InFocus M-300 manual

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
42
43
44
45
46
47
48
49
50
51
52
53
54
55
56
57
58
59
60
61
62
63
64
65
66
67
68
69
70
71
72
73
74
75
76
77
78
79
80
81
82
83
84
85
86
87
88
89
90
91
92
93
94
95
96
97
98
99
100
101
102
103
104
105
106
107
108
109
110

Go to page of

A good user manual

The rules should oblige the seller to give the purchaser an operating instrucion of InFocus M-300, along with an item. The lack of an instruction or false information given to customer shall constitute grounds to apply for a complaint because of nonconformity of goods with the contract. In accordance with the law, a customer can receive an instruction in non-paper form; lately graphic and electronic forms of the manuals, as well as instructional videos have been majorly used. A necessary precondition for this is the unmistakable, legible character of an instruction.

What is an instruction?

The term originates from the Latin word „instructio”, which means organizing. Therefore, in an instruction of InFocus M-300 one could find a process description. An instruction's purpose is to teach, to ease the start-up and an item's use or performance of certain activities. An instruction is a compilation of information about an item/a service, it is a clue.

Unfortunately, only a few customers devote their time to read an instruction of InFocus M-300. A good user manual introduces us to a number of additional functionalities of the purchased item, and also helps us to avoid the formation of most of the defects.

What should a perfect user manual contain?

First and foremost, an user manual of InFocus M-300 should contain:
- informations concerning technical data of InFocus M-300
- name of the manufacturer and a year of construction of the InFocus M-300 item
- rules of operation, control and maintenance of the InFocus M-300 item
- safety signs and mark certificates which confirm compatibility with appropriate standards

Why don't we read the manuals?

Usually it results from the lack of time and certainty about functionalities of purchased items. Unfortunately, networking and start-up of InFocus M-300 alone are not enough. An instruction contains a number of clues concerning respective functionalities, safety rules, maintenance methods (what means should be used), eventual defects of InFocus M-300, and methods of problem resolution. Eventually, when one still can't find the answer to his problems, he will be directed to the InFocus service. Lately animated manuals and instructional videos are quite popular among customers. These kinds of user manuals are effective; they assure that a customer will familiarize himself with the whole material, and won't skip complicated, technical information of InFocus M-300.

Why one should read the manuals?

It is mostly in the manuals where we will find the details concerning construction and possibility of the InFocus M-300 item, and its use of respective accessory, as well as information concerning all the functions and facilities.

After a successful purchase of an item one should find a moment and get to know with every part of an instruction. Currently the manuals are carefully prearranged and translated, so they could be fully understood by its users. The manuals will serve as an informational aid.

Table of contents for the manual

  • Page 1

    M - 300 Laser Platform Installation and Operations Manual Universal Laser Systems, Inc. 16008 North 81st Street Scottsdale, AZ 85260 Phone: 480 - 483 - 1214 Fax: 480 - 483 - 5620 May 2000 Ihr ULS Vertragshändler : MarkIDent GmbH Winterspürerstr. 19 78333 Stockach www.markident.de[...]

  • Page 2

    Notice This publication and its contents are p roprietary to Universal Laser Systems, Inc. (ULS), and are intended solely for the contractual use of ULS, Inc. customers. While reasonable efforts have been made to assure the accuracy of this manual, ULS shall not be liable for errors contained herein o r for incidental or consequential damage in con[...]

  • Page 3

    Introduction We would like to thank you for purchasing the M - 300 Laser Platform. Years of testing and refinements have made t his unit the ultimate laser engraving and cutting system. With it’s small footprint design and industry standard 24” x 12” work area, the M - 300 Laser Platform is now equipped with our unique “Rapid Reconfiguratio[...]

  • Page 4

    Table of Contents SECTION 1 - Safety Description of Appropriate Use ................................................................................. 1 - 1 General Safety ........................................................................................................ 1 - 1 Laser Safety .......................................................[...]

  • Page 5

    Setting the Drivers Properties ................................................................................... 4 - 3 Downloading the File ............................................................................................... 4 - 3 Starting the Engraving Process ...........................................................................[...]

  • Page 6

    SECTION 7 - Maintenance Suggested Cleaning and Maintenance Supplies ........................................................ 7 - 1 System Cleaning ..................................................................................................... 7 - 3 Optics Cleaning ...............................................................................[...]

  • Page 7

    SECTION 1 Safety This section describes hazards that may occur if the laser system is installed or used improperly. Failure to follow these guidelines can result in injury to yourself, others, or may cause severe damage to the equipment. Use, mi suse, or abuse of the equipment in a manner other than what is described in this manual may increase thi[...]

  • Page 8

    1 - 2 Safety • Care should be taken when moving or lifting this device . Obtain assistance from 1 or 2 additional people when lifting or carrying. Severe bodily injury may occur if imp roper lifting techniques are applied. Be careful not to drop the unit. Not only can it cause bodily harm, but it can also severely damage the equipment and render [...]

  • Page 9

    Safety 1 - 3 Safety Labels CDRH and CE regulations require all laser manufacturers to affix warning labels in specific locations throughout t he equipment. The following warning labels are placed on the laser system for your safety. DO NOT remove them for any reason. If the labels become damaged or have been removed for any reason, DO NOT OPERATE t[...]

