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Engraving defects such as misalignment, distorted lines, and incomplete circles are common issues encountered during laser engraving. These problems are typically related to mechanical instability or improper motion control settings. This article outlines the root causes and provides practical solutions to restore engraving accuracy on Longer laser engravers.

1. Common Issues

Users may observe the following symptoms during operation:

• Engraved patterns appear offset or shifted
• Straight lines become wavy or uneven
• Circular shapes are not fully closed
• Repeated designs show inconsistent positioning

These issues indicate that the motion system is not operating with the required precision.

2. Mechanical Adjustment

2.1 Eccentric Nut Calibration

The eccentric nuts control the pressure between the rollers and the guide rails. Improper adjustment can lead to instability or excessive resistance.

If the nuts are too loose, the laser module may wobble during movement, causing misalignment. If they are too tight, movement becomes restricted and may introduce vibration.

Adjust the eccentric nuts so that the rollers maintain firm contact with the rails while still allowing smooth and consistent movement.

2.2 Timing Belt Tension

Timing belts play a critical role in motion accuracy. Insufficient tension can result in positioning errors and deformation of engraved shapes.

Check both X-axis and Y-axis belts and ensure they are properly tensioned. The belts should feel firm when pressed lightly, without noticeable slack. Avoid overtightening, as this may increase wear on motors and bearings.

2.3 Timing Pulley Alignment

Misaligned pulleys can cause the timing belt to rub against the pulley edges, leading to friction, noise, and unstable motion.

Ensure that the timing belts run parallel to the motion axis. Adjust the pulley position if necessary to eliminate lateral friction and ensure smooth transmission.

2.4 Fastener Inspection

Loose mechanical components are a major source of engraving inaccuracies.

Inspect and tighten all relevant screws and connections, including:

• X-axis timing pulley set screws
• Y-axis motor couplings
• Pulley mounting screws

All components should be securely fixed to prevent any movement during operation.

3. Software Optimization

Mechanical adjustments should be complemented by proper software configuration.

3.1 Overcut Setting in LightBurn

Incomplete circles or open paths are often caused by insufficient overlap between the start and end points of a path.

In LightBurn, the Overcut parameter can be used to extend the cutting path slightly beyond the endpoint.

Set the Overcut value to 0.3 mm in the Advanced settings. This ensures that closed shapes such as circles are fully completed without visible gaps.

4. Additional Recommendations

Regular maintenance is essential to maintain engraving accuracy over time.

• Keep guide rails clean and free of dust or debris
• Periodically check belt tension and component tightness
• Use appropriate speed and power settings for detailed work
• Perform routine calibration to ensure consistent performance

5. Conclusion

Engraving misalignment, warped lines, and incomplete circles are typically caused by mechanical looseness, improper belt tension, pulley misalignment, or incorrect software settings. By systematically inspecting and adjusting both hardware and software parameters, users can effectively eliminate these issues and achieve precise, high-quality engraving results with Longer laser engravers.

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.

During the use of the Ray5 series laser engraver, users may encounter software-related issues such as system bugs, unstable operation, or feature limitations. These issues can affect engraving performance and overall user experience.

To address these concerns and continuously improve device performance, the Ray5 firmware is regularly updated. Each new firmware version includes bug fixes, stability improvements, and additional features designed to enhance the functionality of the machine.

Cause and Solution

The issues experienced by users are often caused by outdated firmware that may contain unresolved bugs or lack compatibility with certain system optimizations. Updating the firmware ensures that the device operates with the latest improvements provided by the manufacturer.

The firmware of Ray5 is continuously updated to fix bugs and introduce new features. Firmware upgrade procedures may vary depending on the operating system and device configuration. Therefore, it is important to follow the correct upgrade method provided in the official firmware package.

To perform the upgrade, download the Ray5 firmware package from the LONGER official website. Inside the package, detailed instructions are provided to guide the entire process.

