PM10, PM30 or PM Unit? The best scanner solution depends on more than the desired speed. Scan field, spot size, laser parameters, material, cycle time and machine integration all influence the right choice.
This guide explains the questions that help with selection and when each MOEWE scanner typically belongs on the shortlist. The final configuration should always be evaluated against the real process data.
The three key selection questions
- How large is the required scan field? Field size and target resolution determine the optical and mechanical design.
- How fast must the process be? Marking time, line speed, acceleration and repetition rate work together.
- How much adaptation does the scanner need? A standard integration has different requirements from a customised OEM solution.
PM10: compact and focused
PM10 is a natural choice when a compact scanner solution is needed for clearly defined tasks. It is particularly relevant when size, straightforward integration and a balanced combination of speed and precision are important.
Typical use cases include compact marking and structuring tasks, small to medium working fields or machines where installation space is limited. The planned scan field, target spot size and process speed must, of course, match the optical design.
Consider PM10 when:
- a compact standard solution is required,
- the scan field is manageable and clearly defined,
- installation space and integration effort are important factors,
- the process needs a good balance between dynamics and precision.
PM30: more reach and throughput
PM30 typically comes into consideration when a larger working field or higher throughput is central to the application. Larger parts and productive series processes require field coverage, spot quality, speed and process homogeneity to be considered together.
A larger scan field is not automatically the better solution. As field size increases, the requirements for optics, calibration and process control also increase. PM30 is therefore particularly interesting when the application genuinely needs the additional reach and the process parameters can be designed around it.
Consider PM30 when:
- larger areas or parts need to be processed,
- short cycle times and high throughput are decisive,
- field coverage matters more than the smallest possible housing,
- optics, control and calibration can be designed as one system.
PM Unit: when integration defines the solution
PM Unit is the right starting point when an application goes beyond a typical standard configuration. The focus is then not only on scanner size and speed, but on how the scanner becomes part of the complete machine or production line.
This can be relevant when special mechanical interfaces, a specific beam path, defined installation requirements, customised control or a coordinated multi-component solution is needed. PM Unit should therefore be included early in the system planning process.
Consider PM Unit when:
- a customised OEM or machine integration is planned,
- standard dimensions or interfaces are not sufficient,
- optics, mechanics, electronics and software must be coordinated,
- the solution should be optimised for a specific process rather than a generic data sheet.
PM10, PM30 or PM Unit compared
| Selection criterion | PM10 | PM30 | PM Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Typical focus | Compact, clearly defined applications | Larger fields and higher throughput | Custom system integration |
| Installation space | Compact integration is a priority | Additional reach may require more design space | Can be planned around the machine and process requirements |
| System design | Standard-oriented configuration | Field, speed and calibration considered together | Optics, mechanics, control and interfaces defined together |
| Suitable when | Precision and compact size matter | Coverage and productivity matter | The application calls for a tailored solution |
Which data should be available before selection?
The more precise the starting data, the faster the right configuration can be identified. Useful information includes:
- laser wavelength and available power,
- required scan field and working distance,
- target spot size and positioning accuracy,
- line speed, cycle time and repetition rate,
- material, geometry and processing task,
- installation space, interfaces and environmental conditions.
The short decision guide
PM10 is a good starting point for compact and clearly defined applications. PM30 should be evaluated when a larger field or more throughput is required. PM Unit is useful when system integration, interfaces or process requirements call for an individual design.
Selection should not be based on one specification in isolation. The interaction between scan field, spot, speed, laser and machine reveals which scanner provides the best solution in the real process.
Frequently asked questions
Is PM30 always better than PM10?
No. A larger or faster system is only beneficial when the application needs those characteristics. For compact fields, a smaller and appropriately configured solution may integrate better.
When should PM Unit be planned?
As early as possible when special interfaces, beam paths, installation constraints or OEM integration are foreseeable. This allows optics, mechanics and control to be designed together.
Can MOEWE support the selection using sample data?
Yes. Information about the material, laser, scan field, spot size, speed and process objective allows the appropriate scanner class to be evaluated in a targeted way.
Not sure which scanner is right?
Share your key process data with us. MOEWE Optics can help assess whether PM10, PM30 or PM Unit is the right starting point for your application.