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LightBurn Bridge

The LightBurn Bridge was created by LightBurn to simplify Ethernet connections to Ruida controllers, especially for computers without Ethernet ports or where running a cable between the laser and computer is impractical. The LightBurn Bridge connects to your laser with an Ethernet cable and to your computer using Wi-Fi, and acts as a relay between the two. There are no drivers to install, and the Bridge typically sends data much faster than a USB connection.

LightBurn Bridge

Warning

LightBurn Bridge is intended to be an appliance. The software is thoroughly tested, but we do not support modifications to the hardware or firmware. If you alter the system to add functionality beyond what is covered here or in the LightBurn Bridge Guide, we will not be able to provide support.

Basic Setup

The steps below cover basic setup for the LightBurn Bridge. For additional help or more advanced configuration, please see the LightBurn Bridge Guide.

Hardware Setup

Before you can configure the Bridge in LightBurn, you will need to connect the hardware and set the appropriate IP address on your Ruida controller:

  • Use the Ruida control panel on your laser to set the IP address to 10.0.3.3.
  • Use an Ethernet cable to connect the Bridge to the laser's Ethernet port.
  • Power up the Bridge with its power adapter.

Ethernet on macOS 15+

If you're using macOS 15 or higher, you'll need to allow LightBurn access to the local network.

Add Device to LightBurn

In LightBurn's Devices window, click LightBurn Bridge to open up the Bridge Discovery Wizard, which will walk you through connecting LightBurn to the Bridge. If you need to go back later, you can double-click the laser in the Devices window to re-open the wizard and change the LightBurn Bridge configuration, or you can adjust your device's configuration from Device Settings, just as if you were connecting directly to the laser.

Troubleshooting

  • If you're not sure which corner to use for the origin, power on your laser. The corner the head goes to is your origin.
  • The LightBurn Bridge is only for use with Ruida controllers. Other lasers will not work with it.

For more help using LightBurn, please visit our forum to talk with LightBurn staff and users, or email support.