RDWorks software can be used not only for preparing laser cutting and engraving files, but also for controlling basic machine movements and job output. From moving the laser head to downloading files, these software controls help users manage daily laser machine operation more efficiently.

In this guide, we’ll walk through how to control a Thunder Laser machine from RDWorks, including axis movement, offset settings, speed control, laser power, autofocus, frame tracking, and file output.

1. Basic RDWorks Machine Controls

The basic control functions in RDWorks allow users to move the laser head, reset axes, set movement distance, and adjust motion speed. These controls are useful when positioning the laser head, preparing materials, or checking the machine before output.

1.1 Moving the Laser Head

In RDWorks, you can use the X and Y direction buttons to move the laser head across the work area. The X+/X- buttons move the laser head left and right, while the Y+/Y- buttons move it forward and backward.

You can also use Z+/Z- to move the Z-axis up or down. This is helpful when adjusting the table height or preparing the material position before focusing.

1.2 Resetting the Axes

RDWorks includes Home controls for resetting the machine axes. You can click the Home button to reset the X and Y axes, and you can also use the Home function to reset the Z axis when needed.

1.3 Setting the Offset

The Offset value determines how far the axis moves each time you click a directional button. For example, if the offset is set to a larger value, each click will move the laser head or Z-axis farther.

The offset should be smaller than the maximum travel length of the axis. For example, if the Z-axis maximum travel length is 170 mm, the offset should be set to less than 170 mm.

1.4 Setting the Movement Speed

The Speed setting controls how fast the axis moves when you use the software movement buttons. A suitable speed makes positioning smoother and safer.

For the Z-axis, set the speed below 10 mm/s because the Z-axis has a more limited movement capacity than the X and Y axes.

1.5 Setting Laser Power During Movement

The Power setting adjusts the maximum laser beam power used when moving the axis. This function works only when the “If light” option is selected.

Use this setting carefully. Make sure the material and work area are safe before enabling any laser output during movement.

2. Advanced Controls in RDWorks

RDWorks also includes advanced control functions that help with positioning and focusing. These tools are useful when you need more accurate control over the machine position before running a job.

2.1 Move from Origin

The Move from Origin function moves the laser head to the machine zero position first, then moves it to the specified offset position.

For example, if you want to move the laser head to X=100 and Y=200, set the Offset to 100 and click X+. Then set the Offset to 200 and click Y+.

2.2 Auto Focus

The Focus button can be used to automatically adjust the work table to the correct focus distance. When this function is used, the table moves until it touches the auto-focus sensor.

3. Job Controls in RDWorks

After the design is prepared and the machine position is confirmed, RDWorks can help start, pause, continue, stop, frame, and output the job. These controls are important for managing daily laser cutting and engraving work.

3.1 Starting and Managing Jobs

Click Start to begin the laser cutting or engraving job. During operation, you can use Pause/Continue to pause or resume the job. If you need to cancel the current job, click Stop.

3.2 Frame Tracking

Frame tracking helps you check the output area before cutting or engraving. Click Go scale to let the laser head trace the frame of the object.

You can also click Cut scale to cut the frame of the object. When using this function, set the proper speed and cutting power in the dialog box.

3.3 Saving, Loading, and Downloading Files

RDWorks provides several ways to save and output files. Click SaveToUFile to save the current job as an .rd file. This file can then be loaded directly from a USB drive.

Use UFileOutput to load an .rd file from your computer or USB drive. Click Download to send the current design to your laser cutter. You can name the file before sending it to the machine.

4. Quick RDWorks Control Checklist

Before using RDWorks to control your laser machine, review the key steps below to make sure the operation is safe and accurate.

5. Final Thoughts

RDWorks gives users practical control over the laser machine from the software interface. By learning how to move axes, set offsets, adjust speed, use autofocus, manage jobs, and output files, users can prepare and run laser projects more efficiently.

For best results, check the machine position, focus, job frame, and file output settings before starting production. These small steps can help improve workflow accuracy and reduce mistakes during laser cutting and engraving.