Can You Use Your PiBurn on a Different Laser?
One of the most common questions we get is:
“I bought a PiBurn rotary for my [Brand A] laser — will it work with my [Brand B] laser?”
Or sometimes: “Can I just get an adapter to make it work with a different machine?”
The answer is: it depends — both on the PiBurn model you have and the type of laser machine you’re using.
Understanding Motor Types
We currently use three types of motors:
1. Two-Phase Stepper Motors
The most common and cross-compatible type. Many laser brands use these motors, including:
- Boss Laser LS-1420
- Aeon
- OneLaser
- OMTech
- Generic Chinese CO2 lasers
- Galvo lasers (fiber, CO2 galvo, UV)
While connectors may differ, the motor type remains the same, allowing us to typically provide an adapter for easy cross-compatibility.
Tip: While these are similar in appearance to 3-phase motors, they will have a minimum of 4 pins on the plug and will have a model name that starts with “57CM”
2. Three-Phase Stepper Motors
Less common but used by:
- Boss Laser (models above LS-1420)
- Laguna
- Certain AP Laser models
If your PiBurn rotary and new laser both have 3-phase motors, we can usually offer an adapter. However, a rotary with a 2-phase motor cannot be used on a 3-phase laser without replacing the motor.
Tip: 3-Phase Motor might look just like a 2-Phase motor and even have the same type of plug (usually 4 or 3-pin) ! Look for a sticker on the motor that has a model number. If it starts with “573S”.
Note: Motor replacement isn’t possible on all PiBurn models (see below).
3. Hybrid Servo Motors (Closed-Loop Steppers)
Exclusive to Thunder Laser machines. These motors have built-in drivers, offering precision and higher cost but no compatibility with other laser types.
A PiBurn rotary originally designed for 2-phase motors (e.g., OMTech) cannot be adapted for Thunder lasers without motor replacement, and only certain PiBurn models allow this.
Can Your PiBurn Motor Be Swapped?
Motor Swapping Supported (and what’s involved):
- PiBurn V3, V4, and V (Roller Type):
- Replace the original motor
- Guide belt through pulley system (particularly PiBurn V)
- Adjust belt tension
- PiBurn Grip 2 (Chuck Type):
- Partial disassembly
- New motor installation and wiring
Motor Swapping Not Supported:
- Original PiBurn Grip 1: Not designed for motor replacement
Wait, what about Piburn OMNI?
- OMNI is a combination of Roller and Grip, so in Original OMNI, you’ll be able to replace the motor on the roller side but not on the Grip side.
Motors, Adapters, and Cables
So, I have a compatible motor, will I need an adapter? Probably not, unless your laser port has a different number of pins, a different type of socket, or is wired differently.
You can conveniently purchase compatible replacement motors directly from our website: lensdigital.com.
We also offer a variety of cable adapters and extension cables to assist in adapting your PiBurn to different laser brands and setups.
Quick Compatibility Guide
| Your PiBurn Has… | Your New Laser Has… | What You Need |
|---|---|---|
| 2-Phase Motor | 2-Phase Motor | Adapter (or most likely it will work without one) |
| 2-Phase Motor | 3-Phase Motor | Motor swap (if supported) |
| 2-Phase Motor | Closed-Loop Motor (Thunder) | Motor swap (if supported) |
| 3-Phase Motor | 3-Phase Motor | Adapter (or most likely it will work without one) |
| Other combinations | Incompatible motor | Usually not possible |
Still Not Sure?
Contact us with your current PiBurn model and the laser you want to use. We’re here to help you ensure your rotary attachment setup is optimized and functional across your equipment!