u/Apprehensive_Kick_60

Hi everyone,

I’m starting Mechanical Engineering in a few months and I’m trying to prepare for first-year calculus.

I originally asked this in r/EngineeringStudents, but the post got removed for being “low effort,” even though I had already tried to look into this on my own. So I’m asking here hoping for some actual guidance.

I’m choosing between two books:
- Calculus Made Easy by Silvanus P. Thompson
- Calculus All-in-One For Dummies

I also have access to a cultural education voucher that lets me get a book for free, so I’d like to make a solid choice with it.

I’m looking for something that helps both with understanding the concepts and getting enough practice for university-level problems.

Which one would you recommend between these two for overall preparation?

Thanks in advance. 💙

Hi everyone,

I’m looking to get into laser engraving as a hobby. I’ve been getting more into making things at home and I find this kind of tech really interesting, so I’d like to start experimenting with wood projects, small decorations, and general maker stuff.

At the moment it’s mainly just for learning and fun, but I might also try to sell a few small items later if things go well.

I’m looking for advice on a first machine, ideally something:

- safe for home use (preferably enclosed)

- beginner-friendly in terms of setup and software

- capable enough for wood engraving and cutting without feeling too limiting too quickly

I’m trying to understand what makes the most sense for a first purchase:

- Is a diode laser (10–30W range) enough for serious hobby use on wood?

- Or is it worth going straight to a small CO2 machine even as a beginner?

- And most importantly, anything you wish you knew before buying your first laser?

I’m still new to laser cutters, but I do have some experience with making things at home and 3D printing, so I’m not completely new to the maker space.

Thanks in advance for any advice!