This command enables the laser engraving PWM output at the level specified by the S command.

The laser M03 command works with the G200 Q command to ramp power levels.

This command is used for engraving applications such as photos, dithered images, or greyscale engraving.

The M03 command works with motion. The PWM output level will not change until there is motion on one or more axes.
M03 does not immediately turn the laser on. If an S value is used, the PWM output level will only change once motion begins.

If the laser needs to turn on immediately without motion, use M04.

For best results, it is recommended to use a single M03 at the start of the G-code file and use S0 to set the laser power to zero when moving between toolpaths.

Syntax & Parameters

• M03 – Laser enabled with motion, with or without an S value

• M3 – Same as M03

• S – Optional value from 0 to 1000, defining the PWM power level from 0% to 100%. If not specified, the last S value is used

Example Program

N10 G0 X0 Y0
N20 M03 S500
N30 G1 X10 Y10 F1000
N40 G1 X20 Y10 S800
N50 M5

• N10: Moves to X0 Y0 at rapid speed

• N20: Enables laser output at 50% power. The laser remains off as there is no motion

• N30: Moves to X10 Y10 with the laser on at 50% power and a feed rate of 1000

• N40: Moves to X20 Y10 with the laser on at 80% power

• N50: Turns the laser off

Also see G200 – Laser Parameters for additional functionality.