How to Evaluate Laser Marking Software

Given the widespread use of Marcatrice laser prezzo, special attention is always paid to hardware, system specifications, and performance assessments. Often overlooked is the software that runs them.

If the hardware is the heart of the system and the limbs, then the software is the brain. Simply put, “If the brain doesn’t work, the body doesn’t work.” There are a myriad of laser software features to consider. In this article, we’ll focus on some of the most important aspects to consider and why one item is more appealing to you, based on your individual needs and desires.

First, there are two basic types of software that drive laser marking systems. The first is a print driver / post-processor type that has very similar functionality to the drivers found in printers. The other, commonly referred to as the “script” type, is a marking program developed in software that is launched directly on the marker. While there are third-party script packages such as ProLase and SCAPS, many laser manufacturers such as Kevron and Control Laser also develop their own software that works only on their equipment. When evaluating software, I like to break it down into three components. Machine control, user interface, image manipulation.

Machine control is defined as the flexibility to easily adjust lasing parameters such as wattage, speed, and frequency, interface with external I / O, interface with programmable axis drivers, and communication capabilities with databases and host networks. I have. Machine control is all about power and productivity.

A user interface is a GUI (graphical user interface), or more specifically, the look and feel of software. This involves a visual interaction between the operator and the operating system. The included tools are specifically related to the efficiency of setting up the program and starting the marking cycle.

Image manipulation is a method of accessing an image to be laser processed and adjusting the image for optimal output. This includes font selection, font size, barcode editing, and fine-tuning the graphics you perform. Image manipulation is the most important part of the final marking quality result.

When comparing printer driver type and script type packages, the first question you need to ask is “what do you think is the most important feature of the software?” In other words, what are the important features you absolutely must have? Consider the application. Is the final look of the marking the most important, or is speed the biggest issue? Do you have a lot of graphics to apply, or do you need to laser display a lot of variable information on the part in question?

Generally speaking, the advantage of print driver types is that these packages often include a wide range of graphical editing tools. This means that you can quickly and easily adjust image settings for logos, photos, and other objects. Editing tools can be similar to those found in traditional graphic packages such as CorelDraw and Adobe, and the screen display accurately describes what the actual part will look like. When satisfied with the result, the final job is sent to the print driver, which communicates with the laser control unit. This compilation and requirement for the PC itself is not well suited for high production processes in that the program is working hard to develop the marking file and force it into the print driver. Print driver packages are ideal for job shops and markings where aesthetics are of paramount importance.

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