This is great, i just purchased a 1200x 800 80w laser with exactly the same old controller. Just purchased a Ruida RDC6432 to upgrade! Thanks for the share!!!
Yeah, sorry! There are two reasons for that. 1) it's really cold in the garage right now, I didn't want to thermally shock the tube. 2) the machine is currently in the middle of my shop so I could work on it, so venting the fumes is a bit of a challenge. Even cutting a really small pattern creates a LOT of fumes/smoke
Nice buy on the laser and even better upgrade. I am so jealous of all of your toys. Keep up the videos so I can live vicariously in your garage. PS. Nice pegboard OCD ya got going on there...
I have the same cutter and have been thinking about doing the same thing as the Lasercut software is very limited. I just happened to stumble on this video and it made my whole week!!!! Awesome. Just going to order a controller for this now from Lightobject. Did you get the x7 or the x7s? Thanks again. Very excited to get this upgraded.
I have been back and forth testing the cutter wiring and still can't get it to turn on the Controller, The P68-lv breakout board was well labelled but when I hook up the wires according to the labels, no luck. I only have one of the smaller power supplies and when I test all the voltages there seems to be no 24v. I tested the power supply and I can only find 5 volts output and on the breakout board the pin labelled 24v has a jumper on the back to the pin labelled 5 v. I thought maybe my problem was due to the myriad of safety shutouts but they seem okay. On my wiring diagram for new controller there are 2 places where I should hook up 24 volts I probably have the same power supply because it looks like your cutter is almost exactly the same except for the bigger tube and was wondering if you could tell me which one on yours was the 24v output and anything else you think i might need to look at. Thanks .
Thank you for this video! I bought a chinese laser 50w and the included Trocen controller wouldn't work or display at all, other than powering on once. Your video helped me understand what some of the issues may have been, although I'm still working on it.
there's two ports on the bottom of the controller and I had the network cable going to the first, but it still won't power on in the second. Not sure what I've done wrong...
Hello Robert. I purchased a used 80Watt with the same controller as yours had. So glad to see your video. I have done several searches and not found the same controller. I would like to do the same upgrade as you but am curious how you fit the controller Panel in the small hole from the old control panel. Could you please let me know how and show photo if possible. Thanks so much.
actually yes. in the last video someone mentioned it :-) I actually have some now, I just decided to not replace them. I was wondering of someone would say something again.
Great video. BTW, I don't see any exhaust port in the back. Is it on the side? Also, when I search Craigslist here in NYC or Long Island, all I get are machines (laser cutter, or woodworking power equipment) that are either JUNK or as expensive as a new machine. People sometimes think their junk is gold! Case in point, there was an old Delta Unisaw table saw that was rusted out top and bottom, and the guy wanted $1900 for it. I just went out and bought a brand new one instead of dealing with junk. But, your machine looks so pristine, I'm happy for you that you got such a great deal!
Mine has exhaust on the side. Also, when I talk to people about craigslist, my one piece of advice is: "what you see on craigslist is the stuff that no one wants, the good stuff is already sold." You need to be diligent and setup searches and catch the good stuff the second it gets listed!
hi , i gort cnc laser with ruida controller, it start working few minutes, after that , no fire laser tube, seller sent new (replace) power supply, but same problem, u know what is it? let me know , thx
Morning Sr... , my name is Diego . Excuse my English, I would like to ask you about the ruida panel in laser engraving machine... I got a co2 laser machine AEON laser mira 7, and I rest the panel unconsciously... And I found a possible solution, but I got another problem I change the direction arrow in the y axis, I mean... Staying in front of the machine when I push the button ⬆️ the machine ride in wrong direction... I will be very grateful for your help... I hope you have a good day! Your UA-cam videos are really useful...
Love you videos! Very helpful as my current laser is close to becoming a boat anchor thanks to crappy software and controls. Will this unit work in a mixed environment with AC servos as well as steppers?
It's a 60W laser. It's a CO2, so the wavelength is wrong for metal. Metal lasers need a completely different type of laser, and usually a lot higher power. This one can cut acrylic, wood, MDF, ABS, etc. But things like metal just reflect the beam and it never gets through.
Hi Robert, Thanks a lot for this video! It's soo timeless and awesome! I have a question tho... does that mean that I can use this controller for virtually any laser system? I just purchased a chinese laser cutter with an archaic controller (+ uses a dongle). The seller mentioned it's not compatible as " I will have to replace wires plus add a driver" and some other stuff. How can I know if my cutter will be compatible before I make the purchase? What should I look at for?? Thanks a lot
Really, all of these things are just a few stepper motors, power supply, and then the laser power supply and tube. They have the same components pretty much. You SHOULD be able to use a controller like this on just about any system. I can't make any promises of course, because you could have a really strange laser that I haven't seen. The best thing to do is crack it open and take a look at what you have. Then look at the manual for the controller and see if things line up. You MIGHT need to get some extra components if everything is all on a single PCB or something, but generally speaking these controllers can be swapped in easily enough.
I see living in CO is nerd central, damn that's a screamin' deal! I used to live in the SFbay, but moved north and if you want animals or farm implements, this is the place. Vintage computers or anything high-tech, not so much.
Actually craigslist around here is alright. What most people don't realize is that I look for a LOT of stuff constantly. It took me 2 years to find a laser cutter. Same with the Stratasys. Sure, there's a good tech industry out here, but it still takes a LONG time to find this stuff.
EFormance Engineering Can you please help I install a Ruida 6442s-B(ec) to my machines Now he failed on fire from the controller If I plug out the plug on the laser transformer and push the button he fire But nothing from the control board My tape of off laser transformer. Myjg80
There's seems to be two camps on controllers. The one you selected or the Ruida. Any thoughts you can share before I buy one of them? Great video as always!
I haven't used Ruida, but I've been perfectly happy with this controller and have nad no issues with it. I'm still very glad I switched and use my laser nearly once a week. That being said, I mostly do designs exported from solidworks or some other design program and rarely do much with the software other than import a design and send that to the laser.
