How to install the Touch Screen for Longer B1

The Longer B1 laser engraver is designed with a versatile mainboard that supports wireless technology, microSD card reading, and seamless interaction with your smartphone. While the machine can be controlled via a classic USB interface using a laptop, you can significantly expand its functionality by adding a touchscreen display with an intuitive graphic interface.

The touchscreen connects easily to the Longer B1, thanks to its magnetic surface. Simply plug the cable into the appropriate port on the machine, and you're ready to go. With the touchscreen, you can manage tasks like selecting and starting jobs from your microSD card, moving the axes, setting the "home" position, controlling the laser beam, and establishing a wireless connection to your Wi-Fi network.

This upgrade provides a much simpler and faster way to control your machine compared to using software on a laptop.

Important Note Before Using the Touchscreen

Before using the touchscreen, you may need to update the firmware of your Longer B1. Please note: After the firmware update, the MKSLaser App and Web Browser Interface will no longer work. However, the new firmware will enable you to use the more advanced Longer LaserBurn App for smartphone-based control.

Steps to Set Up the Touchscreen

Once you’ve connected the touchscreen to the Longer B1, follow these steps to update your firmware and enable full touchscreen functionality.

1. Download the Firmware and Configuration Files

First, download the firmware update package, which includes the new firmware and the configuration file for LaserGRBL:

https://drive.google.com/drive/mobile/folders/1cMsCv-wTjJ7fkDKehzPs7pqXt50ivix_/18-rHsIJ8Om688f-eFt9TJXP5rDeepAUb/1XPY4dMHMcKfjyktFZhFIb4LZbvL_R4hf?sort=13&direction=a

2. Download and Install MKSLaserTool

Next, you’ll need to download and install MKSLaserTool to update your firmware. After installing, launch the application:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1KXFudeke1sTATLbbrk4EyCvNW9mEteq7/view?usp=sharing

3. Update the Firmware

Once MKSLaserTool is installed, follow these steps to update the firmware:

  1. Open MKSLaserTool and select MKS ESP32 Download Tool.
  2. Choose the correct port and set the baud rate to 921600.
  3. Select the downloaded .bin firmware file.
  4. Click Start and wait for the update process to complete. The tool will show “Firmware successfully flashed” once done.

4. Import the Configuration File

After the firmware update is complete, close MKSLaserTool and open LaserGRBL. If you don’t have it installed, download it from the LaserGRBL website. Then follow these steps:

  1. Open LaserGRBL and select the configuration file you downloaded.
  2. Import the configuration file and upload it to your Longer B1.

Once these steps are completed, the firmware and configuration updates will be successfully installed, and your Longer B1 will be ready to recognize the touchscreen display.

Full Touchscreen Functionality

At this point, the touchscreen will be fully functional, and you can use it to control the machine with ease. The updated firmware also enables you to use the Longer LaserBurn App for smartphone-based engraving and laser control.

Where to Buy the Touchscreen

The Touchscreen for Longer B1 Laser Engraver is available for purchase at the following link:

Conclusion

The Longer B1 laser engraver's touchscreen is a simple, plug-and-play solution to make controlling your machine even easier. With the new firmware update, you can use both the touchscreen and the Longer LaserBurn App for a seamless engraving experience from your smartphone. Follow the steps above to ensure a smooth setup, and enjoy more efficient and user-friendly control of your Longer B1.

If you run into any issues, feel free to refer to this guide or contact our support team for further assistance.

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