer of the laser) shows how they do it in their video. The beam can look in the center when the head is near the mirror, but be way off when it is at the other end, so check it there 1st. Thanks for the reply. Just advice from another laser enthusiast. Just got mine runing today and was looking for helpful videos. By the way, I had trouble trying to get that back cover off mine too without breaking it. Videos can make things look easier than what they really are.

[@WoodNerds]

Cool! Yeah, I’m not sure what is up with the cover. There’s a clip at the left end (looking at it from the back) but it didn’t want to disengage no matter what I did. I agree man. I try to make my videos as realistic as possible, no matter how dumb it makes me look lol. That way you know what to expect. I’m sure everyone came across that.

[@KR-fn6sd]

Did you need to remove the slats for the larger wood? What’s the max wood size that can fit on the slats

[@WoodNerds]

You can remove the slats to get thicker wood in there. They also have a riser base and a conveyor system that will allow you to process really long material. The max width is like 23” and with the conveyor I believe you can process up to 9 feet long so crazy long.

[@danielcunningham4473]

Looking like a cool machine

[@WoodNerds]

I’m impressed with it so far. I’m still waiting for the accessories to get full use out of it but it seems to be very innovative.

[@wileycovington4497]

I have a Flux Beamo, but I WILL have one on these by next year, no doubt!!

[@WoodNerds]

It’s really a cool machine.

[@wileycovington4497]

@@WoodNerds I'm swooning over it.

[@CKeis99]

Hey, thinking of getting one myself. Let’s see what you can create brudda.

[@WoodNerds]

Hey! I’m excited about this one! I’m thinking signs but also shop jigs and even zero clearance plates for my table saw etc… about to pick up some material today for more tests. Thanks for watching and leaving some thoughts!

[@luckylittlepennycrafts]

Very helpful thank you!

[@WoodNerds]

I’m glad! Thanks for watching and taking the time to respond! I appreciate it!

[@goforthbmerry]

so tempted to pull the trigger on this.

[@WoodNerds]

It’s a nice piece of gear man. I did some searching and wasn’t able to find a more suitable, similar laser in the price range. It depends on what you need of course. They are running a sale for the next few days (link in description). They told me its one of the biggest discounts of the year so if you’re wanting to save some cheddar, now might be good. Don’t let that pressure you though haha.

[@goforthbmerry]

@@WoodNerds I just put down 5k on the Onefinity Elite 4x4 I won’t even receive until August. That’s my only hold back

[@WoodNerds]

Dude! I think a CNC is my next big purchase or deal. I still need a jointer and a bandsaw. Space is becoming a concern. I’m hoping to pass this off to my wife as she is showing interest in making decorations for herself and to sell. Store it in her garage and free up some space for more tools.

[@massomato]

Hi! I just got my P2 set up and I'm noticing that my camera is not perfectly synced with the software. If I wanted something centered I need to move it a tap or two to the right. I see you tested for this, yours was spot on. Do you know what you would have done if it did need to be calibrated? I'd love some help with it. Thank you!

[@WoodNerds]

There’s a channel called sams workshop (or something like that) where he squares up his gantry. I’ve been wanting to try that as well to double check my setup.

[@bb8luke221]

this is super helpful! probably you answered it. all of these (alignment etc) must be done before using or you are doing it anyway? I was thinking I may mess up with the alignment if not done correctly

[@WoodNerds]

Glad it was helpful. Personally, I’d do the setup before anything else. Yours might come dialed in from the factory but this is a good way to make sure. Also a great opportunity for you to learn what’s under the hood and get to know your machine.

[@bb8luke221]

@@WoodNerds Thank you!

[@WoodNerds]

Of course! Thanks for watching and taking time to leave a comment. I appreciate it!

[@sekos44]

Hey Tyler! Greetings from Germany 🙋🏻‍♂️

[@WoodNerds]

Hey! Thanks for watching! Hope all is well!

[@sharonsjv]

hey love your content and videos can you do a video on how you shoot your content and what your setup looks like and what you use for editing your videos mahalo aloha from hawaii

[@WoodNerds]

Aloha Sharon! I’ve actually been thinking about a video like what you’re describing. I’ve also been thinking about a video on how to take good photos of the things we build. I’ll have to figure that out. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment!

