Opt Lasers OPT-006376 XT-50 6W Plug&Play Laser Kit for Stepcraft CNCs

PRODUCT DETAILS

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• Overview
  PLH3D-XT-50 Laser Head: The Ultimate Product for Years

   

  Great choice! This comprehensive Stepcraft CNC Laser Add-on kit with the XT-50 laser head, arguably the best single-laser-diode laser cutter and engraver on the market, is a perfect addition for your Stepcraft CNC machine. It contains everything you need for your Stepcraft CNC machine - from plug-and-play electronics for Stepcraft CNC controller, through mechanical mount to laser safety equipment. You don’t need higher laser power for laser engraving wood. PLH3D-XT-50 can effortlessly laser engrave wood while being moved at maximum working speeds of popular CNC machines. In addition, XT-50 laser engraves with Ultra HD resolution and your eye would not see any difference if the focused beam spot was any smaller. PLH3D-XT-50 laser heads are a great substitute for CO2 CNC lasers and can work with special engraving laminates, laser foils and many standard materials such as wood, rubber, cardboard, fabrics, leather, painted/anodized metal. The XT-50 lasers are also great for stainless steel and titanium marking.

   

  PLH3D Series: From Concept to Results - See It in Action

  Plug & Play Kits – How to Install in Minutes

  Quick wiring and setup guide for PLH3D lasers on popular routers. The process is identical for the PLH3D-XT-50 using the PLH3D-CNC Adapter Pro. 

  PLH3D-CNC Adapter PRO – Ultimate Control Solution

  Simplifies wiring with signal conversion, presets and OLED-guided setup. Real-time diagnostics and layered safety protect you and your XT-50.

  LaserDock PRO – Quick Docking for CNC Lasers

  Snap the laser on/off in seconds with magnetic alignment and integrated air/power. Optional accessory compatible with XT-50.

   

  What Can You Cut or Engrave with PLH3D-XT-50?

  These are the most popular materials for laser cutting and engraving using the PLH3D-XT-50 laser head.

  

  

   

  Example Specific PLH3D-XT-50 Applications

  PLH3D-XT-50 is engineered for ultra-precise engraving and clean, thin-material cutting. Its rectangular, sub-50 µm spot and factory 60.0 mm working distance deliver crisp edges, readable micro-text and photo-grade textures across many materials.

  Below are three common application scenarios. Each section pairs practical tips with a compact parameter table to help you dial in results quickly on your specific CNC, air setup and material batch.

   

  Exceptionally Accurate Metal Engraving The microscopic square spot renders fine logos, micro-text and dense textures on stainless steel and titanium with excellent contrast. Set working distance to 60.0 mm (Height Reference Tool) for the smallest spot. On reflective parts, introduce a slight tilt (~7°) to avoid specular back-reflections. Use clean, dry air to keep marks sharp and optics clear; wipe the surface before engraving.

  Material: Stainless Steel Operation: Engraving Feed Rate: 5 mm/s (11.8 IPM) Air Flow: 5 L/min

   

  Ultra-HD Ceramic Tile Engraving With >500 DPI capability, the XT-50 produces photo-grade engravings on ceramic tiles with crisp edges and smooth tonal transitions. Start between 350–500 DPI and run a small test swatch to confirm tone mapping. Use moderate air (too much can over-cool and wash out contrast); ensure the tile is perfectly flat. Clean the surface before/after to remove fine dust that can gray highlights.

  Material: Ceramic Tile Operation: Engraving Feed Rate: 2500 mm/min DPI: 423

   

  Detailed Engraving & Thin Cutting on Soft Materials The sub-50 µm spot yields thin, consistent kerfs and clean edges in wood, leather, textiles and foams; ideal for fine inlays, lettering and intricate patterns. For cutting, set the nozzle about 1–3 mm above the surface and increase air until char/flare-ups are minimized. For engraving, reduce airflow to preserve surface texture and avoid over-cooling. Always verify material safety and provide proper ventilation, especially for plastics and composites.

  Material: Coal Duplex Operation: Cutting Thickness:1 mm (0.0393") Feed Rate: 500 mm/min Air Flow: 10–20 L/min

   

  Features & Benefits of the PLH3D-XT-50 Cutting and Engraving Laser Head In Details

   

