Check whether your computer has the necessary drivers installed and configured correctly. If not, download and install the drivers compatible with your Longer device.
Follow these steps to confirm whether the drivers are successfully installed on your computer:
1、Check the CH340 Driver
A. The required driver may be missing or not installed correctly. B. For macOS 10.15 or later, the CH340 driver does not need to be installed. C. Download the following driver installation package:
1. Follow the installation instructions to ensure the driver is installed successfully.
If any error messages appear during installation, contact Longer technical support.
1. Check if the driver was installed successfully in Device Manager:
2. Right-click on the desktop and select “Manage.”
Choose “Device Manager,” click on Ports (COM & LPT), and look for a COM port named CH340. If it appears, it means your device has been successfully recognized by the computer.
3、For macOS:
1. Connect the machine to your computer using the USB cable provided.
3. Follow the installation instructions to ensure the driver is installed successfully. If any error messages appear during installation, contact Longer technical support.
4. Restart your computer, then go to System Preferences → Security & Privacy → General → Allow.
5. Allow the CH340 driver to load. You may need to restart your computer again during this process. Follow the on-screen instructions.
6. Reconnect the device; at this point, LaserBurn, LightBurn, or LaserGRBL should be able to detect your machine.
If the “Allow” button does not work, continue reading for troubleshooting solutions
1. Open the Terminal using the following path: Go → Utilities → Terminal.
2. Copy and paste the following command into the Terminal:
sudo kextload /Library/Extensions/usbserial.kext/
1. Press Enter (if prompted for a password, enter your computer user password and press Enter again).
2. Once the command executes successfully, the Terminal will display a confirmation message like the one below.
Ray5 Safety Features: Dual Protection with Tilt Alarm and Flame Alarm
Laser engraving and cutting have revolutionized the way creators and small businesses produce custom designs, signage, and intricate artwork. However, working with a laser cutter and engraver involves high-powered lasers, moving components, and heat, all of which can pose potential risks if safety is not properly managed. The Longer Ray5 series of desktop laser engraving machines addresses these challenges with an integrated safety system that protects operators, materials, and the workspace while maintaining high precision and workflow efficiency.
Tilt and Flame Alarms: The Core Safety Features
At the heart of the Longer Ray5’s safety design are two critical systems: the tilt alarm and the flame alarm.
The tilt alarm ensures that the machine remains level during operation. Even a slight tilt can result in misaligned engraving, unexpected platform movement, or tipping hazards. The Ray5’s high-precision tilt sensor continuously monitors the device’s angle. If the tilt exceeds a preset safe limit, the system immediately shuts off the laser and halts platform motion. This intervention prevents accidents, protects the operator, and safeguards the material.
The flame alarm protects against fire risks generated by the laser’s focused heat. Engraving materials such as wood, plastics, or leather can ignite if exposed to intense heat. The Ray5’s flame detection system accurately monitors the engraving area in real time. If a flame is detected, the system instantly stops the laser and pauses platform movement, preventing escalation and maintaining a safe working environment.
Integrated Protections for Comprehensive Safety
Beyond tilt and flame detection, the Longer Ray5 incorporates multiple protective mechanisms that work together seamlessly. The machine comes with a protective cover and safety glasses, shielding the operator from direct laser exposure. Built-in sensors monitor abnormal shaking or instability, and the suspension program automatically halts operation if any irregular movement is detected. Platform motion is continuously controlled to avoid sudden jerks or collisions that could compromise engraving quality or machine integrity. Additionally, the system can detect improper material placement or thickness to prevent errors or unsafe conditions during operation.
Together, these protections ensure that the operator can focus entirely on creative and precise engraving without worrying about potential hazards. Whether you are using a portable laser cutter and engraver at home or a desktop laser engraving machine in a studio, Ray5 provides reliable and professional results with comprehensive safety.
Why Dual Safety Features Matter
The combination of tilt detection and flame monitoring creates a layered safety system that addresses multiple risk factors simultaneously. This dual protection:
Enhances operator safety by preventing laser exposure or platform-related accidents.
