Laser Engraver Blogs

Introduction

To improve editing efficiency and operational safety, the software provides two core features: Combine/split and layer lock/unlock.

The Combine/Split function allows multiple independent objects to be temporarily grouped into a single entity for unified operations or separated back into their original objects when needed. This is primarily used for batch transformations such as moving, scaling, and alignment.

The Layer Lock/Unlock function prevents accidental selection, modification, or deletion of objects on a specific layer while keeping the layer visible. It is typically used to protect completed backgrounds or reference content.

Both features use clear icons, explicit command names, and state-based dynamic interactions to ensure predictable behavior and reduce user error, especially in complex editing scenarios.

Function 1: Combine/Split

The purpose of this function is to temporarily bind multiple independent objects into a whole for operation or to disassemble the whole back into independent objects.

1. Icon and Text Design

• Combined icons: Icons that use two or more geometric shapes connected together.

• Split icons: Icons that use a graphic made up of multiple parts, with a clear visual cue of separation.

2. Directly use "Group" and "Split."

• Group: Combines selected objects into a single unit, making them easier to move and transform simultaneously.

• Split: Splits a grouped object into its original, independent objects.

3. Dynamic and Interactive Feedback

• Top-left menu: Right-click on a selected object to dynamically display menu items based on the selected object's status.

  • When multiple independent objects are selected, the menu displays "Combine."

  • When a grouped object is selected, the menu displays "Split."

• Changes after executing the command:

  • After executing "Combine," the control points of the selected objects disappear and are replaced by a unified control box.

  • After executing "Split," the unified control box disappears, and each sub-object's control points reappear.

• New User Guide: When the software is first launched or when entering the drawing module, a brief reminder card indicates that multiple objects can be "combined" for easier unified management.

Function 2: Layer Lock/Unlock

This feature prevents any accidental editing (selection, moving, deletion) of all objects on a specific layer while still maintaining their visibility and is commonly used to protect completed backgrounds or reference drawings.

1. Icon and Text Design

• Lock icon: Uses the classic closed lock icon. This is the universal lock/unlock symbol.

• Unlock icon: Uses the open lock icon.

2. Button/Menu Text

• Lock Layer: Locks the layer, preventing its contents from being selected or modified.

• Unlock Layer: Unlocks the layer, allowing its contents to be edited.

3. Dynamic and Interactive Feedback

• On-canvas behavior limitations: When a user attempts to click, select, or drag an object on a locked layer, no action is taken.

To achieve both engraving and cutting on wood, you can leverage the Layer Function in LightBurn. Here's how:

1. Separate Engraving and Cutting with Layers
In LightBurn, you can create different layers for engraving and cutting. Each layer is represented by a different color, which helps in organizing your work.

2. Assign Different Parameters for Each Layer
Once you've separated your design into distinct layers, you can assign specific parameters for engraving and cutting:

• • Use low power and fast speed for the engraving layer.
  • Use high power and slow speed for the cutting layer.

3. Process Each Layer Sequentially
By assigning different colors to each layer (for example, blue for engraving and red for cutting), LightBurn will handle each layer with its designated settings, allowing you to simultaneously engrave and cut on the wood in one go.

By following these steps, you can efficiently manage both engraving and cutting tasks on your wood projects, saving time and effort!

Preface

This document introduces the operational procedures and precautions for performing 3D wood carving and relief engraving using the Nano Duo laser engraving machine. It covers laser equipment safety guidelines, material selection and preparation, software setup, and reference engraving parameters, aiming to help users quickly master basic 3D wood carving techniques and achieve consistent, high-quality results.

Important Safety Warning:

Operating laser equipment poses serious safety risks (fire, burns, irreversible eye damage).

Before operation, you must:

1. Wear specialized laser safety glasses.

2. Ensure the work area is well-ventilated.

3. Never leave the equipment unattended while it is operating.

4. Strictly follow all safety regulations provided by the equipment manufacturer.

equipment:

Laser Equipment: 20W 450nm Blue Diode Laser

Compatible Machine Model: Nano Duo (features 20W 450nm and 2W 1064nm dual lasers)

Compatible Laser Control Software: (e.g., LaserBurn, LightBurn, LaserGRBL) LaserBurn is recommended.

Framing Function: Uses real-time preview to better ensure accurate laser positioning for engraving.

