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Innovation - A Company of "Firsts"
From the first laser to “print” directly from CorelDraw, to the first rotary attachment, to the first large-format table, to the first 100-watt laser, Epilog is known for implementing useful features that enhance our customers’ ability to work more efficiently and reap higher profits. Since Epilog Laser has been manufacturing CO2 and fiber laser engraving systems longer than anyone else in the industry, we have a unique perspective and solid understanding of what our customers need and want when it comes to engraving, marking, and cutting. Through creativity and innovation, we’ve been able to meet and exceed customer expectations by developing innovative products that are exceptionally versatile and user-friendly. |
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Dedicated
In addition to our industry leading laser equipment, Epilog Laser is recognized throughout the world as having the most experienced and knowledgeable sales and technical support teams. Our dedication to developing and nurturing long-term relationships with our worldwide distribution channels ensures our customers will always have the most experienced sales and support professionals available long after the initial sale. As technologies evolve and customer needs become more sophisticated, we realize the importance of continuing education in the laser engraving industry. Epilog Laser is widely recognized as the best source of aftermarket training programs in the industry. Customers are encouraged to attend our users’ clinics and seminars, which provide an excellent means of discovering the latest in laser technology, as well as learning about new products and trends from other engraving professionals.
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Epilog's History
Started by two Georgia Tech buddies in the late 1980s, Epilog Laser has grown from a basement operation to an industry leader in the design and manufacturing of flying optics based CO2 and fiber laser systems.
Steve Garnier, president of Epilog Laser, and John Doran, vice-president of engineering, were college friends who were both studying electrical engineering at Georgia Tech. After getting their degrees, the two both moved to the Denver area. While Steve was doing motion control work for embroidery equipment manufacturer Melco, John was a rocket scientist at Lockeed Martin.
It was John who built the first laser in his basement and, after discussing the project with Steve, the two decided to combine forces and develop a laser system capable of creating graphic images. At this time, there were laser engraving machines in existence; however, the industrial-type machines were very large, non-computerized, and extremely expensive.
Steve and John were responsible for creating the first conveniently- sized laser that ran directly from a computer – it was literally as easy as pressing “print” to send your engraving job from the computer to the laser system. And it was only a fraction of the cost of the bulky, industrial-sized equipment on the market.
The two sold the manufacturing rights of the first generation laser to Melco, who produced and sold their design in the late 1980s and early 90s. In the early 1990s Steve and John began working on the second generation laser system. At this time, Melco was purchased by another company, so both Steve and John left their respective jobs to focus solely on Epilog Laser and its second generation system, the Eclipse.
Mike Dean, who had previously worked with Steve at Melco, came on board in 1991 when the duo asked him to become a partner and manage sales and marketing for the Eclipse.
In 1991, after countless hours of developing and prototyping, the newly formed trio hit their first tradeshow – the Awards and Recognition Association Expo. Interest levels soared, as the Eclipse was introduced as the first laser system that could laser graphic files directly from CorelDRAW. The Eclipse emulated a paper printer, but instead of putting ink to paper, it burned images and text into wood, plastic, acrylic, and other materials. That first tradeshow positioned Epilog Laser as an innovator within the industry and proved to be the catalyst for the company’s initial and continued success.
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