How to import configuration files in LightBurn

Importing the correct configuration file is an important step when setting up your laser engraver in LightBurn. The correct .lbdev file allows the software to recognize your machine and apply the proper device settings.

This guide explains how to import a configuration file using the official LONGER method. You'll also learn how to verify that the import was successful, set the recommended speed unit, and solve common setup problems.

The steps in this tutorial apply to LONGER laser engravers that use official .lbdev configuration files.

Quick Answer

To import configuration files in LightBurn:

1. Download the correct .lbdev file for your machine
2. Open LightBurn
3. Click Devices in the Laser control module
4. Click Import
5. Select the .lbdev file
6. Click OK
7. Confirm the machine appears in the Devices list

After importing, the macro commands should appear in the Console window, and the engraver should be listed under Devices.

Why This Process Matters

A LightBurn configuration file contains preset device information for your laser engraver. Importing the correct file helps ensure:

• Proper communication between LightBurn and the machine
• Correct work area dimensions
• Compatible controller settings
• Proper macro setup
• Easier first-time configuration

Without the correct configuration file, LightBurn may fail to communicate with the laser engraver correctly or may use incorrect machine parameters. Community discussions also show that missing or incorrect .lbdev files can lead to setup problems and inaccurate machine behavior.

Before You Start

Requirements

Before importing configuration files in LightBurn, prepare the following:

• A computer with LightBurn installed
• Your LONGER laser engraver
• The correct .lbdev configuration file
• USB connection or other supported connection method
• Administrator permissions if required by your operating system

For Ray5 miniS devices, LONGER states that the configuration file can be downloaded from the official firmware download page.

You can download official software and firmware resources from: LONGER Download Center

Precautions

Before starting, keep these important notes in mind:

• Use the correct .lbdev file for your exact machine model
• Do not import configuration files intended for different engravers
• Avoid modifying official configuration files unless instructed
• Close other laser control software before connecting to LightBurn
• Follow official machine specifications or instructions

Some manufacturers specifically warn users not to use “Import Preferences” instead of importing the device configuration file, because it may overwrite existing LightBurn settings. 

Step 1: Download the Configuration File

Action

Download the correct .lbdev configuration file for your laser engraver model. Examples include:

• Ray5 miniS.lbdev
• Nano.lbdev

LONGER provides these files through its official download resources.

Expected Result

The .lbdev file should be saved to your computer and ready for import.

Important Notes

• Make sure the file name matches your machine model
• Keep the file in an easy-to-find folder such as Downloads or Desktop
• Do not rename the file unless officially instructed

Step 2: Open LightBurn

Action

Launch LightBurn on your computer.

When starting LightBurn for the first time, the New Device Wizard should appear automatically.

Expected Result

You should see either:

• The New Device Wizard window, or
• The main LightBurn workspace

Important Notes

If the New Device Wizard does not appear automatically, you can still import the device manually in the next step.

Step 3: Import the Configuration File

Action

If the New Device Wizard does not appear:

1. Click Devices in the laser control module
2. Click Import
3. Select the .lbdev configuration file
4. Click OK

Expected Result

LightBurn should add the laser engraver to the device list.

Important Notes

• Select the correct configuration file
• Import each device file individually if multiple files are provided
• Wait for the import process to finish before closing the window

Some manufacturers also recommend ensuring that other laser software is fully closed before connecting the device to LightBurn.

Step 4: Confirm Successful Import

Action

Check the following areas in LightBurn after importing:

• The Console window
• The Devices list in the Laser window

Expected Result

According to LONGER:

• Macro commands should appear in the Console window
• Your machine should appear under Devices

For example:

• Nano series devices
• Ray5 miniS devices

Important Notes

If the device does not appear:

• Restart LightBurn
• Re-import the .lbdev file
• Verify that the correct file was selected

Step 5: Set the Speed Unit to mm/min

Action

After adding the device:

1. Go to Edit in the taskbar
2. Select Settings
3. Choose mm/min as the unit
4. Click OK

This is the recommended setting from LONGER after importing the device.

Expected Result

LightBurn should now display speed values using millimeters per minute.

Important Notes

Using the recommended speed unit helps maintain consistency with official machine settings and tutorials.

Common Problems and Solutions

Community reports also mention that incorrect LightBurn configuration can cause machine behavior issues such as inaccurate cutting or connection failures. 

Tips for Better Results

• Always use official configuration files from the manufacturer
• Keep LightBurn updated to the latest supported version
• Label downloaded configuration files clearly
• Backup your LightBurn settings before major changes
• Use official firmware versions when possible
• Restart LightBurn after importing new devices
• Check COM port settings if the machine fails to connect
• Follow official machine specifications or instructions

According to the LightBurn documentation, device and preference management tools are available under the File and Devices menus.

FAQ

1. What is a LightBurn configuration file?

A LightBurn configuration file is a .lbdev file that contains device settings for a laser engraver. It helps LightBurn communicate correctly with the machine.

2. Where can I download the .lbdev file?

LONGER provides official configuration files through its firmware and download pages. Always use official files for your machine model.

3. What happens if I import the wrong configuration file?

The machine may use incorrect dimensions or settings, and communication problems may occur. Re-import the correct file for your model.

4. Why doesn’t the New Device Wizard appear?

The wizard usually appears on first launch. If it does not appear, manually add the device by clicking Devices and then Import.

5. Should I use “Import Preferences” in LightBurn?

Some manufacturers warn against using “Import Preferences” when adding a machine because it may overwrite existing settings. Import the .lbdev device file instead.

6. Why are macros important after importing?

Macros indicate that the configuration imported correctly and that the device profile includes predefined machine commands.

7. What unit should I use in LightBurn?

LONGER recommends setting the speed unit to mm/min after importing the device.

8. Can I use the same configuration file for different LONGER machines?

No. Use the configuration file designed specifically for your machine model.

Final Thoughts

Importing the correct .lbdev file is an important part of setting up your laser engraver in LightBurn. It helps ensure the software uses the correct device settings and communicates properly with your machine.

After importing the configuration file, confirm that the device appears in the Devices list. Check that the macro commands are shown in the Console window. Then set the speed unit to mm/min as recommended by LONGER.

Using the correct configuration file can help avoid common setup problems and make the engraving process smoother. Always use the official .lbdev file for your machine model and follow the manufacturer's setup instructions.