Install the MKSLaserTool-setup V1.1.2.exe file, then open the MKS ESP32 Download Tool. Select the correct communication port and choose the appropriate .bin firmware file. Click Start to begin the flashing process. Once the process is complete, the system will display a message indicating that the firmware has been successfully flashed.

After completing the firmware update, 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 control board of the engraver, then restart the machine. The system will automatically detect and update the configuration file.

Result

After successfully upgrading the firmware and updating the configuration file, the Ray5 engraver will operate with improved stability and optimized performance. The previously existing bug will no longer occur, and users can benefit from enhanced functionality and a smoother engraving experience.

Regular firmware updates are recommended to ensure that the device remains up to date with the latest improvements and continues to perform at its best.

Conclusion

Firmware plays a critical role in the performance and reliability of the Ray5 series laser engraver. Outdated firmware can lead to operational issues, while upgrading to the latest version resolves known bugs and enhances system capabilities.

By following the official upgrade procedure, users can ensure that their device remains stable, efficient, and fully optimized. It is recommended to periodically check for firmware updates and apply them as needed to maintain optimal performance.

Proper laser focus is one of the most important parts of achieving clean, sharp, and accurate engraving results with the LONGER Ray5 Mini. If the laser is not focused correctly, engravings may appear blurry, weak, uneven, or lack detail.

This guide explains exactly how to focus the Ray5 Mini using the official procedure, along with beginner tips, safety precautions, troubleshooting advice, and common questions.

Table of Contents

• What This Guide Covers
• Quick Answer: How to Focus the Ray5 Mini
• Why This Process Matters
• Before You Start
• Requirements
• Precautions
• Step-by-Step Tutorial
• Common Problems and Solutions
• Tips for Better Results
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Final Thoughts

What This Guide Covers

This tutorial explains:

• How to focus the Ray5 Mini laser engraver
• How to use the 2 mm focus block
• How to adjust the laser module correctly
• What proper focus should look like
• Common focusing mistakes beginners make
• Troubleshooting blurry or weak engraving results

Quick Answer: How to Focus the Ray5 Mini

To focus the Ray5 Mini:

1. Place the 2 mm focus block on the engraving surface.
2. Loosen the M3*14 handle screw.
3. Move the laser module downward until the bottom of the light shield touches the surface of the focus block.
4. Tighten the M3*14 handle screw.

This sets the correct focal distance for engraving.

Why This Process Matters

Correct laser focus directly affects engraving quality.

When the laser is focused properly:

• Engraving lines become sharper
• Details appear cleaner
• Cutting performance improves
• Burn marks are reduced
• Energy is concentrated more efficiently

If the laser is out of focus, you may experience:

• Blurry engraving
• Uneven burn depth
• Weak cutting performance
• Excessive charring
• Inconsistent results

For beginners, improper focus is one of the most common reasons engraving projects fail.

The Ray5 Mini uses a fixed focal distance system with a 2 mm focus block to make setup easier and more repeatable.

Before You Start

Before focusing your laser engraver, make sure the machine is positioned on a stable and level surface.

Remove unnecessary objects from the work area and ensure the engraving material is flat. Uneven materials can affect focus accuracy.

It is also recommended to clean the laser module area before starting.

Requirements

Prepare the following items before beginning:

• LONGER Ray5 Mini
• 2 mm focus block
• Engraving material
• Proper safety glasses
• Stable work surface

Follow official machine specifications or instructions.

Precautions

Laser engravers can be hazardous if used improperly. Always follow basic laser safety procedures.

Important Safety Notes

• Never look directly into the laser beam
• Wear proper laser safety eyewear
• Keep flammable materials away from the machine
• Operate the engraver in a ventilated area
• Ensure the machine is powered correctly
• Keep hands away from moving parts during operation

Before Adjusting the Laser Module

• Make sure the machine is not actively engraving
• Adjust the module gently
• Do not force the laser assembly downward
• Avoid overtightening the handle screw

Improper handling may affect engraving precision or damage components.

Step-by-Step Tutorial

Step 1: Place the 2 mm Focus Block on the Engraving Surface

Action

Place the 2 mm focus block directly on the engraving surface.