  • Page 10

    1 - 4 Safety F G H Rear View (cover closed) (A) (B) (C) Or (D) CAUTION LASER RADIATION DO NOT STARE INTO BEAM OR VIEW DIRECTLY WITH OPTICAL INSTRUMENTS CLASS 3A LASER PRODUCT LASER DIODE WAVELENGTH: 630-680 nm MAX. OUTPUT: 5 mW (D) (E) (F) (G) CDRH – United States CE - E uropean[...]

  • Page 11

    Safety 1 - 5 I Upper left corner of the engraving area next to the Beam Window (H) (I) (J) SERIAL #: 02500A DATE : MAY 2000 (K) (L) CAUTION LASER RADIATION AVOID EYE OR SKIN EXPOSURE TO DIRECT OR SCATTERED RADIATION CLASS 4 LASER CO 2 LASER (AND OPTIONAL LASER DIODE) WAVELENGTH: 10.6 MAX. OUTPUT: 150 W (5 mW DIODE) µ (630-680 nm DIODE) (M) LASER R[...]

  • Page 12

    1 - 6 Safety FCC Compliance This ULS laser system has been tested and found to comply with Federal Communication Commission (FCC) directives regarding Electromagnetic Compatibili ty (EMC). In accordance with these directives ULS is required to provide the following information to its customers. FCC Compliance Statement and Warnings This device Comp[...]

  • Page 13

    Safety 1 - 7 EU Compliance (CE) EU Declarat ion of Conformity LASE R SYSTEM S INC . Product Identification : M - 300 Platform Manufacturer : Universal Laser Systems, Inc. 16008 N. 81 st St. Scottsdale, AZ 85260 USA Universal Laser Systems, Inc. hereby declares that the equipment speci fied below is in conformity with the following directives: 89/33[...]

  • Page 14

    SECTION 2 Installation Proper operating conditions are vital to a safe and productive environment. This section describes the ideal environment and setup of the laser system. Operating Environment Follow these gu idelines to ensure a proper operating environment for the laser system. Operating the laser system outside of these guidelines can seriou[...]

  • Page 15

    2 - 2 Installation • If planning to connect the laser engraving system to a computer through the parallel port, choose a location where the computer will be placed within 6 feet of the machine since this is the maximum recommended parallel cable length. Included with your system is a hig h quality, IEEE1284 compliant, 6 - foot parallel printer ca[...]

  • Page 16

    Installation 2 - 3 If electrical power fluctuations, brown outs, or constant power outages are a problem in your area, an electrical line stabilizer, UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply), or backup generator might be required. If installing any of these devices, make sure that they meet the electrical requirements of the laser system. If there is any[...]

  • Page 17

    2 - 4 Installation DO NOT install forward incline, backward incline, in - line, or ventilator fans because these types of air handlers are inadequate and inappropriate for this type of installation. If your contractor has any questions concerning blower specifications or exhaust system requirements, please contact our Service Department directly be[...]

  • Page 18

    Installation 2 - 5 Cart Assembly Since packaging of this unit may vary from time to time, make sure that you locate the following items from within the crate or inside of the front door of the system: (A) Back Panel (B) Legs (both are identical) (C) 10 - 32 x 3/8 socket head screws with lock washers and flat wash ers (2) (D) Guide pins (factory ins[...]

  • Page 19

    2 - 6 Installation 9. Note the lifting points as shown. With the assistance of one or two other people, carefully lift the laser system and place it onto the cart assembly being careful not to drop it or pinch your fingers. 10. Thread the remaining two screws and lockwashers (C) through the tabs on the back panel (A) and into the backside of the la[...]

  • Page 20

    Installation 2 - 7 Laser Cartridge Installation Before connecting and powering on your system, you must install the Laser Cartridge. Make sure that your power cord IS NOT plugged in at this time. With your finger s, press on the backside of the two hinges to release the latch. Gently fold back the rear cover. Visually locate the two Mounting Blocks[...]

  • Page 21

    2 - 8 Installation Pick up the Laser Cartridge b y the sides. Tilt the Laser Cartridge downward on a 30 - degree angle. Mount the cartridge onto the Mounting Blocks by placing the upper “V” groove of the cartridge on top of the Mounting Blocks. Slide the cartridge to the right until the Alignment Plate of the Laser Cartridge makes contact with [...]

  • Page 22

    Inst allation 2 - 9 Laser Cooling Requirements This type of laser system uses fans to keep the laser cartridge and electronics cooled during operation. Maintain the room temperature at the recommended ambient temperature range outlined previously in the Ope rating Environment section. Computer Requirements The following is the MINIMUM required comp[...]

  • Page 23

    2 - 10 Installation Bitmap / Scanning Soft ware • Adobe Photoshop • Adobe Streamline - for raster to vector conversion CAD Software • AutoCAD for Windows • AutoCAD LT for Windows • Autosketch for Windows • DesignCAD for Windows CAD users do not necessarily need Windows or Windows compatible programs. The las er system is compatible with[...]

