Bidirectional scanning

A raster engraving motion in which the laser marks while the head travels in both directions.

In the workflow

Why Bidirectional scanning matters

It can reduce job time, but mechanical alignment at a given speed must be correct or alternating rows may appear offset.

Practical check

How to evaluate it

Engrave a small alignment pattern at the intended speed in both scan directions. Alternating-row offsets point to motion calibration rather than an image-preparation problem.

Go deeper

Learn the DPI and line interval relationship, calculate output pixels, avoid overlapping scan lines, and preserve exact size in a photo workflow.

Read the complete guide

Prepare the pixels

Use the terminology in a real photo workflow.

Crop, tune, size, dither, and export a one-bit PNG on iPhone or iPad. Test the result on scrap with your machine and material guidance.

Download EngravePrep