Laser Engraver Blogs

 Longer Laser Engravers, such as Longer Ray5, Longer B1, and the Nano series, allow you to create fantastic works of art on a multiplicity and variety of materials. While many users start with wood or cardboard, glass represents a significant step forward in artistic creation. The ability to transform a common transparent object into a personalized masterpiece with a frosted, elegant finish is one of the most rewarding capabilities of these machines.

Why Glass Is a Unique Material for Laser Engraving

The material preferred by users for high-end gifts and decor is usually clear glass, which can be engraved to create a permanent, sophisticated contrast. However, unlike wood or stone, glass is a transparent and reflective medium. This means the laser beam could potentially pass through it or reflect back without leaving a mark. To overcome this, a professional practical solution is to apply a temporary dark coating, such as black tempera, laser spray, or even dark dish soap, to the surface. This allows the laser to absorb the energy and transfer it to the glass, creating a controlled micro-fracture that results in a beautiful "frosted" effect.

Recommended Glass Engraving Parameters for Longer Laser Engravers

Supposing you want to engrave glass, the following can be considered as basic parameters tailored for each specific Longer Laser Engraver model. These settings are designed to balance speed and power to achieve a crisp mark without overheating the material:

• Longer Nano Pro: Power 80% - Speed 3000 (mm/min)
• Longer Nano: Power 100% - Speed 1000 (mm/min)
• Longer B1 40W: Power 40% - Speed 3000 (mm/min)
• Longer Ray5 10W: Power 80% - Speed 3000 (mm/min)

Note: For all models, when available, keeping the Air Assist active is essential. It helps to cool the surface and clear any vaporized residue from the coating, ensuring the laser beam remains focused and efficient.

In this way, the engravings will be carried out without problems, and the high heat generated by the laser will allow the treated areas of the glass to be precisely frosted. However, since glass is sensitive to thermal shock, it is necessary to avoid "over-cooking" a single spot. A practical solution is to use high-speed passes to distribute the heat evenly. Once the process is finished, simply wash away the temporary coating with water to reveal the permanent, millimetric precision of the design.

Creative Effects and Design Possibilities on Glass

An interesting aspect of engraving on glass is the possibility of playing with nuances and light. By varying the power slightly, you can obtain different textures of frosting, creating effects of depth that are particularly striking when the glass is backlit. This makes glass an ideal material for experimenting with complex graphics, corporate logos, or even stylised portraits. In addition, the low cost of common glassware allows you to make numerous attempts until the desired professional result is achieved.

Glass engravings are used in various practical areas: from the customization of wine glasses and mirrors, to the creation of professional trophies, personalized bottles, and artistic window decorations. Thanks to the millimetric precision of the Longer Laser Engravers, you can reproduce details such as fine text or delicate floral textures with incredible clarity.

Maintenance Tips for Glass Engraving

After engraving, it is advisable to clean the laser module and the lens regularly. Glass engraving, combined with surface coatings, tends to release more fine residue than other materials. A simple wipe with a dry or slightly damp cloth avoids accumulations that could compromise the precision of subsequent processing. The air assist filter should also be checked periodically to maintain constant airflow efficiency and protect the hardware.

Glass engraving, combined with surface coatings, tends to release more fine residue than other materials. A simple wipe with a dry or slightly damp cloth avoids accumulations that could compromise the precision of subsequent processing. The air assist filter should also be checked periodically to maintain constant airflow efficiency and protect the hardware.

Why Glass Unlocks Professional Laser Engraving

Ultimately, glass is the gateway to the most productive and professional use of Longer Laser Engravers. It is not simply a transparent surface, but a material with its own intrinsic strategic value for those looking to elevate their portfolio. By mastering the parameters of speed and power, it is not only possible to obtain pieces with clean, frosted lines, but it is possible to have access to artistic creation in a cost-effective and highly impressive way.

FAQ: Glass Laser Engraving with Longer Laser Machines

Q1: Why do I need a coating on glass before engraving?
Because glass is transparent and reflective, a coating helps the laser energy absorb into the surface and create a frosted effect.

Q2: What effect does laser engraving create on glass?
It creates a permanent frosted texture through controlled micro-fracturing of the surface.