  • Page 24

    Installation 2 - 11 Making the Connecti ons Please use the parallel cable supplied with the system. It is a 6 - foot, high quality, shielded, IEEE1284 compliant cable. If you use a printer cable other than the one provided, it will violate the laser systems FCC and CE rating and may also cause harmful interference when downloading files to the lase[...]

  • Page 25

    2 - 12 Installation Problem Prevention The following are things that you MUST NEVER do: 1) Never connect or disconnect the printer cable while either the computer or the laser system is powered ON . Always power down both units and leave them plugged into the wall outlet when connecting or disconnecting the printer cable. 2) Never connect the laser[...]

  • Page 26

    SECTION 3 System Operation In this section you will learn how the laser system actually works and will familiarize you with laser system terminology. We will then start working with the control panel and learn how to get around in the menu system. Since there are many features in this laser system, the menu system may seem complicated at first, but[...]

  • Page 27

    3 - 2 System Operation Laser Cartridge The laser cartridge is a very sophisticated device. It is comp osed of a plasma tube filled with a special mixture of CO2 and other gases, and RF (radio frequency) electronics. The function of the entire assembly is to turn electrical energy into concentrated light energy. The word LASER is an acronym for Ligh[...]

  • Page 28

    System Operation 3 - 3 “Wattage” signifies the amount of heat energy that the laser light is producing over a perio d of time. Laser energy is measured with a laser power meter. Do not confuse the electrical wattage rating of a light bulb or a hair dryer with the wattage rating of the laser system. They are two different types of measurements. [...]

  • Page 29

    3 - 4 System Operation The Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) The LCD is a four line display that displays the menus that control the laser system. It is a backlit type of display that enhances visibility even under low light environments. When the laser system is powered on, the laser system will perform a series of routines. “INITIALIZING” will dis[...]

  • Page 30

    System Operation 3 - 5 Green Indicator Light CONDITION REASON ON The laser system is powered up, the top door is closed and the system is ready to receive a file The laser system has finished processing a file and has returned to the home position The laser system has been paused while running a file OFF The top or front door is open The laser syst[...]

  • Page 31

    3 - 6 System Operation The “NE XT FILE” button displays the next file in the systems memory and makes it the current file and will stop at the last file in memory. The “PREV FILE” button displays the previous file in the systems memory and makes it the current file and will stop at the first file in memory. These buttons are inoperative if [...]

  • Page 32

    System Operation 3 - 7 The Menu System The LCD displays the menus of the laser system. Since this laser system has many features, we have included a “Menu System Flow Chart” on the next three pages. It diagrams and displays the menu items in the entire system and the button selections needed to access them. A description of each menu item follo[...]

  • Page 33

    3 - 8 System Operation X X[...]

  • Page 34

    System Operation 3 - 9 MODEL NAME VERSION XX-XX-XX-XX Menu Descriptions The remainder of this section will describe each one of the menus and their significance. READY Menu When the system is first powered on “IN ITIALIZING” will appear for approximately 30 seconds until the laser system finishes performing its routine. When the system has fini[...]

  • Page 35

    3 - 10 S ystem Operation FILE DISPLAY Menu Appears automatically after the first file is downloaded completely into the laser systems memory. This is the menu that you will remain in most of the time when operating the laser system. It has been designed to show all pertinent operating information at a glance so that constantly jumping from menu to [...]

  • Page 36

    System Operation 3 - 11 There are two ways that a d ownloaded file will have a missing EOF. The first is if printing through the printer driver and printing is canceled, interrupted, or file size exceeds the remaining free memory space. If this occurs, chances are that the EOF never made it to the memory buffer and the memory buffer will show that [...]

  • Page 37

    3 - 12 System Operation The Printer Driver compresses the file while it downloads to the laser system and the laser system decompresses the file while it runs. The amount of compression can be as little as 4 to 1 or as great as 48 to 1. This means that with 4 MB of RAM in the laser system, the buffer could hold the equivalent of 192MB worth of fi l[...]

  • Page 38

    System Operation 3 - 13 DOS POWER SETTINGS Menu The laser system allows eight different power settings to be saved, in non - volatile (permanent) memory, and used when processing a DOS based file. Since DOS based printer/plotter drivers do not have the ability to set the “POWER”, “SPEED”, and “PPI” settings, the settings must be set man[...]

  • Page 39

    3 - 14 System Operation OPTIONS Menu Selecting this menu will allow the access to turn on certain options that th e laser system might have. ONE FILE MEMORY Menu Pressing “SELECT” key while cursor is on this line will toggle the setting on and off. When off, it enables the multiple file memory buffer system (default). When on, it disables the m[...]

  • Page 40

    System Operation 3 - 15 AIR ASSIST Menu This class of laser system does have Air Assist as an option, but it is not computer controlled. Since we use the same menu system on other models, this menu selection for your model does absolutely nothing. If you did purchase the Air Assist option for this model, please refer to the instructions that came w[...]

  • Page 41

    3 - 16 System Operation To restore the focus position back to the original factory setting, go back into this menu and press the up and down arrow keys simultaneously. You will see the motion system move to the 1 inch horizontal and the 1 inch vertical position (factory default). Now select “YES, SAVE POSITION”. Press the “ESCAPE” button tw[...]

