First Scanner - Build Advice

[buffo]

Welcome to PhotonLexicon, Dan! Always refreshing to see new members. You are indeed fortunate to live close to Rob. He's a tremendous resource. Treat him well, and he will help you build a most impressive projector, I'm sure!

As for being able to create the types of effects you saw in the youtube video above, the short answer is that once you have a projector running, the sky is the limit. You can do pretty much whatever your mind can come up with. Sure, there's the physical speed limits of the scanners to consider, but apart from that - anything is possible.

I also would like to suggest that you jump in to the "Meet and Greet" subforum and check out the UKLEM #4 discussion going on there. Our UK members are planning a Laser Enthusiast's Meeting, and I believe it's going to be held within a month or so from now. If there is any way you can make it to this event, do so.

You'll be surrounded by other laser enthusiasts, and there will be a vast collection of lasers, laser projectors, computers, software, controllers, and other items present. You'll be able to see all this gear up close and in person. You'll be able to pake pictures, ask questions, and maybe even take some of the software for a "test drive". It's a great way to learn about what your choices are for your future projector. (I'm sure you'll also pick up a lot of advice from people that made mistakes when they built their first projectors! Heed this advice and you'll be that much further ahead of the game.)

Most importantly, it's going to be one hell of a fun social event! You'll have a blast, and come home more motivated than ever to get started on your projector.

One final thing: when you start building your projector, be sure to take pictures of the build process. (We like pictures!) And if you have questions or problems, you know where to come to get answers!

Once again, welcome to the forums. Looking forward to seeing some pics of your projector soon!

Adam

[danielbriggs]

Cheers Adam,
I've just checked out the thread on the UKLM4. Usually it would be too much of a drive, but I'm fairly sure I'll be at uni in Notts on the 1st. So I think I'll grab a train to the meet, as its only 30 miles away. *finger's crossed*

Rob has given me a few ideas to think over (and to save up for!), so I'm slowly getting there. It's still all on paper of course, but I'll take plenty of photos when the hardware starts rolling in.

Ta,
Dan

[buffo]

Awesome Dan! And glad to hear you'll be able to make it to the UKLEM. Trust me, you'll be oh so happy afterwards!

Adam