[@spetsdod]

Howdy. My P2 is on the way (had to order from Aliexpress though because XTool doesn't ship to Alaska). Could you do me a favor and measure the actual outside dimensions of the P2? I need an exact(ish) measurement so I can make a table in my craft room to hold it. I bought the bundle, with the P2, RA2 Pro, Riser, Extension kit, and Smoke Filter. I'm excited.

[@sierranevadawoodworx]

nice job! I'm expecting mine soon. Sub'd and looking forward to seeing more.

[@WoodNerds]

Hey Sierra! Woohoo! Let me know what you think about it! I’m really enjoying mine. Working on the plans for a nice hearty project. Thanks for the sub and for watching along! Cheers!

[@chrisr1241]

Thank you! My close camera is off by 1 mm to the left, not like yourself perfect placement. I did a calibration but I am still off. Any idea?

[@WoodNerds]

Hey Chris! I have found if I don’t enter the exact thickness of the material, it might affect the placement. Otherwise it might be a good idea to contact xTool and see what they might suggest.

[@chrisr1241]

Thank you. That helps yes. Now I am off by 0.8 mm. When you score a square and make a close view pic of that score. Does the design perfectly align with the snapshot? Xtool just sent me a standard message to calibrate the camera...

[@WoodNerds]

I was able to engrave on a grain of rice, so I’d expect it to act similarly to that example. Tell them the calibration didn’t get you any closer and see what they say. Unfortunately I haven’t had that issue so I don’t have great suggestions on troubleshooting steps beyond what I’ve experienced. There might also be a user group for these machines on Facebook or Reddit. Might be able to find someone on there that had the same result and help guide you through a fix. I’ve found groups like that to be extremely helpful when attempting to solve a problem.

[@chrisr1241]

@@WoodNerds you are nice! Thank you for your advice... I will do so. We will see.

[@WoodNerds]

@chrisr1241 of course! I hope it’s an easy fix! Good luck to you!

[@lindaalexander21633]

Can the P2 be plugged into a standard household 15 amp circuit or does it need to be on a 20 amp circuit?

[@TheLumberJacked]

15 amp will work perfectly.

[@nhsanimations]

Hi, My accuracy test constantly cuts 1.5 mm lower than my target. What would be the step to fixing this issue. My 3 mirror pulse test calibration is perfect. Not sue hoe to proceed.

[@WoodNerds]

Dang! I’m honestly, not sure. Do you have the correct thickness selected for the material you are using? I’ve found there is some sort of compensation that happens due to that.

[@nhsanimations]

@@WoodNerds lol, I was hoping not to hear that. I know there is a mirror in the laser head. I was thinking about opening it up and being sure the mirror is snug. Or could it be the camera?

[@WoodNerds]

@nhsanimations I’d think it’s the camera. Could be the mirror but if that was off, you’d likely hit the nozzle and your engravings would be bad.

[@jimrosson6702]

Very cool great video

[@WoodNerds]

Thank you Jim! Yeah, it’s a neat machine. Excited to see what I can get out of it. Thanks for watching!

[@AronsTube]

Would you be able to tell me if the machine would fit on a 24" deep work bench? I see it says 25.1" but with the feet probably not exactly at the edge I am thinking it might still fit. Thanks for your time and putting up this video!

[@WoodNerds]

Hey man! Of course! From foot to foot you’re looking at around 17.5” the entire case is actually almost 23” so you’d be in a good spot with a 24” bench. I think the added inch is to account for the power cord and exhaust hose fitting in the back. If you’re buying one, checkout my links. There’s a discount going on for like 1 more day and if you use the link it’ll help support the channel (at no extra cost to you). :)

[@AronsTube]

@@WoodNerds Thank you! This helps a ton. I have a 52"x24" Husky workbench currently I wanted to use so we can easily move it around on wheels for the conveyor when we need to use it. Have you had any issues with the unit or is that an upcoming video you'll touch more on there.

[@WoodNerds]

I’ve been eyeballing one for the same utility haha. No issues with my unit! I’ve been pleasantly surprised with how easy it is to use. Their software is really easy to learn and use as well(you can still use lightburn if you prefer that). I’m awaiting the riser and conveyor to test the auto feed and the curved engraving feature, but they’ve been pleasant to work with and responsive to my communications.

[@AronsTube]

@@WoodNerds This will be our first CO2 so we are completely new to how they work but excited on what it can do.