Focusing Method: Uses dual red light positioning for quick and easy visual alignment of two points.

Air Assist System: (Air pump strongly recommended. Function: Blows away smoke and dust, reduces charring.)

Materials preparation:

Wood:  Light-colored hardwoods with even grain are recommended (basswood, cherry, maple, walnut, sapele), avoiding woods with excessive resin or dark colors (low blue light absorption). The thickness must be greater than the expected maximum engraving depth.

Test material: Small pieces of the same type of wood (for parameter testing)

software:

Laser control software (LaserBurn recommended): Import grayscale images, set layer engraving parameters.

LaserBurn operation:

1. Import Grayscale Image: Import the grayscale image into LaserBurn.

2. Set Working Area: Define the engraving size and position to match the actual workpiece.

3. Speed: Starting test value (Sapele wood): 8000-12000 mm/min (requires extensive testing). Slower speeds result in deeper engraving, but also increase the risk of overheating. (Parameters used in the work: 10000 mm/min)

4. Power: Starting test value: 70% - 100%. The actual engraving power is much lower than this. Higher power results in deeper engraving, but also increases the risk of charring. (Parameters used in the work: 80%)

5. Line Interval: Affects detail and efficiency. Starting value: 0.025mm - 0.1mm. Smaller intervals result in finer detail but longer processing time. (Parameters used in the work: 0.05mm)

6. Scan Angle: Usually 45 degrees or alternating 0/90 degrees. (Parameters used in the work: 0 degrees)

7. Multi-layer Engraving: From high to low or from deep to shallow. Increasing the number of engraving layers helps reduce charring. (Layers used in the work: 1 layer; more layers can be added depending on the required depth)

8. Image Processing: Increase contrast to make the engraving area clearer. (Parameters used in the work: Contrast 100%)

9. Simulation Preview: Use the software's simulation function to preview the engraving path and effect.

10. Border Preview: Ensure the engraving area is within the material area.

Example image:

Workpiece preparation and positioning

1. Clean the wood surface, ensuring it is smooth and even.

2. Securely fix the wood to the workbench.

3. Use a dual red laser pointer to precisely align the engraving material, ensuring the optimal focal distance from the surface.

(The optimal distance is 220mm; holding a ruler against the laser head is recommended.)

Adjustment strategies:

Engraving too shallow/lacking depth: Increase power/decrease speed/increase the number of layers.

Edges charred/overburnt: Decrease power/increase speed/increase air assist.

Details blurry: Check if the focal length is accurate/reduce the line spacing.

Uneven surface/streaks: Adjust the fill angle/optimize the line spacing.

Finely adjust the speed, power, line spacing, and layer parameters in the software based on the test results.

Perform engraving:

1. Reconfirm that safety measures are in place (safety glasses, ventilation, fire extinguisher, no unattended operation).

2. Activate smoke extraction and dust removal system and air assist.

3. Send the job to the laser controller via the software.

4. Monitor continuously: Closely observe the engraving process, paying particular attention to any open flames or abnormal smoke, and be prepared to press the stop button at any time.

5. After the engraving is complete, wait for the laser head to stop moving completely before turning off the equipment.

Post-processing:

1. Carefully remove the workpiece (it may be hot or covered in dust).

2. Use a soft brush or damp cloth (with caution) to remove surface dust.

3. (Optional) Sand, oil, wax, or paint as needed (especially on charred edges) to enhance the finish and protect the surface.

Works on display:

Original image      

 Sapele wood    

Solid wood

Core Concept: What are LightBurn layers?

You can think of LightBurn layers as transparent acetate sheets. Each sheet contains different graphics (such as cutting lines, engravings, marking lines, etc.), and each sheet is assigned different processing parameters (power, speed, number of passes, etc.). Finally, stacking all the sheets together creates a complete artwork, and the laser processes each layer in the order you set.

1. Location and Interface of the Layer Panel

1.1 Finding the Layer Panel

On the right side of the software interface, find the "Cuts/Layers" panel. If it's not visible, click Window > Cuts/Layers from the top menu bar to make sure it's selected.

1.2 Understanding the Interface

1. Layer List: Displays the name, color, status, and parameter previews of all layers.

2. Eye Icon: Controls layer visibility. Click to hide/show a layer.

3. Lock Icon: Locks a layer. Once locked, no objects on that layer can be selected or edited.

4. Color Block: Represents the display color of all objects on that layer (for onscreen differentiation only, does not affect actual engraving).