Hello Robert, thank you for your video. I have an old Synrad Laser. It has a vc-2000 laser controller that controls the laser aspect of the unit, however the controller for the stepper motors and preview of cut path etc. is run off a unit made by a Canadian company called Precix. It was built in 1999 and uses 3.5" floppy disks and auto cad for the software. It is difficult and time consuming to transfer and manipulate items to be cut due to this controller. Would this controller be a way to replace the Precix portion of this unit? What software works with this controller? Does something like CorelDraw work?
It was probably just wired directly to power and a couple of switches. You don't really 'need' a motor controller for a standard DC motor. the ones I've seen just control it with a couple switches. if that's the case, you probably can't control it with your controller, but there might not really be a need to.
ROBERT Okay, my name and Alexandre, I'm from Brazil. I saw your video. I have a machine like yours, but I'm having trouble connecting the wires to the laser source. Could you tell me how you made the connection. thank you
Hi Robert, Thanks a lot for this video... I've been able to get it hooked up replacing the M2 controller. But I can't get it hooked up to my router/network. How have you done it? I've changed the ip address under the "Network" tab to match the ip addresses within my network but still no luck. What could I be missing? Documentation is pretty much zero
Very Awesome! Have you been happy with it? I just got a laser but Im waiting on a replacement tube and while I figured I was waiting for it might as well get an upgraded cpntroller. Did you get light burn?
I have been very happy with it, no complaints. I like the interface and it's reliable. I don't use lightburn because 99% of all my cuts are just DXF files exported from solidworks, so all I do is import the file, and send it to the laser. I don't use the software for much else.
Thanks Robert, This is still the only video on this around. can you tell me if the AWC708s has PWM? and the software has ramps effect? i really need something that i can engrave with Ramps. For my Rubber stamp Company. thanks you, in advance.
I'm not really sure what you're asking? Why would you use this with Ramps? If you're getting a controller like this, ditch the ramps and get real motor drivers. this has TTL control I believe for the laser, not PWM. But check the manual.
@@RobertCowanDIY Thanks Robert, i'm a Noobie at this. You actually answered the question a should of asked :-). as i have the Chinese Laser Engraver with the basic M2 controller, which pretty much is just the M2 board and a PSU. So for my upgrade i will need to gut the lot ! Install new - DSP Controller (RDC6445). 24v switch power supply. (DM542) (x & y) 2 phase stepper drivers. (DM542) Thanks again for your video, i wish i could document my upgrade journey like you did. it should be pretty striaght foward. I will let you know if i blow up the garage! Cheers Sam
Why not Ruida controller, say 6442 ? They are very popular and well described, software (RD Works) is quite friendly and wide avialable? I know it is a bit more expensive (say 50-100$ range) but you can got strong support from many other users what is a priceless.
I did a lot of reading and people seemed to prefer the one I got. Since the majority of what I do is just export DXF files from Solidworks, I didn't really need robust software. So far, it seems to do everything I wanted. The 6442 looks nearly identical (at least in terms of hardware) to the one I got.
Hello. I recently purchased a laser cutter with this controller in. I'm having trouble loading files via a USB card. The reader displays "the file data error" I'm assuming I'm using the wrong format in the file? I create my file using Coreldraw > export as DXF > use lasercad to export to USB as a Ud5 file. Please help. Thanks
Sorry for overloading. I have been trying to purchase a 60 40 laser cutter for my school's Tech ed Makerspace lab and am having a hard time narrowing down the options. There are sooo many Chinese lasers at excellent prices, like the Thunderlaser, Gweike or Triumph, but it is hard to figure out the company to buy from. With your experience with laser cutters what would you recommend? Prices have really come down and there are new options like Glowforge and Muse but the Chinese ones seem to be half the price a still pretty good quality, and with education , especially in Canada, every dollar counts. Thanks Love the channel and would love to take a robotics course from you. Looks super fun.
I haven't tried it yet. I have a very limited use case for my laser, 99% of all the files are just DXF exported from solidworks, so the software is far less important for me.
@@RobertCowanDIY Just found the time to do the install and ran into a couple of snags. On my breakout board I had some wires that don't seem to transfer to the new controller clearly. One is ORG y, ORG x and grnd combo. I am assuming they are for the limiting EL x and EL y on the controller but not sure. Another was labelled 1 and 2 which I think are the laser test button on the old front display. Any ideas if I am on the right track. Thanks
The x7s is the awc708s but rebranded by Light objects. How did you find out how out about the ways to copy the cutter info onto the controller and is there a link to it. Thanks Do you run classes or just do this for your own fun. Looks like a great shop and always getting better. Thanks
I actually do have a question. How is air-assist controlled? There is a check-box in the software. How is this controlled, is it one of the outputs? Is there a way to control the outputs through software? I would like to use the outputs to control solid state relays for lighting, exhaust, or air assist. You can reply or find my email address under the 'about' section on my channel, thanks!
yes, you can use OUT1 or OU2 AND OUT6, there are different functions. Pin Definition 2 OUT1, Blowing signal(The whole process of blowing) The machine is idle, the motherboard output OUT1 LOW； The machine is working, the motherboard output OUT1 is high。 3 OUT2, Blowing signal(The whole laser process of blowing) The machine is idle, the motherboard output OUT2 is low； The machine laser is working, the motherboard output OUT2 is high 4; OUT6: The layer blowing, you can select some different layer, you set yellow which can blow and red is not blow
Hi I am replacing the leetro controller on my machine for a 6442g ruida, someone told me that psu are locked to makers, ie like the one i have would only work with leetro controllers, can you please confirm is this is true ? thank you
From a retired Eng Tech. Does it work ? yes=dont fuck with it...If no =did you touch it ? yes =go hide it ,no =move far away from it or rule #1 if it aint broke DO NOT FIX IT...
I'm not sure what info you're looking for, the controllers are pretty universal. I'm still using it and I really like it. It was a great upgrade for my laser.
