I am trying to understand what is needed to photo engrave on polished black granite with a laser. From what I have read you could use a 20 watt CO2 laser on a CNC table that allows the laser to navigate over the granite surface. The laser must engrave a halftone pattern, a matrix of tiny dots in the stone to create the photo. Has anyone tried this? What type of hardware/ software would you use?
I have read about some turnkey systems for doing this, the problem is the cost, they are not cheap. I was hoping if I learn enough about the subject I may be able to cobble together a home build of some type, or at least know what to look for in used equipment. Any thoughts on the topic?
Tim