Faster PCB Prototyping: 25 Years of ProtoLaser
Discover the success story of the LPKF ProtoLaser family at productronica 2025 in Munich – from pioneering PCB prototyping to precision processing of advanced materials. Get your free ticket today!
For 25 years, the LPKF ProtoLaser family has represented important milestones in electronics manufacturing. What started as a joint research project with the University of Hannover in Germany has grown into a globally recognized brand for high-precision PCB prototyping. In 2025, LPKF celebrates the anniversary of its ProtoLaser systems and looks back on impressive development: from the first market launch in 2000 to today’s high-end systems that can process almost any material used in the electronics industry.
ProtoLaser has changed how research centers and companies develop electronic prototypes. The product line began with an infrared laser designed only for copper processing and has evolved to include advanced UV and picosecond laser systems that provide precise and versatile processing of a wide range of materials. Various models, including ProtoLaser U4 for UV laser processing, ProtoLaser S4 for green laser applications, and ProtoLaser R4 for “Cold Ablation” without heat impact, offer solutions for many needs – from classic FR4 PCBs and RF substrates to ceramics, polyimide, graphene, and ITO-coated glass.
The ProtoMat H4 also demonstrates LPKF’s spirit of innovation. Introduced in 2022 as the successor to the first tabletop system ProtoLaser ST, ProtoMat H4 is a versatile entry-level model for PCB milling and drilling. Now equipped with a comfortable 14-position tool magazine and a powerful 100,000 rpm spindle, it delivers fast, precise results. Already 100 units have been produced, showing strong demand for flexible solutions in research and industry for rapid PCB prototyping and small production runs.
With structure widths down to 15 micrometers and working areas up to 229 x 305 mm, ProtoLaser systems deliver detailed results in a fraction of the time comparing to traditional technologies. By continuously investing in research and development, LPKF remains a technology leader: leading research institutes, universities, and high-tech companies worldwide use these systems as their standard for precise prototyping.
The next generation will support further miniaturization by enabling the processing of even finer structures with greater precision, in line with the continued development of new advanced materials and requirements. Find more information here.
At productronica 2025, you can experience the newest LPKF technologies live – from PCB prototyping and laser depaneling to stencil cutting, laser plastic welding, micro material processing, and microsystem technology with glass. You will also find LPKF’s contract manufacturing partner, LaserMicronics, on site.
Visit LPKF in Hall B2, Booth 305, and become part of the next precision revolution in electronics manufacturing!
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