5. Parameter Bar: Displays the default processing mode (e.g., cutting, scanning/engraving) and key parameters (power, speed) for that layer.

2. Basic Layer Management

2.1 Creating a New Layer

When you import a file, a layer will be added.

• It's recommended that you name the new layer, such as "Cut Layer," "Image Engraving," "Vector Engraving," or "Marker Layer." Giving your layer a descriptive name is a good practice!

2.2 Setting the Current Working Layer

• In the Layers panel, click the layer you want to draw on. This layer will highlight, indicating it's the active layer.

• From now on, all new shapes you create using the drawing tools will automatically be placed on this active layer.

2.3 Setting the Layer Color

• After selecting a layer, you can select a new display color for it in the lower-left corner. This helps you quickly distinguish different layers visually.

2.4 Hiding and Locking Layers

• Click the "eye" icon to hide a layer. Hidden layers won't be engraved, making them ideal for temporarily shutting down certain processes or keeping backups.

• Click the "lock" icon to lock a layer. This prevents accidental selection or modification, which is very useful for complex shapes.

2.5 Deleting a Layer

• Select a layer and press Delete on your keyboard to delete it.

• Note: Deleting a layer will also delete all objects on that layer.

3. Setting Processing Parameters for Different Layers

This is the essence of layer management—assigning independent laser parameters to each layer.

3.1 Selecting a Layer: In the Layers panel, simply click the layer for which you want to set parameters.

3.2 Setting Parameters: The toolbar at the top of the software or the "Cutting/Engraving" parameter panel on the right will display the parameters for the currently selected layer.

3.3 Tool: Select a processing method, such as Cutting, Scanning (Engraving), Filling, or Image.

3.4 Power/Speed/Times: Set the desired process for the layer. For example:

• Cutting layer: Tool = Cut, Power = 100%, Speed = 200 mm/min, Times = 1
• Vector Engraving layer: Tool = Scan (Engrave), Power = 50%, Speed = 6000 mm/min, Line Count = 0.06 mm
• Image Engraving layer: Tool = Image, Mode = Grayscale, Power = 60%, Speed = 6000 mm/min, Line Count = 0.06 mm

3.5 Parameter Inheritance: All objects created on this layer will use these default parameters. You can also select individual objects and adjust them, which will override the layer's default settings.

4. Controlling the Processing Order: Layer Order

The laser machine's default processing order is top to bottom.

4.1 Adjusting the layer order: In the Layers panel, simply drag layers to change their top-to-bottom order.

4.2 Best Practice Order (generally):

• First: Internal engraving/shallow engraving (such as image engraving or fine text engraving)
• Middle: External engraving/deep engraving (such as a vector engraving border)
• Last: Cutting (Ensure all engravings are complete before removing the part from the material to prevent shifting)

5. Practical Workflow Example: Creating an Engraved Keychain

Suppose you want to create a wooden keychain that includes engraving a photo and cutting the outer edges.

5.1 Planning:

• This requires two steps: photo engraving and contour cutting.

5.2 Creating Layers:

• Import the file and create a new layer, name it "Photo Engraving," and set the color to blue.

• Import it again and create a second layer, name it "Contour Cutting," and set the color to red.

5.3 Setting Parameters:

• Select the layer, set the tool to Engraving and Filling, and set the appropriate power and speed (e.g., 60% power, 6000 mm/min speed).

• Select the "Contour Cutting" layer, set the tool to Cutting, and set the cutting parameters (e.g., 100% power, 200 mm/min speed).

5.4 Assigning Objects:

• Make sure the "Photo Engraving" layer is the active layer.

• On the "Contour Cutting" layer, draw the outline of the keychain (e.g., a circle or a custom shape).

5.5 Adjusting the Order:

• In the Layers panel, make sure the "Photo Engraving" layer is above the "Contour Cutting" layer. This way, the laser will engrave the fill first, then cut.

5.6 Preview and Export:

• Use the Preview function (computer icon) to check the results and order. You should see the blue areas engraved first, followed by the red areas cut.

• Click Engrave Directly to Device, and LightBurn will automatically export all layer data to the laser in the correct order and parameters.

