How to Assemble and Set Up Your OMTech K40+ Laser Engraver

So, you’ve just received your OMTech K40+ laser engraver—congratulations! You're now equipped to begin crafting, cutting, and engraving a variety of materials including wood, acrylic, leather, and rubber. But before diving into your first project, you'll need to go through the setup process.

Fortunately, getting your K40+ ready to run is straightforward. This guide will take you step-by-step through the process—based on OMTech’s own instructions—covering everything from unpacking and hardware setup to software configuration and test runs.

What’s Inside the Box?

Your K40+ arrives with everything you need to get started. Here’s what to expect when you open it up:

  • OMTech K40+ CO₂ laser engraver

  • Power cord

  • USB connection cable

  • External exhaust fan and venting tube

  • Submersible water pump

  • Silicone sealing tube

  • Air assist nozzle and hose

  • Basic tool kit and mounting screws

  • Printed manuals and documentation

Make sure all items are included before continuing. It’s also important to clear a well-ventilated, dry workspace with stable lighting. Ideal room temperature ranges from 5°C to 35°C.

Step 1: Unpack and Inspect the Machine

How to Assemble and Set Up Your OMTech K40+ Laser Engraver

Begin by removing all packaging, including foam blocks, cable ties, and protective films. Carefully inspect the laser bed, tube housing, and storage areas to ensure nothing is blocking any mechanical components.

Look over the laser tube, optical mirrors, and lens assembly for signs of damage. If everything is intact, you’re ready to begin installation.

Step 2: Set Up Ventilation

CO₂ lasers create smoke and fumes while operating, so proper exhaust is essential. Your K40+ includes a fan and ducting system to help vent air out of your workspace.

To install:

  • Connect the flexible duct to the back exhaust port using the metal clamp provided.

  • Route the other end out a nearby window or to an appropriate exterior vent.

  • Make sure all connections are tight to prevent leaks.

Tip: For extended indoor use, consider adding a filtration unit to reduce fumes and odors.

Step 3: Install the Water Cooling System

How to Assemble and Set Up Your OMTech K40+ Laser Engraver

This laser unit uses a water-cooled tube to prevent overheating. The included pump ensures that water continuously circulates during use.

Instructions:

  1. Fill a clean container with at least 7.5 liters of distilled water kept between 15°C and 21°C.

  2. Connect the suction cups and outlet pipe to the water pump.

  3. Attach the machine’s pre-installed blue tubing to the pump outlet.

  4. Submerge the pump fully in the water container.

  5. Insert the return hose into the bucket, ensuring it flows freely.

  6. Plug in the pump and switch it on.

Check that water is visibly circulating through the laser tube without bubbles larger than 1 cm.

Step 4: Activate the Air Assist System

To improve cut quality and keep the optics clean, the K40+ includes an air assist system to blow debris and smoke away during engraving.

  • Power on the engraver and release the emergency stop switch.

  • Confirm that air is exiting the nozzle on the laser head.

  • Keep the air assist active during operation to maintain a clean work area and protect the lens.

Step 5: Test Safety Functions

How to Assemble and Set Up Your OMTech K40+ Laser Engraver

Before moving forward, check that the safety features are functioning correctly:

  • Turn the key switch on, press the reset button, then hit the emergency stop. The machine should shut off immediately.

  • Turn the water pump on, close the protective cover, reactivate the key switch, and press reset.

  • The LCD screen should display a “Water Protect” status.

  • Unplug the pump—if the display turns off or changes status, your safety lockout is working.

Note: If the screen shuts down when the pump disconnects, the automatic shutdown feature is confirmed.

Step 6: Install the Control Software

The K40+ is compatible with both LaserGRBL and LightBurn. You’ll need to install software and drivers before you can start engraving.

Steps:

  1. Insert the included USB drive into your computer and copy all contents to your hard drive.

  2. Install LaserGRBL and launch it.

  3. Download and install the CH341 USB driver for your operating system.

  4. Connect the K40+ to your computer using the USB cable.

  5. In LaserGRBL, click “Connect.” If “OMTech” appears in the console, the connection is successful.

  6. Configure machine settings as prompted.

You can later install LightBurn for additional features and advanced control options.

Step 7: Align the Optical Path

How to Assemble and Set Up Your OMTech K40+ Laser Engraver

Mirror alignment ensures the laser beam travels efficiently to the engraving point.

How to align:

  1. Turn the machine on and reduce power to about 15% using the control knob.

  2. Place masking tape on the front of the third mirror.

  3. Move the laser head to the top-left corner and close the lid.

  4. Press reset and use the test button to pulse the laser.

  5. Repeat in each of the four corners.

  6. If the burn marks overlap in the same spot on the tape, the beam is properly aligned.

Step 8: Adjust the Focus

Focusing your laser properly ensures accurate, clean engravings.

  • Place a test piece (wood or acrylic) on the laser bed.

  • Use the provided jig or focus tool to set the correct laser head height.

  • Once the correct distance is achieved, the beam should cut or engrave efficiently.

Step 9: Perform a Test Engraving

You’re now ready to run your first engraving.

  • Open LightBurn or your chosen software.

  • Import a basic graphic—text, logo, or shape.

  • Set power, speed, and layer settings (e.g., 15% power at 300mm/s for wood).

  • Use the framing feature to preview the job area.

  • Press “Start” to begin engraving.

Watch the process carefully and keep your hand near the power switch for safety.

Final Safety Tips

  • Never run the laser unattended.

  • Regularly clean lenses and mirrors to maintain performance.

  • Only use materials verified as safe for laser cutting and engraving. Avoid PVC and vinyl.

  • Keep the workspace clear, ventilated, and fire-safe at all times.

Conclusion: Your Creative Journey Begins

With your K40+ laser engraver now installed and tested, you’re all set to start producing custom signage, artistic engravings, and practical cuts. Its compact size, paired with solid performance, makes it the perfect tool for creators working with limited space.

Unlock Your Creativity with OMTech

Whether you’re using the K40+ to start a business or to dive into a new hobby, OMTech has a laser for every maker. From beginner-friendly models like the Polar+ to the upgraded Pronto Series machines, OMTech helps you bring your ideas to life with speed and precision.

Start creating with OMTech and turn your inspiration into precision—one laser cut at a time.

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