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Coordinate Systems

Understanding how Rayforge handles coordinate systems is essential for positioning your work correctly.

Work Coordinate System (WCS) vs Machine Coordinates​

Rayforge uses two main coordinate systems:

Work Coordinate System (WCS)​

The WCS is your job's coordinate system. When you position a design at (50, 100) on the canvas, those are WCS coordinates.

  • Origin: Defined by you (default is G54)
  • Purpose: Design and job positioning
  • Multiple systems: G54-G59 available for different setups

Machine Coordinates​

Machine coordinates are absolute positions relative to the machine's home position.

  • Origin: Machine home (0,0,0) - fixed by hardware
  • Purpose: Physical positioning on the bed
  • Fixed: Cannot be changed by software

Relationship: WCS offsets define how your job coordinates map to machine coordinates. If G54 offset is (100, 50, 0), then your design at WCS (0, 0) cuts at machine position (100, 50).

Configuring Coordinates in Rayforge​

Setting the WCS Origin​

To position your job on the machine:

  1. Home the machine first ($H command or Home button)
  2. Jog the laser head to your desired job origin
  3. Set WCS zero using the Control Panel:
    • Click "Zero X" to set current X as origin
    • Click "Zero Y" to set current Y as origin
  4. Your job will now start from this position

Selecting a WCS​

Rayforge supports G54-G59 work coordinate systems:

SystemUse Case
G54Default, primary work area
G55-G59Additional fixture positions

Select the active WCS in the Control Panel. Each system stores its own offset from machine origin.

Y-Axis Direction​

Some machines have Y increasing downward instead of upward. Configure this in:

Settings → Machine → Hardware → Axes

If your jobs come out mirrored vertically, toggle the Y-axis direction setting.

Common Issues​

Job in Wrong Position​

  • Check WCS offset: Send G10 L20 P1 to view G54 offset
  • Verify homing: Machine must be homed for consistent positioning
  • Check Y-axis direction: May be inverted

Coordinates Drift Between Jobs​

  • Always home before jobs: Establishes consistent reference
  • Check for G92 offsets: Clear with G92.1 command