LUNYEE 3020 Nova CNC Router: Complete Easel Software Setup, Configuration, and Carving Guide

This guide explains how to install, configure, and use Easel software with the LUNYEE 3020 Nova CNC Router. It covers essential steps including driver installation, machine setup, software configuration, and your first carving workflow.

Whether you are a beginner setting up your CNC machine for the first time or an experienced user learning Easel, this guide will help you get started quickly and confidently operate your 3020 Nova for precise engraving projects.

 

 

Software Installation

Step 1: Install the Machine Driver (CH340SER)

1. If the driver is not available on your USB drive, download it here: CH340 Driver

 

2. Note for Mac Users:

l If your Mac runs Mojave OS or higher, do not install this driver, as macOS has native support for CH340.

l If you are using Sierra or High Sierra, please contact LUNYEE Technical Support for guidance.

3. If the driver installation fails:

l Click Uninstall, then select Install again.

Purpose: Installing the CH340 driver ensures stable and reliable communication between the CNC engraving machine (or controller) and your computer via the USB interface.

 

 

Step 2: Determine Your Machine’s COM Port (Windows Computers)

1. Open Device Manager:

l Windows XP: Right-click on My Computer, select Manage, then Device Manager.

l Windows 7: Click Start on the taskbar, right-click Computer, select Manage, then Device Manager.

l Windows 10: Type Device Manager in the search box on the taskbar, then select it from the menu.

 

2. Locate Your CNC Machine:

l In the Device Manager tree, expand Ports (COM & LPT).

l Your machine will appear as USB Serial Port (COMX), where X represents the COM number (e.g., COM3).

3. Verify the Manufacturer (if multiple USB ports exist):

l Right-click on each USB serial port and check the Manufacturer.

l Your CNC machine should display CH340.

Note: The machine must be connected to your computer for a COM port to be assigned.

 

 

Step 3: Login to Easel

We recommend using Easel, a web-based CNC application developed by Inventables for their X-Carve machines.

Easel is an intuitive online CNC (Computer Numerical Control) software for designing, creating, and controlling CNC engraving and cutting projects.

l It works well with the LUNYEE 3020 Nova.

l The software is free to use; the Pro version is optional and not required for most projects.

l Easel is powerful and easy to use for designing and carving your projects.

To login:

1. Go to easel.inventables.com.

2. Click the Sign in through Inventables button.

 

 

 

Step 4: Create Your Account in Easel

1. Click on the "Create New Account" option.

2. Enter your personal information.

3. When finished, click the orange Continue button.

 

Note: Inventables defaults all new accounts to a free 15-day trial of Easel Pro. After the trial, you can either continue with a paid Pro subscription or revert to a free Easel account.

 

 

Easel Interface Overview

Projects

The Projects section is where you manage your design files and creations within Easel.

l Create new projects or open existing ones.

l Organize your work by saving, copying, renaming, or deleting projects as needed.

l Provides quick access to your designs for easy editing.

 

Account

The Account section handles your user profile and settings.

l View and update your account information (name, email, password).

l Manage subscription plans, billing details, and connected devices.

l Gives you control over your Easel user account and preferences.

 

Options

The Options section allows you to customize your Easel experience.

l Configure workspace units, grid settings, snap options, and more.

l Adjust project-specific settings such as material thickness and machine configurations.

l Provides flexibility and control over how Easel operates.

 

Learning

The Learning section offers resources to improve your CNC and Easel skills.

l Access tutorials, guides, and educational content on CNC concepts, Easel features, and project techniques.

l Materials may include videos, articles, and interactive tutorials.

l Useful for both beginners learning CNC fundamentals and experienced users expanding their capabilities.

 

 

 

Software Settings

Step 1: Your First Project in Easel

1. In the Projects tab, select a document to start with (e.g., Intro to Easel or any Untitled project).

2. Name your project and add a description if desired.

 

 

 

Easel Sections Overview

Project

The Project section is where you create, save, and manage your projects.

l Start new projects or open existing ones.

l Name your projects and add descriptions.

l Save, load, copy, rename, or delete projects as needed for easy management

Note: This section allows you to access and organize your designs efficiently.

 

Edit

The Edit section contains tools for modifying and adjusting your designs.

l Select, move, resize, rotate, and delete elements such as shapes, text, and images.

l Precisely adjust position, size, and appearance to meet design expectations.

Tip: Using these tools ensures your projects remain accurate and visually correct.

 

Machine

The Machine section is used to configure and manage your CNC machine settings.

l Select your CNC device model.

l Set workspace size, tool diameter, cutting depth, and other parameters.

Reminder: Correct machine settings ensure Easel generates accurate cutting paths and commands for your CNC device.

 

Toolbox

The Toolbox section allows you to manage and select tools.

l Browse and choose end mills, engraving tools, and other tool types.

l Selecting the appropriate tool is crucial for successful CNC machining.

Important: Proper tool selection improves precision and efficiency during CNC operations.

 

Help

The Help section provides guidance and support for Easel users.

l Access user guides, tutorials, and FAQs.

l Find detailed explanations for features or troubleshooting issues.

Tip: Consult this section if you encounter difficulties or have questions while using Easel.