[@WoodNerds]

My personal opinion… even if you haven’t been using a laser for long, this one makes it really easy to get started and it’s really powerful without being intimidating. I’ve seen people engrave tumblers without the rotary attachment, just using the curved engraving function because it’s that good (which is something I haven’t seen before).

[@gastonheaps1848]

Can I use this to run Crysis?

[@WoodNerds]

On max settings!

[@peymanstd]

Mine has an issue where the close capture view is incosistent. Sometimes it captures and sometimes it doesnt. Have you encountered this issue?

[@WoodNerds]

Hey! No issues on my end yet. Have you tried cleaning the camera lens yet? It produces a good amount of smoke and particulates when burning. It’s recommended to clean the mirrors and the lens of the laser regularly as well.

[@peymanstd]

@@WoodNerds I should do that. One thing I noticed is once I remove the cover to for the laser head and slightly put some light pressure on the wires, one of the lights on the board goes in and out. Starting to thing it’s a connection issue.

[@WoodNerds]

Interesting! Could be! It seems like there is a plug on the top of the camera housing. On mine it is glued but maybe see if that connection is loose? If so, you might be able to easily plug it back in? I am not a technician so please take my advice with a grain of salt and be careful haha.

[@peymanstd]

@@WoodNerds interestingly enough, when I remove the top cover of the laser head, it works. Not sure if it’s some sort of a connection issue or short circuit. I am baffled.

[@WoodNerds]

Yeah, I’d definitely shoot them an email!

[@glensmith-or1bp]

I just set my P2 but I was instructed to go to the bottom right. It did it automatically and only tested the bottom right. After I was in the center of where it wanted it and said it was done. Just following the AI version of it.

[@thesquinty1]

It just hit me that you look like Deran Cody from Animal Kingdom

[@WoodNerds]

Just looked him up. I see it haha. I’ve also gotten Ewan McGregor (younger Obi-Wan Kenobi) and Charlie Hunnam (Jax Teller from sons of anarchy). All more handsome than I haha.

[@ΚοσμαςΜαργαριτης-σ3ξ]

it is very expensive. The price had to be half the money. when they realize it will be too late.

[@thaught9475]

I'm not even in the market for a laser cutter... well, maybe I am. Great video! I've been ogling Glowforges for a long time, but this thing looks amazing.

[@WoodNerds]

Thanks man! It’s definitely a step up from the other lasers I’ve tested. Excited to put it to use and see what cool projects I can use it for.

[@jerrysimeone]

I had a diode laser which gave blackened results as contrasted with the brown that usually occurs with c02 lasers. Any comments?just my observation. I prefer black instead of brown but the c02 is much more powerful than even a 40 watt diode. Thanks

[@WoodNerds]

I believe the black is due to the lower power. The high energy output from the more powerful machines seems to vaporize the material when cutting, rather than char it to death haha. If you’re engraving, I bet you can get the darker results by lower power and lower speed on the CO2. Having used both, I am a big fan of the CO2 machines. The engravings are fast, and it can cut through some pretty thick material (including acrylic), which further opens up the applicable use (can make jigs, templates, strong boxes, etc…).

[@SandieJeanC]

Thanks so much for this info! I really appreciate your P2 vids!!! I've had mine for 2 weeks and sadly it's still not calibrated properly. When I do the optical path set-up for mirror #1, I get 2 burn marks on the tape. I've tried doing some adjustments on the first (back) mirror (since someone said it might be hitting something and splitting in 2), but it just moves around as 2 burn marks. I AM in touch with X-tool, but I thought I'd take a chance to ask if you've ever encountered this?? ANY advice is greatly appreciated! THANK YOOOOOU!!

[@WoodNerds]

Hey! Thank you for the kind words! I haven’t officially had this issue but perhaps the mount that holds the mirror can be loosened and moved if the laser isn’t hitting the mirror no matter what you do to the mirror adjustment screws?

[@SandieJeanC]

Thanks so much@@WoodNerds! It ends up that X-Tool is replacing the tube. It was possibly damaged in transit?? Hopefully I'll be up and running soon. THANKS for your super-helpful vids and for your response!

[@WoodNerds]

Glad to hear they are doing the right thing! Of course! Happy to help! Hope this solves your issue and gets you up and running!