Focus Test
Generate a labeled Z-height sweep for an active GRBL profile that supports Z moves.
The Focus Test generates horizontal lines at evenly spaced Z offsets. Each line is labeled Z±n.nn so you can compare the physical result and record the best height for a specific machine, lens, and material setup.
When it opens
Menu: Laser Tools → Focus Test.... The dialog uses the shared Quality Test Shell.
Compatibility and gates
- Preview requires a valid project context. In Material reference mode, the project must have a Material Height.
- Live Frame and Start require an active machine profile with supports Z moves enabled and a GRBL connection.
- Manual-only Z machines and DSP or galvo connections cannot run the automatic live sweep.
Fields
| Field | Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Z min | current Display Unit | First tested Z offset. |
| Z max | current Display Unit | Last tested Z offset. |
| Speed | current Display Unit and Speed Time Unit, minimum equivalent of 1 mm/min | Speed for the sample lines. |
| Power | %, 0–100 | Power for the sample lines. |
| Samples | integer, 1–50 | Number of intervals. The generator creates Samples + 1 lines; the default 9 creates 10 lines. |
| Z Reference | select | Material (AbsoluteWorkCoord) or Current Z (RelativeTemporary). |
| Line Length | current Display Unit, minimum equivalent of 1 mm | Length of each sample line. |
| Step Spacing | current Display Unit, minimum equivalent of 1 mm | Spacing between neighboring lines. |
| Perforated Labels | toggle | Makes the Z±n.nn label strokes perforated. It does not create tick labels. |
| Material Height | current Display Unit | Shown in Material mode and stored on the project. Required for output in that mode. |
Actions
The Quality Test Shell provides Close, Preview, Frame, Start, and Save G-code. During a live test, Start changes to Pause or Resume, with Stop beside it.
Workflow
- Use manufacturer guidance or an earlier safe test to choose a narrow Z bracket, speed, and power for scrap.
- Select the correct Z reference and provide Material Height when required.
- Click Preview and check the generated geometry.
- Secure the scrap and click Frame to verify the live footprint.
- Click Start and supervise the entire test.
- Compare the labels and record the best result through the machine's normal focusing procedure or profile Notes.
Beam Bench does not automatically store or apply the winning focus offset.