  • Page 42

    System Operation 3 - 17 If you would like to get the Rotary axis back to the original factory default setting, go back into the “SET ROTARY AXIS” menu. While in this menu, press the up arrow and down arrow keys simultaneously. The arm move will move back to its origi nal factory default setting. Select “YES SAVE Y - AXIS”, and then press th[...]

  • Page 43

    3 - 18 System Operation In order to use the “SERIAL” port, the com munication settings MUST match those of the computer. Refer to the computer’s hardware and software manuals for details on setting up the computer’s serial port. If using the “SERIAL” port, select the fastest possible “BAUD” rate for communication since this effects [...]

  • Page 44

    System Operation 3 - 19 DIAGNOSTICS Menu This menu leads to other menus that enabl e you to help diagnose problems, if they occur, with the laser system. It also will help our technicians solve problems that you may be experiencing. ALIGNMENT MODE Menu This menu allows access to firing the laser beam manually to determine if the la ser systems opti[...]

  • Page 45

    3 - 20 System Operation MODEL NAME VERSION XX-XX-XX-XX ABOUT Menu Use the up and down arrow buttons to position the cursor on this menu item. Press the “SELECT” button and our copyright notice along with the current versions of firmware will be displayed. The firmware version numbers are a diagnostic aid to our service technicians. If you are h[...]

  • Page 46

    System Operation 3 - 21 Setting a new origin other than the default (0,0) position will shrink your field size. If you already have files already loaded into memory that utilize the entire engraving area, and you set a new origin, part of that graphic might fall out of the effective printing area. If you run this file, unexpected results can occur [...]

  • Page 47

    3 - 22 Sys tem Operation The cursor in the display will be flashing on top of the tenths digit. You can now move the table up or down by pressing either the up or down arrow button. If you push the button once and let go quickly, the table will move in .1 in ch increments. If you hold down the button, it will move fluidly. To make finer moves, pres[...]

  • Page 48

    System Operat ion 3 - 23 If you find that you need to place your materials in a position other than the upper left hand corner, you can change the default focus position to anywhere in the field that you like. Please refer to that menu item selection earlier in this section. The Material Thickness (Z POSITION) Method The second method is to enter i[...]

  • Page 49

    3 - 24 System Operation The AUTOFOCUS Method In order to use this method, you must first turn it ON. We described how to turn it ON earlier in this section. After you turn it ON, please follow the step by step instructions below. To Use AUTOFOCUS: • The AUTOFOCUS sensor sends out an invisible beam across the table between the 1 inch and the 3 inc[...]

  • Page 50

    System Operation 3 - 25 To Adjust AUTOFOCUS: From time to time, you may ne ed to re - adjust your AUTOFOCUS. The only time that you should need to re - adjust the AUTOFOCUS is when you have received a new or different length Focus Lens, have recently Flash upgraded the operating system of the laser, or had a dirty sensor or reflecto r and are adjus[...]

  • Page 51

    SECTION 4 Running the System Step by Step In this section we will cover how to completely use the laser system to create a product from start to finish. From powering on everything to removing the finished product from the system, we will cover th e entire process step by step. As an example, let’s engrave and cut out a key chain from a 2 by 4 in[...]

  • Page 52

    4 - 2 Running the System Step by Step Focusi ng Before attempting to adjust the focal height, visually check to make sure that the table is down low enough to prevent the focus carriage from hitting into the piece of wood. With the top door still open, press the “Z” button on the control panel of t he laser system. You will see the focus carria[...]

  • Page 53

    Running the System Step by Step 4 - 3 It does not matter whether you bring the table up to go out of focus, or down, the effect is the same. You should experiment on some scrap material at another time and note the difference. In this example, we will engrave in precise focus. Once you have established focus, store your focus tool and close the top[...]

  • Page 54

    4 - 4 Running the System Step by Step Find the “PRINT” command within your graphics program and click on it. Depending on which graphics program you are using, the menu command “PRINT” may be in various locations within your program. Usually after clicking on “PRINT”, you will then need to click on “OK”. A status s creen may now app[...]

  • Page 55

    Running the S ystem Step by Step 4 - 5 We will also remind you again to please comply with the warning label below. Material Removing and Reloading Once the laser system has completed processing you material, the laser beam will turn off, the motion system will move to its home position in the upper right hand corner, the system will beep twice, an[...]

  • Page 56

    SECTION 5 Options & Accessories There are several options and accessories available for this laser system. The new 3D Effects option is now available as a standard feature. The Rotary Fixture, Cutting Table, Air Assist System, Air Assist Compress or, various Focus Lens Kits, and the Dual Head option are available at additional cost. 3D Effects [...]

  • Page 57

    5 - 2 Options & Accessories 1 0 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 COMPUTER GRAPHICS SCREEN GRAPHICS SOFTWARE PAGE LAYOUT 11 INCHES ( 292.1 mm) WIDE 8.5 INCHES ( 215.9 mm) TALL LANDSCAPE MODE A c t i on S po r t s E qu i p m e n t 100 E asy S t r ee t #117 P l a i n v ill e , K S 99924 PREVIOUSLY COMPLETED STAMPS PLACE STAMP IN AN UN[...]