@@RobertCowanDIY That was what I was looking for, A confirmation that it worked well and it is still working. Laser Machinery Inc. was in WI and the Laser is a 60W machine. It was at a college in VA with very little use. Problem is that they did not have the computer or drivers. Once I have the machine on the bench I can have a better idea what I need. I also have a Matsuura Machining Center that I might need to upgrade the control on. A bit more complicated because of the servo motors and 7 hp spindle motor.
Great video. I also have AWC708C and have question for you. Did you ever use USB port on panel for transfering files? In my case it recognizes usb but it always gives error No work' files! . Do you know is it because it need to be special USB drive (UDisk)? I also get message Save params error when try to save current config to UDisk
I haven't. I only use the other USB or network connection. I bet it comes down to formatting. Try to format the USB stick differently, maybe FAT, not FAT32?
Thank you for answer. I did try FAT(FAT16) . No luck. When searching for problem I find someone with same problem but no solution. I will try to contact seller with this problem.
I found solution. Disk needs to be FAT32 but when formating it type needs to be Primary (not Logical) and it will work fine :) . EaseUS Partition Master and other disk managment softwer have that options when formating. So you were right about that it comes down to formatting.
Great video brother... But I need to know about so called Chinese k40 laser tube is it real 40 watt...?.? Is it 40w electric power eater or 40 wattage laser light generator?
Love your video. I have a 60w laser that the X Y just S*&^t itself. Can't find where the problem is exactly but it is looking like in the main Laser board. Considering upgrading to what you just installed, but not too sure of wiring up. First I need to buy although the cost here in Aust. is double to what you paid. Once again, excellent presentation. Rob
Bummer! I would highly suggest looking into something like I got. I've used a few lasers in my time and I like this one the best. I actually prefer it to the controls of Epilogs too. It's worth the money, but it would cost quite a bit for you though. Good luck and let me know if you have any questions.
Hi Robert. Have a question? Do you know much about the Limit switches and how they work. Mine are also connected to the power supply. I have put 2 new stepper motor boards in. They now hold the steppers in place when powered On but does not Reset or move. If one of the Micro switches is faulty, would that stop the power to the steppers to return to the Home position? I have ordered the AWC708C from a site He has done me a great deal cheaper than anywhere else on Ebay. Highly recommend for any parts for Laser. Rob
Your limit switches are connected to your power supply? that doesn't seem right... are they limit switches, or safety switches? Once you get the AWC708C, look at the hookup diagram, and everything should connect easily into that.
Oops Sorry. All the wires are bundled together in a loom wrapped in Black. The limit switches and the safety switches have the same colored wires. Damm confusing. Thanks for that.
I don't. Just learn what the wire are for and what they do and their connection will be obvious. The manual for the controller is pretty clear on where to plug everything.
that is good news. i currently have the 60w red version on ebay. it uses RDworks, which isn't too bad, but I am planning on selling that and building my own using the AWC708 controller. Glad you like it ... what about rhe software, uses LaserCAD right ?
Yes, it's LaserCAD. It's OK. I don't really use it, I just import DXF files from Solidworrks or elsewhere. It works fine for what I need, but I don't do a lot of engraving or anything fancy.
cool. what i do too, i use soidworks/autocad or fusion360 and just import dxf, select my cut and engrave layers and off i go. anyway, good it worked out for you. love the channel btw, subbed !
It's been many years since I set this up, but I think it was just a guess and check. I honestly can't remember how I did it. You can just plug in a value, cut a square or circle, measure that, and see if you can determine the right value. Or see if you can calculate it by hand by assuming 200 pulses per rev on the stepper, and then calculate the belt ratios.
Fab video, thank you for the help :-) However, I wonder if you have a saved copy of the diagram? only when I try the link you have left it says the site can't be reached? :-( TIA
Friend I want to find the software for the letr mpc03-lv card I can't find anything online I have this machine I want to test x last time if it doesn't work I will buy noisy driver
How can I test if my controller has died? I thought my tube died coz no power to cut through one day..just marked my wood. Changed tube then heard a squeaking noise from laser when pulsing. Now my LCD display is lit up but not displaying anything and if laser power switched on..it fires itself! Please help lol I've been looking around the net for weeks.
That's certainly a possibility, but I wanted something a bit more robust and less DIY. The smoothieboard is nice enough, but I like that this controller is specifically designed for a laser. I looked into most of the options and it's much nicer having control hardware that's 100% specific to the machine.
Gotcha. I guess it's also a difference in how one uses the machine. I'd prefer using a web interface through and through (hence laserweb) but I get the appeal of a panel in the machine with the controls associated. I suppose I'd ultimately use two RPis in it, one with a 7" touch screen for a local panel, and one for laserweb. Maybe have 1 do both, but I don't know if that'd sacrifice motion smoothness
I don't really find myself using the interface all that much honestly. I just adjust power, set the origin, stuff like that. It's much easier AT the machine rather than over the network. All I do on the computer is import my DXF or whatever and send it to the machine, I do the rest AT the machine. I haven't used laserweb, but it seems overly complicated for a laser. It doesn't make sense to me to jog the machine and such when you're not AT the machine. I have these controls with my 3D printer, and it's really cumbersome. Having everything on-board is the way to go for me. Having multiple raspberry Pis shouldn't affect performance, they aren't actually doing anything really. All the motion control will be handled by your controller (smoothieboard or whatever it is). The Pis just simply send it commands and tell it what to do, but all the actual work is being done by the controller.
Yeah I'm aware that a single Pi probably could handle it, but I've had issues with using octoprint for my 3D printer on a Pi1, where if I was using the web interface too much, the G-code sending would grind to a crawl, and the printer would begin stopping waiting for moves. I've never had this issue on my RPi3 though. I'm not at all experienced with laser cutters, I have a large 3D printer and that's it, so that's where I'm coming from. It's right behind me when I'm at my computer, so I control that entirely through the web interface. I suppose that's also why I didn't think too much about a panel. I guess there isn't too much to controlling a laser cutter. Variables are after all just travel speeds, focus, power and homing I suppose. But then again, it doesn't look like there's much more than that in laserWeb (live demo here laserweb.github.io/LaserWeb4/dist/)
I am getting ready to hook up my "X7" from Light Object and was curious if you know what pins work for the autofocus and is there pinout for a safety door switch?
