#06 usage & appendix
Usage
The shield was designed to be used with the popular grbl firmware. We
recommend our own fork at https://github.com/mrbeam which is
preconfigured to the shield's pin layout and features.
Flashing GRBL
Checkout https://github.com/grbl/grbl/wiki/Flashing-Grbl-to-an-
Arduino for detailed multiplatform instructions how to flash the
firmware on your Arduino.
Use the precompiled grbl.hex from https://github.com/mrbeam
G-Code
In addition to the standard G-code supported by grbl (see http://
www.shapeoko.com/wiki/index.php/G-Code#G-
code_supported_by_Grbl) the Mr Beam version has reused some
commands for controlling the laser intensity.
Replace # with appropriate parameter values in the examples below.
Laser Control
M03 S### : switch laser to intensity. Intensity is number between 0 and
255. If the laser was switched off before it will be switched on.
M05 : switch laser off.
Fan Control
M08 : switch cooling fan on.
M09: switch cooling fan off.
Movement
$H : do a homing cycle
G21 : switch to mm units
G90 : switch to absolute coordinates
G92 X0 Y0 Z0 : set coordinate origin
G0 X# Y# : rapid positioning move
G1 X# Y# : move to given position with the current feedrate
F### : set feedrate
Additional Information Resources
The internet is full of information about laser technology and safety.
Some (but not all) information resources are listed below:
Safe usage of lasers
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Laser_safety
Safety glasses
http://www.thorlabs.com
http://www.noirlaser.com
http://www.lasersafetyindustries.com
and many more.
Laser cutting
http://atxhackerspace.org/wiki/Laser_Cutter_Materials
GRBL / G-Code
http://bengler.no/grbl
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/G-code
Accessories
http://www.pololu.com/category/120/stepper-motor-drivers
http://www.watterott.com/en/Interfaces/Motor-Controllers/Stepper
https://www.lasertack.com/
http://www.insaneware.de/
https://sites.google.com/site/dtrlpf/
http://odicforce.com/
