Models VL-200 & VL-300 Laser Engraving and Cutting Systems Safety, Installation, Operation, and Basic Maintenance Manual Universal Laser Systems, Inc. 16008 North 81st Street Scottsdale, AZ 85260 USA Customer Support Department Phone: 480-609-0297 Fax: 480-609-1203 Web Based Email Support: www.VersaLASER.
Notice This publication and its contents are proprietary 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 or for incidental or consequential damage in connection with the furnishing, performance, or use of this material.
Introduction All of us at Universal Laser Systems, Inc. (ULS) would like to thank you for your purchase. Since 1988, the staff at ULS has been dedicated to total customer satisfaction. When you buy Universal you get more than a money making product, you get a team of talented, experienced, and enthusiastic people who are focused on your satisfaction. Our commitment is to help you be successful right now and in the future.
Specifications System Operating Environment Requirements (user provided) Model Operating Environment VL-200 VL-300 Well-ventilated office (recommended) or clean, light-duty manufacturing area Operating Temperature 50ºF (10ºC) to 95ºF (35º C) capable 73ºF (22ºC) to 77ºF (25º C) for best performance Storage Temperature 50ºF (10ºC) to 95ºF (35º C) Operating Humidity Non-condensing Electrical Power Particulate/Odor Outside Ventilated Exhaust System 110/220 VAC, 10/5A, Grounded 110/220 VAC, 10/5A, Gr
Table of Contents Section 1 - Safety Description of Appropriate Use ................................................................................. 1-1 General Safety ........................................................................................................ 1-1 Laser Safety............................................................................................................ 1-2 Safety Labels ...............................................................................................
Section 1 Safety Description of Appropriate Use This device is designed for laser cutting and engraving of the materials listed in the VersaLASER printer driver. Materials to be processed must fit completely inside the system for proper operation. Use of the equipment in a manner other than that described in this manual may result in injury to yourself and others and may cause severe damage to the equipment and your facility.
SAFETY Laser Safety The device contains a sealed carbon dioxide (CO2) laser in a Class I enclosure that produces intense invisible and visible laser radiation at a wavelength of 10.6 microns in the infrared spectrum. For your protection, this enclosure is designed to completely contain the CO2 laser beam. CAUTION – Use of controls or adjustments or performance of procedures other than those specified herein may result in hazardous radiation exposure.
SAFETY DANGER CAUTION LASER RADIATION DO NOT STARE INTO BEAM OR VIEW DIRECTLY WITH OPTICAL INSTRUMENTS CLASS 3A LASER PRODUCT LASER RADIATION - AVOID DIRECT EYE EXPOSURE INPUT POWER: 220 VAC; 50/60 Hz; 5 A LASER DIODE WAVELENGTH: 630-680 nm MAX. OUTPUT: 5 mW CLASS IIIa LASER PRODUCT LASER DIODE WAVELENGTH: 630-680 nm MAX. OUTPUT: 5 mW 221-0033-0 221-0034-0 221-0065-0 221-0036-0 WARNING THIS SYSTEM IS DESIGNED FOR USE WITH INERT AND NON-OXIDIZING GASES ONLY (i.e.
SAFETY EU Compliance (CE) L A S E R S Y S T E M S I N C. Product Identification: VersaLASE R VL-200 and VL-300 Laser Engraving and Cutting Systems Manufacturer: Universal Laser Systems, Inc. st 16008 N. 81 St. Scottsdale, AZ 85260 Phone: (480) 483-1214 Fax: (480) 483-5620 USA This equipment Is manufactured in conformity with the following directives: 89/336/EEC 73/23/EEC 89/392/EEC (EMC Directive) (Low Voltage Directive) (Machinery Directive) based on the standards listed.
SAFETY FCC Compliance This ULS laser system has been tested and found to comply with Federal Communication Commission (FCC) directives regarding Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC). In accordance with these directives ULS is required to provide the following information to its customers. FCC Compliance Statement and Warnings This device complied with FCC Rules Part 15. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: 1. This device may not cause harmful interference, and 2.
Section 2 Step-By-Step Installation In this section we will step you through site preparation, computer and software setup, and unpacking and assembling the VersaLASER. Please follow the instructions in the order shown. Establishing a Proper Operating Environment • • • • The device MUST be installed in an office-type or light duty manufacturing environment. Airborne pollutants can damage the device.
INSTALLATION Computer and Operating System Your computer is critical component in the operation of the VersaLASER. In fact, you cannot power on the VersaLASER if your computer is not connected, powered on, running Windows, and running the VersaLASER Control Panel software (VCP). Only ONE VersaLASER per computer is allowed. You will need to purchase a separate computer for each VersaLASER you own. Also, the VersaLASER is NOT designed to be a network printer.
INSTALLATION Recommended Software Programs All software necessary to control the VersaLASER is included. However, the software necessary to create the artwork is NOT included.
