In the same way you would for a CNC project, you will need to use a series of software programs (or a “toolchain”) to bring a laser project idea into reality:
- Design software – translating your project idea into a form that a computer can understand (optional, can find design files online)
- CAM software – turning the project into a list of cutting instructions for your laser and CNC, through a “g-code file”
- Machine interface software – communicating critical information between the controller and the laser, controlling it during setup
The main difference between CNC and laser projects is that they will require different instructions, which can be generated by a laser-specific CAM software program. Sometimes the design and CAM software is combined, so you will only need 2 programs total.
To support you the best we can, we recommend LightBurn as the 2-in-1 design and CAM software, and gSender (free) as the machine interface software for the LaserBeam.
However, we have also used Inkscape for design, and LaserWeb for CAM and machine interfacing, which are free options.
Feel free to read through this article to learn more about other paid/free laser and 2D design softwares.