Laser cutter questions

[Mike]

I have not yet managed to make it to one of the laser cutter classes.  But I have an idea for a project that would likely make a good Friday evening project.  It involves just cutting some 1/16" and 1/8" balsa sheet stock and engraving (burning) designs into some of those parts.  

So what design software should I be using for this?  How do I control the laser power (for cutting vs. engraving)?  I am somewhat 2D and 3D CAD savvy, but have absolutely zero CAM experience.  

Also, I would love to get a checkout on the laser cutter some time in the next couple of weeks.  I'm willing to bribe with a 6-pack of your favorite beer (or other beverage).  

[Brian Dawson]

I'm still pretty new to using the cutter, but I've gotten away with using Inkscape for creating designs and then exporting them as .dxf
They can then be imported into LaserWork (the software that drives the cutter). There are direct plugins for Laserwork for CorelDraw and AutoCad...if I remember correctly.

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[Mike]

Thanks, Brian.  I'll start playing with Inkscape then.

[greg southerland]

You will need to take the class as the guys to check you out are busy with the lab buildout it coins be a while until we get time 

Sent from my iPhone

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[greg southerland]

Mike if you can organize a class with 6 or 7 people one of the three instructors might find the time to help out and the lab can raise money too we try to run the popular classes more often like the  laser class the it it a more effective us of the instructors time we all have project on hold while try and get the lab back to normal we are almost there but if we need a class soon please take the lead and organize I don't thing any of the three instructors drinks beer. You might find someone that has taken the class to cut it for you

Sent from my iPhone

[Ottomite]

If you want after you finish drawing your design I can cut it out for you until you get checked out.