DPI = Dots Per Inch. True DPI is defined as how many dots can be lined up in an inch without overlapping. There are 4X as many dots in a square inch at 600 DPI than at 300 DPI.
RMI Lasers Utilize YVO4 Technology Resulting in the Highest Resolution Marking.
Or to put it another way, Photos can ONLY be Engraved at True DPI. Note: RMI can also overlap dots for Vector Art (text) which results in extremely clean lines.
All laser marking systems produce dots (AKA laser spot size). These dots are based on a combination of the wavelength of the laser and the focus of the beam.
| Laser | Wavelength | Best Spot Size* | Typical Spot Size** | True DPI |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| YVO4 (U-10) | 1064nm | 30µm (.001") | 40µm ( .0015") | 847 / 635 DPI |
| YVO4 (U-5G) | 532nm | 20µm (.0008") | 30µm ( .001") | 1,270 / 847 DPI |
| CO2 | 10600nm | 76µm (.003") | 178µm (.007") | 334 / 142 DPI |
| YAG Diode Pumped | 1064nm | 50µm (.002") | 100µm (.004") | 500 / 254 DPI |
| YAG Flash Lamp | 1064nm | 50µm (.002") | 100µm (.004") | 500 / 254 DPI |
| Fiber | 1030-1050nm | 30µm (.001") | 40µm ( .0015") | 847 / 635 DPI |
While Fiber and YVO4 seem similar in resolution, Fiber is much slower which generates considerably more heat.
While Fiber and YVO4 seem similar in resolution, Fiber is much slower which generates considerably more heat. These are a Side By Side Comparison of the original photo and the Engraved 2.5 X 2.5″ piece.
Continuous tone Photograph Actual Engraved Image at 500% magnification to show dots.
