Modifying a Engraving Laser Module with out a TTL Module

[sam_sam_sam]

I bought this laser module a few years ago and did not do anything with because I did not have a TTL module so it sat in project box to do something with at a later date

Well the later date has happened now

What I did to this module is disconnected the cooling fan and going to use with a fan temperature speed controller ( out of a surplus computer switching power supply )

Well now I have found a 15 watt TTL module that I just bought from AliExpress which I should have in a few weeks

Some time later when I have learned to use a laser engraver I going buy a 30 watt laser

I modify the engraver controller board because they left off some of the components for the laser power TTL output so I just took the TTL output from the Arduino Nano an put it to a 4N35 optic sensor to control the laser and ( or ) also a variable speed drill controller that I am either going to buy or make I have not decided which way I going to do this part ? ?

I still have to get some “V” slot rails because the engraver is to small for what I would like to do with it

The EBay seller that I am going to buy this stuff from they have to give the shipping cost before I make this order

I have done some testing with the software that I going to use for the engraving
The stepper motors which seems to work pretty good

Here is the link to the laser TTL controller

https://a.aliexpress.com/_d8iUPPV

[sam_sam_sam]

Re: Modifying a Engraving Laser Module with out a TTL Module

I have a question about finding a TTL spindle motor speed controller board ( motor and speed controller as second choice) ( 24 volt versions preferred ) I have several motors already
I having a hard time finding what I am looking for

Dose anyone know where I can find one for about $100.00

One note I have tested this laser on a PWM motor speed controller board and it works correctly down to a voltage around 4.20

I have run this laser outside at full power and this thing is bright as hell at about 100 feet away on a wall this was before I modify the laser module ( probably not more than 30 seconds )

[sam_sam_sam]

Re: Modifying a Engraving Laser Module with out a TTL Module

Well now I am working on the switch panel for the laser printer
I had bought some surplus switches from Electronic Goldmine a couple of months on one of there sales that have for a few days and then end most of the time ( more than 1/2 off regulator price )

I making a switch enclosure with 3D printer test piece to make sure I have the measurements and the switches fit and the switch can slides back and forward

One problem with these switches is there is no mounting taps to mount them correctly

So I have to make a enclosure around the switch housing and then use some hot glue to keep them in place

[Curious.George]

Re: Modifying a Engraving Laser Module with out a TTL Module

One problem with these switches is there is no mounting taps to mount them correctly

So I have to make a enclosure around the switch housing and then use some hot glue to keep them in place

The switches shown are intended for direct mounting to a PCB. Had they been intended for a panel mount application, they would have had "ears" as well as holes in the "pins".

I'm leary of how effectively "glue" will adhere the (smooth) metal switch body to a plastic case.

If you're printing the panel/mount, you might consider making some "latches" that "snap" around the switch to hold it to the panel

[sam_sam_sam]

Re: Modifying a Engraving Laser Module with out a TTL Module

The switches shown are intended for direct mounting to a PCB. Had they been intended for a panel mount application, they would have had "ears" as well as holes in the "pins".

I'm leary of how effectively "glue" will adhere the (smooth) metal switch body to a plastic case.

If you're printing the panel/mount, you might consider making some "latches" that "snap" around the switch to hold it to the panel

You have a good point about keeping them in place ( thanks )

My idea now is to make the taps on cover between the terminals to help keep them in place

[sam_sam_sam]

Re: Modifying a Engraving Laser Module with out a TTL Module

The tabs would go on the back cover

[budm]

Re: Modifying a Engraving Laser Module with out a TTL Module

Beside adding the fingers, you can add small walls to the side of the switch too.

[Curious.George]

Re: Modifying a Engraving Laser Module with out a TTL Module

You have a good point about keeping them in place ( thanks )

My idea now is to make the taps on cover between the terminals to help keep them in place

The risk, there, is that soldering to the terminals (the initial connection OR a repair) will have the iron "slip" and melt away one such tab.

[You have the switches there to examine; you can best gauge how far any plastic would end up from a likely solder connection]

Also, think about the forces that are exerted on the switch when actuated. Some slide switches move like greased butter. Others are really "sticky". This will help you decide how firmly you need to hold them in place.

[eccerr0r]

Re: Modifying a Engraving Laser Module with out a TTL Module

Since it's a pcb mount switch, how about just make a little PCB or perfboard for it and screw the pcb to the panel? Too much work?

Definitely something to be thought of when using for new design...

[sam_sam_sam]

Re: Modifying a Engraving Laser Module with out a TTL Module

I would like to thank all of you that have had recommendations for this project