I'd have to look at the manual again, but the safety switches (lid and water) can either be connected through the power supply or through an input on the controller. Mine are connected in series with a safety swtich on the power supply for the laser. It has a pin (forgot what it's called) that needs to be tied to ground for the laser to fire. The water chiller and door switch are just in series with this pin, so if either aren't closed, it won't fire. You can do this OR connect to the inputs on the controller. but you'll need to set it in software (check page ~23 of the manual). I'm not sure about autofocus, since I don't have one, but it should work pretty much like the X and Y limit switches. It looks like you can even set an offset.
is the dsp able to set the laser power through software? i know with the cheap ebay cutters you have to set the laser power before you do any engraving.
Yes, you can set laser power from the controller/software. You can also do multiple layers too. You can then adjust it through the controller for tweaking.
Robert Cowan I contacted G.Weike the factory in China and they refuse to sell me the most current USB controller for the LG500 laser. It would fit into the front opening without any modification.
hello...i already installed this AWC708C controller at my old laser machine SW1290 siwei brand but not totally working good....first problem is the laser does not function it mean when i try press the laser button on the control board the laser not come out....second problem is working area is not the same as the actual machine size. it becomes smaller than the actual size...can you help me...
It sounds like the PSU for the laser needs a switch enabled as a safety measure. Also, you need to configure the controller to know the size of your machine. Fully read through the manual so you understand all the parameters and configurations you need to set.
@@RobertCowanDIY thank you for your reply my question. can you tell me about the switch to enabled it at the PSU. actually i not really understand about the switch.
@@shahrulshafiq6134 Please fully read the manual. It's in there. It's a safety switch. I won't explain it do you because if YOU don't understand it, you won't understand how to operate your laser safely.
Thanks Robert. Since I asked the question I found that these are RF excited lasers and that the LightObjects controller can generate those signals... Apparently the Glass tube lasers are voltage (analog) excited. Thanks for the prompt reply.
Hi I am installing one of these systems in my F/S laser cutter engraver in this video you said something about an owners manual for this I can't find it in your info listed here I really could use it if you have one or just the link as where to get one thank you
Can this controller be used with solid state diode laser heads? www.banggood.com/445-450nm-15W-Blue-Laser-Module-Mark-On-Metal-for-DIY-Laser-Engraver-Machine-p-1137779.html?rmmds=search I would think that PWM is PWM no matter what you are sending it to.
please always remove all jewelry when working on any electrical device regardless of it being on,off pluged in or unpluged...take that wedding ring off or you will get a nasty surprise...
hello...i already installed this AWC708C controller at my old laser machine SW1290 siwei brand but not totally working good....the machine cut not smooth. e.g :- circle cut run not as a circle and have a gap with it....another problem is the starting point cannot be set as i want to...are you have any opinion about my problem about this....
Regarding the movement, are you sure your stepper settings are correct? It sounds like they are maybe not getting enough power. You should be able to set the starting point wherever you want. Just press the origin button. Sometimes I use a second layer (like a rectangle or circle) around what I'm cutting to use as a reference. I can then disable the layer, but the reference stays.
We had this issue on our laser and it turned out that the grub screws holding the belt wheel on the X axis had worn away slack where they fit onto the pin connecting with the cog from the motor. So when a circle is drawn there are two little kinks as the X direction changes. Not sure how well I have explained that but basically it's a hardware issue not a software one. We took the belt off, removed the cog and drilled a little deeper into the shaft pin then re-fitted making sure the grub screws were well tightened.
Not only is your content awsome but also your voice, the editing and filming! Keep it up!
Thank you very much!
This is great, i just purchased a 1200x 800 80w laser with exactly the same old controller. Just purchased a Ruida RDC6432 to upgrade! Thanks for the share!!!
We didn't get to cut anything! Maybe next time. Great video. Your garage must be getting full with all these new machines you have been working on.
Yeah, sorry! There are two reasons for that. 1) it's really cold in the garage right now, I didn't want to thermally shock the tube. 2) the machine is currently in the middle of my shop so I could work on it, so venting the fumes is a bit of a challenge. Even cutting a really small pattern creates a LOT of fumes/smoke
Makes sense, I'll be waiting for the next video!
Nice buy on the laser and even better upgrade. I am so jealous of all of your toys. Keep up the videos so I can live vicariously in your garage. PS. Nice pegboard OCD ya got going on there...
Thanks!
Hi Robert - Thank heaps for an excellent video. It was great pleasure to see and hear your instructions and logic. Keep up the good work.
I'm glad you liked it! Thanks!
I have the same cutter and have been thinking about doing the same thing as the Lasercut software is very limited. I just happened to stumble on this video and it made my whole week!!!! Awesome. Just going to order a controller for this now from Lightobject. Did you get the x7 or the x7s? Thanks again. Very excited to get this upgraded.
I don't have the x7, I'm using the AWC708C, I'm not really sure of the difference. I think it might just be re-branded.
I have been back and forth testing the cutter wiring and still can't get it to turn on the Controller, The P68-lv breakout board was well labelled but when I hook up the wires according to the labels, no luck. I only have one of the smaller power supplies and when I test all the voltages there seems to be no 24v. I tested the power supply and I can only find 5 volts output and on the breakout board the pin labelled 24v has a jumper on the back to the pin labelled 5 v. I thought maybe my problem was due to the myriad of safety shutouts but they seem okay. On my wiring diagram for new controller there are 2 places where I should hook up 24 volts I probably have the same power supply because it looks like your cutter is almost exactly the same except for the bigger tube and was wondering if you could tell me which one on yours was the 24v output and anything else you think i might need to look at. Thanks .
Thank you for this video!
I bought a chinese laser 50w and the included Trocen controller wouldn't work or display at all, other than powering on once. Your video helped me understand what some of the issues may have been, although I'm still working on it.
there's two ports on the bottom of the controller and I had the network cable going to the first, but it still won't power on in the second. Not sure what I've done wrong...
Great dude
U helped me a lot
Thanks
I was looking for the proper wiring since 1 month.
