Install the software by following the installation instructions specific to your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux).
How to Use Lightburn Software
2. Connect Your Laser Cutter
Connect your laser machine to your computer via USB, Ethernet, or Wi-Fi (depending on your machine’s capabilities).
Configure LightBurn to recognize and communicate with your laser. Go to “Devices” in the LightBurn software and select your laser’s manufacturer and model.
Set up your laser by choosing the correct settings like the bed size, type of laser (CO2, diode, etc.), and any other relevant machine details.
3. Create or Import Your Design
Create a design directly in LightBurn using the tools provided (draw shapes, text, paths, etc.).
Alternatively, you can import a design from other graphic design programs (e.g., SVG, DXF, AI, or PDF files). Use File > Import to bring in your design.
LightBurn allows you to scale, rotate, and position elements within your design.
4. Set Layer Properties
LightBurn uses layers to define different settings for your design (cutting, engraving, etc.).
Select your objects and assign them to different layers by clicking on the “Cuts” tab in the right-side menu.
Each layer can have its settings like power, speed, number of passes, and more.
Cut Layer: For cutting through the material.
Engrave Layer: For etching or engraving.
Score Layer: For scoring a design without cutting through.
5. Position Your Design on the Laser Bed
Position your design within the LightBurn workspace to fit the size of the material you’re using.
Move your laser head manually or use the “Frame” button in LightBurn to outline the perimeter of the design to make sure it fits correctly on the material.
6. Set Up Material & Machine Settings
Select your material type (wood, acrylic, metal, etc.) and adjust your cutting/engraving parameters (speed, power, resolution).
You can use preset material profiles in LightBurn or create your own by adjusting the settings and testing on scrap material.
Set the laser’s origin point (where the laser starts its job) and make sure it’s correctly positioned on the material.
7. Preview the Job
Before starting, click on the “Preview” button to simulate the laser’s movement and check how it will work on your design.
This helps identify any issues, such as overlapping paths or inefficient movements.
8. Start the Job
Send the job to the laser by clicking “Start” or “Send to Laser”.
The laser will begin cutting/engraving based on the design and settings you’ve applied.
You can pause or stop the job at any time through LightBurn.
9. Monitor the Job
Watch the laser work to make sure everything is proceeding smoothly.
If needed, adjust settings during the job by pausing and modifying them before resuming.
10. Finish & Clean Up
Once the job is complete, carefully remove your material from the laser bed.
If necessary, clean the laser lens or surface to maintain the machine.
11.Helpful Tips:
Test Cuts: Always run a small test on scrap material to fine-tune your power and speed settings before starting a large project.
Use Layers Efficiently: Organize your design into layers to control different parts of the project (cut, engrave, score, etc.).
Safety: Always follow safety precautions when working with lasers, such as wearing safety goggles and ensuring proper ventilation.
Common LightBurn Features to Explore:
Camera Integration: If you have a camera mounted on your laser, LightBurn can use it for precise material alignment and positioning.
Job Control: You can pause, stop, or resume jobs, and monitor the progress from within the software.
Nested Designs: LightBurn allows you to nest multiple designs to optimize material usage and reduce waste.
