When engraving wood coasters with a laser, several essential settings need to be carefully calibrated to achieve the best results. Firstly, power settings typically range from 15% to 30% for engraving, depending on the type of wood and the laser’s wattage. For instance, lower power is suitable for softer woods, while higher power can be necessary for harder varieties.

Secondly, the speed settings are crucial; a speed of 300 to 500 mm/s is commonly effective. Slower speeds result in deeper engravings, while faster speeds yield lighter marks.

Additionally, consider the frequency settings, especially for CO2 lasers, which can be set between 500 to 1000 Hz. Higher frequencies allow for finer details and smoother engravings.

Lastly, the choice of focus is vital. Ensure the laser is properly focused on the wood surface for optimal engraving quality. After making these adjustments, always run a test on a scrap piece of wood to fine-tune your settings before proceeding with the final project.