😌😌
Thank you so much
Hello Robert. I purchased a used 80Watt with the same controller as yours had. So glad to see your video. I have done several searches and not found the same controller. I would like to do the same upgrade as you but am curious how you fit the controller Panel in the small hole from the old control panel. Could you please let me know how and show photo if possible. Thanks so much.
Anyone tell you your out of paper towels? No problem, that's what I'm here for.
actually yes. in the last video someone mentioned it :-) I actually have some now, I just decided to not replace them. I was wondering of someone would say something again.
If you can pull the settings from the old machine.
found on our swap that we needed PWM set. without that it was loosing timing.
Great video. BTW, I don't see any exhaust port in the back. Is it on the side? Also, when I search Craigslist here in NYC or Long Island, all I get are machines (laser cutter, or woodworking power equipment) that are either JUNK or as expensive as a new machine. People sometimes think their junk is gold! Case in point, there was an old Delta Unisaw table saw that was rusted out top and bottom, and the guy wanted $1900 for it. I just went out and bought a brand new one instead of dealing with junk. But, your machine looks so pristine, I'm happy for you that you got such a great deal!
Mine has exhaust on the side. Also, when I talk to people about craigslist, my one piece of advice is: "what you see on craigslist is the stuff that no one wants, the good stuff is already sold." You need to be diligent and setup searches and catch the good stuff the second it gets listed!
Thanks for the tip. I appreciate it, and I enjoy watching your videos.
Great work on the video, loved it. Thanks!
hi , i gort cnc laser with ruida controller, it start working few minutes, after that , no fire laser tube, seller sent new (replace) power supply, but same problem, u know what is it? let me know , thx
nice video. thank you very much.
Thanks for sharing the info as always!!
Sure thing!
Morning Sr... , my name is Diego . Excuse my English, I would like to ask you about the ruida panel in laser engraving machine... I got a co2 laser machine AEON laser mira 7, and I rest the panel unconsciously... And I found a possible solution, but I got another problem I change the direction arrow in the y axis, I mean... Staying in front of the machine when I push the button ⬆️ the machine ride in wrong direction... I will be very grateful for your help... I hope you have a good day! Your UA-cam videos are really useful...
hi friend i had a problem with x y end limits switch, simple don't work, i check wires and are ok, need enable limits switch in program? thanks
Love you videos! Very helpful as my current laser is close to becoming a boat anchor thanks to crappy software and controls. Will this unit work in a mixed environment with AC servos as well as steppers?
I guess it could work. if the AC servo controllers have a step/dir input, it shouldn't make much difference.
Very informative video with to the point explanations. Thanks.
thanks!
Nice upgrade. What can you cut with that laser? Is it powerful enough to cut metal?
It's a 60W laser. It's a CO2, so the wavelength is wrong for metal. Metal lasers need a completely different type of laser, and usually a lot higher power. This one can cut acrylic, wood, MDF, ABS, etc. But things like metal just reflect the beam and it never gets through.
Interesting... more research is necessary. Thanks, good videos.
Fiber lasers are used to cut metal. They are a LOT more expensive than co2 lasers.
Hi Robert,
Thanks a lot for this video! It's soo timeless and awesome! I have a question tho... does that mean that I can use this controller for virtually any laser system? I just purchased a chinese laser cutter with an archaic controller (+ uses a dongle). The seller mentioned it's not compatible as " I will have to replace wires plus add a driver" and some other stuff.
How can I know if my cutter will be compatible before I make the purchase? What should I look at for??
Thanks a lot
Really, all of these things are just a few stepper motors, power supply, and then the laser power supply and tube. They have the same components pretty much. You SHOULD be able to use a controller like this on just about any system. I can't make any promises of course, because you could have a really strange laser that I haven't seen. The best thing to do is crack it open and take a look at what you have. Then look at the manual for the controller and see if things line up. You MIGHT need to get some extra components if everything is all on a single PCB or something, but generally speaking these controllers can be swapped in easily enough.
I see living in CO is nerd central, damn that's a screamin' deal! I used to live in the SFbay, but moved north and if you want animals or farm implements, this is the place. Vintage computers or anything high-tech, not so much.
Actually craigslist around here is alright. What most people don't realize is that I look for a LOT of stuff constantly. It took me 2 years to find a laser cutter. Same with the Stratasys. Sure, there's a good tech industry out here, but it still takes a LONG time to find this stuff.
EFormance Engineering
Can you please help
I install a Ruida 6442s-B(ec) to my machines Now he failed on fire from the controller If I plug out the plug on the laser transformer and push the button he fire But nothing from the control board My tape of off laser transformer. Myjg80
The K40 is actually a 35 watt tube not a 25 watt. Light objects sells a 35 watt for it as a replacement.
They vary. Mine was measuring closer to 25 watts.
Well, it would require the tester for that and it costs about 100 dollars. When my tube goes I will buy a 35 for it that is 35 as advertised.
There's seems to be two camps on controllers. The one you selected or the Ruida. Any thoughts you can share before I buy one of them? Great video as always!
I haven't used Ruida, but I've been perfectly happy with this controller and have nad no issues with it. I'm still very glad I switched and use my laser nearly once a week. That being said, I mostly do designs exported from solidworks or some other design program and rarely do much with the software other than import a design and send that to the laser.
Hello Robert, thank you for your video. I have an old Synrad Laser. It has a vc-2000 laser controller that controls the laser aspect of the unit, however the controller for the stepper motors and preview of cut path etc. is run off a unit made by a Canadian company called Precix. It was built in 1999 and uses 3.5" floppy disks and auto cad for the software. It is difficult and time consuming to transfer and manipulate items to be cut due to this controller. Would this controller be a way to replace the Precix portion of this unit? What software works with this controller? Does something like CorelDraw work?
with a grbl type of machine you can program manually the XY movement and thus control the machine. what type of programming does the dsp systems uses?
I'm upgrading my machine with AWC708C but I'm not sure how to wire up the Z axis motor without a stepper motor as it was in old system.
