Install Software
Several options are available for software that can be used with your Acmer Laser.
Acmer has its own software called Acmer Tool. At the time of writing this, Acmer Tool is in Beta and can only be used if you sign up for the program.
I don’t have any experience with it, as I used a different program.
Laser GRBL is a free laser software that is universal and compatible with most brands of laser machines.
The last option, and what I used, is LightBurn. This is another universal laser software, although it is not free of charge. There is an annual licensing fee.
I used LightBurn because that is what I use with another laser I have, and I am already familiar with it.
To avoid paying yearly for LightBurn, I purchased a one-year license and then failed to renew it. I can still use it, but I’m unable to update the software.
I am on year 3 of not renewing, and the software still works great. So I will wait to renew until the version I have is no longer compatible with my machines.
Included with the machine is a small TF Card.
This card contains the necessary software to connect your computer to the laser and the LightBurn Software.
My card was faulty and wouldn’t connect to my computer, but I was able to contact Acmer, and they provided me with the necessary files within 24 hours.
If possible, I recommend using the LightBurn Software. The Acmer P3 manual walks you through, step by step, on how to set up and calibrate using LightBurn.
The manual doesn’t show the other software setups, so unless you are more familiar with them, it may be more challenging to get the machine up and running.
The manual will guide you through aligning the camera using this piece, which features block dots.
Then it will guide you to a test engraving using a few of the wood squares from the materials kit.
When everything is calibrated correctly, ensure that you save these settings so you won’t need to repeat the process next time you use the machine.
