How to Set Up Your OMTech Polar+ CO2 Laser Engraver

OMTech Laser Updated On Apr 23, 2025

Polar 55W

The OMTech Polar+ is more than just a sleek desktop laser—it's a complete, ready-to-go engraving solution that makes the process of getting started intuitive and stress-free. Whether you’re a hobbyist, a small business owner, or a newcomer to laser engraving, this guide will walk you through setting up your new Polar+ step-by-step, just like in the official OMTech setup video.

Let’s get started on your creative journey!

Step 1: Unboxing Your OMTech Polar+

When your OMTech Polar+ arrives, it comes packed with everything you need to hit the ground running. Inside the box, you’ll find:

The 55W CO₂ laser machine
20” x 12” honeycomb bed
Pre-installed rotary axis attachments
Exhaust system with fans and ducts
Sample materials
Tools, cables, and accessories

Carefully remove the packaging and save any foam inserts just in case you need to transport the machine later. Place the machine on a sturdy, level work surface with adequate ventilation nearby.

Step 2: Plugging Everything In

One of the biggest perks of the Polar+ is that most components are already installed—no tricky plumbing or electrical wiring required.

Here’s how to get it powered up:

Plug in the main power cord to a grounded outlet.
Connect the included exhaust hose to the rear port and route it out a window or to a filtration unit.
Connect the rotary tool if you plan to use it for cylindrical objects like tumblers or mugs.

Double-check each connection to ensure it’s snug and properly aligned. Then, power the machine on using the switch on the rear panel.

Step 3: Installing the Exhaust Fan

Proper ventilation is key to safe and clean laser engraving, and the OMTech Polar+ makes exhaust setup quick and painless.

In the box, you’ll find a pre-assembled inline exhaust fan and flexible ducting. Here’s how to install it:

Attach one end of the duct hose to the rear exhaust port on the Polar+. Secure it using the included hose clamp.
Connect the other end of the duct to the inline fan’s input side and tighten it with a clamp.
Place the exhaust fan near a window or connect it to your existing duct system to direct fumes outside.
Plug the fan into a nearby outlet. The fan will run independently from the laser, so you’ll want to turn it on before each job.

The fan is quiet, efficient, and powerful enough to handle wood smoke, acrylic fumes, and more—keeping your workspace safe and odor-free.

Step 4: Filling the Water Chiller

The Polar+ comes with an integrated water chiller—a huge upgrade from older models that required separate coolers and tubing setups. Before running the machine, you’ll need to fill the water reservoir.

Locate the refill port on the inside right of the machine, underneath the touchscreen.
Use distilled water only—never tap water, as minerals can damage the laser tube.
Slowly pour water into the port until the internal reservoir is full.

The water chiller will automatically begin circulating water through the laser tube when the machine is on. This keeps the tube at a safe operating temperature and extends its lifespan.

Step 5: Powering On & Getting to Know the Touchscreen

Polar+ screen

Once everything is plugged in and filled, press the power switch to turn on the Polar+. The touchscreen control panel will light up, displaying the machine’s home screen.

The interface is designed for beginners, offering intuitive options such as:

Home Axis: Automatically aligns the laser head to its starting position.
File Management: Lets you load files directly from a USB drive.
Speed & Power Settings: Easily adjust the laser output and engraving speed.
Manual Controls: Move the laser head, focus the beam, and test fire with simple on-screen buttons.

It’s an incredibly user-friendly system, even if you’ve never used a laser engraver before.

Step 6: Connecting to LightBurn Software

The OMTech Polar+ is fully compatible with LightBurn, one of the most powerful laser software platforms available. Here’s how to get connected:

Plug the included USB cable into your computer.
Launch LightBurn and add your OMTech Polar+ as a new device. The software should automatically detect it.
Use LightBurn to import or create designs, then send them to your machine.

LightBurn also allows for precise control over layers, vector paths, raster images, and engraving settings—giving you total freedom to create professional-quality results.

Step 7: Focusing the Laser

Polar+ focus

Before engraving your first project, you’ll need to make sure the laser beam is properly focused.

The Polar+ includes a built-in autofocus feature:

Load your material onto the honeycomb bed.
Use the touchscreen to auto-focus the laser head—it will gently tap the surface and adjust to the correct height.
Alternatively, use the provided manual focus tool if needed.

Accurate focus is critical for clean, precise engravings, especially on materials like wood, acrylic, leather, and glass.

Step 8: Loading Your First Project

With the laser focused and the software connected, you’re ready to run your first job. Here’s a simple walkthrough:

Import your design into LightBurn.
Set the correct speed and power settings.
Preview the file to confirm the dimensions and position.
Use the “Frame” feature on the touchscreen to outline where the laser will engrave—this helps ensure proper alignment.
Hit “Start” and watch the Polar+ go to work!

Step 9: Using the Rotary Attachment

One of the standout features of the OMTech Polar+ is its pre-installed rotary axis, perfect for engraving cylindrical objects like tumblers, glasses, and candles.

To use the rotary attachment:

Take out the debris tray and honeycomb bed to make space for the rotary attachment.
Plug the rotary cable into the port on the back left.
Place your cylindrical object on the rotary roller or chuck.
Adjust the object’s alignment so it spins evenly and level.
Load your rotary file into LightBurn and select the correct diameter settings.
Click Tools in the upper lefthand bar and select Rotary Setup to designate the rotary type and enable the rotary. Here, you can input information such as Steps per Rotation and the object’s diameter.
Focus the laser, run a frame preview, and start engraving.

The rotary setup is incredibly fast and efficient—no additional hardware or configuration needed.

Step 10: Maintenance & Safety Tips

The Polar+ is built for minimal maintenance, but a few regular habits will keep it running smoothly:

Clean the lens and mirrors weekly using a lens wipe or isopropyl alcohol.
Check the water level in the chiller and refill with distilled water as needed.
Empty the exhaust filter or duct system regularly.
Always wear safety glasses if you’ll be near the beam during manual operation.
Never leave the machine unattended while it’s running.

OMTech includes detailed maintenance guides and safety instructions to help you stay on top of it all.

Why the OMTech Polar+ is Perfect for Beginners

If you’re just getting into laser engraving, the OMTech Polar+ is a dream come true. It takes the intimidation out of setup with its plug-and-play design, clear touchscreen interface, and built-in accessories. There’s no need to assemble tubing, install chillers, or fiddle with complicated software integrations.

Plus, you get professional performance specs:

55W CO₂ laser for powerful cuts and detailed engravings
Up to 500mm/s engraving speed for fast results
Pre-installed water chiller to protect your laser tube
Rotary attachments included for mugs, tumblers, and more
Modern touchscreen controls that anyone can master

Whether you’re starting a side business or creating custom gifts, the Polar+ gives you everything you need to succeed—right out of the box.

OMTech Polar 55w

Ready to Start Creating? Choose OMTech Polar+

With the OMTech Polar+, you don’t need to be a tech wiz to master laser engraving. This all-in-one powerhouse is designed for beginners who want an easy, intuitive start—but don’t want to compromise on quality or performance.

Start your laser journey today with the OMTech Polar+ and discover what you can create when you have the right tools at your disposal.