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Plotbot software · Windows · Version 5.11

Plotbot laser engraving software

Plotbot turns PNG, JPG, BMP, TIF, SVG and DXF files into laser-ready jobs for Plotbot CO2 laser cutting machines. Pick a material preset, check the real-time preview, and cut. Developed at Retech’s R&D centre in Chennai.

Plotbot laser software on a desktop monitor showing a temple line drawing ready to engrave, next to the finished engraved wooden plaque

Features

Everything you need to go from file to finished part

Imports the files you already have

Open PNG, JPG, BMP and TIF images, or SVG and DXF drawings, and Plotbot converts them into laser-ready output.

Smart vector conversion

Plotbot traces imported artwork into vector paths you can edit. Set each object to Fill, Outline or Fill & Outline, and tidy paths with Simplify, Offset and Boundary.

Material presets

Choose wood, acrylic, leather or another material and engraving speed, laser power, scan lines per inch and cutting settings are filled in for you.

Real-time preview

See the job on screen before the laser fires. Check position, size and rotation and fix a misplaced part before it costs you a sheet.

Draw, edit and nest

Add text and shapes, combine objects with Unite, Subtract, Intersect and Exclude, organise work in Layers and a Library, and use Nesting to fit more parts on each sheet.

Written in Chennai by the machine makers

Developed at Retech’s R&D centre in Chennai, by the same team that designs the Plotbot motherboard and motor drives. Support: plotbot.retech@gmail.com.

How it works

Three steps to your first cut

Step 1

Import your design

Open an image or a vector file, or draw text and shapes. Set position, size and rotation.

Step 2

Set the material

Pick a preset for wood, acrylic, leather or another material, then adjust any value your stock needs.

Step 3

Preview and cut

Check the real-time preview, connect to your Plotbot and run the job.

Laser settings panel

Control every pass

Engraving speedHow fast the head moves while engraving; affects detail and burn depth.
Laser power (engraving)0–100 % intensity; higher power gives deeper, darker marks.
Scan lines per inchEngraving resolution; more lines give finer detail.
Cutting speedHow quickly the laser moves while cutting; affects edge quality and depth.
Laser power (cutting)Minimum and maximum output during cutting.
Material presetsOptimised starting values for wood, acrylic, leather and more.

Video tutorials

Learn Plotbot software step by step

Short tutorials from our engineers, from your first job to shortcuts. Every customer also gets hands-on training at installation.

Getting started with Plotbot softwareA simple guide to your first job
Basics · tutorial 1Workspace, importing and placing designs
Fundamentals · tutorial 2Core tools and layer settings
Screen writing · tutorial 3Adding and shaping text
Shortcuts · tutorial 5Keyboard shortcuts that save time
Full playlist on YouTubeWatch all Plotbot software tutorials →

FAQ

Plotbot software questions

Email plotbot.retech@gmail.com with your machine model and version.

Which Plotbot version should I download?

Download Plotbot 5.11. It is the latest release and runs Plotbot Plus, Pro and Max. Plotbot 5.10.2 is the previous build, and two earlier releases are still available for older machines. If you are unsure, email plotbot.retech@gmail.com with your machine model.

Does Plotbot run on Windows or macOS?

Plotbot is Windows software. The Plotbot Fiber is different: it runs Cypcut on its own 24-inch onboard computer, so it does not need Plotbot.

Which machines does Plotbot work with?

Plotbot is the control software for Retech’s CO2 laser cutting machines: Plotbot Plus, Plotbot Pro and Plotbot Max. It has a Wi-Fi connect button and shows the connection status.

I am new to laser cutting. Can I use Plotbot?

Yes. Material presets fill in speed and power for wood, acrylic and leather, and the real-time preview shows the job before you cut. Setup video tutorials cover unboxing to calibration, and software support is at plotbot.retech@gmail.com.

Questions about Plotbot software?

Email plotbot.retech@gmail.com or call support on +91 74488 00113. Thinking of buying? Ask sales for a demonstration.