Simple stepper motor. I made a controller using 1 PIC16F628 and a ULN2803 Darlington Array. And some really bad code. I did manage to fit two steppers on one PIC.
I have come to the realization this weekend that in this hobby you have to learn a lot more than just how to work with lasers. I've had to teach myself how to work with metal. I've never even done any serious wood working.