Reduces material damage by avoiding fires or misaligned engraving.
Maintains operational stability and workflow consistency, even during complex or prolonged projects.
Provides peace of mind for creators, allowing them to focus on design and production rather than constant safety monitoring.
Conclusion
The Longer Ray5 series sets a new benchmark for safety in desktop laser engraving and portable laser cutter and engraver devices. By combining tilt and flame detection with integrated protective mechanisms, it ensures that every engraving session is safe, stable, and precise. For hobbyists, small business owners, and educational users alike, Ray5 offers a reliable, high-performance solution that balances creativity, efficiency, and operator protection.
To learn more about the Longer Ray5 safety features or to connect with other laser engraving enthusiasts, join our official Facebook community, where users share experiences, tips, and best practices for maximizing the potential of their Ray5 safely and efficiently.
Please make sure your computer has the required drivers properly installed and configured. If not, download and install the appropriate driver for your Longer device.
Follow the steps below to confirm whether the driver has been successfully installed on your computer:
1) Check the CH340 Driver
A. The required driver for connection may be missing or not installed correctly. B. For macOS 10.15 or later, installation of the CH340 driver may not be necessary. C. Download the driver installation package below:
Keeping your Longer Ray5 desktop laser engraver up to date with the latest firmware is essential for maintaining peak performance, improving stability, and unlocking new features. Firmware updates can fix bugs, enhance device functionality, and ensure compatibility with the latest software and materials. For creators, small businesses, and educators using the Ray5 as a portable laser cutter and engraver, staying on the latest firmware means more reliable engraving sessions and optimized production.
Why Firmware Updates Matter
Firmware is the internal software that controls every aspect of your Ray5’s operation—from laser power and motion control to platform calibration and safety features. An outdated firmware version may limit performance, introduce errors, or cause unexpected behavior during engraving or cutting tasks. By keeping the Ray5 firmware current, users benefit from:
Improved motion control for precise engraving and cutting.
Enhanced safety features, including tilt and flame detection responsiveness.
Optimized communication with desktop software for smoother workflow.
Compatibility with new materials and advanced engraving techniques.
Regular updates ensure that your laser cutter and engraver remain reliable, safe, and capable of achieving professional-quality results.
Step-by-Step Guide: Updating via ESPTool Web
The ESPTool Web method allows users to update the Ray5 firmware online through a web browser and serial connection. Follow these steps carefully:
Open your browser and navigate to https://espressif.github.io/esptool-js/ . This interface connects to your Ray5 via the serial port and allows online firmware flashing.
Select the baud rate 115200 and connect to the CH340 serial port, which is recognized by your computer when the Ray5 is plugged in.
Click “Erase Flash” to clear the existing firmware and prepare the device for the new version.
Enter the Flash address 0x0 and select the firmware file you want to upload. Ensure that the firmware corresponds specifically to your Ray5 model to avoid compatibility issues.
Click “Program” to begin the firmware upload. The process may take a few minutes; do not disconnect the device or turn off the power during this step.
Once the upload completes, restart your Ray5 and verify that all functions, including engraving, cutting, and safety features, operate correctly.
Tips for a Safe and Successful Firmware Update
Updating firmware is straightforward, but taking precautions ensures success and prevents device issues:
Always use a stable USB connection and power source to avoid interruptions.
Close other programs that might interfere with the serial connection during flashing.
Backup any critical settings or calibration data before performing the update.
Verify the firmware version before uploading to ensure it matches your Ray5 model.
By following these guidelines, your Longer Ray5 portable laser cutter and engraver can be safely updated, unlocking the full potential of your machine while preserving reliability and safety.
Conclusion
Keeping your Longer Ray5 desktop laser engraver firmware up to date is not just about accessing new features—it is about maintaining precision, safety, and efficiency in every engraving and cutting task. Regular updates ensure your machine remains compatible with the latest software, delivers consistent high-quality results, and keeps the advanced safety mechanisms fully functional. Whether you are running a small workshop, a hobby studio, or an educational lab, following proper firmware update procedures guarantees your Ray5 performs at its best.