Q3: Is Air Assist necessary for glass engraving?
Yes, it helps remove residue and keeps the engraving process stable and clean.

Q4: Can I use Longer Ray5, B1 or Nano for glass engraving?
Yes, both Ray5, B1 and Nano series are capable of engraving glass with proper settings and preparation.

Longer Laser Engravers, such as Longer Ray5, Longer B1, and the Nano series, allow you to create fantastic works of art and personalized items quickly and easily, thanks to their excellent engraving and cutting ability on a multiplicity and variety of materials. While many users focus on natural surfaces like wood or stone, the ability to customize modern electronics and accessories, such as ABS plastic cases for Earphones, opens up a new world of professional and personal possibilities.

Why Choose ABS Plastic for Laser Engraving

The material preferred by tech enthusiasts for its sleek finish and durability is ABS. This common plastic can be engraved with high precision to create permanent, detailed logos or text. However, there is a material that is very different from wood, and much more sensitive to heat, namely plastic. Unlike organic materials that turn into carbon, plastic reacts to the laser by melting or vaporizing, which means great care must be taken during the process to avoid deforming the object.

ABS can be processed with a laser, however, it is essential to carefully set the power and speed parameters, as it is a thermoplastic material. In order to avoid excessive melting of the edges, it is necessary to operate at very high speeds. This allows power to be radiated for brief moments at each point, thus avoiding the possibility of damaging the delicate internal components of electronic cases. The use of air assist is absolutely critical here, as it quickly cools the surface and blows away any fumes, allowing for much faster and more accurate processing without yellowing the plastic.

Recommended ABS Plastic Engraving Parameters

In initial tests on ABS cases, it is good practice to start with a high-speed approach to minimize the zone affected by heat. Supposing you want to engrave a plastic case, the following can be considered as basic parameters, optimized for various Longer Laser Engravers models to ensure a clean mark without compromising the structure:

•  Longer Nano Pro: Power 50% - Speed 10000 (mm/min)
•  Longer Nano: Power 100% - Speed 10000 (mm/min)
•  Longer B1 40W: Power 12.5% - Speed 10000 (mm/min)

• Longer Ray5 10W: Power 50% - Speed 10000 (mm/min)

Note: These parameters are valid for a single pass. When working with plastics, always ensure your workspace is extremely well-ventilated. The vaporization of ABS can release unpleasant odors and fumes that should be extracted immediately to ensure a safe working environment.

In this way, the engravings will be carried out without problems, and the high heat generated by the laser will be managed by the high speed of the module, allowing the engraved areas to be clearly defined. However, since the engraving creates a physical change in the plastic's surface, it is necessary to avoid using too much power, which could cause the material to "bubble" or lose its structural integrity. A practical solution for a cleaner finish is to use a light masking tape over the engraving area to catch any micro-splatters of melted plastic, which can then be peeled away to reveal a perfect result.

Creative Possibilities with Plastic Laser Engraving

An interesting aspect of engraving on plastic is the possibility of playing with the contrast of the material itself. By slightly varying power and speed, lighter or darker marks can be obtained depending on the specific color and composition of the ABS. This makes plastic an ideal material for experimenting with complex graphics, minimalist icons, or even serial numbers and identification tags. In addition, thanks to the precision of Longer Lasers Engravers, you can make numerous attempts on test pieces until the desired professional result is achieved for your final product.

Plastic engravings are used in various practical areas: from the customization of consumer electronics and gift items, to the creation of industrial labels and personalized accessories. Even in small-scale manufacturing, engraving is useful for reproducing details such as technical logos or owner identification. Thanks to the millimetric precision of the Longer Laser Engravers, you can experiment freely until you get the desired professional finish.

Maintenance Tips for Laser Engraving on Plastic

After engraving, it is advisable to clean the countertop and laser module regularly, as plastic tends to release more sticky residues than wood or stone. A simple wipe with a dry or slightly damp cloth avoids accumulations that could compromise the precision of subsequent processing. The air assist filter and the protective glass of the laser should also be checked periodically to maintain constant airflow and laser efficiency, as plastic vapors can be particularly persistent.

Important Safety Recommendations for ABS Plastic Engraving

As far as we have seen, plastic is not simply a common material, but can be a material with its own intrinsic strategic value for personalization. In fact, its convenience and wide use in everyday objects, combined with the millimetric precision of the Longer Laser Engravers, make it the ideal tool for efficiency and modern customization.

