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Access to the laser cutters is available to all FabLab users, provided you go through the appropriate training steps below.
This video provides important information about basic operation and safety for our laser cutters:
Laser cutter training video
Our laser cutters are run by computers that have an extra layer of access control, so that we can grant (or deny) access to any user. Getting access to these will come in one of two forms:
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Scenario 1:
We have specifically invited you to participate in laser cutter training as part of a group (e.g. studio, or some other cohort)
➡️ No need to do anything, we already gave you temporary access
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Scenario 2:
We did not invite you, but you’d like to gain laser cutter access.
➡️ Great, just email us to let us know you’ve watching the training video and need access to do the intro assignment
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From the time we give you access, you will have two weeks to complete the introductory assignment (Mini-Me, see below) before you lose access. If this time lapses, just email us again.
Our laser cutters are reserved through a UVA system called 25Live. More info and the sign up can be found here. You are allowed to reserve two hours total (spanning all of our lasers) per day, but if no one else is using it, you may stay longer. In this system, you reserve a specific laser cutter by name.
To practice and demonstrate your proficiency in using a laser cutter, you’ll need to complete the Mini-Me assignment and turn in the result to the FabLab team (crew member currently working, or one of the FabLab managers).
While the laser cutters are available most of the time (6am-midnight, 7 days a week), it’s really best to come do this assignment during staffed hours so you can get help, ask questions, and turn in the result.
We have instructions for the assignment in 3 different pieces of software: Rhino, Illustrator, and AutoCAD. Choose whichever is best for you!
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We are working on updating the instructions for AutoCAD and Illustrator.
For now, please use these older PDF guides
AutoCAD - Laser Cutting Mini Me Assignment.pdf
Illustrator - Laser Cutting Mini Me Assignment.pdf
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Again, upon completion you must turn in the Mini-Me - we consider this your training record and use this to verify that you will keep laser cutter access.
(If you really want to keep one, you now have the power to make as many Mini-Mes as you want!)
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Note: the computing ID must be legible on the the Mini-Me!
Here’s an example of a Mini-Me that is not usable:
Computing ID is not legible, needs to be made again. In this case, looks like it was not focused.
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