Understanding the ins and outs of the laser module and positioning mode is crucial for achieving precise results in your projects. One such aspect that is often overlooked yet profoundly influential is the 'Laser Offset'. In this article, we will dive into the concept of laser offset, explain how it impacts your engraving or cutting process, and guide you on how to adjust it for more accurate positioning.

Related content: Difference Between Red Cross and Laser Spot, and how to switch mode in XCS

What's Laser Offset?

The distance between the Laser Spot outlet and the Red Cross outlet is called the laser (crosshair) offset. Due to the offset, the laser module will move left and up slightly before the actual processing starts. This makes sure the cross center will be the starting point of the job.

To get a more accurate position, you need to adjust the X/Y offset value.

Set the Laser Offset in XCS

Step 1: Draw crosshairs on the material and place it under the laser beam, with the intersection points aligned.

Step 2: Insert a rectangle on XCS and set the processing mode to score, then click Process, Start.

Step 3:

Compare the starting point of processing and the initial intersection point you draw. The intersection point you draw is the origin, and the actual starting point is in a relative position.

The X axis offset value moves from the point of origin to the right for positive values and to the left for negative values.

The Y axis offset value moves from the point of origin to the bottom for positive values and to the top for negative values.

*Remember to measure the offset distance manually before setting the offset value.

See example below:

Set the Laser Offset in Lightburn

  If you're using Lightburn, you'll need to enter the offset value manually. Here's how to do it:

1.  Connect to the device and launch Lightburn.
2.  Go to Device Settings -> Laser Offset -> Enable Pointer Offset.
3.  Enter the correct value according to your machine and laser module.

For D1 and D1 Pro with a 5W, 10W, or 20W laser module, the offset should be X -16mm

For D1 Pro with a 40W laser module. The offset should be Y -21mm.