How to Use LaserGRBL with the Ray5 Mini: Laser Engraving Setup and Settings

LaserGRBL is one of the most popular free software programs for GRBL-based laser engravers. It provides an easy way to import designs, adjust engraving parameters, and control your machine.

In this guide, you'll learn how to connect the Ray5 Mini to LaserGRBL, create an engraving project, and configure the basic settings for accurate laser engraving.

1. Connect the Ray5 Mini to LaserGRBL

Before starting your engraving project, connect your Ray5 Mini to your computer with a USB cable and launch LaserGRBL.

For Windows:

Right-click This PC and select Manage.
Open Device Manager.
Expand Ports (COM & LPT).
Locate the CH340 USB serial driver and note the assigned COM port.
In LaserGRBL, select the same COM port.
Set the baud rate to 115200.
Click Connect.

Expand the Ports (COM & LPT) section to locate the CH340 driver

If the connection is successful, the GRBL firmware will display a welcome message with the firmware version. The lower-right corner of LaserGRBL will also show Status: Idle, indicating that the machine is ready.

For macOS:

Open About This Mac.
Select Overview > System Report.
Under Hardware, click USB.
If the driver is installed automatically, you will see USB Serial listed among the connected devices.

If No COM Port Appears:

If no COM port is available in LaserGRBL, the software cannot detect the engraver. Common causes include:

The USB cable is not connected properly.
The Ray5 Mini is powered off.
The CH340 driver is not installed.

To install the driver, go to Tools > Install CH340 Driver in LaserGRBL.

2. Create an Engraving Project in LaserGRBL

After the Ray5 Mini is connected successfully, you can create your engraving project.

Click File > Open File.
Import the image or design you want to engrave.
Set the engraving quality to 10 lines/mm.
Click Next.
Set the engraving speed and laser power according to the recommended parameters for your material.

Make sure to select M4 – Dynamic Power Mode for laser operation.

💡 Tip: The S-MAX value should be 10 times the target laser power.

For 100% laser power, set S-MAX = 1000
For 60% power, set S-MAX = 600

Next, resize your image to fit the desired engraving area. If the design extends beyond the workspace, you can fine-tune its position using XY offset adjustments.

Quality and Next Dynamic Power Size and Offset

After importing the file and configuring parameters, use the focusing block to set the correct laser focus distance on the Ray5 Mini. Then, click the Frame button to confirm the engraving position on your material. Finally, press Start to begin the engraving process.

Additional Tips for Stable Engraving

Always check that your engraving surface is level and clean before starting.
Ensure the laser module lens is free of dust or debris for consistent output.
Save your preferred engraving profiles in LaserGRBL for faster setup in future projects.

Conclusion

LaserGRBL makes it easy to control the Ray5 Mini for laser engraving. After connecting the machine, importing your design, setting the correct parameters, and adjusting the focus, you can start engraving with confidence.

Whether you're creating DIY projects, producing small batches, or testing different materials, following these basic steps will help you achieve stable and accurate engraving results.

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