  • Page 58

    Options & Accessories 5 - 3 Settings for a 30 Watt System There is a considerable difference between rubber blends, thickness, and hardness between different manufacturers. Use these setting as a starting point for a 30 Watt system. You might need to experiment with different settings to o btain the desired results. As you can see, we set the p[...]

  • Page 59

    5 - 4 Options & Accessories Full Sheet Method The second method is to create a full sheet of rubber stamps and engrave them all at the same time. First create a stamp as a positive image as shown below. Create more stamp s to fill the entire page. They can be the same stamp or different ones. If desired, output the page to a paper printer for p[...]

  • Page 60

    Options & Accessories 5 - 5 In the laser systems printer driver, use the same settings as the previous example but with only minor modifications. In the “3D Effects” tab, select all three “Special” options; “Add Shoulder”, “Print as Negative Image” an d “Print as Mirror Image” as the diagram below illustrates. Print to the l[...]

  • Page 61

    5 - 6 Options & Accessories The Rotary Fixture is placed on the engra ving table as the following diagram illustrates. Please refer to the instructions supplied with the Rotary Fixture on how to properly install and use this option. Cutting Table The purpose of the Cutting Table is to support the material that you are cutting off of the engravi[...]

  • Page 62

    Options & Accessories 5 - 7 Air Assist System The Air Assist System consists of a nozzle that attaches to the focus carriage, Optics protection adapters, tubing, mounting brackets, needle valve, and pressure gauge. The purpose of this system is to force air or other types of gases directly onto the surface of your material to reduce the burning[...]

  • Page 63

    5 - 8 Options & Accessories Focus Lens Kits There are three optional Focus Lens Kits available other than the standard 2.0”, they are the 1.5”, 2.5”, and the 4.0” kits. Included in these kits are the focus lens, #3 mirror, front plate, thumbscrews, and a focus tool. Different lenses produce different spot sizes and have different focal [...]

  • Page 64

    Options & Accessories 5 - 9 Refer to the following chart for spot sizes and focal ranges of the lenses available. FOCAL LENGTH SPOT SIZE FOCAL RANGE 1.5 “ .003 “ + / - .075 “ 2.0 “ .005 “ + / - .100 “ 2.5 “ .007 “ + / - .125 “ 4.0 “ .013 “ + / - .200 “ If you would like to order any of the accessories described in this s[...]

  • Page 65

    SECTION 6 Sample Materials This section provides sample driver settings and helpful hints to get started engraving and/or cutting the materials listed. Safety NEVER LEAVE THE LASER SYSTEM RUNNING UNATTENDED FOR ANY REASON. Exposure to the laser beam can cause ignition of combustible materials. All laser cutting and engraving should be constantly su[...]

  • Page 66

    6 - 2 Sample Materials NOTICE Laser engraving or cutting materials other than those described in this manual can be a safety hazard and can damage the laser system. The laser system operator is liable for any damages caused, in whole or in part, for any economic loss, physical injury, lost revenue, lost profits, lost savings or other indirect, inci[...]

  • Page 67

    Samp le Materials 6 - 3 NOTE When engraving very small objects, top speed cannot be achieved because acceleration and deceleration of the motion system requires time and distance. The laser system will automatically adjust itself to a maximum engraving spee d that it can achieve due to the size and position of the graphic. This is why you might not[...]

  • Page 68

    6 - 4 Sample Materials ACRYLIC - CAST AND EXTRUDED LIGHT RASTER ENGRAVING LASER WATTAGE POWER SPEED PPI PASS DEPTH 15 70 80 500 1 .001” 20 50 80 500 1 .001” 25 40 80 500 1 .001” 30 35 80 500 1 .001” 35 30 80 500 1 .001” 40 26 80 500 1 .001” 45 22 80 500 1 .001” 50 20 80 500 1 .0 01” DEEP RASTER ENGRAVING LASER WATTAGE POWER SPEED PP[...]

  • Page 69

    Sample Materials 6 - 5 COMMENTS There are two types of acrylic available, cast and extruded. Cast turns white or frosted and extruded remains clear when engraved. Use extruded acrylic for paint filled engraving and cast for regular engraving. Cast engraves better without masking. Lightly e ngrave the surface to frost it with a low power setting suc[...]

  • Page 70

    6 - 6 Sample Materials ACRYLIC - MIRRORED LIGHT RASTER ENGRAVING LASER WATTAGE POWER SPEED PPI PASS DEPTH 15 75 80 500 1 .003” 20 55 80 500 1 003” 25 45 80 500 1 003” 30 40 80 500 1 003” 35 35 80 500 1 003” 40 31 80 500 1 003” 45 27 80 500 1 003” 50 25 80 500 1 003” DEEP RASTER ENGRAVING LASER WATTAGE POWER SPEED PPI PASS DEPTH 15 1[...]

  • Page 71

    Samp le Materials 6 - 7 COMMENTS Engraving mirrored acrylic is similar to engraving regular acrylic. The idea is to engrave through the mirrored backing enough to begin to penetrate into the acrylic. Engraving deeply will cause a crusty residue to form just like with non - mirrored acrylic. A double image will appear if engraving on the front side [...]

