Programming the La Marzocco Linea PB Volumetrics | Step by Step Tutorial

Programming the La Marzocco Linea PB Volumetrics | Step by Step Tutorial

Programming the La Marzocco Linea PB Volumetrics

Step-by-Step Barista Guide

This guide explains how to program the volumetric buttons on a La Marzocco Linea PB so your espresso shots run consistently by volume.

What You Need Before You Start

  • Coffee already dialled in (grind size, dose, tamp correct)

  • Machine fully warmed up (at least 30 minutes)

  • Clean group head and portafilter

  • Scales (recommended for checking yield)

⚠️ Important: Volumetrics control water volume, not weight. Always dial in grind first.

Prepare Your Espresso Recipe

Before programming:

  • Decide your dose (e.g. 18g in)

  • Decide your target yield (e.g. 36g out)

  • Aim for your ideal shot time (e.g. 25–30 seconds)

Pull a manual shot to confirm the recipe is correct before programming.

Enter Programming Mode

  1. Insert the portafilter into the group head

  2. Press and hold the continuous/manual button

  3. While holding it, press the button you want to program (single or double)

  4. Release both buttons

👉 The machine is now in programming mode

Program the Shot Volume

  1. The shot will begin running automatically

  2. Let the espresso run

  3. Watch your scales or shot time

  4. When you reach your desired yield or time, press the same button again

✔️ The machine has now saved that volume

Repeat for Other Buttons

  • Repeat the process for:

    • Single shot button

    • Double shot button

    • Any additional group heads

Each button must be programmed individually.

Exit Programming Mode

  • Simply stop programming and return to normal operation

  • The machine exits programming mode automatically once complete

Test & Fine-Tune

  • Pull 2–3 test shots

  • Check:

    • Shot time

    • Yield consistency

    • Taste

If shots run too fast or slow:

  • Adjust grind size, not the volume

  • Re-program only if needed

Pro Tips

  • Always reprogram after major grind changes

  • Clean shower screens regularly — dirty groups affect volume

  • Volumetrics can drift if:

    • Coffee is stale

    • Grinder is dirty

    • Line pressure is inconsistent

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Programming before dialling in the grind

  • Changing dose without reprogramming

  • Using volumetrics to “fix” bad extraction

  • Forgetting to reprogram after deep cleaning

Quick Reference Summary

  • Dial in coffee first

  • Hold manual + target button to program

  • Stop shot at correct yield/time

  • Test and adjust grind if needed

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