Given the delicate nature of thermoplastics, it is strongly recommended to perform preliminary tests on scrap plastic or an inconspicuous area before proceeding with the final workpiece. Unlike wood or stone, ABS does not offer a wide margin for error; a few percentage points of extra power can result in melting rather than engraving. Monitoring the material's reaction is crucial: if you notice "raised" or bubbly edges around the engraving, it is a clear sign of excessive heat accumulation, and you should immediately increase the speed or reduce the power settings. Furthermore, because the vaporization of ABS releases hydrogen cyanide and other toxic fumes, ensuring that your air assist is at maximum capacity and your workspace is equipped with professional-grade ventilation or an exhaust system is not just a technical requirement, but a fundamental safety protocol for every Longer user. Mastering these "hidden" variables is what truly allows you to achieve a factory-standard finish on high-value electronics.

Unlocking Professional Plastic Engraving with Longer Laser Engravers

Ultimately, ABS and plastics are the gateway to a more technical and commercial use of Longer Laser Engravers, since by mastering the parameters of speed and power, it is not only possible to obtain pieces with clean cuts and hardened edges, but it is possible to have access to artistic and professional creation in a cost-effective way.

FAQ: ABS Plastic Engraving with Longer Laser Engravers

Q1: Can Longer Laser Engravers engrave ABS plastic?
Yes, Longer Ray5, Longer B1, and Nano series machines can engrave ABS plastic with proper speed and power settings.

Q2: Why is high speed important for ABS engraving?
High speed helps reduce heat accumulation and prevents melting or deformation of the plastic surface.

Q3: Is air assist necessary for plastic engraving?
Yes, air assist is critical for cooling the material, removing fumes, and improving engraving precision.

Q4: What safety precautions should be taken when engraving ABS?
Always use strong ventilation or an exhaust system, as ABS vaporization can release harmful fumes during laser processing.

Longer laser engravers, such as the Longer Ray5 10W/20W Laser Engraver (the best laser engraver for beginners), the Longer Ray5 40W Laser, the Engraver Longer B1 30W/40W Laser Engraving Machine (the best laser engraver for small business), Longer Nano Pro Portable Laser Engraver ( The best laser engraver for craft fairs), allow you to create intricate works of art on a vast variety of materials. While wood is a common starting point, the versatility of these laser cutter and engraver machines extends dramatically to harder, more durable surfaces, like stone, offering a completely different aesthetic and final product.

Why Choose Stone for Laser Engraving

The material preferred by users for its natural elegance and striking contrast is usually dark slate, which can be engraved with high precision and is highly durable. Engraved slate is perfect for creating a sophisticated, timeless look, much more durable than most organic materials, particularly for items like coasters, plaques, and decorative tiles.

Cardboard can also be processed with a laser; however, great care must be taken, as it is easily flammable. In order to avoid this, it is essential to carefully set the power and speed parameters. Stone, on the other hand, presents no fire risk but requires precise parameter settings to achieve clear, sharp contrasts. The material’s density dictates a completely different approach compared to engraving wood or cardboard, focusing on achieving a bright, precise mark without fracturing the surface. The use of air assist is still highly recommended to remove fine stone dust and keep the workspace clean, allowing for faster and more accurate processing.

Getting Started: Basic Parameters for Slate

In initial tests on slate, it is good practice to start applying settings that allow for a clean, single-pass marking. This allows the laser to ablate a fine surface layer to expose a lighter shade, creating the detailed image. Supposing you want to engrave slate, the following can be considered as basic parameters, tested on a 12W Longer Nano Pro:

Speed: 6000 mm/min
Power: 50%
Steps: 1 pass

These parameters provide a fast yet efficient starting point for clear engravings. Note that different laser powers will require adjustments (e.g., using a 20W or 30W module, you may be able to significantly increase the speed or decrease the power and possibly proceed with the necessary adjustments, doing tests).

Achieving Striking Contrast and Longevity

In this way, the engravings will be carried out with striking contrast, where the dark slate reveals a light, detailed pattern. However, since the engraving is a physical removal of a surface layer, it is necessary to avoid touching the engraved areas with abrasive materials; otherwise, they will be removed and compromised. A practical solution is to apply a light, food-safe mineral oil or a clear matte coat so as to protect the result, deepen the black areas, and make the engraving more durable and permanent.