  • Page 72

    6 - 8 Sample Materials ANODIZED ALUMINUM RASTER ENGRAVING LASER WATTAGE POWER SPEED PPI PASS DEP TH 15 90 80 500 1 .001” 20 68 80 500 1 .001” 25 54 80 500 1 .001” 30 45 80 500 1 .001” 35 38 80 500 1 .001” 40 34 80 500 1 .001” 45 30 80 500 1 .001” 50 27 80 500 1 .001” VECTOR ENGRAVING LASER WATTAGE POWER SPEED PPI PASS DEPTH 15 20 4.[...]

  • Page 73

    Sample Materi als 6 - 9 BRASS - PAINTED RASTER ENGRAVING LASER WATTAGE POWER SPEED PPI PASS DEPTH 15 90 80 500 1 .001” 20 68 80 500 1 .001” 25 54 80 500 1 .001” 30 45 80 500 1 .001” 35 38 80 500 1 .001” 40 34 80 500 1 .001” 45 30 80 500 1 .001” 50 27 80 500 1 .001” VECTOR ENGRAVING LASER WATTAGE POWER SPEED PPI PASS DEPTH 15 20 4.0 [...]

  • Page 74

    6 - 10 Sample Materials CORIAN / AVONITE / FOUNTAINHEAD RASTER ENGRAVING LASER WATTAGE POWER SPEED PPI PASS DEPTH 15 100 20 500 1 .005” 20 100 27 500 1 .005” 25 100 33 500 1 .005” 30 100 40 500 1 .005” 35 100 47 500 1 .005” 40 100 53 500 1 .005” 45 100 60 500 1 .005” 50 100 67 500 1 .005” DEEP RASTER ENGRAVING LASER WATTAGE POWER SP[...]

  • Page 75

    Sample Materials 6 - 11 CORK RASTER ENGRAVING LASER WATTAGE POWER SPEED PPI PASS DEPTH 15 80 30 500 1 .010” 20 80 40 500 1 .010” 25 80 50 500 1 .010” 30 80 60 500 1 .010” 35 80 70 500 1 .010” 40 80 80 500 1 .010” 45 80 90 500 1 .010” 50 80 100 500 1 .010” VECTOR ENGRAVING LASER WATTAGE POWER SPEED PPI PASS DEPTH 15 20 4.0 500 1 .010[...]

  • Page 76

    6 - 12 Sample Materials DELRIN (SEAL PRESS) RASTER ENGRAVING LASER WATTAGE POWER SPEED PPI PASS DEPTH 15 100 18 500 1 .015” 20 100 23 500 1 .015” 25 100 29 500 1 .015” 30 100 35 500 1 .015” 35 100 41 500 1 .015” 40 100 47 500 1 .015” 45 100 53 500 1 .015” 50 100 58 500 1 .015” VECTOR CUTTING LASER WATTAGE POWER SPEED PPI PASS DEPTH [...]

  • Page 77

    Sample Materials 6 - 13 GLASS / CRYSTAL RASTER ENGRAVING LASER WATTAGE POWER SPEED PPI PASS DEPTH 15 100 10 300 1 .001 20 100 13 300 1 .001 25 100 17 300 1 .001 30 100 20 300 1 .001 35 100 23 300 1 .001 40 100 27 300 1 .001 45 100 30 300 1 .001 50 100 33 300 1 .001 C OMMENTS: Engrave at 333 DPI VECTOR ENGRAVING LASER WATTAGE POWER SPEED PPI PASS DE[...]

  • Page 78

    6 - 14 Sample Materials LEATHER RASTER ENGRAVING LASER WATTAGE POWER SPEED PPI PASS DEPTH 15 56 80 500 1 .001” 20 42 80 500 1 .001” 25 34 80 500 1 .001” 30 28 80 500 1 .001” 35 24 80 500 1 .001” 40 21 80 500 1 .001” 45 19 80 500 1 .001” 50 17 80 500 1 .001” VECTOR ENGRAVING LASER WATTAGE POWER SPEED PPI PASS DEPTH 15 10 4.0 500 1 .0[...]

  • Page 79

    Sample Materials 6 - 15 MARBLE RASTER ENGRAVING LASER WATTAGE POWER SPEED PPI PASS DEPTH 15 100 28 500 1 .003” 20 100 37 500 1 .003” 25 100 46 500 1 .003” 30 100 55 500 1 .003” 35 100 64 500 1 .003” 40 100 73 500 1 .003” 45 100 83 500 1 .003” 50 100 92 500 1 .003” VECTOR ENGRAVING LASER WATTAGE POWER SPEED PPI PASS DEPTH 15 40 4.0 5[...]

  • Page 80

    6 - 16 Sample Materials MAT BOAR D RASTER ENGRAVING LASER WATTAGE POWER SPEED PPI PASS DEPTH 15 90 80 250 1 .005” 20 68 80 250 1 .005” 25 54 80 250 1 .005” 30 45 80 250 1 .005” 35 39 80 250 1 .005” 40 34 80 250 1 .005” 45 30 80 250 1 .005” 50 27 80 250 1 .005” VECTOR ENGRAVING LASER WATTAGE POWER SPEED PPI PASS DEPTH 15 40 4.0 250 1[...]