INSTALLATION 1. Power on your computer and boot into Windows. If your computer is already running, save your work and close all programs except Windows. 2. Connect the power cord rf om your power source to the power cord inlet (6) of the VersaLASER. 3. If you have an external exhaust system, connect your external exhaust hose to the exhaust port (5) and secure with a hose clamp. 4. Connect a provided USB cable from USB port (1) of the VersaLASER to an available USB port in your computer. 1. 2. 3.
INSTALLATION Configuring Your Graphics Software After the VersaLASER software installation is completed, you must configure your graphics software to work correctly with the VersaLASER. The basic setup should include the following: • Set the default page orientation to Landscape and page size to a width of 16 inches (406.4mm) (model VL-200) or 24 inches (609.6mm) (model VL-300) and height of 12 inches (304.8mm).
Section 3 Operation How it Works The VersaLASER uses the intense energy of the laser beam to vaporize material from the work piece (wood, plastic, etc.), placed on the VersaLASER work surface, by either raster engraving, vector cutting, or vector marking. Raster engraving is the technique where the laser beam traverses left and right, engraving horizontal lines of material as it steps down the work piece vertically, similar to a laser or inkjet printer.
SYSTEM OPERATION The VersaLASER On-Screen Control Panel (VCP) The purpose of the VersaLASER On-Screen Control Panel (VCP for short) is to be able to remotely control your VersaLASER by being able to view and print your stored print jobs. You will not be able to operate the VersaLASER without the VCP running in the taskbar. Once you have installed the VCP using the installation disk, a green, square-shaped icon will appear in the lower right corner of your Windows taskbar.
SYSTEM OPERATION • • • • GO HOME will move the Focus Carriage to the upper right edge of the work area. RESET X-Y button will electronically and mechanically re-home the Focus Carriage if you accidentally bump it out of position. RESET Z will electronically and mechanically re-home the Z-axis engraving table. You MUST select this if you accidentally stall the t able by placing excessive weight on it otherwise the VersaLASER will not focus the beam properly.
SYSTEM OPERATION Step 4 – Loading and Positioning Your Material Open the user door and position the wood (1) into the upper left corner of the engraving table, up against the rulers. If necessary, use the UP or DOWN arrow buttons on the keypad or in the VCP to raise or lower the Z-axis to make loading easier.
Section 4 Basic System Maintenance Keeping the VersaLASER clean will ensure the highest quality engraving and prolong the lifetime of the mechanical components. The frequency of cleaning will depend entirely on the type of material being engraved, the performance of your exhaust system, the operating environment, and the amount of laser system usage.
BASIC SYSTEM MAINTENANCE Optics A visual inspection of the optics should be performed at least once a day. If the optic appears cloudy or has material deposits formed on the surface, it should be cleaned. If, after inspection, the optic appears visually uncontaminated, DO NOT clean the optic. Excessive cleaning can damage the optic. The guidelines listed below describe how to handle optics: Optics Handling Guidelines • • • • • • Wash your hands thoroughly before handling any optic.
BASIC SYSTEM MAINTENANCE #2 Mirror • • • Locate the #2 Mirror Holder (red). Grasp its protruding handle with your thumb and forefinger and slide it out. It is held in place by magnets so you may feel a slight resistance when you begin to slide it out. The picture reveals the backside of the mirror. Turn the #2 Mirror Holder over and inspect the optic for visual contamination. Clean as necessary. Re-insert the #2 Mirror Holder by sliding it into the mounting slot until it stops.
BASIC SYSTEM 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, towards the rear of the engraving area. It is only necessary to clean the front side of the Beam Window. The backside is in a sealed environment and should not get contaminated. DO NOT remove the Beam Window for inspection or cleaning. Inspect the optic in place and clean if necessary. 1.
BASIC SYSTEM MAINTENANCE The Main Enclosure • • Clean the acrylic user door with a non-abrasive cotton cloth or facial tissue and the soap solution. The top window is made out of acrylic. DO NOT use paper towels because they will scratch the acrylic. Also, DO NOT use window cleaner, alcohol, or acetone, as these chemicals will crack the acrylic. Only use cleaners compatible with acrylic. Use a soft cloth dampened with the soap solution to clean the enclosure.
BASIC SYSTEM MAINTENANCE Cooling Fan Filters 1. 2. 3. Side cooling fan filter (inside cover) Rear cooling fan filter (inside cover) Rear cover mounting screws 4. Lift the cover straight up and off The side (#1) and rear (#2) cooling fan filters are located inside the Rear Cover. To access them, remove the two mounting screws (#3) underneath the rear of the system. Lift the cover straight up and off. Locate the filters on the inside of the cover (not shown).
Section 5 Accessories As an addition to the regular VersaLASER, we offer a wide variety of optional accessories. Before attempting to use any of the accessories in this section, make sure that you are comfortable operating the VersaLASER, the VCP, and your graphics software. Rotary Fixture This accessory allows the VersaLASER to be quickly reconfigured to raster engrave, vector mark, or vector cut (material dependent), cylindrical objects such as glassware, etc.