For additional support, tips, or to connect with other Ray5 users, join the official Facebook community. Share experiences, ask questions, and discover best practices from creators who maximize the potential of their Longer Ray5 laser cutter and engraver safely and effectively.
Focusing is one of the most critical steps in laser engraving and cutting, directly affecting precision, material quality, and the lifespan of your laser module. Whether you are using the Ray5 5W or 10W laser machine, the focusing procedure varies slightly depending on whether you have the older or newer model. This technical guide will walk you through step-by-step focusing procedures, along with professional tips to achieve optimal results.
Why Proper Focusing Matters
The laser’s focal point determines the size and shape of the beam, which in turn affects engraving detail and cutting efficiency. Improper focus can lead to:
Blurry or uneven engraving lines
Inconsistent cutting depth
Material burn or incomplete cuts
Accelerated wear on the laser module
Proper focusing ensures that thelaser beam is concentrated, producing the smallest spot size, leading to cleaner cuts and finer engraving details.
1. Focusing the Older Ray5 5W/10W Models
Materials Needed:
The actual object or material you want to engrave (e.g., wood, acrylic, or other substrates)
Focusing column
Laser head adjustment plate
Step-by-Step Procedure:
Place the engraving object directly under the laser head.
Loosen the thumbscrew on the laser head.
Loosen the laser head adjustment plate.
Position the focusing column beneath the laser profile so the beam passes through it.
Adjust the laser head until the end face of the laser aligns perfectly with the focusing column.
Tighten the thumbscrew to secure the head in place.
Pro Tip: Using the actual engraving material for focusing ensures the beam is correctly aligned with the substrate, giving the best possible results.
2. Focusing the Newer Ray5 5W/10W Models
Newer Ray5 models feature a modular design, making focus adjustment more intuitive:
Materials Needed:
The object you intend to engrave
Focus plate (compatible with 5W or 10W laser modules)
Step-by-Step Procedure:
Place the object directly under the laser module.
Loosen the 7-shaped hand screw.
Move the laser module up or down until the end face of the module aligns perfectly with the focus plate.
Secure the module by tightening the hand screw once the correct focus is achieved.
Professional Tip: Make sure to select the correct side of the focus plate according to your laser module’s power (5W or 10W) to achieve precise engraving.
3. Advanced Focusing Tips
Use the Actual Material: Focusing on the material you plan to engrave ensures accuracy and prevents discrepancies.
Fine-Tune for Material Thickness: Even the same laser module may require minor adjustments based on substrate thickness or density.
Check Focus Regularly: Always recheck focus after changing materials or moving the laser head.
Secure Without Over-Tightening: Tighten screws just enough to hold the module firmly without putting excessive stress on the assembly.
Conclusion
Accurate focusing is the cornerstone of high-quality laser engraving and cutting with the Ray5 5W/10W, as it directly impacts the precision of your designs, the consistency of your cuts, and the overall longevity of your laser module. By carefully following the correct focusing procedures—whether on an older or newer model—you ensure that each project achieves sharp, detailed engraving and smooth, reliable cuts while minimizing unnecessary wear on your equipment. Taking the extra step to test the focus on a corner or a scrap piece of your material before starting the main project not only prevents material waste but also allows you to fine-tune the focus for different substrates, ensuring optimal results every time. With proper attention to focusing, your Ray5 machine can consistently deliver professional-level performance, whether you are producing intricate designs or precise cuts for functional projects.
The timing belt is a key component responsible for transmitting motion between the motor and the X/Y axes. Over time, belts can wear out, loosen, or break, leading to issues such as inaccurate positioning, skipped steps, or uneven engraving.
Replacing the timing belt ensures smooth motion, precise alignment, and consistent engraving quality on your Ray5 mini/miniS.
