Getting Started

To get started etching your equipment we recommend you familiarize yourself with the laser cutter on some of the included cardboard or wooden coasters. 

Once you have a feel for using the laser you can move on to etching devices. Remember that you need to think carefully about what your device is made of! If it is plastic, use appropriate strength on the Diode laser and keep in mind you will be melting plastic which can release harmful gasses - we recommend attaching the included air purifier and working outside. If the device is metal, switch to the Infrared laser.

Picking your design

We have a folder of designs that you can use to etch for devices received in partnership with or provided by GPLS. If you are using one of these designs all you need to to is open the correct file (labeled by finding source) and replace the GPLS logo with your own library logo. Save the file as a PNG and move to the next step.

Load up the software, import the template

Install the xTool Laser software on your computer, and import the template file. You will probably need to make adjustments to the template or replace the image. The included template was designed to perfectly fit the GTA DCG Chromebooks when placed in the upper right corner of the device lid.

Aligning the engraver, centering the logo

This step can be a bit tricky, but once you get it configured properly you will be able to quickly process a number of devices of the same type

Testing the engraving

Once you think you have the device placed in a repeatable location, and the image centered, slip a piece of cardboard between the laser and the device. Change the material to a paper or cardboard setting and perform a test etching. Remove the laser engraver and check that the cardboard engraving looks like it is centered where you want it to be on the device and the right way up. Tweak your settings and repeat until you are satisfied.

Engrave your device

Switch to the correct material type and laser setting, and perform your first device engraving. Once the device has finished, wipe the engraving clean with mild soapy water on a cloth or rubbing alcohol to remove soot and the smell from the device. Put in the next device and repeat!