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LightBurn basics: setup to first job

LightBurn is the control software many diode and CO₂ (and some fiber) users rely on to design, nest, and run jobs. This page is a practical path from install to a finished scrap test — not a full manual replacement.

Course: This wiki gets you started — Master LightBurn takes you the rest of the way.

Confirm your controller is on LightBurn’s supported list before you buy a license. Device setup differs by DSP, GRBL, Ruida, and others.

What you need

  • A LightBurn license appropriate for your controller class
  • USB or Ethernet connection as your machine requires
  • Correct laser safety setup before any beam fires (ventilation and safety)
  • Scrap material and a fire plan

Install and add your device

  1. Install LightBurn from the official LightBurn site on a computer that will stay near the machine.
  2. Open Devices (or the first-run wizard) and add your controller type.
  3. Set work area size to match the machine’s usable bed — measure if the marketing number is optimistic.
  4. Set origin behavior to match how your machine homes (front-left, rear-left, etc.). Wrong origin is a top cause of “job outside the bed” confusion — see common errors.
  5. Save the device profile with a clear name (Shop CO₂, Diode garage, …).

One computer, one truth

If two PCs control one laser, keep device profiles in sync or you will chase phantom offsets.

Tour the workspace (just enough)

  • Edit toolbar: select, draw, text, nodes
  • Cuts / Layers: each color maps to a cut setting (power, speed, mode)
  • Laser panel: Frame, Start, Stop, power scale, and connection status
  • Console / status: where GRBL-style machines often show errors

You do not need every tool on day one. You need layers, frame, and start.

Connect and home

  1. Power on the laser and any water chiller / exhaust first (order can matter — follow your manual).
  2. Connect in LightBurn; wait for a ready state.
  3. Home the machine if your controller supports it.
  4. Use Frame (with the lid behavior your machine expects) to preview the travel path with the beam off or at tracing power only — know which framing mode you are using.

Never assume the red-dot preview equals the CO₂/diode beam path until you have verified offset calibration for your head.

Your first job (scrap)

  1. Create a new file; confirm units (mm vs inches).
  2. Draw a 20–50 mm square and a short line of text.
  3. Assign the square to a cut or engrave layer intentionally — beginners often leave everything on the same layer.
  4. Open Cut Settings for that layer: set a conservative engrave first (you can cut after you trust focus).
  5. Place the artwork where you want it relative to your chosen Start From mode (Absolute Coordinates, Current Position, or User Origin — understand which you selected).
  6. Focus for material thickness (focus and alignment).
  7. Put scrap down; close interlocks; start exhaust.
  8. Frame the job; adjust placement until the frame sits on the scrap.
  9. Run the job while watching through a safe viewing method for your machine class.
  10. Stop immediately if you see uncontrolled flame.

Congratulations — that scrap is more valuable than a perfect Instagram post. Save the settings that worked into the Material Library (starter settings).

Want this to click faster? Master LightBurn walks the tools and workflows step by step — lifetime access, one clear path.

Layers worth understanding early

Layer mode Use
Line Cuts or scores along paths
Fill Engraves filled shapes / text
Image Photos and greyscale bitmaps
Offset fill / other variants Situational — learn after basic fill/line

Name layers by process (engrave, score, cut) so files stay maintainable when you add operations.

Artwork tips that save hours

  • Prefer vector logos (SVG, DXF, AI) for clean cuts; flatten or link images carefully
  • Convert text to paths when sending files to other shops if fonts might be missing
  • Keep strokes set appropriately for your import; hairline meanings differ by file type
  • Nest multiple parts with spacing for kerf and handling

After the first job

  • Build a labeled test grid on your main materials
  • Learn User Origin for repeatable jigs
  • Learn rotary setup only after flat work feels boring (rotary engraving)
  • Backup .lbrn2 files and your Material Library with the rest of your shop backups

Go further

Primary next step

Master LightBurn

Structured LightBurn training from Bearded Builds — skip the scattered YouTube rabbit holes. Lifetime access with updates.

View the course →

Also: Shop custom plaques · YouTube · Course hub