1. Remove the Laser Module
Disconnect the laser cable
Loosen the M3×14 screws or L-shaped hand screws
Remove the laser module
Ray5 mini/miniS 2.5/3.5W
Ray5 mini/miniS 5.5/10W
2. Remove the Top Cover (Ray5 miniS only)
Remove the top acrylic cover
Unscrew 12 screws to access internal components
Top acrylic cover
3. Remove the Slider Components
Use a 2mm hex wrench to loosen the four screws
Remove:
Slider plastic part (mini)
Metal slider with plastic part (miniS)
Ray5 mini/miniS 2.5/3.5W
Ray5 mini/miniS 5.5/10W
4. Remove the Timing Belt
Use a hex wrench to loosen the screws securing both axes:
X-axis: 2 screws
Y-axis: 4 screws (2 front + 2 rear)
Carefully remove the timing belt
⚠️ Important:
Do not miss the T-slot screws that secure the belt
5. Install the New Timing Belt
Thread the new belt through the pulleys and connecting shaft in order
Ensure the belt is properly seated on the shaft
💡 Tip:
Use a screwdriver to guide the belt
Slightly move pulleys left and right to help the belt pass smoothly
6. Tension and Secure the Belt
Insert one T-slot screw into the profile along the X-axis
Press the belt onto the screw and tighten it
Pull the belt tight on the opposite side
Insert the second T-slot screw and tighten
Check after installation:
The belt should have proper elasticity
Pulleys should move smoothly without sticking
7. Reinstall Components
Reinstall the slider and plastic parts
For Ray5 miniS, reinstall the top acrylic cover
Mini：
MiniS：
Conclusion
Replacing the timing belt on the Ray5 mini/miniS is essential for maintaining precise motion control and high engraving accuracy. Proper installation ensures smooth operation, reduces mechanical errors, and extends the lifespan of the machine.
Regular inspection and timely replacement of the timing belt will help maintain consistent performance and reliable engraving results.
During engraving, the Ray5 MiniS may trigger errors or alarms related to limit switches or motion control. These alarms are typically caused by operational actions, software settings, or homing issues rather than hardware failure.
This guide explains the most common causes and how to resolve them step by step.
Table of Contents
What This Guide Covers
Quick Answer
Why This Process Matters
Before You Start
Requirements
Precautions
Step-by-Step Tutorial
Step 1: Prevent Limit Triggering During Engraving
Step 2: Understand Stop Button Error Reporting
Step 3: Fix Overscan and Soft Limit Errors
Step 4: Resolve Zeroing Abnormalities
Common Problems and Solutions
Tips for Better Results
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
What This Guide Covers
This tutorial explains how to troubleshoot common engraving errors and alarms on the LONGER Ray5 MiniS laser engraver.
You will learn how to:
Prevent limit trigger alarms
Understand normal alarm behavior after stopping engraving
Fix overscan-related soft limit errors
Adjust coordinate settings properly
Resolve homing and zeroing abnormalities
Improve engraving stability and workflow reliability
The procedures below follow the original operating sequence and troubleshooting methods provided for the Ray5 MiniS.
Quick Answer
If your Ray5 MiniS displays engraving alarms or motion control errors:
Do not manually move the laser during engraving
Alarm reporting after pressing Stop is normal
Change coordinates to absolute coordinates if overscan triggers soft limits
Reduce the pattern size and place it in the middle if needed
Turn off the overscan function when necessary
Confirm the XY axis does not continue pressing the limit switch after zeroing
Most Ray5 MiniS engraving errors are caused by software settings or operation behavior rather than defective hardware.
Why This Process Matters
Laser engravers rely on accurate positioning and coordinated movement to complete engraving tasks safely and precisely. When the Ray5 MiniS detects unexpected movement, excessive travel range, or abnormal limit switch signals, it may stop the engraving process and report an alarm.