  • Page 81

    Sample Materials 6 - 17 MELAMINE - STANDARD ENGRAVING LIGHT RASTER ENGRAVING LASER WATTAGE POWER SPEED PPI PASS DEPTH 15 100 20 500 1 .015” 20 100 27 500 1 .015” 25 100 33 500 1 .015” 30 100 40 500 1 .015” 35 100 47 500 1 .015” 40 100 53 500 1 .015” 45 100 60 500 1 .01 5” 50 100 67 500 1 .015” DEEP RASTER ENGRAVING LASER WATTAGE POW[...]

  • Page 82

    6 - 18 Sample Materials MELAMINE - PHOTO/CLIPART ENGRAVING RASTER ENGRAVING LASER WATTAGE POWER SPEED PPI PASS DEPTH 15 80 30 500 1 .008” 20 80 40 500 1 .008” 25 80 50 500 1 .008” 30 80 60 500 1 .008” 35 80 70 500 1 .008” 40 80 80 500 1 .008” 45 80 90 500 1 .008” 50 80 100 500 1 .008” COMMENTS: Engrave unmasked. Use a resolution of [...]

  • Page 83

    Sample Materials 6 - 19 PLASTIC - ENGRAVERS MICROSURFACED RASTER ENGRAVING LASER WATTAGE POWER SPE ED PPI PASS DEPTH 15 70 80 500 1 .003” 20 50 80 500 1 .003” 25 40 80 500 1 .003” 30 35 80 500 1 .003” 35 30 80 500 1 .003” 40 26 80 500 1 .003” 45 22 80 500 1 .003” 50 20 80 500 1 .003” VECTOR CUTTING LASER WATTAGE POWER SPEED PPI PASS[...]

  • Page 84

    6 - 20 Sample Materials RUBBER STAMPS RAST ER ENGRAVING LASER WATTAGE POWER SPEED PPI PASS DEPTH 15 (Not recommended) N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A 20 (Not recommended) N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A 25 100 13 500 1 .030” 30 100 16 500 1 .030” 35 100 19 500 1 .030” 40 100 21 500 1 .030” 45 100 24 500 1 .030” 50 100 27 500 1 .030” PERFORATED VECTOR CUTTING L[...]

  • Page 85

    Sample Materials 6 - 21 SIGN VINYL RASTER ENGRAVING LASER WATTAGE POWER SPEED PPI PASS DEPTH 15 100 15 500 1 .015” 20 100 20 500 1 .015” 25 100 25 500 1 .015” 30 100 30 500 1 .015” 35 100 35 500 1 .015” 40 100 40 500 1 .015” 45 100 45 500 1 .015” 50 100 50 500 1 .015” VECTOR CUTTING (KISS CUT) LASER WATTAGE POWER SPEED PPI PASS DEPT[...]

  • Page 86

    6 - 22 Sample Materials WOOD RASTER ENGRAVING LASER WATTAGE POWER SPEED PPI PASS DEPTH 15 100 20 500 1 .020” 20 100 27 500 1 .020” 25 100 33 500 1 .020” 30 100 40 500 1 .020” 35 100 47 500 1 .020” 40 100 53 500 1 .020” 45 100 60 500 1 .020” 50 100 67 500 1 .020” VECTOR ENGRAVING LASER WATTAGE POWER SPEED PPI PASS DEPTH 15 80 2.5 500[...]

  • Page 87

    Sample Materials 6 - 23 be easier to flood the masking, after engraving, with water. This will loosen the tape and it can be easily removed by rubbing it off by hand. In the vector cutting example, the wood was elevated from the table to let smoke and heat escape from underneath. If elevating the wood, mask and/or dampen the bottom side of the wood[...]

  • Page 88

    SECTION 7 Maintenance Keeping the laser system clean will ensure the highest quality engraving. The frequency of cleaning will depend entirely on the type of material being engraved, the performance of your exhaust blower, the operating environme nt, and the amount of laser system usage over a given period of time. Dirt or debris that is allowed to[...]

  • Page 89

    7 - 2 Maintenance[...]

  • Page 90

    Maintenance 7 - 3 System Cleaning • Turn off and unplug the laser system. • Open the Top Door and thoroughly remove all loose dirt and debris from inside the mach ine with a vacuum cleaner. • Clean the Engraving Table surface with either a soap solution, alcohol, or acetone, and paper towels. NEVER pour or spray any solution directly into the[...]

  • Page 91

    7 - 4 Maintenance #2 Mirror To gain access to the #2 Mirror, the mirror cover must be removed. Remove the thumbscrew, slide the cover to the right slightly and lift straight up. Inspect the #2 Mi rror and clean it only if there is debris present. There are two ways to clean the mirror, with a moistened cotton swab or a moistened lens tissue. To cle[...]

  • Page 92

    Maintenance 7 - 5 #3 Mirror and Focus Lens You must remove the front cover to the Focus Carriage to gain access to the #3 Mirror and the Focus Lens. To do this, hold the front cover with one hand and with the other hand, remove the three(3) thumbscrews that attach the fr ont cover to the Focus Carriage, and pull the front cover straight out. You wi[...]