It was probably just wired directly to power and a couple of switches. You don't really 'need' a motor controller for a standard DC motor. the ones I've seen just control it with a couple switches. if that's the case, you probably can't control it with your controller, but there might not really be a need to.
@@RobertCowanDIY that was very helpful, thank you.
ROBERT Okay, my name and Alexandre, I'm from Brazil. I saw your video. I have a machine like yours, but I'm having trouble connecting the wires to the laser source. Could you tell me how you made the connection. thank you
Robert the link to the sinjoe page for the download isn't valid anymore, would happen to still have the file?
Hi Robert, Thanks a lot for this video... I've been able to get it hooked up replacing the M2 controller.
But I can't get it hooked up to my router/network.
How have you done it? I've changed the ip address under the "Network" tab to match the ip addresses within my network but still no luck. What could I be missing? Documentation is pretty much zero
Dude, you are the best!
Very Awesome! Have you been happy with it? I just got a laser but Im waiting on a replacement tube and while I figured I was waiting for it might as well get an upgraded cpntroller. Did you get light burn?
I have been very happy with it, no complaints. I like the interface and it's reliable. I don't use lightburn because 99% of all my cuts are just DXF files exported from solidworks, so all I do is import the file, and send it to the laser. I don't use the software for much else.
@@RobertCowanDIY Cool! Thanks for the feedback! One of my new tubes showed up today and I cant wait to get started!
Thanks Robert, This is still the only video on this around. can you tell me if the AWC708s has PWM? and the software has ramps effect? i really need something that i can engrave with Ramps. For my Rubber stamp Company. thanks you, in advance.
I'm not really sure what you're asking? Why would you use this with Ramps? If you're getting a controller like this, ditch the ramps and get real motor drivers. this has TTL control I believe for the laser, not PWM. But check the manual.
@@RobertCowanDIY Thanks Robert, i'm a Noobie at this. You actually answered the question a should of asked :-). as i have the Chinese Laser Engraver with the basic M2 controller, which pretty much is just the M2 board and a PSU.
So for my upgrade i will need to gut the lot !
Install new - DSP Controller (RDC6445).
24v switch power supply. (DM542)
(x & y) 2 phase stepper drivers. (DM542)
Thanks again for your video, i wish i could document my upgrade journey like you did.
it should be pretty striaght foward. I will let you know if i blow up the garage!
Cheers
Sam
Hey. Thanks for the video. However at this point in time the download link doesn't work
Why not Ruida controller, say 6442 ? They are very popular and well described, software (RD Works) is quite friendly and wide avialable? I know it is a bit more expensive (say 50-100$ range) but you can got strong support from many other users what is a priceless.
I did a lot of reading and people seemed to prefer the one I got. Since the majority of what I do is just export DXF files from Solidworks, I didn't really need robust software. So far, it seems to do everything I wanted. The 6442 looks nearly identical (at least in terms of hardware) to the one I got.
Hello. I recently purchased a laser cutter with this controller in. I'm having trouble loading files via a USB card. The reader displays "the file data error" I'm assuming I'm using the wrong format in the file? I create my file using Coreldraw > export as DXF > use lasercad to export to USB as a Ud5 file. Please help. Thanks
Thanks again. Do you use Lightburn with this controller?
Sorry for overloading. I have been trying to purchase a 60 40 laser cutter for my school's Tech ed Makerspace lab and am having a hard time narrowing down the options. There are sooo many Chinese lasers at excellent prices, like the Thunderlaser, Gweike or Triumph, but it is hard to figure out the company to buy from. With your experience with laser cutters what would you recommend? Prices have really come down and there are new options like Glowforge and Muse but the Chinese ones seem to be half the price a still pretty good quality, and with education , especially in Canada, every dollar counts. Thanks
Love the channel and would love to take a robotics course from you. Looks super fun.
I haven't tried it yet. I have a very limited use case for my laser, 99% of all the files are just DXF exported from solidworks, so the software is far less important for me.
@@RobertCowanDIY Just found the time to do the install and ran into a couple of snags. On my breakout board I had some wires that don't seem to transfer to the new controller clearly. One is ORG y, ORG x and grnd combo. I am assuming they are for the limiting EL x and EL y on the controller but not sure. Another was labelled 1 and 2 which I think are the laser test button on the old front display. Any ideas if I am on the right track. Thanks
The x7s is the awc708s but rebranded by Light objects. How did you find out how out about the ways to copy the cutter info onto the controller and is there a link to it. Thanks Do you run classes or just do this for your own fun. Looks like a great shop and always getting better. Thanks
Thanks for the video,,,👍
it is very good, if you have any questions about the software , i will help you
I used it last weekend and it worked well, I really like the controller. I will play with it more and let you know if I have any questions, thanks!
I actually do have a question. How is air-assist controlled? There is a check-box in the software. How is this controlled, is it one of the outputs? Is there a way to control the outputs through software? I would like to use the outputs to control solid state relays for lighting, exhaust, or air assist. You can reply or find my email address under the 'about' section on my channel, thanks!
yes, you can use OUT1 or OU2 AND OUT6, there are different functions. Pin Definition
2 OUT1, Blowing signal(The whole process of blowing)
The machine is idle, the motherboard output OUT1 LOW；
The machine is working, the motherboard output OUT1 is high。
3 OUT2, Blowing signal(The whole laser process of blowing)
The machine is idle, the motherboard output OUT2 is low；
The machine laser is working, the motherboard output OUT2 is high
4; OUT6: The layer blowing, you can select some different layer, you set yellow which can blow and red is not blow
Thank you, I will play with it this weekend and see if I have any more questions.
Hi I am replacing the leetro controller on my machine for a 6442g ruida, someone told me that psu are locked to makers, ie like the one i have would only work with leetro controllers, can you please confirm is this is true ?
thank you
From a retired Eng Tech. Does it work ? yes=dont fuck with it...If no =did you touch it ? yes =go hide it ,no =move far away from it or rule #1 if it aint broke DO NOT FIX IT...
Robert, I have a LMI Laser engraving machine I just purchased at auction. Any suggestions beyond you great video?