Understanding these alarms is important because it helps:
Prevent interrupted engraving jobs
Protect the machine from positioning errors
Improve engraving consistency
Reduce material waste
Avoid repeated homing failures
Maintain accurate motion control
Many beginners assume that engraving alarms indicate hardware damage. In most cases, the issue is related to machine operation, coordinate setup, or overscan configuration.
Before You Start
Requirements
Before troubleshooting Ray5 MiniS engraving errors, prepare the following:
LONGER Ray5 MiniS laser engraver
Connected engraving software
Properly powered machine
Stable working surface
Correctly installed limit switches
Engraving design file for testing
Follow official machine specifications or instructions.
Precautions
Before performing troubleshooting procedures, keep these precautions in mind:
Do not manually force the laser module during engraving
Keep hands away from moving parts
Monitor the engraving process continuously
Verify coordinate settings before engraving
Ensure the machine frame moves smoothly
Avoid interrupting engraving unnecessarily
Incorrect movement or positioning may trigger unnecessary alarms and stop the engraving process.
Step-by-Step Tutorial
Step 1: Prevent Limit Triggering During Engraving
Original Step
Manually moving the laser position during engraving causes limit triggering.
Action
Do not manually move the laser position while engraving is active.
Expected Result
The engraving process should continue normally without triggering a limit alarm.
Important Notes
The Ray5 MiniS continuously tracks the laser head position during operation. If the laser module is manually pushed or repositioned while engraving, the controller may detect abnormal movement and trigger a limit alarm.
This issue commonly occurs when users attempt to adjust material positioning during engraving.
If the machine reports a limit error:
Stop the engraving process
Reposition the laser correctly
Restart the engraving job if necessary
Avoid touching the laser assembly during operation.
Step 2: Understand Stop Button Error Reporting
Original Step
When you click Stop during engraving, this error will be reported, which is normal.
Action
If you press the Stop button during engraving and an error appears, understand that this behavior is expected.
Expected Result
The engraving stops immediately and the system reports an alarm or error message.
Important Notes
This is normal machine behavior rather than a hardware malfunction.
When engraving is interrupted manually, the controller detects the interruption and reports the stop condition as an error or alarm.
After stopping:
Clear the alarm if required
Reset the engraving position if necessary
Restart the engraving task
If alarms continue after restarting, verify the coordinate settings and engraving area configuration.
Step 3: Fix Overscan and Soft Limit Errors
Original Step
When engraving an image or vector filling at the current position, if the overscan function is turned on, the soft limit may be triggered, and the engraving may not be possible. You need to change the coordinates to absolute coordinates. If you do not change the coordinate system, then reduce the pattern and put it in the middle, or turn off the overscan function.
Action
Adjust the coordinate system or overscan settings when soft limit alarms occur during image engraving or vector filling.
Expected Result
The engraving process should complete without triggering soft limit errors.
Important Notes
This is one of the most common Ray5 MiniS engraving problems in engraving software.
Overscan allows smoother acceleration and deceleration by extending movement slightly beyond the engraving boundary. However, when the design is placed too close to the machine edge, overscan movement may exceed the available work area and trigger a soft limit alarm.
Follow the original troubleshooting sequence exactly:
Change the coordinates to absolute coordinates
If the coordinate system is not changed, reduce the pattern
Put the pattern in the middle
Turn off the overscan function if necessary
Do not modify additional machine parameters unless instructed in official documentation.
Follow official machine specifications or instructions.
Step 4: Resolve Zeroing Abnormalities
Original Step
The machine continuously detects the signal of the limit switch, resulting in a zeroing abnormality. The solution is to confirm that the XY axis does not hit the limit switch after the XY axis completes zeroing.
Action
Check the XY axis position after zeroing completes.
Expected Result
The machine should complete homing normally without repeatedly triggering the limit switch.
Important Notes
This issue occurs when the controller continues receiving a limit switch signal after the homing process finishes.
Possible causes include:
The XY axis remaining pressed against the limit switch
Mechanical obstruction
Incorrect positioning after homing
Axis movement restriction
Carefully inspect the machine after zeroing completes.
