Want to Build my 1st cmputer controlled xy scanner

:-?

I have always wanted to build a low cost computer controlled laser show since I attached a mirror to a speaker in high school and used the class HeNe laser to throw patterns on the wall (1980's) . I have been reading about the unit using an amiga computer, and am wondering has anyone built this unit, or is there another available? I have seen Chinese XY scanner packages on Ebay 15, 20, 30, 40k pps galvos for sale on ebay too. Anyone want to take a shot at explaining how to build one from this?

Also, what is a good pointer with a long enough duty cyle to use for a low cost show? I am guessing I need at least 100 -150 for adequate power.

Thanks!

Re: Want to Build my 1st cmputer controlled xy sca

that is not my strongest point, im up to audio modulated ones but thats as far as ive got.

im pretty sure the ones on ebay plug into your computers speaker port, and there is a program that makes "sounds" that specifically move the galvos, that is if you are thinking of the one i am talking about.

a member on another forum named boomdog wrote a guide to makeing one by yourself, the site is...

http://lasers.musicfoxaudio.com/

hope you have some luck, post some pics when you get it done!

sorry i cant help much more

Re: Want to Build my 1st cmputer controlled xy sca

The eBay ones are good galvos and a useful package. However it is far from plug and play and assembly will require a small touch of knowledge, guts, and your own parts (IE, build your own power cable as none is supplied). Also, there are no printed instructions provided as mentioned, and the seller is not always too helpful when it comes right down to it.

However, if you get everything set up, it is possible to set up a cable to plug it into speakers and run it off music. Using stereo to control it though is a different story, and a bit more complicated.

I've seen the amiga one but I have never heard of anyone actually trying it. One that has been "tried and true" though is Boomdog's setup, which you can see in the BYO advanced laser show section in the link on TG's post.

As for what laser to use: no laser pointer size unit will give you adequate duty cycle if you're looking in the 100mW green range, but maybe a 100mW red. Otherwise you will have to buy either a heavier-duty portable, or an AC powered unit. Feel free to e-mail me at pseudonomen137@gmail.com if you need help choosing which laser to buy.

Good luck, and if you get anything working I'd love to see pictures! =D