  Adjustable, Microscopic & Square Beam Spot 25 - 500 DPI - The XT-50 laser heads have adjustable beam spots, below 50µm at perfect focus. Adjusting the height increases the spot size up to 2mm, enabling Ultra HD resolution over 500 DPI or large-scale engraving down to 25 DPI.
  High Power Density - The XT-50 laser heads achieve a small beam-spot size, increasing power density and enabling faster cutting and engraving. For example, the XT-50 can engrave (not just mark) stainless steel and tool steel.
  Cutting and Engraving - PLH3D-XT-50 blue laser allows to cut and engrave various materials such as wood, cardboard, rubber, paper, textiles, leather, plastic, balsa, plywood, and many others, as well as mark stainless steel, titanium and low heat conductance subtypes of steel.
  Improved Safety - The cutting and engraving laser head is equipped with an “Armed” indication LED, signaling its connection to the power supply and providing alerts for overheating. Additionally, ambient temperature warnings ensure safe operation.
  Factory Set Lens - Each laser head is shipped with a High-Resolution Triplet lens adjusted to focus at 60.0 mm. This distance is the best-optimized focus distance to start with.
  Built-in Driver - A short connection between the laser diode and a driver ensures better protection for a diode, possibility of high-frequency current modulation as well as eliminates inductance effects during the switch-on.
  No Additional Cooling Required - This lightweight laser requires no additional cooling. The XF+ laser's body acts as a heatsink, allowing it to work constantly for 24 hours, every day.
  The Most Precise Laser Head on the Market - Thanks to our special optical design, the XT-50 reaches the highest precision, delivering unparalleled accuracy for detailed work.

   

  Product Technical Specifications

  Laser Diode Optical Specification	6 W @ 450 nm
  Working Distance (WD) measured from the front surface of the laser head body	60 mm (2.36”) Factory-set 60 mm (2.36")
  Beam Spot Specs & Resolution	<50 µm   >550 DPI
  Max Power Density	> 2500 kW/cm²
  Optical System Efficiency	> 87%
  Modulation Inputs	PWM / Analog / TTL
  Recommended PWM Base Frequency	5 – 10 kHz
  Max. Modulation Bandwidth	30 kHz
  Modulation Input 1	Analog / TTL / PWM, 0 – 5 V
  Modulation Input 2	TTL / PWM, 0 – 24 V
  Input Impedance of 1 and 2	> 1 kΩ
  Dimensions of Laser Head (L × W × H)	40 × 55 × 140 mm (1.6 × 1.7 × 5.51 in.)
  Weight of Laser Head, Typ.	~370 g (13.1 oz)
  Flow Rate of Fan	43 m³/h (25 CFM)
  Fan Noise	58 dBA
  Mounting Hole Pattern	4 holes, 24 × 15 mm (0.94 × 0.59 in.)
  Mounting Hole Type	M3 × 0.5 × 4.5 mm
  Max. Ambient Temperature	40°C (113°F)
  Operating Temperature	10–40 °C (50–104 °F)
  Laser Diode Lifetime	> 10,000 h
  Power Supply Unit Voltage	12 – 24 V
  12 V PSU Min. Current	2.5 A
  24 V PSU Min. Current	1.25 A
  Max. Power Consumption	30 W

   

• Reviews
• Questions and Answers
• Manuals

  Download Manual Instructions PDF

  Download Manual Instructions PDF

  Download Manual Instructions PDF

• FAQ

  Is the PLH3D-XT-50 compatible with my CNC machine?

  Yes. XT-50 works with most hobby and pro CNC routers and engravers. The kit includes the PLH3D-CNC Adapter Pro, which accepts common controller outputs (PWM/TTL/Analog up to 24 V) and provides safety interlocks. Mechanical mounting is via the dedicated plate or LaserDock PRO.

  What is XT-50 best for and which materials can it process?

  XT-50 (6 W) is optimized for ultra-high-detail engraving and precise thin-material cutting. Typical materials: wood, plywood/MDF, leather, textiles, cardboard, rubber, plastics (e.g., ABS, acrylics), laminates/foils, painted or anodized metals. It marks stainless steel and titanium and engraves anodized aluminum.

  What are the key technical specs (resolution, spot, power)?

  • Optical power: 6 W (blue, ~450 nm)
  • Spot/resolution: ~45–50 µm square spot (> 500 DPI), adjustable with Z
  • Supply: 12–24 V DC (via Adapter Pro); max consumption ~30 W
  • Size/weight: 40 × 55 × 140 mm; ~0.37 kg

  This optical setup yields photo-grade detail, razor-sharp text/barcodes, and very clean micro-features.

  How thick can XT-50 cut and what does it excel at?

  XT-50 is ideal for thin, accurate cuts (e.g., veneers, paper, card, thin fabrics, thin balsa/ply). Typical single-pass wood cuts are up to ~3 mm depending on species and air-assist. For thicker stock or production-grade cutting, consider the XT8. Use air-assist for cleaner edges and faster throughput.

  What is the working distance and how do I focus?

  Nominal working distance (WD) for XT-50 is 60.0 mm from the head’s front face to the work surface. Use the included Height Reference Tool for quick, repeatable setup: place the tool on material, jog Z until the head touches it lightly, remove the tool, and you’re in focus.

  Does XT-50 support High-Pressure Air Assist and how should I set it?

  Yes. The XT-series High-Pressure Air-Assist Nozzle improves speed and edge quality and protects optics. Start with ~1–3 l/min for fine engraving and ~10–15 l/min for cutting. Aim the jet slightly ahead of the beam, ~1–3 mm above the surface. Use clean, dry air (filter + oil separator recommended).

  Is the XT-50 kit truly Plug & Play and how long is the install?