If your Nano Duo screen remains stuck on the LONGER logo during startup, the issue can usually be resolved by reflashing the firmware. Follow the steps below carefully to restore normal operation.

1.Prepare tools
Use the flash_download_tool_3.9.5.exe tool

2.Preparing firmware
firmware_grbl.bin

3.Open the flash_download_tool_3.9.5.exe tool, select ESP32-S3, and click OK.

4.After entering the homepage, click the three dots in the middle, find the prepared firmware and open it. The second step is to change the firmware to: 0x0, select the COM port corresponding to the machine's port number, and select BAUD: 912600. Click ERASE and wait for the status to complete. Then click START and wait for the status to display FINISH. Finally, power off and restart the machine.

Conclusion

That’s the complete procedure for resolving the issue where the Nano Duo screen is stuck displaying the LONGER logo. The success of this process mainly depends on accurate parameter configuration and following the flashing steps in the correct order. As long as each setting is verified carefully and the sequence is strictly followed, the firmware recovery can be completed smoothly and safely.

1. Adjust the eccentric nut to ensure smooth and stable movement of the parts. 

2. Re-tighten the timing belt. 

3. Adjust the position of the timing pulley to prevent friction between the timing belt and the

pulley. 

4. Check for loose screws on the X-axis timing pulley, as well as the couplings and pulleys on the

Y-axis. 

In LightBurn software settings, the Advanced-Overcut parameter is set to 0.3 mm.

Experiencing a black or white screen on your touchscreen panel can be frustrating, but the good news is that most issues can be diagnosed—and often resolved—through a structured step-by-step approach.
This guide walks you through three stages of troubleshooting, from simple checks to deeper hardware diagnostics.

Stage 1: Quick and Basic Checks

1. Verify Power Supply

• Check the power adapter: Ensure the adapter’s indicator light is green.

• Confirm power switches: Make sure both the main power switch and the emergency stop switch are turned ON.

• Observe LEDs: Look at the controller box or mainboard to check if any status or power LEDs are illuminated.

  • If the adapter is green but the machine shows no lights at all, the problem may be in the controller box.

2. Perform a Full Restart

Completely shut down the machine, unplug the power cable, wait 1–2 minutes, then reconnect and restart.
This helps resolve temporary system freezes or UI boot issues.

3. Check Screen Brightness (for dark screens with backlight on)

Some touchscreens have independent brightness controls.
If the screen looks “black” but still emits backlight, try adjusting the brightness through the touchscreen’s internal settings.

4. Consider Auto Sleep Mode

Many touchscreens include auto-sleep/auto-dimming features.
If the screen is blank after idle time but the machine still works, tap the screen or restart to wake it.

5. Listen for Startup Sounds

Check whether the mainboard or controller emits any boot-up beeps or activity noises.

• If yes → The system may be functioning, but the screen or its connection may be faulty.

• If silent, the issue may lie in the mainboard or power distribution.

Stage 2: Internal Cable and Hardware Checks

⚠ Important: Before starting this stage, ensure the machine is fully powered off and the power cable is unplugged. Safety first!

1. Inspect the Touchscreen Cable

Most laser engravers use a ribbon cable or FPC cable.

Steps:

• Open the controller box or the touchscreen housing to locate the cable connecting the touchscreen to the mainboard.

• Reconnect both ends:

  • Gently disconnect the cable from both the screen and the mainboard.

  • Inspect for bent pins or loose connectors.

  • Clean the gold contacts with a rubber eraser or dry cloth.

  • Reinsert firmly and lock the latch.

2. Check for Cable Damage

Look for:

• Creases

• Crushed sections

• Burn marks

• Broken copper traces

Any visible damage means the cable should be replaced.

3. Test Using the Replacement Method (Most Effective)

• Option A: Swap in a known working touchscreen
  If the replacement works, then the original touchscreen is faulty.

• Option B: Connect the problematic touchscreen to a known working machine
  If the issue persists, the touchscreen is confirmed defective.

Stage 3: Identify Core Component Failures

If none of the previous steps resolve the issue, the problem is likely within the core modules.

1. Touchscreen Hardware Failure

A very common cause.

Symptoms:

• Screen permanently black or white

• No boot logo or flickering

• No response despite cable replacement

Causes may include aging, vibration, unstable voltage, or manufacturing defects.

Diagnosis:

• Confirmed via replacement test in Stage 2.