I'm not sure what info you're looking for, the controllers are pretty universal. I'm still using it and I really like it. It was a great upgrade for my laser.
@@RobertCowanDIY That was what I was looking for, A confirmation that it worked well and it is still working. Laser Machinery Inc. was in WI and the Laser is a 60W machine. It was at a college in VA with very little use. Problem is that they did not have the computer or drivers. Once I have the machine on the bench I can have a better idea what I need. I also have a Matsuura Machining Center that I might need to upgrade the control on. A bit more complicated because of the servo motors and 7 hp spindle motor.
Thank you.
Its good info
Great video. I also have AWC708C and have question for you. Did you ever use USB port on panel for transfering files? In my case it recognizes usb but it always gives error No work' files! . Do you know is it because it need to be special USB drive (UDisk)? I also get message Save params error when try to save current config to UDisk
I haven't. I only use the other USB or network connection. I bet it comes down to formatting. Try to format the USB stick differently, maybe FAT, not FAT32?
Thank you for answer. I did try FAT(FAT16) . No luck. When searching for problem I find someone with same problem but no solution. I will try to contact seller with this problem.
I found solution. Disk needs to be FAT32 but when formating it type needs to be Primary (not Logical) and it will work fine :) . EaseUS Partition Master and other disk managment softwer have that options when formating. So you were right about that it comes down to formatting.
Great video brother... But I need to know about so called Chinese k40 laser tube is it real 40 watt...?.? Is it 40w electric power eater or 40 wattage laser light generator?
It's a 40W laser tube, but really only puts out around 30W of actual power.
Love your video. I have a 60w laser that the X Y just S*&^t itself. Can't find where the problem is exactly but it is looking like in the main Laser board. Considering upgrading to what you just installed, but not too sure of wiring up. First I need to buy although the cost here in Aust. is double to what you paid. Once again, excellent presentation. Rob
Bummer! I would highly suggest looking into something like I got. I've used a few lasers in my time and I like this one the best. I actually prefer it to the controls of Epilogs too. It's worth the money, but it would cost quite a bit for you though. Good luck and let me know if you have any questions.
Hi Robert. Have a question? Do you know much about the Limit switches and how they work. Mine are also connected to the power supply. I have put 2 new stepper motor boards in. They now hold the steppers in place when powered On but does not Reset or move. If one of the Micro switches is faulty, would that stop the power to the steppers to return to the Home position? I have ordered the AWC708C from a site He has done me a great deal cheaper than anywhere else on Ebay. Highly recommend for any parts for Laser. Rob
Your limit switches are connected to your power supply? that doesn't seem right... are they limit switches, or safety switches? Once you get the AWC708C, look at the hookup diagram, and everything should connect easily into that.
Oops Sorry. All the wires are bundled together in a loom wrapped in Black. The limit switches and the safety switches have the same colored wires. Damm confusing. Thanks for that.
That makes a LOT more sense then...
4:01
Yes I am. Thank you.
Do you have detailed information on how you wired everything. I have the same model of laser and would sure like to see a wiring diagram for this.
I don't. Just learn what the wire are for and what they do and their connection will be obvious. The manual for the controller is pretty clear on where to plug everything.
hi .. thanks for the video. i also have the AWC708C Lite, but not installed or used it yet. How has it been for you, still happy with it ? Thanks
I'm VERY happy with it. I've bee using the laser a lot lately and really really like this controller. I would highly encourage the upgrade.
that is good news. i currently have the 60w red version on ebay. it uses RDworks, which isn't too bad, but I am planning on selling that and building my own using the AWC708 controller. Glad you like it ... what about rhe software, uses LaserCAD right ?
Yes, it's LaserCAD. It's OK. I don't really use it, I just import DXF files from Solidworrks or elsewhere. It works fine for what I need, but I don't do a lot of engraving or anything fancy.
cool. what i do too, i use soidworks/autocad or fusion360 and just import dxf, select my cut and engrave layers and off i go. anyway, good it worked out for you. love the channel btw, subbed !
How did you get the Um setting for the feed screw on Y axis? Having a real problem getting it right?
It's been many years since I set this up, but I think it was just a guess and check. I honestly can't remember how I did it. You can just plug in a value, cut a square or circle, measure that, and see if you can determine the right value. Or see if you can calculate it by hand by assuming 200 pulses per rev on the stepper, and then calculate the belt ratios.
Fab video, thank you for the help :-) However, I wonder if you have a saved copy of the diagram? only when I try the link you have left it says the site can't be reached? :-( TIA
I didn't. Just search for AWC708C wiring diagram or something, it's out there. It's still a current product.
Friend I want to find the software for the letr mpc03-lv card I can't find anything online I have this machine I want to test x last time if it doesn't work I will buy noisy driver
How can I test if my controller has died? I thought my tube died coz no power to cut through one day..just marked my wood. Changed tube then heard a squeaking noise from laser when pulsing. Now my LCD display is lit up but not displaying anything and if laser power switched on..it fires itself! Please help lol I've been looking around the net for weeks.
I have Ureka laser Italy machine ,I will try to do the same , do you mind helping me ..?
Sorry, the video is the extent of help that I can provide.
Hmm what about laserweb on a raspberry pi, and a smoothieboard? It being open source is a big plus imo, and it's really active development wise.
That's certainly a possibility, but I wanted something a bit more robust and less DIY. The smoothieboard is nice enough, but I like that this controller is specifically designed for a laser. I looked into most of the options and it's much nicer having control hardware that's 100% specific to the machine.
Gotcha. I guess it's also a difference in how one uses the machine. I'd prefer using a web interface through and through (hence laserweb) but I get the appeal of a panel in the machine with the controls associated.
