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!
Article in progress Preface: This article will cover the steps to perform a ramp test to be able to set the autofocus height and the length of the manual focus tool. For this procedure, it is assumed that you are already connected to the machine and ...
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: New Style Test Cards Lightburn Material Test Video ...
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: Legacy Material Test Cards Lightburn Material Test ...
Preface: This article covers the "Red Button Test" which is a great first test when you have Laser Power issues. The red button test eliminates the OPTO and RUIDA inputs, isolating the system to just the tube and the LPSU. If this test is a success, ...
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: ...
If you are a Thunder Laser USA client and still need Technical Support after exhausting the resources in the Knowledge Base, simply email support@thunderlaserusa.com and the Technical Support Team will promptly assist you!