Verify that:
The XY axis moves away from the limit switch normally
The carriage is not stuck
The machine frame moves freely
No obstruction blocks axis movement
If homing abnormalities continue:
Restart the machine
Recheck the limit switch area
Confirm smooth axis movement
Avoid manually forcing the carriage while the machine is powered on.
Common Problems and Solutions
Problem
Possible Cause
Solution
Limit alarm during engraving
Laser moved manually
Do not move the laser during engraving
Error after pressing Stop
Normal interruption behavior
Restart engraving normally
Soft limit triggered
Overscan exceeds work area
Change to absolute coordinates
Engraving fails near machine edge
Pattern placement issue
Reduce the pattern and place it in the middle
Continuous homing abnormality
Limit switch signal remains active
Confirm XY axis leaves limit switch after zeroing
Repeated limit switch alarms
Axis still touching switch
Check carriage position after homing
Motion control error
Coordinate setup issue
Verify engraving coordinate settings
Vector fill engraving fails
Overscan enabled
Turn off the overscan function
Tips for Better Results
Position designs away from workspace edges
Use absolute coordinates for larger designs
Check overscan settings before vector filling
Test engraving boundaries before starting production jobs
Keep the machine frame clean and unobstructed
Monitor homing movement during startup
Avoid interrupting engraving unless necessary
Ensure cables and limit switches remain secure
Proper software configuration and operating practices can significantly reduce unnecessary engraving alarms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my Ray5 MiniS trigger a soft limit alarm?
Soft limit alarms usually occur when overscan movement exceeds the machine’s available work area during engraving.
Is it normal to see an error after pressing Stop?
Yes. When Stop is clicked during engraving, the machine reports an error normally because the process was interrupted intentionally.
What is overscan in laser engraving?
Overscan extends movement slightly beyond the engraving area to improve motion smoothness during image engraving and vector filling.
Why does my machine fail during homing?
The controller may continuously detect the limit switch signal after zeroing. Confirm that the XY axis does not remain pressed against the limit switch.
Should I disable overscan completely?
You may turn off the overscan function if it causes soft limit alarms. Alternatively, reposition the design or change coordinates to absolute coordinates.
Can manual movement interrupt engraving accuracy?
Yes. Moving the laser manually during engraving can trigger alarms and affect positioning accuracy.
Does this mean my Ray5 MiniS hardware is damaged?
Usually not. Most engraving alarms are caused by operational actions, software settings, or coordinate configuration issues.
Final Thoughts
Engraving errors or alarms on the Ray5 MiniS are usually related to user operation, software configuration, or limit switch behavior. By following proper usage practices and adjusting settings such as coordinate systems and overscan, most issues can be quickly resolved.
Maintaining correct operation procedures and system calibration ensures stable engraving performance and reduces unnecessary error triggers.
Adjusting Graphic Position in LaserGRBL — Ray5 MiniS
Properly positioning your engraving design is essential to ensure it fits within the machine’s working area and avoids boundary errors. In LaserGRBL, you can adjust the graphic position by modifying the X and Y offsets before starting the engraving process.
This guide explains how to correctly place your design within the working area of the Ray5 MiniS.
Table of Contents
What This Guide Covers
Why Graphic Positioning Matters
Before You Start
Requirements
Precautions
Step-by-Step Tutorial
Ray5 MiniS Working Area Reference
Common Problems and Solutions
Tips for Better Results
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
What This Guide Covers
This tutorial explains how to:
Adjust graphic position in LaserGRBL
Modify X and Y offsets
Keep designs within the engraving area
Avoid boundary and positioning errors
Understand the working area limitations of Ray5 Mini and Ray5 MiniS models
Quick Answer
To adjust graphic position in LaserGRBL:
Open the engraving file in LaserGRBL
Modify the X and Y offsets in the target image window
Ensure the graphic stays within the machine’s working area
Preview the placement before engraving
Correct positioning helps prevent engraving failures and improves engraving accuracy.
