Using LightBurn Camera for Precise Positioning on the Ray5

A LightBurn-compatible overhead camera lets you see exactly where your design will cut on the material, eliminating test burns and wasted material.

Hardware Required

• LightBurn Camera (sold separately, several focal lengths available)
• USB extension cable if needed
• Camera mount above the laser work area

Camera Selection

LightBurn cameras come in different angles. For the Ray5's 400×400mm work area:

• Mount height ~400mm → use 90° camera
• Mount height ~600mm → use 120° camera

Match the camera angle to your mounting height.

Calibration Process

This takes 10–15 minutes the first time:

Step 1 — Lens Calibration

1. Print the LightBurn lens calibration circles page
2. Edit → Machine Settings → Camera → Lens Calibration
3. Hold printed circles in front of camera, rotate through positions
4. Captures lens distortion data

Step 2 — Alignment Calibration

1. Place the 4-dot alignment card in the work area
2. Burn the 4 alignment dots from LightBurn
3. Camera Alignment wizard: click on each burned dot in the camera overlay
4. LightBurn maps camera space to laser space

Using the Camera for Placement

1. Physically place your material in the work area
2. In LightBurn: Window → Camera Control → capture current view
3. The camera overlay shows your actual material
4. Drag your design on top of the camera image — place exactly where desired
5. Run the job — it cuts exactly where you positioned it

Accuracy

Properly calibrated: ±1–3mm accuracy. For most engraving work this is sufficient.

Practical Uses

• Engrave logos precisely on coasters or plaques
• Cut around existing features on partially cut material
• Center text perfectly on pre-cut blanks
• Avoid knots or defects in wood