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Glossary Of Laser Engraving and Cut Terms [18]

N N-G (Nanometer Gap) N-G, or Nanometer Gap, refers to a tiny space or separation between two surfaces or objects measured in nanometers (one billionth of a meter). Nanometer gaps are extremely small and are often encountered in nanotechnology, electronics, optics, and other fields where precise control and manipulation of matter at the nanoscale are required. Nanometer-scale gaps can exhibit unique physical, chemical, and optical properties, such as quantum confinement effects, surface plasmon resonance, and enhanced electromagnetic fields. Nanometer gaps play a crucial role in various applications, including nanoelectronics, nanophotonics, molecular sensing, and surface-enhanced spectroscopy, and they are actively researched for their potential in nanoscale devices and systems.
Nd:Glass Laser Nd:Glass laser is another type of solid-state laser that utilizes neodymium-doped glass as the lasing medium. Unlike Nd:YAG lasers, which use yttrium aluminum garnet crystals, Nd:Glass lasers employ glass materials doped with neodymium ions to generate laser light. Nd:Glass lasers typically emit light at wavelengths around 1050 to 1080 nanometers (nm) in the infrared spectrum and are used in various industrial, military, and research applications. Nd:Glass lasers are valued for their high energy output, excellent beam quality, and ability to produce short-pulse, high-intensity laser beams, making them suitable for applications such as laser fusion, spectroscopy, lidar (light detection and ranging), and laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS).
Nd:YAG Laser Nd:YAG laser, short for neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet laser, is a type of solid-state laser that uses neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet crystal as the lasing medium. Nd:YAG lasers emit light in the infrared spectrum at a wavelength of 1064 nanometers (nm) and are known for their high power, efficiency, and versatility in various industrial, medical, and scientific applications. Nd:YAG lasers are commonly used for laser welding, cutting, drilling, marking, and engraving of metals and ceramics, as well as for medical procedures such as ophthalmic surgery, dermatology, and dentistry. The unique optical properties of Nd:YAG lasers, including their high beam quality, pulse duration, and energy output, make them suitable for precision machining and non-contact material processing.
Near Field The near field refers to the region close to a radiation source or an object where the electromagnetic field patterns are complex and vary significantly with distance. In optics and electromagnetic theory, the near field is distinguished from the far field, which is the region where the field patterns become more uniform and predictable. In laser systems, the near field is the area immediately surrounding the laser aperture or output surface, where the laser beam undergoes significant spatial and intensity variations. Understanding the near field is essential for optimizing laser beam quality, focusing, and controlling beam characteristics in various laser applications, including laser cutting, welding, and microscopy.
Neodymium (Nd) Neodymium (Nd) is a chemical element and rare-earth metal with the atomic number 60 and symbol Nd. It is commonly used in the production of high-strength permanent magnets, particularly neodymium-iron-boron (NdFeB) magnets, which are among the strongest commercially available magnets. Neodymium magnets exhibit exceptional magnetic properties, including high magnetic strength, coercivity, and energy density, making them ideal for a wide range of applications, such as electric motors, generators, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) machines, magnetic separators, and loudspeakers. Neodymium is also used as a dopant in laser materials, such as neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG), which are widely used in solid-state lasers for various industrial, medical, and scientific applications due to their high efficiency, power output, and optical properties.
Network A network is a collection of interconnected devices and systems that are linked together to share resources, exchange data, and communicate with each other. Networks can be classified based on their geographic scope, such as local area networks (LANs) that cover a small area such as a home, office, or building, or wide area networks (WANs) that span large geographical areas and connect multiple LANs across different locations. Networks can also be categorized by their topology, architecture, and technology, including Ethernet, Wi-Fi, fiber optics, and cellular networks. Networks enable devices to access shared services, such as file storage, printing, and internet connectivity, and facilitate collaboration, information sharing, and resource sharing among users and applications.
Network Drop A network drop refers to a physical connection point in a network infrastructure where network devices such as computers, printers, or switches can be connected to the local area network (LAN) or wide area network (WAN). It typically consists of a network outlet or port installed on a wall, floor, or ceiling, equipped with Ethernet cabling and connectors that enable devices to connect to the network. Network drops are strategically placed throughout buildings and facilities to provide convenient access to network resources and facilitate data communication between devices. They are commonly used in office buildings, homes, schools, and other environments where network connectivity is required.
Network Interface A network interface is a hardware component or software application that enables a device to connect and communicate with a network. It serves as the interface between the device and the network infrastructure, allowing data to be transmitted and received over the network using standard protocols and communication standards. Network interfaces can take various forms, including network interface cards (NICs) installed in computers, routers, switches, and other network devices, as well as wireless adapters, modems, and network interface controllers (NICs) integrated into devices such as laptops, smartphones, and printers. Network interfaces provide the necessary physical and logical connections for devices to access network resources, exchange data, and participate in network communication.
NIB (New In Box) NIB, or New In Box, is a term commonly used in retail and e-commerce to describe a product that is brand new and still sealed in its original packaging. Items labeled as NIB have never been opened, used, or handled by consumers and are in pristine condition, free from defects, damage, or wear. NIB products often include all original accessories, manuals, and documentation provided by the manufacturer. The term NIB is frequently used by sellers and resellers to indicate that the product is in new, unused condition and has not been subjected to any prior use or handling.
