Re: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] Laser links ?

> Hi All,
> seems a CO2 laser may be the best bet for cutting glass.
> in searching e-bay for parts, there are mirrors and some ods and
> ends, but one must have a clue as to what they need.
> can anyone point me to a link for a tuturoial on the basics of
> lasers ?
> TIA
> Dave

[This is OT but linked]
Do a search on google for Sams laser faq' it's _real_ good. The basics of a
CO2 laser are:
Mirrors, totally and partially reflective
Borosilicate glass tube around 6mm - 24mm in diameter ~1m long for discharge
tube
Larger tube to surround the discharge tube with coolant (water)
High voltage transformer(s), 15 - 30kV and the more amps the more output
you'll get
Vacuum pump, anything at or below 20 microns will do fine
CO2 gas, maybe even CO2 laser gas mix if you can afford it
Pump for coolant
Neon laser or diode laser pen for alignment of mirror
Variac to alter input
Regulators valves etc
Small cuddley toy, preferably a rabbit, for use as test target

There are a few parts on the laser that'd be great if they were machined.
The mirror mounts for example, would be much simpler if you have access to
CNC machines to cut them out. There is a site out there offering pre-made
'homebrew' kits up to 200watts. I think I even saw a gantry type table
powered with one of the kits on his page. I'm sorry I don't remember the
address, now it's up to you to go mental on google with CO2 homebrew
searches.

John H.