Expected Result

The focus block should sit flat on top of the material or working surface where engraving will occur.

Important Notes

The focus block establishes the correct focal distance between the laser module and the material surface.

Make sure:

• The material is flat
• The focus block is stable
• Nothing is underneath the block
• The work surface is level

If the material shifts during setup, the focus distance may become inaccurate.

Step 2: Loosen the M3*14 Handle Screw

Action

Loosen the M3*14 handle screw on the laser module.

Expected Result

The laser module should move freely up and down after loosening the screw.

Important Notes

Only loosen the screw enough to allow movement.

Do not completely remove the screw.

Avoid applying excessive force, as this may affect alignment or damage the mounting mechanism.

Step 3: Move the Laser Module Downward

Action

Move the laser module downward until the bottom of the light shield touches the surface of the focus block.

Expected Result

The bottom of the light shield should lightly contact the focus block surface.

Important Notes

This is the critical focusing step.

The laser module should:

• Rest gently against the focus block
• Not press heavily onto the block
• Remain straight and aligned

If the module is tilted or uneven, engraving quality may decrease.

The purpose of the focus block is to create the correct focal distance automatically.

Step 4: Tighten the M3*14 Handle Screw

Action

Tighten the M3*14 handle screw after positioning the laser module.

Expected Result

The laser module should remain securely fixed in position.

Important Notes

Make sure the module does not move while tightening the screw.

Do not overtighten the screw.

Once tightened, carefully remove the focus block before starting engraving.

Common Problems and Solutions

Tips for Better Results

Focus Before Every Important Project

Even small height differences can affect engraving quality.

Refocusing before each project helps maintain consistent results.

Use Flat Materials

Warped wood, bent acrylic, or uneven surfaces can cause parts of the engraving to go out of focus.

Keep the Laser Lens Clean

Dust and smoke residue can reduce laser performance.

Clean the laser window carefully using appropriate lens-cleaning materials.

Test on Scrap Material First

Before engraving final projects:

• Test power settings
• Check focus quality
• Verify engraving depth

This helps prevent wasted materials.

Secure the Material

Movement during engraving may affect focus consistency and engraving precision.

Monitor Engraving Results

Signs of proper focus include:

• Thin engraving lines
• Sharp edges
• Consistent depth
• Cleaner details

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Ray5 Mini use a fixed focus system?

The Ray5 Mini uses a focus block method to achieve the correct focal distance quickly and consistently.

What size focus block does the Ray5 Mini use?

The official procedure uses a 2 mm focus block.

Why does my engraving still look blurry after focusing?

Possible causes include:

• Dirty laser lens
• Incorrect material settings
• Uneven material surface
• Improper focus positioning

Recheck the focusing procedure carefully.

Should the light shield press firmly on the focus block?

No. The bottom of the light shield should gently touch the surface of the focus block.

Avoid pressing down forcefully.

Do I need to refocus for different materials?

Yes. Materials with different thicknesses may require refocusing to maintain the correct laser distance.

Can incorrect focus damage the machine?

Improper focus usually affects engraving quality rather than damaging the machine directly. However, incorrect adjustments or excessive force may affect mechanical components.

Why is laser focus important for engraving quality?

Correct focus concentrates laser energy into the smallest possible spot size, improving engraving precision and cutting efficiency.

Can beginners focus the Ray5 Mini easily?

Yes. The 2 mm focus block system is designed to simplify laser focusing for beginners and experienced users alike.

Final Thoughts

Learning how to focus the LONGER Ray5 Mini correctly is essential for achieving high-quality engraving results.

The official focusing process is simple:

1. Place the 2 mm focus block on the engraving surface
2. Loosen the M3*14 handle screw
3. Lower the laser module until the light shield touches the focus block
4. Tighten the M3*14 handle screw

Taking a few extra seconds to focus the laser properly can dramatically improve engraving sharpness, detail, and consistency.

For the best results, always maintain a clean machine, use flat materials, and verify focus before engraving important projects.

