Finding the perfect focal point (smallest dot size) can be difficult. Many lenses have a threshold or manufacturing tolerance that can vary up to 2-3mm.
Take a standard 2" lens for example, it's possible that this lens's "perfect" focal point is between 4-6mm. For most people this variable goes unnoticed.
Typical engraving of vectors and normal cutting will not show this disparity. But when we start pushing our laser to the limit with fine cutting, inlays and
photos every dot or the smallest dot can drastically change your result. Check out the videos and photos below that better detail this process and how to
fine tune your focal distance.
Image below was sourced from Lightburns user forum.
This video by Maverick CNC is an excellent depiction of the ramp test. One thing to note, on the Thunder Nova/Odin we can use the
right/left move arrows on the controller with the pulse button, meaning no need to design a file in Lightburn.
Here is a video by one of our users who, after testing, found great results!
Preface: The Usual Suspects are the things that most commonly get overlooked or are incorrect that can burn up training time on things that should already be checked and if not mastered. If you choose to not follow this guide you will likely ...
This documentation is specific to the Thunder Nova series stock 2" (50.8mm) focal length lens assembly. We have typically used 6mm (1/4") as the reference for focus but it can vary. Thunder Laser actually specifies the focal distance as 4.5mm~6.5mm: ...
Preface: The article covers some pre-made material test cards and the built in Lightburn Material Test Generator for CO2 lasers like the Thunder Laser Bolt, ODIN and Nova machines Quick Start Videos: Thunder Material Test Lightburn Material Test ...
Note that the manual is Windows and RDworks centric due to being the GLOBAL manual. Thunder Laser USA has compiled information on Lightburn, Windows and MacOS in this knowledgebase that should be considered. For Thunder Laser USA support please email ...
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