Creative Possibilities with Stone

An interesting aspect of engraving on stone is the possibility of playing with subtle variations, creating deep engravings or light surface markings. This makes stone an ideal material for experimenting with complex graphics, illustrations, or even stylized photographs, where the high resolution of Longer Laser Engravers shines. In addition, thanks to its durability, stone creations can be made for both indoor and outdoor use.

Stone engravings are used in various practical areas:

• Customization of kitchenware and personalized gifts
• Creation of stencils, architectural accents, and artistic plaques
• Commercial applications, such as high-quality branded items and detailed signs

Thanks to the precise power control, you can experiment freely until you get the desired result.

Maintenance Tips for Stone Engraving

After engraving, it is advisable to clean the countertop and laser module regularly, as stone tends to release fine, abrasive dust. A simple wipe with a damp microfiber cloth avoids accumulations that could compromise the precision of subsequent processing. The air assist filter should also be checked periodically to maintain constant airflow efficiency.

Why Stone is an Exceptional Laser Engraving Material

As far as we have seen, stone is not simply a hard material but an exceptional canvas with its own intrinsic strategic value. In fact, its convenience and easy availability (particularly slate), combined with the millimetric precision of Longer Laser Engravers, make it the ideal tool for efficiency and experimentation.

Ultimately, stone is a superb material to master using Longer Laser Engravers, since by mastering the parameters of speed and power, it is not only possible to obtain pieces with clean lines and high contrast, but it is also possible to have access to artistic creation that is sophisticated, permanent, and highly cost-effective.

Finding the right settings for laser engraving or cutting can be challenging, especially with different materials. LaserBurn makes this process easier with its built-in material library. By following a few simple steps, you can quickly generate the optimal parameters for your project.

1. Access the material library

In LaserBurn, click the “Unknown” button at the top-right corner of the interface.

2. Select Your Material and Confirm

• Choose the material you want to engrave or cut.
• Click Confirm to apply the selection.

3. Generate the Parameter Matrix

After confirming the material:

• Go to the Layer page.
• Select the layer you want to set parameters for.
• Click Parameter Matrix to view the matrix effect chart.
• Choose the effect that matches your desired result.

4. Apply the Parameters Automatically

Once you select the desired effect:

• LaserBurn will automatically fill the chosen parameters into the parameter input fields.
• No manual input is needed, saving time and reducing errors.

Conclusion

Nano Duo allows precise color engraving on stainless steel by forming oxide layers or thin-film interference colors. Using the LaserBurn software, users can easily test and determine optimal engraving parameters to achieve the desired colors on stainless steel. This guide covers material preparation, parameter testing, layer-based color engraving, and practical use cases.

Stainless Steel Color Engraving Principle

Color formation by laser:

When stainless steel is heated by a laser, colored oxides or a transparent oxide film form on its surface. Thin-film interference causes various colors to appear. Oxidation products of metallic elements also contribute to the coloration.

Oxide color

Oxidation products of stainless steel elements naturally display color.

Oxide thin film interference

Under suitable laser energy, a colorless transparent oxide film forms on the surface, producing optical interference and resulting in various colors.

Material Preparation

Software: LaserBurn

Machine: Nano Duo

Material: Stainless Steel

File: Color Engraving File

Note: Material testing is required before engraving to obtain optimal parameters.

Use Cases

Medical devices, decorative items, automotive marking, architectural decoration, etc.

How do I use Nano Duo to test parameters for different colors on stainless steel?

This color engraving parameter guide is based on the Longer Nano Duo model machine, using stainless steel as the metal material. Utilizing the "Material Test" function in the LaserBurn software, the preparation of engraving parameter test files is greatly simplified. Users can input relevant parameter ranges in the "Material Test Generator" to automatically generate test files. Key parameters include power, speed, interval, and number of engraving passes; these combinations directly affect the engraved color. By setting appropriate parameter ranges according to the specific dimensions of the material, users can generate corresponding engraving test files.

