> Using a 2.5kW CO2 laser you could probably directly cut the copper
> layer of the PCB without any need to etch it!
>
> What kind of paint do you use as a resist?
Copper is quite difficult for a CO2 laser to cut - though 2.5kW should do
it.
FWIW:
http://www.lpkf.com/products/rapid-pcb-prototyping/laser-circuit-structuring/laser-structuring-printed-circuit-boards.htm
Very very impressive.
That would be a YAG laser, YAG being better for metals than CO2.
No, you can't afford it even accounting for the recent price drop.
Tony