A laser marking machine is a comprehensive term for an apparatus that employs a laser to make a permanent mark on an object. It is the overarching category that includes various technologies and configurations. The machine consists of a laser source, a control system, and a marking head containing the galvo scanners. The process is computer-controlled, allowing for extreme precision and the ability to mark complex graphics, variable text, and machine-readable codes like QR codes or Data Matrix codes. The permanence of the mark is its defining characteristic; it cannot be removed without destroying the surface layer of the material, making it a powerful tool for anti-counterfeiting, traceability, and branding. Laser marking machines are highly adaptable and can be found in numerous forms, from compact desktop units for small businesses and prototyping to massive, fully automated systems integrated into automotive assembly lines. The choice of laser source (fiber, CO2, pulsed, continuous-wave) is determined by the material to be marked and the desired effect—whether it's a deep engraving, a surface color change, or a subtle anneal. This technology has revolutionized part identification across global industries, providing a clean, efficient, and reliable method to ensure that products can be tracked, authenticated, and identified throughout their entire lifecycle, from production to disposal.