Operating procedures:

Step 1

Open LaserBurn and ensure the device is successfully connected to the software (click "Device" in the upper right corner—"Connect"—select "Nano Duo"—click "Confirm").

(Connection page)

(Operation page in connection)

(Page after successful connection)

Step 2

Draw a 10×10 mm square on the canvas and set it to Fill mode. Click "Array" in the toolbar and select "Material Test." A parameter matrix interface will appear.

Recommended parameter range for Nano Duo:

Power: 50% to 100%

Speed: 1000 mm/min to 3000 mm/min

Matrix layout: 10×10

Ensure all parameters are correct, then click Confirm to create the test file. Finally, click Device → Engraving → Laser Focus (two points coincide) → Frame → Start Engraving, and wait for completion.

After the engraving test is completed, the system will generate a color matrix (as shown in the figure). Users can select the desired color from the matrix and find the corresponding laser power and speed. The horizontal axis of the matrix represents the power parameter, and the vertical axis represents the speed parameter. Users can easily determine the required engraving settings by matching the coordinate positions.

How to create colorful sculptures

As shown in the image, we import the image and perform a layer split on the vector image:

Step 1

First, select the part of the vector image to be sculpted.

Step 2

Click the bottom right corner to set layer 1.

Step 3

As shown in the image, we set the leaf part as a layer.

Step 4

Next, set the second layer.

Step 5

As shown in the image, select the center part of the letter.

Step 6

Then, set the 3rd layer.

Final Result

Finally, we obtain the complete layered vector of the material, as shown in the figure. Then we match the corresponding parameters for the desired colors. After completion, the engraving will produce the ideal color image.

We eventually received a colored badge.

Conclusion

By properly testing and setting parameters, the Nano Duo can achieve high-quality color engraving on stainless steel. Users can adjust power, speed, interval, and passes to achieve the desired color effects. This method is suitable for decorative items, metal signage, and other precision applications, providing a reliable solution for stainless steel color engraving.

Introduction

The NanoDuo Visual Correction function is designed to improve engraving accuracy by using the machine’s built-in camera to align the engraving position with the working area. By calibrating the camera and the laser workspace, the system can automatically adjust the engraving placement based on the captured image.

Before using the NanoDuo's several vision-related features for the first time, you'll need to perform visual alignment. This involves sculpting a target marker pattern and then marking it in the photo sent by the camera. Before starting, ensure that no other apps are using the NanoDuo's camera.

Precautions

• Place the engraving paper in the engraving work area (use the provided white engraving paper).

• When using the vision correction function, ensure no other cameras are connected and that the machine's camera is not in use.

• Do not move the machine or the engraving paper during the vision correction process. Ensure the correction process is completed in one go.

• Do not reuse the engraved pattern for correction; a new marking pattern must be engraved.

Engraved Marking Graphics

You will use your laser to engrave a target pattern on a piece of material and mark the center of the target.

1. first step

After connecting the nanoDuo, click the camera icon that appears in the menu bar to enter the vision correction function page.

Before entering the visual correction function page, please scale the canvas and move it to the side so that the entire canvas can be seen properly after the visual function page is opened.

2. Step 2

Enter the appropriate speed and power settings to achieve moderate engraving without burning through, and increase or decrease the scaling value until the canvas can accommodate the marked pattern.

3. Step 3

Click the Border Preview button to display the marker pattern on the canvas, ensuring it does not exceed the canvas size.

Note: Each time you modify the speed, power, and scaling values, you need to click the border preview button again to update the marker pattern on the canvas.

 4. Step 4

Click Start. If it's not clear enough, you can adjust the settings and run it again. When the pattern is clear and easy to see, click Complete. You may need to wait a few seconds on this screen for the camera to successfully capture your image.

Introduction

This document summarizes the common causes and solutions for CH340 driver installation issues on both Windows and macOS systems. It explains how to resolve problems related to system compatibility, driver conflicts, permission restrictions, USB cable issues, and security settings. It also provides methods to verify whether the driver is installed correctly and suggests alternative solutions if installation continues to fail.

By following the troubleshooting steps in this guide, users can quickly diagnose driver installation problems and restore normal communication between their device and computer.

Windows System

Common Causes and Solutions

1. System Compatibility Issues

Windows 10 and Windows 11 usually include a built-in driver for the CH340 chip. However, automatic installation may occasionally fail.

