by bdring » Thu Sep 09, 2010 6:22 pm
I get asked via email about build cost often, so I am adding a post about the topic.
When I started this project I set a goal to be able to build a laser cutter for less than $1000. Was I able to do it? I definately had less than $1000 invested by the time I was able to cut a shape with the laser under CNC control. I was not starting with an empty shelf though. I already had a lot of the cheap stuff like nuts, bolts, wire, terminal blocks. I also cut all my own parts on my router, some of it from scrap material. I used cheap surplus things like stepper motors, etc.
Since that time a lot of feature creap has raised the price. Non essencial things like a gas spring assisted cover, assist air pumps and high end stepper drivers raised the price a lot.
I have the BOM on line with realistic, if not weighted high, prices. It does not contain prices for the electronics or the tube. Each person is going to start with a different amount of parts and a want a different amount of optional items added. If you only have $1000 to spend and don't have some material and cannot make you own parts, I would not start the project. I would suggest $1200 is probably closer. Do the math yourself, before you start the project.
Note: Remember this is open source. Feel free to make things yourself from the drawings. I do not make any real money from selling my kits. Don't feel any obligation to buy from me. If you want to help the project, just donate to it.
Bart
"If you didn't build it, you will never own it."