  • Page 93

    7 - 6 Maintenance Beam Window The Beam Window is where the laser beam enters into the engraving area. It is located in the upper left hand corner of the engraving area against the back wall and is yellow in color. It is not necessary to remove the Beam Window for cleaning since it can only get dirty on the front side. The backside is in a sealed en[...]

  • Page 94

    Maintenance 7 - 7 Adjustments and Lubrication There are no periodic adjustments required. The bearings i n the motion system will self adjust to take up any clearances as they begin to wear. The belts are fiber reinforced and will not stretch under normal use so that periodic tension adjustment is not necessary. Optical alignment is not necessary b[...]

  • Page 95

    7 - 8 Maintenance Cooling Fan Filters This air - cooled laser system will require periodic cleaning of the cooling fan filters. Since ambient air is used to cool the laser tube, the air must be filtered before it enters the inside of the laser system otherwise dirt and dust can build up inside of the laser system and damage it. The contaminants red[...]

  • Page 96

    SECTION 8 Troubleshooting Engraving Quality Problem Possible Cause Possible Solution “Fuzzy” looking raster engraving or small text appears like a “double image” • Dirty laser system • Graphic, graphic software, graphic softwa re setup, color palette, monitor display colors, or driver settings have changed • Speed to fast for the mate[...]

  • Page 97

    • Laser tube is faulty • Replace laser tube En graving disappears, becomes “lighter”, or appears “choppy” when raster engraving within ½ inch of Y - axis ruler • Normal condition. The laser system needs to accelerate and decelerate within this area • Move graphic and/or material to the right, outside of thi s area • Slowing the r[...]

  • Page 98

    8 - 2 Troubleshooting Raster engraving appears sharp on both ends of the engraving but fuzzy in the middle • Dirty laser system • Something is loose • System needs tuning • Worn X - axis belt and/or drive gear • Tickle setting too low • Faulty laser tube • Clean all optics, rails, bearings and belts • Check X - axis bearings, drive [...]

  • Page 99

    versions only) • Faulty laser tube beam is in center • Replace laser tube Ihr ULS Vertragshändler : MarkIDent GmbH Winterspürerstr. 19 78333 Stockach www.markident.de[...]

  • Page 100

    Troubleshooting 8 - 3 Engraving appears “halftoned” and not solidly filled when using colors other than b lack • Graphic, graphic software, graphic software setup, color palette, monitor display colors, or driver settings have changed • Check to see what has changed. Use “Software Setup Guide” to properly setup the graphics software to [...]

  • Page 101

    Flat edges on curves when vector cutting • DPI setting too low • PPI setting too low • Software limitation • 1000 DPI produces the smoothest edges when cutting • Higher PPI settings p roduce smoother edges but may cause excessive burning or melting • The graphic software you are using has limited vector smoothness capability Ihr ULS Ver[...]

  • Page 102

    8 - 4 Troubleshooting Operational Focus carriage looses X - axis position and slams into the left or right side o f the rail during high speed raster engraving • Mechanical interference • Dirty laser system • CPU overheating • Focus carriage X - axis bearing tensioning arm too tight or binding If the pattern is excessive: • X - belt too t[...]

  • Page 103

    When running the laser system, the laser system will “freeze”, the clock will keep advancing, but the operator will have no control over the system. The only way to restore the system is to power the laser off and then back on. This is a sympto m of file corruption. • Incorrect BIOS setting in computer • Using a printer cable longer than 6 [...]

  • Page 104

    APPENDIX[...]

  • Page 105

    Appendix A - Limited Warranty Please refer to the Warranty Registration Form included with your shipment. Ihr ULS Vertragshändler : MarkIDent GmbH Winterspürerstr. 19 78333 Stockach www.markident.de[...]

  • Page 106

    Appendix B - Specifications Model Number M - 300 Resolution 1000 x 1000 DPI, 500 x 500 DPI, 333 x 333 DPI, 250 x 250 DPI 200 x 200 DPI, Draft Computer Interface Windows 95, 98, and HPGL Table Size 29” x 17” (736.6 mm x 431.8mm) Work Area 24” x 12” (609.6 x 304.8 mm) Maximum Part Size 29” (736.6mm) wide x 17” (431.8mm) deep x 9” (228.6[...]

  • Page 107

    Appendix C - Using DOS Based Programs DOS software is not standardized and each application will work differently. When using DOS applications, it is not possible to print through the Windows Printer Driver and for this situation, the system has been designed to a utomatically emulate a Hewlett Packard plotter. Plotters use a special language calle[...]

  • Page 108

    Appendix D - Using Macintosh Computers The laser system has primarily been designed to run under the Windows 95 or Windows 98 operating system. There is no Macintosh Driver available for this Platform at this time, however, there may be one in the future. Once in awhile you might want to log on to our website www.ulsinc.com to see if there are deve[...]

  • Page 109

    Appendix E - Serial Port Cable Requirements[...]

  • Page 110

    Appendix F - H ow To Get Help Step 1: Determine exactly what the problem is. Refer to “Section 8 – Troubleshooting” for a possible solution. Step 2: Try to recreate the problem and write down the circumstances in which the problem occurred. Be prepared to describe al l pertinent information about the computer being used with the laser cutting[...]