How to Use Plotter Pen?
Posted by Gray Chen on
Why Learn How to Use a Plotter Pen with NEJE Max 4?
Have you ever wanted to turn digital designs into hand-drawn precision art without a steady hand? A plotter pen on the NEJE Max 4 v2 lets you do exactly that—transforming vector files into ink-on-paper masterpieces. By the end of this guide, you’ll not only know how to use a plotter pen—you'll understand why each step matters.
Everything You need
- Plotter Pen (Replaceable nibs)
- NEJE Max 4 v2(Motorized Z-axis)
- Paper(Drawing surface)
- Masking tape (Fixed paper)
- Cutting mat (Stable base)
Step-by-Step: How to Use Plotter Pen?
1.Prepare the Plotter Pen
Test ink flow on scrap paper. Clean nib with alcohol if clogged.Install pen firmly into the motorized Z-axis module.
2.Enable Z-Axis in Lightburn Software
Open Machine Settings → Check “Enable Z-Axis”
3.Secure Paper on Cutting Mat
Align paper straight and tape all four corners with masking tape
4.Measure Pen-to-Paper Distance
- Lower pen manually till it support the usage of motorized z-axis then screw it.
- Use a ruler or digital caliper to measure the distance between the pen to paper
- Max Z-offset: NEJE Max 4 v2 → 20 mm, NEJE Max 4 → 45 mm
Example: If gap = 2 mm → set Z-offset to 2.2 mm (slight buffer)
5.Upload Design & Configure LightBurn
Import SVG/vector file and click “Frame” to preview.
In Layer Settings: Speed: 5000-15000 mm/min (slower = bolder lines), Z-Offset: Match your measured gap (+0.2 mm)
6.Press Start
Watch the plotter pen draw your design
💥Pro Control Z-Axis via LightBurn Console💥
Why measure manually when the machine can do it for you? This LightBurn console method eliminates guesswork and prevents crashes.
LightBurn Z-Axis Console Commands (Copy-Paste Ready)
| Command | Action | Name |
|---|---|---|
|
G0 Z-20 (MAX 4 v2) G0 Z-45 (MAX 4) |
Move Z-axis to lowest point |
Z-offset 20mm Z-Offset 45mm |
| G0 Z-18 | Raise 2 mm from paper | Z-offset 18mm |
| G0 Z0 | Z Axis Return to home (optional) | Z-offset 0mm |
Step-by-Step: Console-Controlled Plotter Pen Setup
1.Enable Z-Axis + Relative Moves
- LightBurn → Machine Settings
- ✓ Enable Z-Axis
- ✓ Relative Z Moves Only
2.Secure Paper (same as before)
3.Auto-Lower Pen with Console
- Type: G0 Z-20 → Press Enter
- Place scrap paper under nib
- Loosen pen holder → let gravity seat the tip and then intall it on axis
4.Raise to Drawing Height
- Press G0 Z-18 → Z-axis rises 2 mm
- Now the plotter pen will rise 2mm.
- Remove the scrap paper now.
5.Set Layer
- Speed: Speed: 5000 mm/min (slower = bolder lines), Z-Offset: 2,2mm
- In this way, motorized will not return to top → pen hovers 2 mm above paper between lines
Troubleshooting: Common Plotter Pen Problems & Fixes
Even pros hit snags. Let’s diagnose together:
| Problem | Cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Skipped lines | Paper not flat | Re-tape + use heavier mat |
| Ink blobs | Too much pressure | Increase Z-offset by 0.3 mm |
|
Pen crashes paper |
Z-offset too low | Use G0 Z+5 to lift, then recalibrate |
| Faint lines | Dry nib / low speed | Prime pen + increase speed to 7000 mm/min |
| Z-axis not moving | Not enabled in settings | Double-check Machine Settings |