 

 

 

Step 2: Set Up a New Machine

1. Click on the Machine menu.

2. Select the blue Set up new machine button.

 

 

 

Step 3: Choose Your Machine

1. On the Choose your machine type screen, select the "LUNYEE" option. Then select the "other" option.

 

 

 

Step 4: Enter Your Machine Details

1. Select the corresponding options as shown in the reference image.

2. Click the blue Next button.

 

 

 

Step 5: Z-Probe Setup

 

 

 

Step 6: Motion Axes

l Make sure the XYZ switches can move normally, and be careful not to damage the limit switches.

 

Step 7: Test the Spindle

1. Select "Turn Spindle On".

2. Observe the spindle rotation (typically 5 seconds during testing).

3. If rotation is normal, click Next.

 

Step 8: Test Homing

 

Step 9: Probe Configuration

Follow the on-screen prompts to verify proper operation of the Z-Probe.

1. Connect the alligator clip to the spindle collet.

2. Bring the probe plate into contact with the collet and verify electrical continuity.

3. The status indicator will illuminate green when proper contact is established.

Note: Before proceeding, open the Advanced Settings menu to configure the Z-Probe parameters.

 

Step 10: New Project

l After completing the machine setup, additional configuration is required before running a test carve.

l You will then be prompted to start a new project. Click New Project to proceed.

l Continue to the next step.

 

Step 11: Verify Machine Settings (1/2)

l After starting a new project, click "Machine" from the top menu, then select "Edit Your Machine".

 

Step 12: Verify Machine Settings (2/2)

Confirm the following settings:

1. Work Area X: 300 mm

2. Work Area Y: 200 mm

3. Spindle Controlled By: Hardware

4. Spindle: Other

5. Default Spindle Speed: 30000

6. Check Z-Probe: Ensure the box is checked

 

Note: If you have additional accessories, ensure they are properly configured. Click Save when done. Your machine is now ready for a test carve.

 

 

Step 13: Test Your Wiring

Once the machine successfully connects, a set of controls for jogging the machine will appear. Use the directional arrows to jog each axis.

1. If the wiring is correct, each axis should move as expected.

l Press Yes for the X, Y, and Z axes to confirm.

l If the movement is incorrect, press No to swap the directions and correct the issue automatically.

2. If the machine does not respond or stops suddenly when using the arrows, it may have triggered a limit switch.

l Manually rotate the knob to return the affected axis to a safe position.

l Locate the machine's control panel and press the red Reset button.

l After the reset, repeat the jogging operation.

 

 

 

Step 14: Easel Driver (Windows)

l You will be prompted to download and install the Easel driver if it is not already installed.

l The driver allows Easel to communicate with your computer's USB port.

l If the window does not appear, download the driver manually: Easel Driver Versions.

l The driver will automatically download, typically saved in the Downloads folder.

 

 

 

Step 15: Install Easel Driver (Windows)

1. Open your Downloads folder and locate the file EaselDriver-0.#.##.exe.

2. Right-click the file and select Run as administrator.

3. Follow the installer prompts to complete the installation.

4. You may need to refresh your browser or restart your computer.

 

Note: On Windows 10, security settings may ask for confirmation. Click More Info → Run Anyway to proceed.

 

 

Start Your First Test Project

Step 1: Prepare the Material

l Find a wooden board with dimensions 63mm × 36mm × 5mm.

 

l Note:

1. Before engraving, place a spacer under the material to protect the work table from scratches.

2. Use the mini hold-down clamps included in the package to secure the material in place.

Step 2: Tool Installation

l Select the 1/8-inch, 30-degree engraving bit from the toolbox, as shown below.

l Insert the tool into the spindle and ensure it is properly secured before operation.

 

Step 3: Import G-Code

1. In Easel, select the project you want to work on.

2. Click Import G-Code.

3. Choose the toolpath file from the USB drive.

4. The specific shape of the pattern will then appear in the workspace.

 

Step 4: Start Carving

l Click to start carving.

 

Step 5: Z-Probe Advanced Settings

l Complete the Z-Probe Advanced Settings as instructed.

 

Note: Before defining the XY origin in Step 11, position the X and Y axes at the bottom-left corner of the workpiece and ensure sufficient clearance to safely perform the engraving operation.

 

 

FAQ

Q1: Why can't the computer connect to the machine?

A1: Open the Device Manager on your computer and check the COM port.

l If the connection is successful, CH340 will be displayed.

l If not, try replacing the USB interface or data cable.

 

 

Q2: Why does the machine only run for a short time, then stop and the software reports an error?

A2: Check whether the E-stop button was accidentally pressed.

l If so, rotate and pull up the E-stop button to reset it.

l Then unlock the E-stop through the software.

 

 

Q3: Why does the machine suddenly stop during operation, with all axes locked and the spindle not rotating?

A3: This may occur if one of the three axes hits the limit switch.

l When this happens, the machine is locked and cannot perform any operations.

l Manually rotate the knob to move the affected axis away from the limit switch.

l Then unlock it in the software or press and hold the red reset button behind the control board.

 

 

Q4: Why does an axis make a buzzing sound and move with difficulty?

A4: This issue may be caused by the lead screw being bent or compressed during transportation.

l If this occurs, contact support immediately.

l Replacement parts will be provided free of charge.

 

 

Q5: Why can't the spindle be turned off?

A5: The spindle may fail to shut down due to a power issue.

l If this happens, contact support immediately for assistance.