How to Swap a GCode License to DSP for Lightburn

How to Swap a GCode License to DSP for Lightburn

Preface: This article covers how to check if you have a DSP License installed and how to swap from a GCode License to a DSP License

Note that there are changes coming to the Lightburn License Structure that will go into effect Oct 1, 2024 which will make some of the information in this article moot. Please read about it here.


Before you deactivate your license, be sure to sign up/into the Lightburn portal to confirm your current license, Deactivations and Activations ability. More on that here.

Quickstart Video:




Complete Guide:


Most Common Symptoms that you only have a Gcode License Activated:


1. Ruida controllers not shown as an option the Device List

Ruida Controller Option Missing
Ruida should be here if you have an active DSP License



2.License Doesn't show DSP



3. Importing LBDEV File, No Device Imports

If you are using the "Easy" Button import, but the device does not actually import then you likely do not have the proper license





How to Swap a Gcode License to a DSP License:


Locate your DSP license key that was sent to you by Thunder Laser USA for applicable machine purchases.

If you  plan to upgrade your current Gcode key to DSP on Lightburn's site directly, you can do that as well and skip these steps since you do not have a new key to enter.


1.  Open up Lightburn

Double Click the Lightburn Icon
Let Lightburn Load




2.  Go to Edit> License Management



3. Deactivate existing key (Lightburn will close)


Click the "Deactivate License"
Click "Ok" to let Lightburn Close


4. Open Ligthburn back up. Enter new DSP Key and Activate

Open Lightburn Back up
Enter your new DSP key and Click Activate



5. Check for DSP License




Now that you have your DSP key entered, proceed with setting up your new laser device


Reference Information:


    • Related Articles

    • The Lightburn License - Everything you need to know about it

      Note that there are changes coming to the Lightburn License Structure that will go into effect Oct 1, 2024 which will make some of the information in this article moot. Please read about it here. Lightburn License Overview: New Thunder Laser NOVA and ...

    • LightBurn For Galvo Crash Course

      The wait is over on June 30th Galvo Support for EzCad 2 and EzCad 2 Lite devices come with the LightBurn Software 1.2 release. On top of Galvo support, 1.2 comes with a number of new features including: Sub-Layers Device Linked Libraries Head-Mounted ...

    • LightBurn Software

      CLICK HERE to Download LightBurn LightBurn is layout, editing, and control software for your laser cutter. With LightBurn you can: - Import artwork in a variety of common vector graphic and image formats (including AI, PDF, SVG, DXF, PLT, PNG, JPG, ...

    • Replacing the DSP Controller

      Preface: This guide will walk you through the physical replacement of the controller. Be sure to read it completely and understand that the machine will not react like normal until the controller is configured correctly. If you attempt to use ...

    • Head Mounted LightBurn Camera

      Please note that all of the data below was on an older version and we are in the process of updating as we test the head cam functions. All info below is considered legacy beta data. We are leaving it here for reference. There is no timeline on ...
    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!