Step-by-step setup instructions, material parameter charts, maintenance checklists, and project ideas. Bookmark this page, you will come back to it often.
New to laser engraving? Follow these step-by-step walkthroughs to go from unboxing to your first finished piece.
Where to place your machine, how to connect the exhaust, water chiller (if applicable), and power supply. Includes clearance requirements and workspace safety checklist.
15 min readInstalling LightBurn (or RDWorks/EzCad2), connecting to your laser via USB or Ethernet, and verifying the communication link. Includes recommended LightBurn settings for each Monport model.
20 min readA step-by-step walkthrough of engraving a simple design onto 3mm birch plywood. Covers importing artwork, setting power and speed, focusing, and running the job.
10 min readHow to check and adjust the beam path on CO2 models using alignment tape. When to do it, what tools you need, and how to verify the beam is centered.
12 min readChoosing the right inline fan, duct diameter, and filter. How to vent outdoors vs. using a recirculating filter unit. Noise and airflow considerations.
8 min readWhat you need to know about laser classes, protective eyewear, fire safety, and the fumes generated by different materials. Includes a printable safety checklist for your shop.
10 min readStarting parameters for common materials on Monport CO2 and fiber lasers. Always test on a scrap piece first, as results vary by material batch, thickness, and ambient conditions.
| Material | Laser Type | Thickness | Speed (mm/s) | Power (%) | Passes | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Birch Plywood | CO2 80W | 3 mm | 15 | 65 | 1 | Clean cut. Increase speed for lighter engraving. |
| Birch Plywood | CO2 80W | 6 mm | 8 | 80 | 2 | Two passes recommended. Check for bridging after pass 1. |
| Cast Acrylic (clear) | CO2 80W | 3 mm | 18 | 60 | 1 | Flame-polished edge. Remove protective film before cutting. |
| Cast Acrylic (clear) | CO2 80W | 6 mm | 8 | 75 | 1 | Single pass with air assist on. |
| Vegetable-Tanned Leather | CO2 40W | 1.5 mm | 250 | 25 | 1 | Engraving only. Reduce power for lighter marks. |
| Anodized Aluminum | CO2 60W | N/A | 400 | 40 | 1 | Removes anodizing to reveal white base metal. |
| Stainless Steel 304 | Fiber 30W | N/A | 800 | 80 | 1 | Black annealing mark. Adjust frequency for color effects (MOPA). |
| Brass C360 | Fiber 50W | N/A | 600 | 90 | 1 | Deep engraving. Multiple passes for deeper marks. |
Disclaimer: These settings are starting points based on testing with Monport machines in our lab. Actual results depend on specific material suppliers, ambient temperature, lens condition, and machine calibration. Always run a test piece first.
Keeping your Monport laser in good condition extends its life and maintains cut quality. Here is the maintenance calendar we recommend.
Our support team is available Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM PST. We can walk you through any setup step over the phone or via video call.
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