Why Graphic Positioning Matters
Graphic positioning is a critical part of laser engraving preparation. If the design exceeds the machine’s working area, the engraving process may fail or produce inaccurate results.
Correctly adjusting the X and Y offsets helps:
Prevent boundary errors
Keep the design within the engraving area
Improve engraving precision
Reduce material waste
Ensure consistent results
For beginners, understanding how LaserGRBL handles graphic positioning is essential for successful engraving projects.
Before You Start
Before adjusting the graphic position in LaserGRBL, make sure your machine and software are ready.
Requirements
You will need:
Ray5 Mini or Ray5 MiniS laser engraver
Computer with LaserGRBL installed
USB connection to the machine
Engraving file or image
Material placed securely on the work surface
Follow official machine specifications or instructions.
Precautions
Before operating the laser engraver, follow these safety precautions:
Wear appropriate laser safety glasses
Ensure proper ventilation
Keep flammable materials away from the machine
Confirm the engraving material is secured
Verify the machine is operating normally before starting
Incorrect positioning may cause the laser to move outside the valid engraving area.
Step-by-Step Tutorial
Step 1: Open the Engraving File
Action
Click File > Open File to add the design to be engraved.
Expected Result
The selected design appears in the LaserGRBL workspace and target image window.
Important Notes
Confirm the file imports correctly before continuing.
Check the design dimensions to ensure they are appropriate for the machine’s working area.
Step 2: Adjust the X and Y Offsets
Action
Adjust the offset of X and Y in the target image window to change the position of the graphics.
Expected Result
The graphic position changes within the workspace according to the selected offset values.
Important Notes
Adjust the offsets carefully to avoid exceeding the working area.
Small offset changes can significantly affect final placement.
Position the design fully within the valid engraving range.
Step 3: Make Sure the Design Is Within the Working Area
Action
Check the design placement and make sure it is in the range of the working area.
Expected Result
The entire design fits within the available engraving area of the selected machine model.
Important Notes
Designs outside the working area may trigger boundary errors.
Always verify placement before starting engraving.
Use preview and positioning checks whenever possible.
Ray5 MiniS Working Area Reference
Use the following working area specifications when positioning graphics in LaserGRBL.
Machine model
Working Area (mm)
Ray5 mini 2.5/3.5W
130*140
Ray5 mini 5.5W
130*130
Ray5 miniS 2.5/3.5W
130*140
Ray5 miniS 5.5/10W
130*120
Common Problems and Solutions
Problem
Possible Cause
Solution
Boundary error during engraving
Graphic exceeds working area
Reduce offsets or reposition the design
Design partially engraves
Incorrect graphic placement
Confirm the design fits within the workspace
Graphic appears off-center
X or Y offset set incorrectly
Readjust the X and Y offsets
Laser head moves outside expected range
Improper positioning setup
Recheck the target image window settings
Engraving starts in the wrong location
Incorrect design alignment
Verify placement before starting
Graphic does not fit material
Design size too large
Resize the graphic within the allowed area
Preview does not match expected location
Incorrect offset values
Reset and adjust offsets carefully
Tips for Better Results
Check the Working Area Before Importing Files
Knowing the maximum engraving dimensions helps avoid positioning errors.
Use Small Offset Adjustments
Minor offset changes provide more accurate positioning control.
Preview the Design Placement
Always verify the engraving area before starting the laser job.
Keep the Material Properly Aligned
Straight material placement improves engraving consistency.
Test Positioning on Scrap Material
Testing placement first can help prevent wasted materials and failed engravings.
Avoid Positioning Too Close to Edges
Leaving some margin space can reduce alignment issues during operation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are X and Y offsets in LaserGRBL?
X and Y offsets control the horizontal and vertical position of the engraving graphic within the workspace.
Why do I get a boundary error in LaserGRBL?
Boundary errors usually occur when part of the design exceeds the machine’s working area.
How do I know if my design fits the working area?
