How to Use Candle with Lunyee 3020 Nova CNC Router: Complete Beginner Guide

Candle is a free GRBL-based CNC controller software that allows you to connect and control your CNC router from a computer. It supports G-code loading, toolpath preview, coordinate setup, and real-time machining monitoring, providing a simple workflow for CNC operations.

For the Lunyee 3020 Nova CNC router, Candle makes it easy to turn CAD/CAM designs into finished projects. After generating G-code with software such as Fusion 360, Carveco, Easel, or other CNC design programs, users can use Candle to connect the machine, set machining coordinates, calibrate the tool, and start engraving.

This guide is specifically created for Lunyee 3020 Nova users and covers the complete Candle setup process, including CH340 driver installation, machine connection, interface functions, work origin setting, tool length calibration, and the steps to complete your first CNC engraving project.

 

 

1. Install the CH340 Driver

Before connecting your CNC router to Candle, Windows needs the correct USB driver to recognize the machine.

Most GRBL CNC controllers use a CH340 USB-to-Serial chip. Without the driver, the computer may not detect the CNC router or assign a COM port.

1.1 Download and Install the Driver

1. Download the CH340 driver from the included USB flash drive.

2. Double-click the driver installation file.

3. Click INSTALL.

4. Wait until the message "Driver Install Success" appears.

After installation is complete, restart your computer if necessary.

 

 

1.2 Check the CNC Router COM Port

After installing the driver:

1. Connect the CNC router to your computer using the USB cable.

2. Open Device Manager.

Different Windows versions:

Windows XP: My Computer → Manage → Device Manager

Windows 7: Computer → Manage → Device Manager

Windows 10/11: This PC → Manage → Device Manager

3. Expand: Ports (COM & LPT)

You should see a device similar to: USB-SERIAL CH340 (COM6)

The COM number may be different depending on your computer.

4. If multiple USB serial ports exist, right-click each one and check the Manufacturer; your machine should be CH340.

 

 

2. Candle Interface Overview

After opening Candle, you will see the main control interface of the CNC router. The interface contains several important areas, including the 3D preview window, coordinate display, machine status, operation buttons, manual control panel, G-code loading area, and command input box.

 

2.1 3D Preview Window

The 3D preview window displays the toolpath generated from the loaded G-code file.

You can use this window to:

Preview the machining pattern before cutting.

Check the shape and size of the design.

Rotate the view by holding the left mouse button and moving the mouse.

Zoom in or out by scrolling the mouse wheel.

2.2 Pattern Size Display

The pattern size area shows the size information of the loaded G-code pattern.

It helps you check the approximate machining dimensions before starting the job.

2.3 Coordinate Display

The coordinate display shows the current position of the CNC router.

It includes:

Work coordinates: The position relative to the current work origin.

Machine coordinates: The position relative to the machine coordinate system.

2.4 Status Display

The status display shows the current machine condition.

Common status messages include:

Idle: The machine is ready for operation.

Run: The machine is currently machining.

Hold: The machining process is temporarily paused.

Alarm: The machine requires attention.

2.5 Common Operation Buttons

The common operation buttons provide quick access to frequently used functions.

The mouse icon displayed above each button indicates its specific function.

These buttons are used for operations such as:

 View adjustment.

 Coordinate setting.

 Machine control.

 Reset and unlock functions.

2.6 Spindle Control

The spindle control area in Candle is designed for CNC routers that support software spindle control.

For the Lunyee 3020 Nova CNC router, the spindle (router) is controlled manually. The router must be turned ON/OFF using the physical switch on the router, and the spindle speed is adjusted through the manual speed control knob.

The router speed can be adjusted from 1 to 6 levels according to different materials and cutting requirements.

Candle does not control the router start/stop function or adjust the spindle speed. Before starting machining, manually turn on the router and select the appropriate speed level based on the material, cutting tool, and machining operation.

2.7 Manual Operation Direction Buttons

The manual operation buttons allow you to move the CNC axes manually.

You can control:

 X-axis: Left and right movement.

 Y-axis: Forward and backward movement.

 Z-axis: Up and down movement.

These buttons are commonly used for:

 Positioning the cutting tool.

 Setting the work origin.

 Adjusting the machine position before machining.

2.8 Step and Feed Settings

The Step and Feed values control manual movement distance and speed.

Step: Determines how far the axis moves with each manual movement.

Example:

 Step value = 10

 The machine moves 10 mm each time.

Feed: Determines the movement speed.

Example:

Feed value = 2000

The movement speed is 2000 mm/min.

2.9 Open G-code File

Click Open to load a G-code file into Candle.

After loading, the toolpath will be displayed in the 3D preview window.

2.10 Send G-code File

After checking the toolpath and setting the work origin, click Send to start sending the G-code commands to the CNC controller.

The machine will begin machining according to the loaded program.