Solution

Download and install the latest driver manually from the official website:
https://www.wch.cn

Install the latest version of the driver package CH341SER.EXE.

2. Old Driver Conflicts

If an older version of the CH340 driver was previously installed, it may conflict with the new installation.

Solution

1. Open Device Manager.

2. Click View → Show hidden devices.

3. Expand Ports (COM & LPT).

4. Right-click any CH340/CH341 related devices and uninstall them.

5. Select Delete the driver software for this device if prompted.

6. Reinstall the latest driver.

3. Driver Signature Issues

Some systems, especially Windows 7 and certain Windows 10 configurations, may block unsigned drivers.

Solution

1. Restart your computer.

2. Enter Advanced Startup Options.

3. Select Disable driver signature enforcement.

4. Run the driver installer again.

4. Insufficient Permissions

Installing drivers requires administrator privileges.

Solution

Right-click the installer and select Run as administrator.

5. USB Cable or Port Problems

Some USB cables only support charging and do not transfer data. If such a cable is used, the device will not be recognized even if the driver is installed.

Solution

• Use a USB cable that supports data transfer.

• Connect the cable directly to the computer’s USB port (preferably USB 2.0).

How to Confirm the Driver Installation

1. Connect the Longer laser engraver to your computer.

2. Open Device Manager.

Under Ports (COM & LPT) you should see something similar to:

USB-SERIAL CH340 (COM3)

If this appears, the driver has been installed successfully.

If a yellow warning icon appears, the driver installation may have failed or there may be a driver conflict.

Alternative Solutions

If the driver still cannot be installed:

• Try using another computer to rule out system-related issues.

• Replace the adapter module with FT232 or CP2102, which often offer better compatibility.

macOS System

1. Check Whether a Driver Is Needed

Starting from macOS 10.13, the CH340 chip may sometimes be recognized automatically without installing a driver.

1. Connect your Longer laser engraver.

2. Open Terminal and enter:

ls /dev/tty.*

If you see a device such as:

/dev/tty.wchusbserial1410

The device has been detected successfully and no driver installation is required.

2. Install the Driver (If the Device Is Not Recognized)

Download the Driver

Official driver
https://www.wch.cn/downloads/CH341SER_MAC_ZIP.html

Open-source driver (recommended)
https://github.com/adrianmihalko/ch340g-ch34g-ch34x-mac-os-x-driver

The open-source version often provides better compatibility with newer macOS systems.

Allow System Extensions

During installation, macOS may display a message such as “System Extension Blocked.”

To allow the driver:

1. Open System Settings / System Preferences.

2. Go to Security & Privacy.

3. Under the General tab, click Allow for WCH Electronics Co., Ltd.

Restart Your Computer

After installation, restart your Mac so the driver can be loaded correctly.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Driver Installed but No Port Appears

Open Terminal and run:

ls /dev/tty.*

Disconnect and reconnect the USB cable to check whether a new device appears.

Apple Silicon Macs (M1 / M2 / M3)

Many official drivers were originally designed for Intel-based Macs, which may cause compatibility issues on Apple Silicon devices.

For better stability, we recommend using the open-source driver from GitHub mentioned above.

Permission Restrictions on New macOS Versions

Recent macOS versions such as Big Sur, Monterey, and Ventura enforce stricter security policies for third-party drivers.

If the Allow option does not appear in Security & Privacy, you may need to:

1. Restart your Mac in Recovery Mode.

2. Temporarily disable System Integrity Protection (SIP).

3. Install the driver again.

Alternative Options

If you still cannot install the CH340 driver, you may consider these alternatives:

• Use an FTDI USB-to-serial module, which macOS supports natively without additional drivers.

• Use a Wi-Fi connection if your GRBL controller board supports wireless communication.

Nano Pro can be used for color engraving tests on stainless steel materials. By adjusting parameters such as power, speed, interval, and number of passes, different color effects can be achieved on stainless steel surfaces.

This article introduces the principles of stainless steel color laser engraving using Nano Pro, parameter testing methods, layered engraving workflow, and important precautions. By adjusting power, speed, interval, and passes, different color effects can be achieved on stainless steel surfaces.

