Laser Cutting: Difference between revisions

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== File Preparation ==

=== ~~Terminology~~ ===

=== Drawing Software ===

We use Adobe Illustrator to create laser cutting and etching jobs--it's the preferred choice for Trotec lasers. Other drawing programs can be used, but you'll have to export the files into AI to send them to the laser.

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* Bitmap - Representation of an image as bits of information (pixels); used to allow logos/stencils to be changed into colors.

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* Vector - Representation of an image as shapes, rather than bits; used to allow logos/stencils to be modified as objects.

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* Trace Bitmap - Can be used on a bitmap to to turn it into a vector.

=== Design Requirements ===

Drawing files must be sized in mm's.

* Drawings must be formatted in '''millimeters''', especially for functional parts.

Cut lines in file should be drawn with a width of 0.001 mm.

* Cut lines in file should be drawn with a width of '''0.001 mm'''.

We use Adobe Illustrator to create laser cutting and etching jobs.

=== Custom Trotec Laser Color Swatch for Adobe Illustrator ===

You can use this color swatch to streamline your color settings while designing.

Color swatch file for Trotec online here: [https://www.dropbox.com/sh/1uy5emug1m8n996/AABLgfj2B4DGREqUZTU20Stqa?dl=0 Trotec Laser Color Swatch File]

You can upload it through the 'Other Library' option on the color palette dropdown menu.

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Trotec Laser Color Swatch AI Screenshot.png|Where to find Trotec Color Swatch in AI

</gallery>

=== Terminology ===

⚫

* Bitmap - Representation of an image as bits of information (pixels); used to allow logos/stencils to be changed into colors.

⚫

* Trace Bitmap - Can be used on a bitmap to to turn it into a vector.

⚫

* Vector - Representation of an image as shapes, rather than bits; used to allow logos/stencils to be modified as objects.

== Trotec Job Control Laser Software ==