Laser-Marking Technology
Speed, Permanence, and VersatilityGive You the Competitive Edge
Laser marking is state-of-the-art technology, which permanentlyapplies computer-generated text, graphics, and machine-
readable code on many materials—most notably metal, plastic,and elastomeric materials. A laser mark gives your inputdevice a sharp and progressive look in today’s demanding,
competitive marketplace.Compared with older marking technologies, laser markingdelivers a powerful combination of reduced operating costsand high throughput under complete computer control.Indelibly laser mark your input device with custom graphics,legends, logos, and labels.There are three primary reasons laser marking is popular: 1) themark is extremely durable, 2) the process itself is fast, sharp,and accurate, and 3) marks can be changed quickly by computerwithout re-tooling. These attributes differentiate laser-markingtechnology from traditional labeling methods such as diffusion
printing and Tampo (pad) printing.
Laser marking delivers apowerful combination of
reduced operating costs
and high throughput, under
complete computer control,
to indelibly mark your
input device.
Fundamentals of Laser
The word “laser” is an acronym for light amplification bystimulated emission of radiation . Lasers amplify light byabsorbing and emitting energy. The emitted energy is a
high-intensity beam of laser light. The laser beam producesa highly accurate, stable, and contrastive image on the surfaceof an article.Specifically used to mark an input device, the beam of thelaser is directed to the keycap and/or the
keyboard using
mirrors and a flat-field lens that focuses the beam to a verysmall diameter. The spot size of the beam ranges from .002to .008 inches in diameter. The assembly uses two mirrors—
the rear mirror is reflective and the front mirror is a combinationof reflective and transmissive. Direct focus of the dual mirrorassembly and the lens allows the laser to deliver high-density
energy directly onto the key or
keyboard surface. Thus, themarks are accurate, fast, and permanent. Laser systems havethe ability to mark front face legends on a keycap or a
keyboard
in the horizontal position without the requirement of reorien-tation of the device. Almost any article of any degree ofcomplexity from planar to spherical surface can be marked