Summary:
Firmware plays a crucial role when the laser engraving machine performs engraving tasks. As the device continues to be updated, the firmware is also continuously optimized and upgraded. The latest firmware version can help you complete engraving projects more efficiently. This article will guide you on how to upgrade the firmware for the Nano Duo laser engraving machine.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Download the new firmware version from the official website and save it to the SD card.

2. Power on the machine and insert the SD card into the slot on the side of the machine. When an upward arrow and the “SD” icon appear on the main interface, it indicates that the reading is complete.

3. On the main interface, click the “Settings” option to enter the settings menu, which includes some basic settings such as network and language.

4. Click the “Firmware update” option to enter the upgrade interface, then click the upward arrow button to upgrade the components.

Here, "Screen" represents the screen component upgrade, "Galvo" represents the galvanometer component upgrade, and "Main Control" represents the main control component upgrade. Select the component you want to upgrade to perform the upgrade.

Note: If there is no new version of the component on the SD card, the interface will display “Retrieval failed.”

Summary:
The new firmware can provide you with many conveniences. It not only improves the device’s performance but also enhances engraving precision and efficiency. By updating the firmware, your laser engraving machine will better respond to user commands and achieve a smoother operation experience. Additionally, it may bring new features and improvements, such as smarter fault diagnosis and repair prompts, ensuring that your workflow is more seamless and unobstructed.

Proper maintenance of the laser window lens and galvo mirror is essential for maintaining engraving quality and ensuring stable laser performance. Over time, dust, smoke residue, and debris generated during engraving can accumulate on these optical components, leading to reduced laser efficiency, lower engraving precision, and potential distortion.

Regular cleaning helps maintain optimal laser transmission and ensures consistent engraving results.

Cleaning Procedure

1. Preparation

Prepare the necessary cleaning materials before starting:

• Alcohol
• Lint-free cloth

Ensure that the working environment is clean and free from excessive dust to avoid contaminating the optical components during the cleaning process.

2. Remove the Laser Window Lens

Rotate counterclockwise to remove the laser window lens.

Once removed, you will be able to access both the laser window lens and the galvo mirror. These components are critical parts of the optical system and should be handled with care to avoid scratches or damage.

3. Clean the Optical Surfaces

Moisten the lint-free cloth with alcohol. Gently wipe the front and back surfaces of both the galvo mirror and the laser window lens.

During cleaning:

• Apply light pressure only
• Avoid repeated or aggressive wiping
• Ensure all visible dust and residue are removed

After cleaning, make sure that any remaining alcohol is completely dried to prevent watermarks or streaks on the optical surfaces.

4. Reinstall the Laser Window Lens

After cleaning is complete, reinstall the laser window lens by rotating it clockwise back into place.

Ensure that the lens is securely fitted and properly aligned before operating the machine.

Conclusion

Cleaning the laser window lens and galvo mirror is a critical maintenance task for the Nano system. Contaminated optical components can significantly affect laser performance and engraving quality.

By following proper cleaning procedures and using appropriate materials, users can maintain clear optical paths, improve engraving precision, and extend the lifespan of the machine. Regular inspection and maintenance are recommended to ensure consistent and reliable performance.

If your Nano Pro laser engraver suddenly stops during engraving, it is usually related to USB connection issues or a machine safety alarm. This guide explains the common causes and how to fix them quickly.

1. USB Data Connection Loss

A loose or damaged USB cable can interrupt communication between your computer and the laser engraver, causing the job to stop mid-process.

How to fix:

• Reconnect the USB cable securely
• Replace the cable if it is worn or unstable
• Ensure a stable connection before starting engraving

2. Machine Alarm Triggered

The machine may automatically stop when a safety alarm is triggered, such as vibration, tilting, or unsafe operating conditions. When this happens, the red indicator light will turn on.