ACCESSORIES On the underside of the Rotary Fixture notice the self-aligning electrical connector (1) and two alignment holes (2). Insert the Rotary Fixture into the slot (OK to do with the power on because it is hot swappable) and move it around until the connector engages, the pins protrude through the alignment holes, and the fixture sits flat. It will indicate that it is installed properly by automatically rotating its cone slightly and a Rotary button will appear in the Focus tab of the VCP.
ACCESSORIES Lift the lever (1) on the adjustable end of the fixture (2) and slide it to the left, out of the way. Place the open end of the glass into the cone, and slide the adjustable end of the fixture to the right (3) up against the base of the glass so the glass rests firmly centered inside of the inverted cone. Apply light pressure to the right, only enough force to prevent the glass from slipping while it rotates, and push the lever down (1) to lock it in place.
ACCESSORIES Printing WARNING: The following steps are critical. Make sure that you enter the correct information otherwise the VersaLASER might not only adjust the Z-axis and scale the graphic incorrectly, which can ruin your material, but it can also damage itself if the moving parts of the X-axis crash into the Rotary Fixture. Print as if you were engraving a flat object. When the VersaLASER Settings dialog box pops up, choose your category and type of material as usual.
ACCESSORIES Inside the VersaLASER you will find the large recessed slot with a self-aligning electrical connector to the right side (1) and the two alignment pins (2). By using the thumbscrews as handles (3), insert the Cutting Table into the slot (it is OK to do with the power on because it is hot swappable) and move it around until the connector engages and the fixture sits flat. Graphics Setup Open your graphics software. In this case we will use CorelDRAW11 and create a new graphic.
ACCESSORIES Integrated Cart Features: • • • • • Size: 25”W x 22” D x 30”H / Weight: 95 lbs Maximum stability at low cost / Powder-coated, durable construction Four “foot” ports to secure the VersaLASER to the cart to prevent slipping (1) Two large storage drawers (2 & 3) Locking casters for moving convenience (4) Installation • • • • Push down on the tabs of the locking casters so that the cart does not roll. Obtain the assistance of another person.
ACCESSORIES Figure 1 (Front View) 1. 2. 3. 4. Four “foot” ports to secure the VersaLASER to the cart and prevent slipping (1) Pre-filter and HEPA filter drawer Charcoal filter drawer Locking casters Figure 2 (Rear View) 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
ACCESSORIES Installation • • • Push down on the tabs of the locking casters so that the cart does not roll. Obtain the assistance of another person. One person should grasp the front of the machine and place his hands where the arrows indicate. The other person should stand in the back of the machine and place his hands where the arrows indicate. Pick up the VersaLASER, place it on top of the cart and locate the VersaLASER’s four feet into the four, foot ports.
ACCESSORIES Computer Controlled Compressed Air Unit This integrated accessory provides dry, oil-free compressed air to protect the VersaLASER’s optics and assist with cutting and engraving of materials that tend to flame up or produce heavy quantities of smoke or debris. It MUST be used in conjunction with either the Air Assist Cone or Back Sweep accessories. The Air Compressor is designed to automatically power on when the VersaLASER starts a print job, and then power off automatically and finishes it.
ACCESSORIES Periodic Maintenance At least once per month, check the condition of the two filters on the back of the device. If they are plugged, simply remove them by snapping off the cover, removing the filter media, washing it out with ordinary soap and water, dry the filters, and re-install. If the filters remained relatively clean, adjust your maintenance schedule accordingly. Below the device you will find a tray. With your hands, slide the tray forwards.
ACCESSORIES Installation Lower the table down far enough so that you can attach the cone. Power off the VersaLASER. By hand, move the X-axis arm and Focus Carriage to a comfortable working position in the field. Remove (if present) the plug (1) with a screwdriver. Using a 3/16 socket tool or 5mm wrench, attach the needle valve to the port where you removed the plug. Be careful not to cross-thread the small device when installing and do not over tighten it.
ACCESSORIES Removal Loosen the thumbscrew and pull the Cone downwards. Leave the thumbscrew attached to the focus Carriage by re-tightening it so that it doesn’t get lost. Either detach the accessory by unscrewing the needle valve and reinstalling the plug (the same way you installed it), or by the preferred method of unattaching the hose from the needle valve by either using a wrench to loosen the nut at the end of the hose or by simply using the cone as your wrench and turning it counter clockwise.
ACCESSORIES Power on the VersaLASER. Load some scrap material of the same type you intend to process and set focus using the Focus Tool. Adjust the angle of the nozzle by loosening the thumbscrew (1), rotating the bracket, and re-tightening the thumbscrew. You can also adjust the height (2) by loosening the mounting thumbscrew, making the adjustment and re-tightening the thumbscrew. Use the Red Dot pointer as your guide to where the laser beam will strike the material.