2. Mainboard/Control Board Failure

The display output circuit on the mainboard may be damaged.

How to judge:

• If the machine can still move axes, the laser fires, and the LEDs respond normally:
  → The mainboard is likely fine; the issue is with the touchscreen or cable.

• If the entire machine is unresponsive, with no lights or movement:
  → The mainboard or power distribution system may be faulty.

Final Notes

By following this structured approach—from basic checks to full hardware verification—you can quickly narrow down the root cause of touchscreen display issues. If you identify a defective screen, cable, or mainboard, contact customer support with your findings for a faster resolution.

The bug has been fixed and will no longer occur after upgrading to the latest firmware.

The firmware of RAY5 is continuously updated to fix bugs and add new features. The firmware upgrade operations are different for different systems. The detailed tutorial about firmware upgrading is contained in the firmware package. Please download the RAY5 firmware package from the LONGER official website: RAY5 firmware downIoad

Install the MKSLaserTool-setup V1.1.2.exe file, click MKS ESP32 Download Tool, select the right port and .bin update firmware, and click Start. It will prompt "firmware successfully flashed" after the update is completed.

Copy the dic-cfg.txt file from the configuration folder to the root directory of the SD card, insert the SD card into the main board of the engraver, and restart the engraver, and the configuration file update will be completed automatically.

Vision Correction Function

Before using the visual function of the frame machine, you must complete a visual alignment process. First, mark the patterns ①②③④ on the engraving target, then take a photo with the camera, and sequentially mark these points on the image in order. Before starting, ensure that no other program is using the frame machine’s camera.

Precautions Before Operation

l Place the engraving paper in the working area. Recommended scale value: 95.

l When performing the visual calibration function, ensure that no other cameras are connected and that the machine’s camera is not in use.

l During visual calibration, do not move the machine or engraving paper, and ensure that all steps are completed in a single session.

l Each marker pattern supports only a single calibration. To perform visual calibration again, you need to engrave a new marker pattern.

l Before performing visual calibration, always reset the machine to prevent it from colliding with the frame during engraving.

l Ensure that the camera lens is perpendicular to the surface of the engraving object to prevent calibration deviations caused by angled views (use a spirit level).

l Adjust the camera to a working distance of 550 mm from the surface of the engraving object to ensure the field of view fully covers the entire machine.

l Ensure the surface of the engraving object is level to prevent calibration deviations caused by unevenness.

l Ensure the bracket is positioned at the center of the machine’s front crossbeam.

Precautions for the Longer B1 Machine

l When using the Longer B1 machine, adjust the canvas size to 430 mm × 430 mm

Modification method:

1. Click on the Serial Log

2. Enter $130=430 and $131=430 separately in the input box. After entering, send $130 and $131 until you see the Canvas update.

Engraving Mark Patterns

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

Step 1

After connecting the frame machine, click the camera icon in the menu bar to enter the visual calibration page.

Before entering the visual calibration page, scale and move the canvas aside so that the entire canvas can be fully viewed when the visual function page opens.

Step 2

Enter appropriate speed and power settings to achieve moderate engraving without burning through. Adjust the scale value up or down so that the canvas can accommodate the marker pattern.

Step 3

Click the border preview button to display the marker pattern on the canvas without exceeding the canvas size.

Note: After modifying parameters such as speed, power, or scale, be sure to click the “Border Preview” button again to synchronize the marker pattern on the canvas.

Step 4

Start engraving. If the pattern is not clear enough, you can adjust the settings and run it again. Once the pattern is clearly visible and easy to view, click Next.

Capture Target Mark Image

During this process, you will capture the alignment image. You may need to wait a few seconds on this screen for the camera to successfully capture it.

When the machine’s camera is detected, click the Capture button. You should see the camera view displayed in the lower-left corner of the window, with all four target points visible. The captured image appears on the right, as shown. Click Next once all four target points are clearly visible in the captured image.

Mark the Target

In this step, you need to mark each target by double-clicking the center of each target in sequence.

Hold the spacebar to move the image with the mouse, and use the scroll wheel to zoom in or out to ensure precise clicking on the center. A red marker will appear each time you double-click. If a marker is placed incorrectly, click “Undo Marker” to delete it and try again. Double-clicks must follow the order indicated on the marker pattern (1, 2, 3, 4). Once all four target points are marked, click “Finish” to complete the process.