Solving Laser Start/Stop Lines on Inside Shapes: Q&A Guide

Laser engraving can get tricky when you’re dialing in settings for complex shapes. One common problem users encounter is dark lines at start/stop points on inside shapes or text, even when outer perimeters are perfectly aligned. We’ve compiled a detailed Q&A to help you troubleshoot this issue.

Machine used in testing: High Speed 30W Galvo CO2 Laser Engraving Machine

Q1: I almost have my settings dialed in, but inside shapes and text are getting dark lines where the laser starts/stops for the next shape. How can I adjust this?

Answer:

Many users first check timing offsets, but these adjustments usually only affect the outer perimeter. For inside shapes, the problem may not be a setting in your software—it could be related to your drivers or device configuration.

Q2: What did you do to finally solve the problem?

Answer:

• Uninstalled and reinstalled the EZCad drivers.
• Redid the initial test using the same settings.
• Result: The dark lines on inside shapes disappeared.

Crazy, but sometimes the issue isn’t your settings—it’s a corrupted driver or device configuration that affects only certain fill patterns.

Q3: In LightBurn, which settings typically cause black edge lines?

Answer:

• If your Fill Settings are correct and you still see dark lines, it’s usually a driver or device corruption issue rather than a LightBurn configuration.
• Reinstalling or updating drivers often resolves the problem.

Q4: Any testing tips for these issues?

• Run a small test job with business cards or scrap material.
• Focus on inside shapes and text to see if start/stop lines appear.
• Compare results before and after driver reinstall to isolate the cause.

Takeaways

1. Outer perimeter adjustments (timing/offset) won’t affect inside shapes.
2. Driver corruption can create unexplained start/stop lines.
3. Always test with small jobs before committing to full production.
4. Reinstalling EZCad drivers or checking LightBurn fill settings often fixes the issue.