Hi Dan,
No, the router will still be fully functional by removing the focus lens and fitting the spindle.
I will, however, have to provide caps for the laser output aperture and Z axis mirror (although this component can easily be removed by releasing two bolts) to protect the optics from dust etc. but routing will not be affected by all the other parts. The additional weight of the complete machine is another matter.
I have researched the project before starting and I did gain a lot of practical experience from using the low power diode laser but my progress is all 'hand to mouth' and I am purchasing the parts as and when required. Wish I did have a cookbook to follow but the internet is a wonderful thing for gaining information once you have separated the facts from the speculation.
My next job is to establish if the CO2 tube I have has its anode/cathode electrodes in electrical contact with the water cooling as this will decide if I use a closed loop heat exchanger (non metallic) of if I can use a forced air radiator and in addition is ethylene glycol electrically conductive at 18,000 Volts ?.
Still a long way to go.
Tweakie.