I suppose I'd ultimately use two RPis in it, one with a 7" touch screen for a local panel, and one for laserweb. Maybe have 1 do both, but I don't know if that'd sacrifice motion smoothness
I don't really find myself using the interface all that much honestly. I just adjust power, set the origin, stuff like that. It's much easier AT the machine rather than over the network. All I do on the computer is import my DXF or whatever and send it to the machine, I do the rest AT the machine. I haven't used laserweb, but it seems overly complicated for a laser. It doesn't make sense to me to jog the machine and such when you're not AT the machine. I have these controls with my 3D printer, and it's really cumbersome. Having everything on-board is the way to go for me. Having multiple raspberry Pis shouldn't affect performance, they aren't actually doing anything really. All the motion control will be handled by your controller (smoothieboard or whatever it is). The Pis just simply send it commands and tell it what to do, but all the actual work is being done by the controller.
Yeah I'm aware that a single Pi probably could handle it, but I've had issues with using octoprint for my 3D printer on a Pi1, where if I was using the web interface too much, the G-code sending would grind to a crawl, and the printer would begin stopping waiting for moves. I've never had this issue on my RPi3 though.
I'm not at all experienced with laser cutters, I have a large 3D printer and that's it, so that's where I'm coming from. It's right behind me when I'm at my computer, so I control that entirely through the web interface. I suppose that's also why I didn't think too much about a panel.
I guess there isn't too much to controlling a laser cutter. Variables are after all just travel speeds, focus, power and homing I suppose. But then again, it doesn't look like there's much more than that in laserWeb (live demo here laserweb.github.io/LaserWeb4/dist/)
Also, I just found out that the latest laserweb (4.x) doesn't support DXF yet :/ 3 did though
Why did you decide on this controller over the others?
I did a lot of reading on forums and it seemed to be the most popular option, based on what I read from CNC Zone and Saw Creek Mill.
I am getting ready to hook up my "X7" from Light Object and was curious if you know what pins work for the autofocus and is there pinout for a safety door switch?
I'd have to look at the manual again, but the safety switches (lid and water) can either be connected through the power supply or through an input on the controller. Mine are connected in series with a safety swtich on the power supply for the laser. It has a pin (forgot what it's called) that needs to be tied to ground for the laser to fire. The water chiller and door switch are just in series with this pin, so if either aren't closed, it won't fire. You can do this OR connect to the inputs on the controller. but you'll need to set it in software (check page ~23 of the manual). I'm not sure about autofocus, since I don't have one, but it should work pretty much like the X and Y limit switches. It looks like you can even set an offset.
Awesome! Thanks man. Great video too by the way.
Sure thing.
is the dsp able to set the laser power through software? i know with the cheap ebay cutters you have to set the laser power before you do any engraving.
Yes, you can set laser power from the controller/software. You can also do multiple layers too. You can then adjust it through the controller for tweaking.
Thanks for speedy reply. gotta say, content is top notch.
thanks!
Hi Robert, Have you made a box for the panel controller?
Not yet, it's just still sitting outside the laser. One of these days I'll get around to it!
Robert Cowan
I contacted G.Weike the factory in China and they refuse to sell me the most current USB controller for the LG500 laser. It would fit into the front opening without any modification.
hello...i already installed this AWC708C controller at my old laser machine SW1290 siwei brand but not totally working good....first problem is the laser does not function it mean when i try press the laser button on the control board the laser not come out....second problem is working area is not the same as the actual machine size. it becomes smaller than the actual size...can you help me...
It sounds like the PSU for the laser needs a switch enabled as a safety measure. Also, you need to configure the controller to know the size of your machine. Fully read through the manual so you understand all the parameters and configurations you need to set.
@@RobertCowanDIY thank you for your reply my question. can you tell me about the switch to enabled it at the PSU. actually i not really understand about the switch.
@@shahrulshafiq6134 Please fully read the manual. It's in there. It's a safety switch. I won't explain it do you because if YOU don't understand it, you won't understand how to operate your laser safely.
Hi how to reset settings to factory default mode
Does the DSP support a Z axis?
Yes! It supports not only a Z axis, but also a "U" axis as well (for rotation, for engraving round objects).
Do you think the DSP would work with a sealed CO2 laser tube like a Synrad?
It looks like these use a proprietary controller. It might be possible, but without trying it out, I couldn't say either way.
Thanks Robert. Since I asked the question I found that these are RF excited lasers and that the LightObjects controller can generate those signals... Apparently the Glass tube lasers are voltage (analog) excited. Thanks for the prompt reply.
link is not working
Hi I am installing one of these systems in my F/S laser cutter engraver in this video you said something about an owners manual for this I can't find it in your info listed here I really could use it if you have one or just the link as where to get one thank you
I have a link in the description.
change that papertowel already :(
nope.
:((
Can this controller be used with solid state diode laser heads?
www.banggood.com/445-450nm-15W-Blue-Laser-Module-Mark-On-Metal-for-DIY-Laser-Engraver-Machine-p-1137779.html?rmmds=search
I would think that PWM is PWM no matter what you are sending it to.
You might be right. I've never used something like this, but it might work... Sorry, just not familiar with diode laser heads.
I am gold plat cutting Laser
please always remove all jewelry when working on any electrical device regardless of it being on,off pluged in or unpluged...take that wedding ring off or you will get a nasty surprise...
You're out of paper.
1/10 not the stratasys, ha.
It's in pieces on one of my workbenches right now. I need a couple new parts. The linear bearings were trashed.
hello...i already installed this AWC708C controller at my old laser machine SW1290 siwei brand but not totally working good....the machine cut not smooth. e.g :- circle cut run not as a circle and have a gap with it....another problem is the starting point cannot be set as i want to...are you have any opinion about my problem about this....
Regarding the movement, are you sure your stepper settings are correct? It sounds like they are maybe not getting enough power. You should be able to set the starting point wherever you want. Just press the origin button. Sometimes I use a second layer (like a rectangle or circle) around what I'm cutting to use as a reference. I can then disable the layer, but the reference stays.
We had this issue on our laser and it turned out that the grub screws holding the belt wheel on the X axis had worn away slack where they fit onto the pin connecting with the cog from the motor. So when a circle is drawn there are two little kinks as the X direction changes. Not sure how well I have explained that but basically it's a hardware issue not a software one. We took the belt off, removed the cog and drilled a little deeper into the shaft pin then re-fitted making sure the grub screws were well tightened.