Compare the design dimensions with the machine’s maximum working area listed in the specifications table.
Can I reposition the graphic after importing the file?
Yes. You can modify the X and Y offsets in the target image window before engraving.
Why is my engraving not centered on the material?
The X and Y offsets may not be adjusted correctly, or the material may not be aligned properly.
What happens if the design exceeds the working area?
The machine may generate a boundary error or fail to engrave correctly.
Should I preview the engraving position before starting?
Yes. Previewing helps confirm the design fits within the valid engraving range.
Conclusion
Adjusting the graphic position in LaserGRBL is a simple but essential step to ensure accurate engraving results. By properly setting X and Y offsets and keeping your design within the working area, you can avoid errors and achieve precise, high-quality outputs.
Consistent use of preview and positioning checks will help improve engraving efficiency and reduce failed jobs.
Connection Issues with LightBurn or LaserGRBL — Ray5 MiniS
Connection issues between your computer and the Ray5 MiniS can prevent proper control of the machine and interrupt engraving tasks. These issues are usually related to drivers, port conflicts, baud rate settings, or incorrect software configuration rather than hardware failure.
This guide provides a structured troubleshooting process to help you quickly restore a stable connection using LightBurn or LaserGRBL.
1) Can't find CH340 driver
For Windows systems, it needs to right-click the computer and select Manage, click Device Manager, click to expand Ports (COM & LPT), find the port corresponding to the CH340 driver, and then select this port in LightBurnor LaserGRBL.
For MacOS, please go to About this Mac > Overview > System Report, select USB under Hardware (there will be USB Serial if the driver is installed automatically), and select the cu.wchusbserial14230 port in LightBurn or LaserGRBL.
If no ports are listed in the expanded Ports (COM & LPT), it means that no engravers were found, which could mean that it is not plugged in correctly, isn't powered, or the PC is missing a driver. It needs to download the CH340 driver from the link and double-click it to install:
Before connecting, please make sure that the CH340 port is not occupied by software such as serial communication tools, cura, etc.
3) The Baud rate setting error
The baud rate should be set to 115200. The wrong baud rate will cause the connection to the engraving machine to fail.
4) The configuration fileis not imported or damaged
For LightBurn, click "Devices"in the laser control moduletoimportthe engraver. Click ‘Import,’ select the RAY5 mini.lbdevfile, and click OK to add the RAY5 miniconfiguration to LightBurn.The macro commands will be successfully added in the Console window, and RAY5 minidevice will appear in the list of devices to the right of the 'Devices' button in the Laser window when the configuration file is imported successfully.
Conclusion
Most connection issues with the Ray5 MiniS are caused by driver installation problems, incorrect port selection, or improper software settings. By verifying the CH340 driver, ensuring the correct COM port, setting the baud rate to 115200, and importing the correct configuration file, you can quickly restore stable communication between your computer and the engraving machine.
Maintaining proper connection setup ensures reliable control and smooth engraving performance.
The CH340/CH341 USB driver is essential for communication between your computer and devices like the Ray5 MiniS. If the driver fails to install or work properly, your machine may not be recognized by software such as LightBurn or LaserGRBL.
This guide provides a complete troubleshooting process for both Windows and macOS systems.
I. Windows Systems
1. Common Causes & Solutions
① System Compatibility Issues
Windows 10/11 usually includes built-in drivers, but auto-install may fail
✅ Solution:
Manually download the latest driver from the official site:
Use Wi-Fi connection (if your controller supports it)
Important Notes
Always use a data USB cable, not charging-only one
Restart your system after installing drivers
Ensure only one software accesses the COM port at a time
Keep drivers updated for stability
Conclusion
CH340 driver installation issues are typically caused by system compatibility, driver conflicts, permission restrictions, or hardware connection problems. By systematically checking drivers, ports, cables, and permissions, most connection issues can be resolved quickly.
For long-term stability—especially on macOS—consider using alternative USB-to-serial adapters with native support.
