How to Update the Firmware on Ray5 mini/miniS

Keeping the firmware updated is important for maintaining stable performance and reliable operation of your LONGER Ray5 mini and Ray5 miniS laser engravers.

Firmware updates can improve device compatibility, fix known issues, and optimize communication between the machine and software. This guide explains two official firmware update methods:

Update firmware through ESPTool Web
Update firmware through LaserBurn APP

Follow each step carefully to complete the firmware update safely and avoid common update problems.

Quick Answer

To update firmware on the LONGER Ray5 mini or Ray5 miniS:

Download the correct firmware file for your machine model.
Connect the laser engraver to your computer.
Choose one of the following update methods:

Method 1: ESPTool Web

Set baud rate to 115200
Connect to the CH340 serial port
Click Erase Flash
Set Flash address to 0x0
Select the firmware file
Click Program

Method 2: LaserBurn APP

Open: Me → About → Firmware Update → RAY5 mini

Follow the official update steps and wait until the process is complete.

Why Firmware Updates Matter

Firmware controls how your laser engraver operates. Updating the firmware can help:

Improve machine stability
Fix connection issues
Improve compatibility with software
Resolve operational bugs
Restore functionality after firmware corruption
Improve Wi-Fi or USB communication

In some cases, outdated firmware may cause:

Freezing during startup
Connection failures in LightBurn
Unexpected reboots
“Busy/Paused” communication errors

Updating firmware correctly can often solve these problems.

Before You Start

Before updating the firmware, prepare the following:

Requirements

LONGER Ray5 mini or Ray5 miniS laser engraver
Computer with USB connection
Stable internet connection
Correct firmware file
Browser for ESPTool Web method
LaserBurn APP for APP update method

You may also need: CH340 driver installed, USB Type-C data cable.

Important Precautions

Use the Correct Firmware File

Different Ray5 mini and Ray5 miniS versions require different firmware files. Examples:

Ray5 miniS_2.5w-v0.5.0
Ray5 miniS_3.5w-v0.5.0
Ray5 miniS_5.5w-v0.5.0
Ray5 miniS_10w-v0.5.0

Using an incorrect firmware file may cause startup or connection problems. Always confirm your machine model before updating.

Keep the Connection Stable

During firmware flashing:

Do not disconnect the USB cable.
Do not turn off the machine.
Do not close the update software.

An interrupted update may cause firmware installation failure.

Firmware Update Method 1: ESPTool Web

ESPTool Web is the official browser-based firmware update method.

Step 1: Open ESPTool Web

Open ESPTool Web in your browser.
Expected result: The ESPTool Web interface appears and allows serial connection.

Notes:

Use a compatible browser.
Connect the laser engraver before continuing.

Step 2: Connect CH340 Serial Port

Settings: Baud rate: 115200, Serial port: CH340
Expected result: The computer communicates with the laser engraver.

If the CH340 port does not appear:

Check the USB cable.
Install or update the CH340 driver.
Check the COM port in Device Manager.

Step 3: Erase Flash

Click: Erase Flash. This removes the existing firmware data before installing the new firmware.

Step 4: Set Flash Address

Enter: 0x0. Do not change this value.

Step 5: Select Firmware File

Select the firmware file that matches your Ray5 mini or Ray5 miniS model. Make sure the firmware version is correct before continuing.

Step 6: Program Firmware

Click: Program. During the update:

Keep the USB connection stable.
Do not disconnect power.
Wait until the process finishes.

Firmware Update Method 2: LaserBurn APP

LaserBurn APP provides another official firmware update method.

Step 1: Connect the Machine

Connect your Ray5 mini or Ray5 miniS to the LaserBurn APP. Make sure the connection is stable.

Step 2: Open Firmware Update Menu

Go to: Me → About → Firmware Update → RAY5 mini. The firmware update page will open.

Step 3: Start Firmware Update

Follow the APP instructions to begin the upgrade. During the update:

Do not close the APP.
Keep the machine connected.

Wait until the update is completed.

Common Problems and Solutions

Problem	Possible Cause	Solution
CH340 port not detected	Driver missing	Install CH340 driver
Firmware update fails	Incorrect firmware file	Use firmware matching your exact model
Machine stuck on LONGER logo	Firmware corruption	Re-flash firmware using ESPTool Web
LightBurn shows Busy/Paused	Communication settings issue	Verify baud rate `115200` and enable DTR
Screen remains blank after flashing	Incomplete firmware process	Follow official firmware recovery instructions
Cannot connect through USB	Faulty cable or COM port issue	Try another USB data cable and port
Flash process stops midway	Unstable connection	Avoid disconnecting cable or power

Tips for Better Results

Use a high-quality USB data cable
Keep your computer connected to stable power
Close LightBurn and other serial-port software during flashing
Verify the firmware file before starting
Wait patiently for the update to complete
Restart the engraver after firmware installation

If your machine behaves abnormally after updating: Follow official machine specifications or instructions.

FAQ

1. Does firmware updating erase my engraving files?

The official instructions focus only on firmware flashing. Follow official machine specifications or instructions.

2. Why is my Ray5 mini stuck on the LONGER logo?

This can happen if firmware becomes corrupted or incomplete during flashing. Re-flashing the firmware using the official ESPTool Web method may help.

3. Do I need to erase flash before programming?

Yes. The official procedure instructs users to click: Erase Flash.
before programming the firmware.

4. Can I update firmware through the LaserBurn APP?

Yes. The official menu path is: Me → About → Firmware Update → RAY5 mini

Where can I download official firmware files?

Official firmware downloads are available on the LONGER download pages.

What should I do if the update fails?

Recheck the firmware file
Verify CH340 driver installation
Confirm the correct COM port
Repeat the official flashing steps carefully

If issues continue: Follow official machine specifications or instructions.

Final Thoughts

Updating firmware on the LONGER Ray5 mini and Ray5 miniS laser engravers is simple when the correct firmware file and update steps are used.

Whether you choose ESPTool Web or LaserBurn APP, keeping a stable connection and following the official flashing sequence are the keys to a successful update.

A proper firmware update helps maintain reliable machine performance and a smoother engraving experience.