[cctalk] Re: Is there a more modern replacement for paper tape punch/reader

On Jun 22, 2025, at 14:09, Anders Nelson via cctalk &lt;cctalk(a)classiccmp.org&gt; wrote: I would love to see someone create a galvo-laser system for punching paper/mylar tape. On Aliexpress you can get a galvo set for (all prices USD) ~$30, a 10W laser head for $40, and I expect making a stepper-motor driven capstan wouldn't be too hard for someone with the time. Then add a low-speed fan attached to a 3D printed tape guide with a slit for chad suction/collection and fume exhaust. Not sure what kind of anvil/platform you need for a laser beam - maybe just the uncoated side of a ceramic floor tile sitting at an angle in the chad chute to absorb the laser energy, with the platform having a void sized for the punching area. I imagine the whole thing could be pretty compact and wicked fast! -- Anders Nelson www.andersknelson.com On Sun, Jun 22, 2025 at 9:24 AM steven(a)malikoff.com steven--- via cctalk < cctalk(a)classiccmp.org&gt; wrote: >> On 06/21/2025 11:47 PM AEST Gavin Scott via cctalk < > cctalk(a)classiccmp.org&gt; wrote: >> A paper-tape reader is easy enough, just something where you manually >> pull the tape past an optical reader etc. >> >> I have a ~cheap diode laser cutter and on my someday get around to it >> list is to write a paper tape "punch" program that will cut a one foot >> strip of punched paper tape out of a larger piece of paper, with the >> possibility of using a roll of paper and manually advance it a foot at >> a time using the sprocket holes and some pins for alignment. > > I wrote a tool to make 5-level Baudot, 8-level ASCII, Whirlwind, chadless > etc. paper tape using a home CNC vinyl/stencil cutter > https://github.com/1944GPW/ptap2dxf > > I saw another similar utility on Hackaday that uses a laser, but it did > not have as many format options. > https://hackaday.com/2025/01/29/paper-tape-with-lasers/ > > Steve. >