How to fix:

• Remove the cause of the alarm (e.g., stabilize the machine)
• Wait for the alarm to clear and resume operation
• If the alarm persists, connect to your computer
• Open LightBurn or LaserBurn and enter $X in the console to reset the alarm

Conclusion

If your Nano Pro stops during engraving, the issue is most commonly caused by a USB connection failure or a triggered safety alarm. By checking the cable connection and resetting the alarm using $X, you can quickly restore normal operation and continue engraving without further interruption.

👉 Keeping your connection stable and ensuring a safe working environment will help prevent most engraving interruptions.

• Lightburn: Click the button, select this port from the COM port list, and set

961200 baud rate.

Conclusion

Most Nano Pro connection issues are caused by wrong cables, missing CH340 drivers, incorrect port selection, or baud rate mismatch.

By ensuring a proper data cable, installing the correct driver, selecting the right COM port, and setting the baud rate to 961200, you can quickly restore a stable connection and start engraving smoothly.

Safety is the primary principle in laser equipment design. The Nano series laser engraving machines (including the Nano, Nano Pro, Nano Ruby, and Nano Duo models) incorporate a comprehensive, integrated safety system, encompassing both hardware and software, to create a reliable and secure creative environment for users and minimize potential risks.

1. Core Visual Protection: Professional-grade Laser Shielding System

This is the Nano series' most significant safety feature, providing physical isolation from laser radiation.

Fully Enclosed Red Light Shield

Physical Barrier: The high-density, opaque engineering plastic cover forms a completely enclosed space when the machine is operating, effectively confining the laser beam and its reflected light within the machine, preventing any accidental leakage.

Visual Warning: The striking red design is not only aesthetically pleasing but also serves as a strong safety warning, constantly alerting users that the machine is operating and preventing accidental opening of the cover.

Linked Protection: The light shield is linked to an intelligent sensor system. If the machine is touched or dropped, the laser automatically stops firing, eliminating any risk at the source.

OD4 High-Grade Protective Window

Professional Standard: The viewing window on the hood is made of professional-grade protective material with an optical density (OD) of 4 (OD4).

Ultra-High Protection: OD4 means the window attenuates lasers of specific wavelengths (such as the common 450nm blue laser) by a factor of 10,000 (allowing only one ten-thousandth of the light to pass through), effectively shielding them at a rate of 99.99%.

Safe Observation: This window allows users to clearly and safely monitor engraving progress and results without the need for goggles, ensuring both safety and convenience.

2. Electrical Safety

Ventilation and Cooling System

Built-in Exhaust Fan: When the machine is operating, a powerful built-in fan continuously exhausts smoke and harmful gases generated by engraving to the outside through the exhaust duct, keeping the interior clean and preventing the accumulation of harmful substances.

Overheat Protection: Both the laser module and the mainboard are equipped with temperature sensors. When the system detects an abnormally high temperature, it automatically stops operation, preventing damage from overheating and eliminating fire hazards.

Motion Sensor

If the machine is dropped during operation, the sensor will immediately trigger an alarm and stop operation.

3. Software and Operational Safety

Dedicated Control Software 

Safety Zone Setting: The software allows users to define safe engraving zones, preventing the laser head from moving beyond mechanical limits and protecting the device from damage.

Real-Time Status Monitoring: The software interface displays real-time information such as laser power, process progress, and temperature, providing users with a clear overview of the device's status.

Sturdy Construction

The Nano series features a high-rigidity aluminum alloy frame and non-slip feet, ensuring stability during high-speed operation and preventing accidental movement.

Summary: Your Safety, Our Full Protection

The Nano series laser engraving machine is more than just a highly efficient tool; it exemplifies a design built with safety as its cornerstone. From OD4-level protection for physical isolation to proactive intelligent electrical safety intervention to sophisticated software-level control, we've built a seamless safety ecosystem.

Core Security:

For Humans: A red light shield and OD4 viewing window protect operators' eyes from laser radiation.

For Objects: Overheat protection, motion sensors, and other features prevent fire and equipment damage.

For the Environment: An exhaust system reduces smoke pollution.

Choosing the Nano series means choosing peace of mind, allowing you to focus more on your creativity and production.