Rotaries, as well as any other stepper motor, does not use any code. They respond to control voltages from being plugged into a controller board. The controller board may or may not use GCode.
So back to my original question, if I understand all your answers: A galvo (like a mid range xTool) running Lightburn will be able to do Variable Text and burn sequential numbers while running a conveyor or stepper spinny thingie…
You make it sound so easy.
This is a path not well traveled, but others have done it with a setup like what you describe. Plan on doing lots of research. ![]()
I am doing research… Being here is part of it. There is an awful lot of choice out there though…
Yes, variable text and sequential numbers will work with any laser in Lightburn. Some of the conveyor accessories for proprietary lasers like xtool may not be compatible. A less proprietary galvo would likely give you options to get through your job substantially faster.
Have a look at the IndexX table I make at Maxce. If you think it fits what you need, send me a message or email and I can guide you through what to look for in a galvo and help you setup the whole process with jigs, variable templates and repeat marking in Lightburn.
IMHO, you would be better off paying “stupid money” than getting a laser and doing a project one time per year. Pass the cost of the medallion onto the receiver of it ![]()
I agree. If you have no prospective orders in the pipeline, subcontract the work. You can always buy a laser later.
I was stunned when I saw the IndexX price a couple of days ago (in an Instructable on making your own linear table). That is full blown production machine price range and quality.
Yes, the IndexX is a production level tool for businesses. The machined aluminium plates in the base alone cost more to make than some of the cheap linear carriages. It is not intended to be the cheapest. It’s aimed to be the best value industrial option that we can make for businesses that are trying grow or make their laser marking more efficient. Time is far more expensive than any of this laser marking equipment. The IndexX is a 10 minute set up out of the box. It also includes all the extra guides and tools to save time on every job setup, to queue parts without making jigs, and to allow for much longer run times than a typical turntable or small linear carriage.
I appreciate the sales pitch, but that unit costs more than my 2 most expensive lasers combined. If I need one, it will be the DIY route for sure. ![]()
It was not intended as a sales pitch for you. It was meant to make you think about the value of your time over the equipment.
This thread is for the OP who is new to lasers with 10000pcs and multiple weeks of marking. They are already spending far more on outsourcing. It’s about ROI and getting a machine setup and going easily and reliably to get the job done.