That is the idea, get rid of the resist. The laser would stop at the
copper. Dangerous? No more than playing with lasers in the first
place. Not if you use proper shielding (acrylic is used for CO2 laser
beam shielding)... and I did say low power...
Problem with yag is that it is hard to pulse. Pulsing with a flash
lamp, yes. But other than that it gets hairy.
I have a low power CO2 (20W) that I have been experimenting with.
I have played with YAG (and other crystals too). I am waiting for a
electronic system like a high power (20 to 100W) laser diode for
under $1K. Expect that should happen pretty soon. Much less
maintenance and longer life of the "tool".
Like I suggested, the UV LED (in a plotter) may work quite nicely for
those not afraid to use simple chemicals. The UV LEDs cost under $3
each.
John M...
=================
> Keep in mind all the
> mirrors in a CO2 are copper, because it reflects that part or the
> spectum (10600nm) ∗so∗ well. (sure there are a few laysers of
> special coatings, but its the copper that actually reflecting)
>
> The idea of the Yag for this, was to avoid chemicals, and be a bit
> quicker, 'etch' and drill all in one step.
>
> Time to go find some surplus Yag crystals on E-Bay :)
> But I think this is getting a bit out of hand/usefulness.
> Maybe in time.....