Thunder Laser Nova Series: Focal Ramp Test
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Learn how to perform a focal ramp test on the Thunder Laser Nova series to find the perfect focal point for fine cutting, inlays, and photo engraving.
Lenses, Usage and Ramp Test
Focal Ramp Test
Finding the perfect focal point (smallest dot size) can be difficult. Many lenses have a threshold or manufacturing tolerance that can vary up to 2-3mm.
Take a standard 2" lens for example, it's possible that this lens's "perfect" focal point is between 4-6mm. For most people this variable goes unnoticed.
Typical engraving of vectors and normal cutting will not show this disparity. But when we start pushing our laser to the limit with fine cutting, inlays and photos every dot or the smallest dot can drastically change your result. Check out the videos and photos below that better detail this process and how to fine tune your focal distance.
Image below was sourced from Lightburn's user forum.
This video by Maverick CNC is an excellent depiction of the ramp test. One thing to note, on the Thunder Nova/Odin we can use the right/left move arrows on the controller with the pulse button, meaning no need to design a file in Lightburn.
Here is a video by one of our users who, after testing, found great results!
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