There are a few programs we use here at J Tech Photonics, Inc. with our laser upgrade kits to generate the G Code needed to run a program on your 3D printer or CNC machine. We support the vector graphics editing open source software from Inkscape for use with the Laser Tool plug-in. For photos, we support Lightburn as it is the best program for this. Here you will find how to download and install these programs as well as tutorials on how to use then to generate G Code programs for your laser upgraded machine.
Inkscape Laser Tool Plug-in
The folks over at Inkscape have developed a very good vector editing software program that also allows for extensions. We have updated and modified the original laser engraver plug-in to allow for multiple versions of on and off commands for different printers and CNC machines.
We now have a Github site for the development of the plugin that contains the newest version 1.0 release. If you are installing the newer version of 1.0, I would suggest making a clean install or you might run into problems. Just uninstall your older version before upgrading.
This plug-in will convert a path object in inkscape into a G Code file for use in your laser upgraded machine. Put the contents of this .zip folder into the “inkscape\share\extensions” folder. Once it is there it will show up under the “extensions” tab in inkscape. If you are on a mac, here is how to install the extensions: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=StNTZ1xeW0o
Overview
We made a new video that shows how to set up and configure the J Tech Laser Tool plugin for Inkscape. Check it out here:
Using the Plug-in
We have made some instructions on how to use Inkscape for engraving text and other objects and using the plug-in to generate the G Code. We have also shown how to import images to make outlines of them to engrave.
Check out the tutorials and check back to see if we added more!
Known inkscape bug: Lines going down from the drawing to Y0 location. If you have lines in your engraving, then the output G Code had a problem with some of the processing. Don’t worry! This can be fixed. The problem is that there are a few lines that the space didn’t get put in between the Y coordinate and the feedrate. To fix, just use a text editor and “find and replace” your feedrate command and put a space before it. Example: If your feedrate was 100, then find “F100″ and put a replace as ” F100″. Do this for both the laser feedrate and the travel feedrate. Everything should work after this!
Lightburn Software
This new software package is great for both GRBL based machines and Marlin firmware 3D printers. It will do vectors and images all in one place and it will also run the machine. Super simple interface that is also very powerful.
Import artwork in a variety of common vector graphic and image formats (including AI, PDF, SVF, DXF, PLT, PNG, JPG, GIF, BMP)
Arrange, modify, or even create new vector shapes within the editor
Apply settings like power, speed, number of passes, cut order, and much more
Send the result directly to your GRBL or Marlin laser cutter
LightBurn is a native application written for Windows, OSX, and Linux.
Vectric Laser Module
The Vectric Laser Module is a powerful add-on designed to integrate seamlessly with popular Vectric software products like VCarve and Aspire. When paired with a J Tech Photonics laser, it unlocks advanced laser engraving and cutting capabilities within the same intuitive design environment users already know and trust. The module simplifies the workflow by allowing you to create, simulate, and toolpath laser jobs directly alongside traditional CNC operations—ideal for makers who want to combine carving and laser work in a single project. With built-in support for variable power and precise control over speed, dwell time, and fill patterns, the Vectric Laser Module enables high-quality raster engraving and vector cutting on wood, acrylic, leather, and more.
For J Tech Photonics users, this module offers streamlined compatibility with our laser systems, including automatic generation of G-code tailored for diode lasers. The laser toolpaths are fully configurable, and the software supports detailed previews to visualize results before sending jobs to your machine. Whether you’re adding fine detail to a CNC project or running full laser-only designs, the Vectric Laser Module offers a robust and user-friendly platform for expanding your creative possibilities with J Tech lasers.
Vectric Laser Post Processors
J Tech Offers two types of post processors for Vectric. One that uses a small end mill that acts like a laser and the other using the Vectric Laser Module. Here are links to both:
The Vectric Laser Module isn’t just a convenience—it’s a game-changer. With full support for J Tech laser tools and safety interface boards, it’s never been easier to design, preview, and run laser projects from the same software you already use for CNC routing.
