Joshua McCormick
12-15-2018, 2:04 AM
I know this has been discussed a few times (and I ignored the advice myself) - on more than one occasion and web location, but wanted to share for others who may still be considering Full Rectum Laser products.
I purchased a new FSL 5th gen machine in 2012, and it worked ok for a while (with low usage) as an intro machine, but mine is no longer functioning at all. (definitely due to the circuit / control board). I have not found much info aside from a post saying it's $2500 to 'upgrade' my circuit board. vs $3500 for a new machine. USB connectivity is garbage vs ethernet, this was made clear to me by FSL in 2012 when I bought the machine. The new CB is ONLY usb...
And (as an employee at many laser shops) I have worked with 6+ different laser mfg companies who have confirmed ethernet is largely preferable to usb - (particularly on a 64 bit system). Clearly this 'upgrade' is trash.
I will be buying from a 'major brand' to replace my FSL laser - and trying to get an arduino for FSL replacement firmware driver. FSL is NOT legit. Years ago I filed a BBB complaint for deceptive practices to get money back on a tube 'upgrade'. Last week I spent my lunch break on hold (over an hour) just trying to get a price on CB replacement - yet can not get thru to speak with anyone.
I have recently sent multiple emails with very explicit info on what my issue is to their tech support, they responded back with an alignment guide. wtf?! I replied back and made it very clear there is no output when running a job, yet the PSU and laser are working correctly - LOFF no initiation signal yet Test fire works.
No response from FSL tech for over a week now... they know the failure is the control board and they can't fix - but wont even reply. There is clearly no understanding of what is going on there, or basic respect for the customer.
Sure things break but if you arent willing to try to fix it then whats the point?! Why would I support a company that isn't interested in trying to keep me as a customer or even willing to respond to emails and be honest. I currently work for a 'major brand' laser company. I did not have the money to invest five years ago, but would rather spend 10x more on a product that WORKS from an honest company, that wants to help me as a customer. Even an old used machine is a better investment than a new piece of trash.
DO NOT buy FSL unless you are fully confident you can repair and replace every part on the machine. I'd rather buy a K40 than spend another $ with FSL. :(
I purchased a new FSL 5th gen machine in 2012, and it worked ok for a while (with low usage) as an intro machine, but mine is no longer functioning at all. (definitely due to the circuit / control board). I have not found much info aside from a post saying it's $2500 to 'upgrade' my circuit board. vs $3500 for a new machine. USB connectivity is garbage vs ethernet, this was made clear to me by FSL in 2012 when I bought the machine. The new CB is ONLY usb...
And (as an employee at many laser shops) I have worked with 6+ different laser mfg companies who have confirmed ethernet is largely preferable to usb - (particularly on a 64 bit system). Clearly this 'upgrade' is trash.
I will be buying from a 'major brand' to replace my FSL laser - and trying to get an arduino for FSL replacement firmware driver. FSL is NOT legit. Years ago I filed a BBB complaint for deceptive practices to get money back on a tube 'upgrade'. Last week I spent my lunch break on hold (over an hour) just trying to get a price on CB replacement - yet can not get thru to speak with anyone.
I have recently sent multiple emails with very explicit info on what my issue is to their tech support, they responded back with an alignment guide. wtf?! I replied back and made it very clear there is no output when running a job, yet the PSU and laser are working correctly - LOFF no initiation signal yet Test fire works.
No response from FSL tech for over a week now... they know the failure is the control board and they can't fix - but wont even reply. There is clearly no understanding of what is going on there, or basic respect for the customer.
Sure things break but if you arent willing to try to fix it then whats the point?! Why would I support a company that isn't interested in trying to keep me as a customer or even willing to respond to emails and be honest. I currently work for a 'major brand' laser company. I did not have the money to invest five years ago, but would rather spend 10x more on a product that WORKS from an honest company, that wants to help me as a customer. Even an old used machine is a better investment than a new piece of trash.
DO NOT buy FSL unless you are fully confident you can repair and replace every part on the machine. I'd rather buy a K40 than spend another $ with FSL. :(