Vectored graphics

A vectored image is defined by a 2 dimensional outline that can consist of straight lines, arcs, angles or circles.  It is called a vectored graphic because it is comprised of paths (or vectors) and points that connect the different paths. A laser path or pattern for a vectored graphic has a preprogrammed start point and follows a preprogrammed point-to-point path to a defined end point. 

Rastered graphics

A raster image is defined by closely spaced rows of dots that form an image. A raster image has been scanned from side to side in lines from top to bottom (or bottom to top).  Photographic images from a camera, scanner, emails or copied from the internet are the primary sources of images  made up from Raster graphics.  

Rastered graphics are resolution dependent so they can not scale up to an arbitrary resolution without the possibility of losing image quality.  Raster images  can be anything that you can see with your eye but are generally photographs or photo-realistic images  These can be used for etching or engraving  with a laser.  In some cases it is possible to convert raster images to vector images with a process called raster to vector conversion. With this method many raster based images can converted to vector format and allow a vector/laser path to be applied to it so that a laser system can cut the material as opposed to engrave it.

The difference between raster and vector programs

Raster image editors like Adobe Photoshop revolve around editing and manipulating the pixels (dots) within an image.  When an image is rendered  or created in a raster-based image editor, it is comprised of millions of pixels.  At its core, a raster image editor works by manipulating each individual pixel. Common raster programs are Corel, Adobe Photoshop, and and others.

A vector image editor revolves around editing the lines and shapes (vectors) within an image.  Programs like Vytek's LaserWorks were designed specifically for this purpose. Whichever file type you use for engraving or etching, Vytek provides the best technology in the market  to help you achieve the best results in the shortest period of time. Talk to a Vytek representative today to learn more about Raster and Vector and how lasers can help you achieve your goals. 

• What is Vector or Raster
• Wattage needed to cut
• Air or water cooled chiller
• Cut material larger than 4x4'
• Cut material smaller than 4x2'
• Fast, large format cutting
• Raster material smaller than 4'
• Fast, large format raster
• Do I need fume extraction
• Wattage needed to raster
• What is marking
• Galvo or Gantry
• Mark metal
• Mark wood
• Mark objects larger than 6x6"
• What software do I need
• Can I network the laser
• What about training?