Mini Gerbil debugging – Laser operation
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| Symptom Detail | Likely causes and their solutions (in recommended sequence) |
| Laser stuck on | LO (Laser Enable) connection is not properly connected The $ settings have been changed. For a K40 laser, use the default values shown in the link The PWM wire connection is not properly connected Address grounding problems , see https://awesome.tech/k40-laser-grounding-instructions/ |
| Laser stuck off | Press the small red test button on the laser power supply, to confirm that laser tube is operating. Check that the Water Protect terminal on your K40 power supply (labelled either ‘WP’ or ‘P’ depending on the model) is connected to ground (‘G’). The Water Protect feature is best used as an interlock to confirm cooling water is running, but if you don’t have a water switch, it needs to be joined to ground for the laser to operate. Check use of laser software. For example, Lightburn has multiple settings required to actually send laser output. Confirm the Mini Gerbil’s blue LED is illuminated, showing that it is outputting the Laser On signal. The $ settings have been changed. For a K40 laser, use the default values shown in the link Laser enable (LO) miswiring. Check in particular the large plug from the K40 is fully pushed into Mini Gerbil (zero gap). Check sufficient laser power. Laser tubes have a minimum power threshold to operate. This may change as the laser ages. Increase the laser strength output in Lightburn. Address grounding problems see https://awesome.tech/k40-laser-grounding-instructions/ |
| Laser strength different to desired. K40 front panel does not affect laser strength. | As designed. Set laser strength from your software (eg. Lightburn) because the front panel control is no longer operational when Mini Gerbil is installed |
| Laser strength differs from experience with previous controller | The effect of the laser is a result of many different factors, including the design of controller electronics, so results will differ between controllers. The good news is that with the right know how you can get great results. See https://awesome.tech/k40-laser-best-possible-engravings/ |
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