  Yes. The kit includes the XT-50 head, PLH3D-CNC Adapter Pro, mount, PSU, safety glasses, signal cable, laser head cable, Height Reference Tool, the air-assist nozzle, stickers and screws. Typical first-time installation takes < 1 hour. With LaserDock PRO, daily attach/detach takes seconds.

  Which control signals and PWM settings should I use?

  Use your controller’s laser/spindle output into the Adapter Pro. Supported: PWM 0–5/0–10/0–24 V or Analog 0–5/0–10 V. Recommended PWM base frequency: 5–10 kHz for smooth grayscale. Do not connect both Analog and PWM simultaneously.

  How do I arm the system and run a safe first-light test (Adapter Pro)?

  Turn the Adapter Pro key switch ON, then press the knob to enter ARMED. For a quick hardware test (no CNC), use TEST MODE to emit a very low duty cycle while holding the knob. Always wear OD7+ goggles and keep the work area ventilated.

  I use the 5-pin laser cable — any Adapter Pro setting I should change?

  Yes. In the Adapter Pro Advanced Settings, set STATUS INPUT to “ignored” for 5-pin heads (the ST pin is unused). This avoids false status readings.

  What safety features should I know about?

  XT-50 includes temperature protection and a fast driver for stable modulation. Use OD7+ goggles (190–540 nm), shielding/interlocks, and keep bystanders protected. The Adapter Pro adds a key lock, ARMED state, status LEDs/OLED, and error-driven disarming.

  Can I engrave metals and how do I avoid reflections?

  XT-50 marks stainless steel and titanium and engraves anodized aluminum. For reflective workpieces, tilt the part ~7° so specular reflections can’t return to the diode. Always wear OD7+ glasses.

  How do I maintain the optics and nozzle?

  Inspect the protective window regularly and clean about every ~100 h (or sooner in smoky jobs) using 99.9% IPA and lint-free swabs; avoid generic eyeglass wipes. Keep the air line dry (filter + oil separator); the nozzle keeps smoke away from the window and prolongs intervals between cleanings.

  Do I need special ventilation or fume extraction?

  Yes, ensure good ventilation or fume extraction, especially for plastics and resinous woods. Air-assist reduces smoke at the beam, but vapors must still be removed from the workspace. Always follow local safety regulations.

  What software can I use?

  Any G-code workflow with laser-compatible PWM output works (e.g., LightBurn, LaserGRBL, Vectric, Fusion 360 with post). Configure your controller’s laser mode and PWM scale per the head/Adapter manuals.

  How does XT-50 compare to XT8?

  • XT-50 (6 W): photo-grade detail, micro-features, thin cutting, WD ~60 mm.
  • XT8 (45 W): fast cutting/engraving and thicker materials; different WD. Both use the same Adapter Pro workflow; choose based on whether precision detail (XT-50) or throughput/thickness (XT8) matters more.

  What’s included—do I need anything else to start?

  The kit includes: XT-50 head, PLH3D-CNC Adapter Pro, mount, PSU, safety glasses, signal/head cables, Height Reference Tool, air-assist nozzle, stickers and screws. Optional but recommended: LaserDock PRO (quick on/off) and a small compressor for air-assist.

  Any cabling tips for clean signals and long life?

  Leave a small service loop for Z; route the laser cable in existing chains; tie every 20–30 cm; avoid long parallel runs with spindle/VFD or stepper bundles; cross at 90°. Ensure connectors are fully seated and strain-relieved.

  Can I keep my spindle installed and swap to laser quickly?

  Yes. With LaserDock PRO the laser head docks magnetically in seconds. Keep the spindle powered off/disabled during laser operation and ensure the beam path and air line are clear.

  Nothing fires—how do I troubleshoot quickly?

  • Adapter Pro key ON, state ARMED, no error on OLED/LEDs
  • PWM input shows activity when sending M3 S…
  • GND and PWM wired to the right inputs; no 24 V on signal pin
  • Laser cable fully seated at both ends; WD set correctly
  • Try Adapter’s TEST MODE at very low duty cycle

  What about warranty, service and spare parts?

  XT-50 is serviceable; optics and protective windows are replaceable.

  What should I check when the kit arrives?

  • XT-50 head with protective window installed
  • PLH3D-CNC Adapter Pro + PSU and AC plug set
  • Mounting plate + screws; cables (signal + head)
  • Height Reference Tool; Air-Assist Nozzle
  • Laser Safety Glasses; stickers; quick guide/manual links

  Is it really easy to add a laser to my CNC?

  Yes—this is a plug & play kit: mount the plate, connect PWM/GND and power to the Adapter Pro, set WD with the Height Tool, and run the first-light test. Daily use is even faster with LaserDock PRO. No hidden parts required.

  Do I need LaserDock PRO or can I hard-mount the head?

  You can do either. Hard-mount works great if the laser stays on the machine. LaserDock PRO is recommended if you frequently switch between spindle and laser—it shortens setup to seconds and protects connectors.

• Videos

  Opt Lasers PLH3D-Series Laser Head Plug&Play Kit Installation (Example)