1. Principle of Laser Color Engraving

The technical principle of color laser engraving varies depending on the material, but it mainly relies on two core methods: one is generating color naturally through oxidation reactions; the other is achieving the desired color effect through coloring agents.

For stainless steel color engraving, the technology is mainly divided into two categories. The first is that the laser beam instantly heats the metal surface, triggering physical or chemical reactions with the surrounding environment, thereby changing the surface color. The second is that the laser forms colored oxides on the metal surface or generates a transparent oxide film, producing various colors through thin-film interference effects.

By precisely adjusting key parameters such as laser power, engraving speed, interval, and passes, the reaction depth on the metal surface can be effectively controlled, achieving various color effects to meet different process requirements.

2. Stainless Steel Color Engraving Parameters

2.1 How to Test Different Color Parameters on Stainless Steel Using Nano Pro

The color engraving parameters in this example are based on the LONGER Nano Pro model, using stainless steel as the material.

With the "Material Test" function in LightBurn, the preparation of engraving parameter test files is greatly simplified. Users only need to enter the relevant parameter ranges in the "Material Test Generator" to automatically generate the test file. Key parameters include Power, Speed, Interval, and Passes. The combination of these parameters directly affects the final engraved color. By setting appropriate parameter ranges according to the material size, the corresponding test file can be generated.

The operation process is shown in the figure: first, start LightBurn, import the configuration file, select the correct serial port, and load the Nano Pro machine configuration. When the console displays "Nano Pro connected successfully," click "Laser Tools" in the toolbar to continue.

In the second step, after clicking "Laser Tools," select "Material Test." A matrix parameter setting interface will appear. Set the required matrix parameters in this interface. For Nano Pro, the recommended parameter range is Power 50%–100%, Speed 1000mm/min–3000mm/min, with an 11×11 matrix layout. After confirming the settings, click "Start" to begin the engraving test.

After completing the test, a color matrix will be generated. Users can select the desired color and find the corresponding power and speed parameters. The horizontal axis represents power, and the vertical axis represents speed. By matching the coordinates, the required settings can be determined.

2.2 How to Engrave a Color Artwork

Open LightBurn, click File → Import to load the layered image file, then connect to the Nano Pro machine.

After importing the image, perform layer processing on the vector graphic:

1) Select the vector section to be engraved.

2) Click the lower right corner and assign it to Layer 1.

3) As shown in the figure below, we set the butterfly section as a layer.

4) Then assign it to Layer 2.

5) Select the inner part of the butterfly.

6) Assign it to Layer 3.

After completing the layer separation, assign the corresponding color parameters to each layer. Once finished, start engraving to obtain the desired color result.

The final result is a blue butterfly.

3. Notes for Nano Pro Stainless Steel Color Engraving

3.1 Minimum Power

Important: When engraving stainless steel with Nano Pro, the power must remain above 50%. Power below 50% will result in very light coloration, mainly producing a single yellow tone. Engraving results are closely related to laser power, so precise adjustment is essential for achieving the desired color.

3.2 Minimum Stainless Steel Thickness and Surface Finish

During engraving, stainless steel plates that are too thin may deform due to heat accumulation. It is recommended to use stainless steel plates with a thickness of no less than 2 cm. Matte or brushed stainless steel surfaces are recommended for better engraving results. Industrial-grade or mirror-finish stainless steel is not recommended.

Common stainless steel surface finishes are shown below.

3.3 Ensure Level Positioning During Engraving

When using the recommended engraving parameters, ensure accurate laser focus and keep the Nano Pro machine level. Incorrect focus height will directly affect color uniformity and accuracy. Therefore, always calibrate the focus height before each operation.

Conclusion

By following the above methods, color engraving can be achieved on stainless steel using Nano Pro. Proper parameter testing, correct layer setup, and attention to power and material requirements are the key factors for obtaining stable color results.

Introduction

The Batch Fill function is designed to improve engraving efficiency by automatically identifying and copying a selected pattern onto multiple materials with similar contours. Using the camera to capture and recognize material outlines, the system replicates the design across all qualified objects in a single operation, ensuring consistent positioning and alignment.

Material Requirements

To ensure accurate recognition and proper batch placement, materials must meet the following conditions:

• All materials must be identical in shape, color, and material type.

  • Dimensional variation between targets must not exceed 10%.

