Process · Laser Marking
PCB laser marking for traceability
A PCB laser marking system applies characters, 1D barcodes, QR codes and graphic data directly to defined areas of a printed circuit board. The permanent, machine-readable identification supports traceability and unambiguous assignment throughout production.
What happens during laser marking.
A CO₂ laser processes a locally defined area. The marking program controls content, size and position. Before marking, a CCD system detects fiducials and compensates for PCB position deviations. After marking, the camera can verify the barcode or QR code.
A reliable result depends on the material, surface, contrast, code size and permissible thermal effect. A technically feasible code is not automatically readable under every lighting, camera and process condition.
Typical tasks in electronics production.
Identify assemblies
Serial numbers, batch information or internal identifiers can be linked directly to the assembly.
Create machine-readable codes
1D and QR codes support downstream identification, documentation and process assignment.
Integrate marking into the line
An inline system processes PCBs within the material flow. Transfers, conveyor height and data provision must match the line.
The process in three steps.
1. Assign data
Code content, format, position and the relationship to the assembly are defined in the marking program.
2. Detect position
CCD recognition uses fiducials to correct deviations in PCB position.
3. Mark and verify
The laser creates the marking. The camera then checks the applied code.
Selection criteria for a PCB laser marker.
PCB size and marking field
The maximum PCB size describes the transport area. The local marking field is smaller and must fully cover the required identification.
Material and contrast
Solder mask, coating and surface finish affect the optical result. Contrast and readability should be verified on original material.
Code requirement
Code type, data volume, module size, quiet zone and the intended reader need to be specified together.
Integration and limits.
Conveyor and interfaces
Conveyor direction, transport height, panel size and data handover from higher-level systems belong in the system plan.
Fume extraction
Particles and fumes created during marking must be captured. According to the manufacturer, extraction is standard on the LM510-C.
Double-sided identification
An optional flipping module is provided for automatic double-sided marking. It changes the available PCB area.
LM510-C example system
Verified key data.
These values describe the LM510-C. Suitability for the material, code and production line is assessed for the specific application.
- Maximum PCB size
- 510 × 510 mm without flipping module
- Marking field
- 55 × 55 mm
- Laser power
- 10 W standard, 30 W optional
- Repeatability
- ± 0.025 mm
- QR-code machine value
- From 2 × 2 mm, application testing required
- Positioning
- CCD with fiducial recognition
Matching system.
View all technical data
LM510-C
Inline laser marking system with CO₂ laser, CCD fiducial recognition and subsequent code verification.
510 × 510 mm maximum PCB sizeInlineInformation needed for system planning.
Useful inputs include original PCBs, material and surface details, code content, code size, position, cycle-time requirement and the intended reader. For line integration, add conveyor height, transport direction and the data interface.
When a sample trial matters.
A trial is particularly important for small codes, changing surfaces, low contrast reserves or sensitive materials. It shows whether marking and verification work together reliably under real conditions.
Frequently asked questions about laser marking.
What can the LM510-C mark?
The manufacturer specifications list characters, 1D barcodes, QR codes and graphic data.
Is double-sided marking possible?
Yes. An optional flipping module is available. The maximum PCB format for this configuration must be checked separately.
Is a 2 × 2 mm QR code always readable?
No. This is a machine value. Material, contrast, data content, reader and ambient conditions determine actual readability.
Review your marking task.
Send us PCB size, material, code requirements and information about the production line.