2.11 Command Input Box

The command input box allows you to manually enter GRBL commands.

It can be used for:

Checking machine information.

Sending specific GRBL commands.

Adjusting machine settings.

 

 

3. Connect Your CNC Router to Candle

3.1 Open Candle

Double-click the Candle software icon to launch the program.

 

3.2 Connect the Machine

1. Connect the USB cable between the CNC router and your computer.

2. Open: Service → Port

3. Select the correct COM port.

4. Set the baud rate to: 115200

5. Click OK.

 

3.3 Check Connection Status

After successful connection, the console should display: [CTRL+X] < Grbl 1.1f ['$' for help]

Click: Unlock

The machine is now ready for operation.

 

 

4. Troubleshooting Connection Problems

Problem 1: Machine Shows Alarm Status

If Candle displays:

Alarm

[MSG: Check Limits]

The limit switch may have been triggered.

Solutions:

1. Check whether any limit switch is physically pressed.

2. Release the switch manually.

3. Click Unlock in Candle.

If the problem continues, restart the machine and reconnect.

 

  

Problem 2: Connection Failed

If the console only displays: CTRL+X

and does not connect:

Check:

Is the emergency stop button pressed?

 Is the USB cable connected correctly?

 Is the correct COM port selected?

 Is the baud rate set to 115200?

If the emergency stop is pressed:

1. Rotate the emergency stop clockwise to release it.

2. Click Unlock.

 

 

5. Set the Work Origin Before Machining

Before starting any CNC job, you must set the work coordinate origin.

Candle uses the work origin as the starting point of your G-code.

5.1 Set XY Zero

1. Use the Jog buttons to move the cutting bit to the desired starting point.

2. Click: Zero XY

 

The current position becomes the X/Y machining origin.

5.2 Set Z Zero Manually

If you are not using a Z probe:

1. Slowly lower the tool until it reaches the material surface.

2. Place a piece of paper between the tool and material.

3. Adjust the Z height until the paper can move with slight resistance.

4. Click: Zero Z

 

The machine now recognizes the current tool height as the Z origin.

 

 

6. Load and Start Your First CNC Job

6.1 Open G-code File

1. Click the Open button.

2. Select your G-code file.

Supported files usually include:

 .nc

 .gcode

 .tap

Candle will automatically display the toolpath preview.

 

 

 

6.2 Check the Toolpath

Before machining:

Check:

 Cutting position.

 Machining size.

 Tool movement direction.

 Possible collisions.

Make sure the toolpath matches your design.

 

 

6.3 Start Engraving

After confirming everything:

1. Secure the workpiece firmly.

2. Install the correct cutting bit.

3. Set X/Y/Z zero positions.

4. Click: Send

 

The CNC router will begin machining.

Always monitor the machine during the first few minutes of operation.

 

 

7. Candle Function Guide

Function	Description
Home	Moves the machine to its mechanical origin. Only use on machines equipped with limit switches.
Probe	Automatically measures Z height using a touch probe.
XY Zero	Sets the current position as the X/Y work origin.
Z Zero	Manually sets the Z-axis origin.
Reset Origin	Returns to the saved work origin position.
Safe Height	Controls the height used for safe movement. Usually no adjustment is required.
Reset Motion	Stops current machine movement.
Unlock	Releases GRBL alarm status and allows operation.

 

 

8. Tool Length Calibration

If your CNC router uses a tool setter, you can automatically measure tool height.

Connect the machine and enter the following command:

G21 G91 G38.2 Z-50 F55;

G0 Z1;

G38.2 Z-2 F30;

G92 Z19.5;

G0 Z5 F10 M30;

 

The value: Z19.5

represents the thickness of the tool setter.

If you use a different tool setter thickness, modify this value accordingly.

After entering the command:

1. Click Z Probe.

2. Wait until calibration is complete.

3. Confirm the Z height before machining.

 

 

9. Safety Tips Before CNC Machining

Before every project:

✓ Secure the workpiece firmly.

✓ Check the cutting bit installation.

✓ Confirm X/Y/Z zero positions.

✓ Preview the G-code path.

✓ Keep the emergency stop accessible.

✓ Stay near the machine during operation.

Never leave a CNC router running unattended.

 

 

Conclusion

Candle provides a straightforward and efficient way to control the Lunyee 3020 Nova CNC router, making it easier for beginners to start CNC machining without complicated setup procedures. From installing the correct driver and establishing the machine connection to loading G-code, setting work coordinates, and monitoring the machining process, Candle creates a complete workflow for desktop CNC operation.

With the proper settings and safe operating practices, the Lunyee 3020 Nova CNC router combined with Candle software can handle a wide range of creative projects, including wood carving, acrylic engraving, PCB milling, and light metal machining. By mastering the basic functions covered in this guide, users can confidently transform digital designs into precise CNC creations and get the most out of their Lunyee 3020 Nova.