I am curious if anyone is using PhotoShop as an image processor for the newer generation of Laser Engraving machines (such as Epilog or Universal). They use a combination Raster/Vector image to do both cutting(vector) and depth engraving(Raster/256 greyscale levels). I want to do this, but can find almost no information on using Photoshop as the image processor for Laser Engraving.
I would appreciate suggestions to answer the following questions.
1. I think Photoshop should be ideal for this use except I cannot think of an easy way to get measurements in .001" increments.(Ex. Resizing an image by .005" to compensate for beam cutting width). One thought I had was to use image resolution of 1000 dpi and then 5 pixels would equal .005". Sounds simple, but talked to Mfg and they don't know.
2.I don't know if the vectors in Photoshop will translate into cutting vectors. Has anyone tried this? Thanks
#1
Why not just contact the company who is going to do the engraving? I am guessing that they probably know exactly the file type to submit.
Gary
#2
Why not just contact the company who is going to do the engraving? I am guessing that they probably know exactly the file type to submit.
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Just to clarify: I want to do the engraving and cutting. The software issue is what's stopping me from buying a machine.
I have already contacted them(the Mfgs.) multiple times looking for answers, and it seems they are very loyal Corel core group. The tech people I have talked are very nice but they don't know Photoshop, don't like Photoshop, and don't want to use Photoshop(or Illustrator) I have also tried many engraving shops and they seem to be using archaic methods(10 years old machines and software combinations). Imagine trying to use a 10 year old computer with Photoshop cs. I know there must be a lot of Laser types using Photoshop and Illustrator, but I am having a hard time finding them.
That's why I posted here.
#3
see if the manufacturers will let you contact clients that they've sold their equipment to.
#4
it seems they are very loyal Corel core group.
That seems to generally be the case for laser cutters.
Try searching the Adobe Illustrator forum for the topic, and posting a question there if you need more information.
#5
My experience has been that if a company ignores reasonable questions before you buy their equipment, you can count on even worse help after they have your money.
Gary
#6
My experience has been that if a company ignores reasonable questions before you buy their equipment, you can count on even worse help after they have your money.
agreed! <cough>adaptec<cough>microsoft<cough><cough>
#7
The fact that they hate anything adobe, especially Photoshop, doesnt bode well for your chances of being able to use Photoshop with their equipment.
#8
Well how else can he replicate currency plates?
#9
don't like Photoshop, and don't want to use Photoshop(or Illustrator)
It's not that they don't LIKE Adobe products, its that these machine (at this point) use CorelDraw "printer" drivers.
#10
"I have already contacted them(the Mfgs.) multiple times looking for answers, and it seems they are very loyal Corel core group. The tech people I have talked are very nice but they don't know Photoshop, don't like Photoshop, and don't want to use Photoshop(or Illustrator)"
umm, according to the person asking the question, it sounds like he/she got the impression that they 'don't like Photoshop, and don't want to use Photoshop(or Illustrator)', maybe that's just how I interpreted the statement - but whatever.
....that may not be a positive sign.
#11