NIC (Network Interface Card) A Network Interface Card (NIC) is a hardware component that enables a computer or other device to connect to a network. NICs are commonly installed internally in desktop computers, laptops, servers, and other devices, or they can be external adapters connected via USB or other ports. NICs facilitate communication between the device and the network by providing physical access to the network medium, such as Ethernet or Wi-Fi. They typically include one or more ports for connecting network cables or antennas, and they adhere to standard network protocols for transmitting and receiving data packets. NICs are essential for accessing local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and the internet, enabling devices to communicate and share resources with other networked devices.
Nickel Engraving Nickel engraving is a process used to create detailed designs, patterns, or text on surfaces made of nickel or nickel alloys using laser engraving technology. Nickel is commonly used in various industrial applications, including electronics, aerospace, automotive, and decorative items, due to its durability, corrosion resistance, and machinability. Laser engraving offers a precise and efficient method for marking and decorating nickel surfaces with permanent, high-resolution engravings. By focusing a laser beam onto the nickel surface, the material is selectively heated and vaporized, creating precise patterns or text with minimal material removal. Nickel engraving is widely used for branding, part identification, serialization, and decorative purposes in various industries.
Nitrogen Nitrogen is a colorless, odorless, and inert gas that is commonly used as an assist gas in laser cutting and engraving applications. Nitrogen is preferred for laser cutting of stainless steel, aluminum, and other metals because it does not react with the material and produces clean, oxide-free edges without discoloration or contamination. In laser engraving, nitrogen can be used to assist with the removal of debris and fumes generated during the engraving process, resulting in crisp, high-contrast engravings with minimal residue. Nitrogen gas is supplied to the laser processing area through a nozzle or delivery system, where it interacts with the laser beam to enhance cutting and engraving performance. Proper control and management of nitrogen flow are essential for achieving optimal results and maximizing process efficiency in laser-based manufacturing and fabrication.
Node Editing Node editing is a feature commonly found in vector graphics software used for designing and preparing artwork for laser cutting, engraving, and other digital fabrication processes. It allows users to manipulate individual nodes, which are the control points that define the shape of vector objects, such as lines, curves, and shapes. Node editing tools enable users to adjust the position, curvature, and attributes of nodes to modify the shape, size, and appearance of vector graphics. By selecting and manipulating nodes, users can create complex shapes, smooth curves, and intricate designs with precision and control. Node editing is an essential technique for optimizing artwork and preparing vector files for laser processing, ensuring accurate and high-quality results.
Noise (Electromagnetic Interference or EMI) Noise, in the context of laser systems and electronic devices, refers to unwanted electromagnetic interference (EMI) that can disrupt the operation of equipment, degrade signal quality, and affect system performance. EMI noise can originate from various sources, including power supplies, electrical circuits, motors, and radio frequency (RF) transmissions, and can interfere with sensitive electronic components, such as laser diodes, sensors, and control systems. Common sources of EMI noise include electrical arcing, switching transients, ground loops, and electromagnetic radiation from nearby electronic devices. To mitigate EMI noise, laser systems may incorporate shielding, filtering, grounding, and isolation techniques to minimize interference and maintain signal integrity.
Nominal Hazard Zone (NHZ) The Nominal Hazard Zone (NHZ) is a defined area around a laser system where exposure to laser radiation could potentially exceed the maximum permissible exposure (MPE) limits set by safety standards and regulations. The NHZ represents the zone within which the level of laser radiation poses a hazard to human eyes or skin, either through direct exposure to the laser beam or through reflections from specular surfaces. The size and shape of the NHZ depend on factors such as the laser's power, wavelength, divergence, and beam characteristics, as well as the surrounding environment and safety measures in place. Laser safety protocols require the implementation of control measures, such as barriers, interlocks, and warning signs, to prevent unauthorized access to the NHZ and protect personnel from laser hazards.
Nozzle Diameter Nozzle diameter refers to the size of the opening or aperture at the end of a nozzle, which is used to control the flow of a fluid or gas in various applications, including laser cutting, engraving, and 3D printing. In laser systems, such as laser cutting machines or engravers, the nozzle is often used to deliver assist gases, such as oxygen or nitrogen, to the laser beam interaction zone to help with the cutting or engraving process. The diameter of the nozzle plays a crucial role in determining the characteristics of the assist gas flow, including velocity, pressure, and distribution. Proper selection of the nozzle diameter is essential for achieving optimal cutting or engraving results, controlling heat-affected zones, and minimizing material waste.
NVRAM NVRAM, short for Non-Volatile Random Access Memory, is a type of computer memory that retains stored data even when the power is turned off. Unlike traditional volatile memory such as RAM (Random Access Memory), which loses its contents when the power is interrupted, NVRAM utilizes non-volatile memory technologies to preserve data permanently or semi-permanently. NVRAM is commonly used in computing systems to store critical system settings, configuration parameters, and firmware updates that need to be retained across power cycles. One common type of NVRAM is flash memory, which retains data using floating-gate transistors or similar mechanisms. NVRAM plays a crucial role in maintaining system integrity, reliability, and data persistence in various computing and embedded systems.
NVRAM (Non-Volatile Random Access Memory) NVRAM, or non-volatile random access memory, is a type of computer memory that retains stored data even when the power is turned off. Unlike traditional volatile memory such as RAM (random access memory), which loses its contents when the power is interrupted, NVRAM uses non-volatile memory technologies to preserve data permanently or semi-permanently. NVRAM is commonly used in computing systems to store critical system settings, configuration parameters, and firmware updates that need to be retained across power cycles. One common type of NVRAM is flash memory, which retains data using floating-gate transistors or similar mechanisms. NVRAM plays a crucial role in maintaining system integrity, reliability, and data persistence in various computing and embedded systems.