  • Area variation must not exceed 25%.

• The material color must be clearly distinguishable from the background for accurate contour detection.
  

• Materials with highly reflective or glossy surfaces are not recommended.

• At least two or more materials must be fully visible and placed within the effective engraving area.

  • Minimum spacing between objects must be 5 mm.

• Material thickness must be less than 5 mm.

Precautions Before Use

• Ensure the camera function is operating properly before starting.

• Select the specific element(s) you want to batch fill.

  • The system will automatically remove any unselected elements before performing the batch operation.

• You must manually place the first pattern onto one material surface.

  • The batch fill process will replicate this pattern based on its position and angle.

• Keep the base plate clean, free of debris, dust, or scratches to ensure accurate detection.

Batch Filling Process

1. Place the Materials

1. Place materials of the same size, shape, and color on the base plate.

   • Maintain spacing greater than 5 mm between objects.

2. Ensure all materials are positioned within the effective engraving range.

• Figure 1: Correct placement

• Figure 2: Incorrect placement – objects too close together

• Figure 3: Incorrect placement – objects overlapping

• Figure 4: Incorrect placement – objects of different shapes

2. Capture Material Image

• Click Capture to take a photo of the materials and generate the contour outlines.

3. Set the Design Position

1. Create or import your design on the canvas.

2. Drag the design onto one material, ensuring it is fully positioned within the material boundary.

4. Batch Copy and Place Patterns

• Select the positioned design and click Batch Fill.

• The system will automatically detect the remaining material outlines.

• The design will be copied to each recognized object at the same relative position and angle.

5. Start Engraving

1. Adjust the appropriate material parameters.

2. Follow the normal engraving workflow.

3. Start the job to engrave all patterns on the canvas simultaneously.

Introduction

This guide explains how to use and calibrate the built-in camera function of the Nano Duo in LightBurn. Proper camera calibration ensures accurate visual positioning, improves engraving precision, and minimizes alignment deviations between the on-screen design and the actual engraved result.

Required materials: red cardstock, calibration card.

1. Open the LightBurn software, connect the Duo device, and then click Galvo Engraving Mode → BL 450 nm. (The connection is considered successful only if the following device information is displayed in the console.)

The above applies to versions below 2.0.00

The above applies to versions 2.0.00 and above.

2. Click Laser Tools → Calibrate Camera Lens in the upper left corner.

The above applies to versions below 2.0.00

The above applies to versions 2.0.00 and above.

3. Once you are on the Calibrate Camera Lens homepage, select USB Camera (the built-in camera).→ Standerd Lens→Next

The above applies to versions below 2.0.00

The above applies to versions 2.0.00 and above.

4. After proceeding to the next page, capture the images in the order of ①②③④ shown in the top left image, repeating this process nine times in different directions before proceeding to the next step of visual alignment. (If you proceed directly to visual alignment without performing visual calibration, engraving deviations may occur.)

Error demonstration: Overexposure, too bright

Correct demonstration

5. The following message indicates that the visual calibration operation has been completed. Please click "Align Camera" to enter the visual alignment page.

(1) The first method to access the visual alignment page

(2) The second method to access the visual alignment page

6. Remove the calibration card here, then select USB Camera (the built-in camera) and click Next.

7. In the parameter settings page, the necessary parameters to adjust are Fill Speed and Fill Power, as well as Line Speed and Line Power.7. After setting up, click Frame → Start, and then click Next when the sculpting is complete.

8. On this page, click Capture Image → Next.

9. Double-click the center point of the graphic in the order of 1, 2, 3, 4 until it looks like the second image, then click Next.

10. The following message indicates that the visual alignment operation has been completed.

11. Finally, verify if there are any obvious deviations, then return to the creation page→Window→Check Camera Control, and in the Camera Control page, select the camera module→Update Overlay

The above applies to versions below 2.0.00

The above applies to versions 2.0.00 and above.

12.Import the carving material, place it on the carving area in the canvas, and then click Frame (to confirm the carving position) → Start (to start carving).

13. After the carving is complete, click "Update Overlay" again to check if the carved position on the canvas matches the actual carved position. A deviation of 0.5-1 mm is normal. If the deviation is large, you need to repeat the visual alignment operation in step 7 above.)