There is a problem with the connection between Mac and laser

It sounds like you're facing a connection issue between your Falcon 2 22w laser engraver and your MacBook Pro. Let’s troubleshoot step by step:
1. USB Port and Cable Check
Cable Connection: Ensure the USB cable is securely connected to both the laser and your MacBook. Try using a different USB cable to rule out cable issues.
USB Port: If you're using a USB hub, connect directly to the MacBook instead. Test all available USB ports on your MacBook.
2. Driver Reinstallation
The cu.usbmodem123456 suggests the laser was recognized as a serial device. It might require a driver for consistent functionality:
Check the manufacturer’s website for macOS-compatible drivers and install/reinstall them.
If your engraver uses a CH340 or FTDI chip for USB-serial communication, download and install the respective driver
3. Reboot and Device Reset
Laser Engraver: Turn off the Falcon 2 and unplug it. Wait 30 seconds, then plug it back in and power it on.
MacBook Pro: Restart your MacBook to refresh any USB/serial connections.
4. Check System Report on macOS
On your MacBook, go to Apple Menu > About This Mac > System Report.
In the left-hand menu, select USB.
Look for a device name related to your Falcon 2 or a generic USB device. If it doesn’t appear, the MacBook isn’t detecting the laser.
5. Laser Software Configuration
Software Settings: Open the laser control software you’re using (LightBurn, LaserGRBL, etc.) and ensure the correct connection type is selected:
USB: If your Falcon previously showed cu.usbmodem123456, it might still be listed but not auto-selected.
Refresh the connection options or reselect the appropriate port.
Communication Type:
Some software defaults to Wi-Fi when USB fails. Make sure you’re explicitly selecting USB or serial.
6. Firmware Update (if applicable)
Check if the Falcon 2 has a firmware update. Sometimes, updating the firmware can resolve connectivity issues. Follow instructions from the manufacturer carefully.
7. macOS Security Settings
macOS often restricts driver or serial port access:
Go to System Preferences > Security & Privacy > Privacy.
Check if your laser control software has access to Full Disk Access or Files and Folders.
Also, verify USB accessory permission in System Settings > General > Privacy & Security.
8. Test with Another Computer
To isolate whether the issue is with your MacBook or the Falcon 2:
Test the laser engraver on another computer, preferably a Windows PC. If it works there, the issue is Mac-specific.
If it doesn’t work, the problem could lie with the laser’s hardware or firmware.
9. Resetting the Software
Reinstall the laser control software to ensure it’s not corrupted or misconfigured.
Clear any cached settings or device profiles within the software.
10. Hardware Issues
If none of the above steps work, there could be a hardware fault with the Falcon 2:
Controller Board: The USB controller on the engraver may have malfunctioned.
Professional Support: Contact the Falcon 2 support team or consider getting the hardware inspected.

Many have found connection problems with Mac and their laser to be an issue with how MacOS translates, or rather doesn’t translate the onboard USB 3+ to the USB 2.0 of the laser. The most common solution seems to be using a “dumb” USB 2.0 hub connected though a Lightning adapter. Faulty, cheap USB cables are another source of problem for Mac and PC users alike. Get a high quality USB cable, with the ferrite core on the ends and a USB 2.0 hub and see if that solves your issue.

• Noah

  : My MacBook pro has the T2 driver. I discovered this while trying to install the ch34xvcpdriver. No joy. I used all sorts of combinations of cables and hubs to no avail. I reinstalled Lightburn reset the computer back to original settings. nothing. What really puzzles me is that it did at one point run the laser beautifully. I may dig out an old windows machine and try that, though I really like the portability of my laptop.