CONTA SIGN CS
Easy-Marking-System
©
Guide to Using
CONTA Sign CS 4.3 Labeling Software
Release: June 30,2007
Guide to Using
CONTA Sign CS 4.3 Labeling Software
Content
1. System Requirements..................................................................................3
2. Software Installation .....................................................................................3
3. Selecting the Output Device and Changing Settings....................................3
4. Definitions.....................................................................................................4
5. Getting used to the Software........................................................................5
5.1 Create a new project..............................................................................5
5.2 Opening an existing project....................................................................5
5.3 Selecting tags / marking elements..........................................................5
5.4 Marking the selected tags / marking elements.......................................6
5.5 One-time, multiple and serial modes......................................................8
5.6 Importing files.........................................................................................9
5.7 Row labeling.........................................................................................10
5.8 Marking of endless strips......................................................................13
5.9 Copying functions.................................................................................14
5.10 Zoom function.....................................................................................15
5.11 Control print of the labeling data.........................................................16
5.12 Preferences........................................................................................16
5.13 No. of projects and base plates allowed.............................................16
5.14 Information menu > ?
.........................................................................16
6. Starting the Print Job with the Plotter.........................................................17
7. Scale Factor ...............................................................................................20
8. Designing new Tags...................................................................................21
8.1 Example for same sized tags for plotting and engraving......................22
8.2 Example for different sized tags for plotting and engraving .................25
8.3 Example for same sized labels for endless TT-Printer.........................27
8.4 Example for same sized labels for Office Printer .................................28
8.5 Example for different sized labels for Office Printer.............................29
8.6 Import / Export of User elements..........................................................30
1
Guide to Using
CONTA Sign CS 4.3 Labeling Software
Content
9. Engraving Tags...........................................................................................31
9.1 Engraving with EMS-2 Engraver..........................................................31
9.2 Starting the Engraving..........................................................................33
10. Calibrating the Plotter...............................................................................37
11. Firmware update of the plotter..................................................................38
12. Printing on other output devices...............................................................39
12.1 Printing on endless TT-Printer............................................................39
12.2 Printing on standard Office Printer.....................................................40
2
1. System Requirements
Pentium II PC (200 MHz or higher)
64 MB RAM
CD-ROM drive
VGA graphics adapter and monitor (256 colors, resolution 640 x 480)
Operating system: Windows 98, ME, NT, 2000, XP, Vista (32bit)
Mouse
2. Software Installation
First close all other applications. Insert the “CONTA Sign CS” CD into the CD-ROM
drive of your PC. Installation will start automatically. Please follow the on-screen
instructions. If the auto-start feature has been switched off on your PC, please start the
set-up program by double-clicking.
When the installation is complete, connect the plotter to the PC with the parallel
interface cable or USB -cable and switch the plotter on.
3. Selecting the Output Device and Changing Settings
Now start the CONTA Sign CS program by a double click on the symbol located on
the desktop. Before working with the software, you must first install the plotter you
intend to use. To do this, select the output
device in the window. As example, if you are
using the
EMS-2 select the output device and check the
clickbox as Use always this type of Printer.
You will not be asked any more in the future.
With the button Accept the setting will be
saved and the window be closed.
If you like to connect another output device in
the future, like the EMS-2 (half size) Engraver, endless Thermal-Transfer Printer or an
Office Printer, you can always get back to the window from the Menu bar > File
choose > New. The EMS-2 is default set as standard output device, connected
through the USB.
In addition, the EMS-2 has a parallel port,
to be used with the CONTA Sign CS. For
using you need to change the output to
parallel, go to the main menu bar > Output
> Output device and check the
Interface tab. Confirm LPT1 as the new
interface port and click on Apply.
Connect the parallel cable on both ends
and switch on the EMS-2, the software will
recognize the plotter accordingly.
and
3
4. Definitions
Base Plate
Segment 1
Plate 1
Example of
Label Sequences
displayed with
Zoom Function
Zoom Function
click on Zoom Icon Zoom on
position the mouse and click the right mouse button Zoom in (enlarge)
position the mouse and click the left mouse button Zoom out (reduce)
click on Zoom Icon Zoom off
Segment 2
Segment 3
Segment 4
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5. Getting Used to the Software
Our prime concern when developing this software was that users should be able to
carry out all labeling jobs quickly and easily.
For this reason, every task follows the same basic pattern:
5.1 Create a new Project.
The EMS-2 has an integrated support plate recognition system included. The software
CONTA Sign CS reads the code of each field, starting with the left support plate.
Assuming the EMS-2 is turned on, the communication cable is connected and support
plates are placed on the plotter itself, the software pre-selects the marker cards
already. If you click on the icon New Project
> New from the main menu, the message comes up, if you like to use the recognition
system and read the
support plates.
After you confirm with Yes,
the support plates are
recognized and shown on
the screen together with the available marker cards. If you
confirm with No, all available elements and manufacturer
are presented in the list to be selected from.
After changing the support plate on the plotter or after
deleting a segment within the software, you could click on
the icon Rescan support plates
support plates.
and read the new
of the menu bar, or select > File and
5.2 Open an existing Project
If you click on the icon Open Project
from the main menu, existing projects could be loaded. You are able to work with
up to 10 different projects at the same time and could use all the Copy and Paste
functions between them.
5.3 Selecting tags / marking elements
After you double click on one of the segments on the
screen, a list of the available marker you can work with
and select from comes up. Just choose the type you have
placed on the support plate and the selection will be
presented on the screen.
If the no. of marker presented are not sufficient in order to
complete your job on one base plate (holding up to 4
support plates), new base plates with respective support plates could be added upon
your convenience.
of the menu bar, or select > File and > Open
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In order to do so, please select > Edit and > Add Plate from the main menu or use the
right mouse button.
A new blank base plate comes up to be used with more
segments. Up to 16 base plates could be used in one
project (max. 10 projects in one file).
To move from one base plate to the other just click on
their names in the lower left corner. Base plates could
also be renamed just with a double
click, or moved in the position to each other with drag
and drop.
5.4 Marking the selected tags / marking elements
Double-click the tag or element where the labeling process is to begin.
This opens the labeling dialog box, which contains all the setting options. In order to
open the edit window, please click on the first tag to start with, use the right
mouse button and choose > Labeling
keyboard (check under > Option from the menu first). The exact description of the
selected tag and the number of tags available both appear in
the top line of the dialog box.
An outline of the selected marking element
is shown in the top third of the box.
Angle and text alignment options are found
next to this diagram.
The number of lines per tag can also be
specified here.
from the menu or start typing a character on the
Note that the program will only allow
options that are appropriate for the
selected element.
The various tabs for different methods of data input and import appear in the middle of
the box. This is where you can enter all the data and text for one-time, multiple, and
serial marking, and files to be imported from different programs, as well as text for
custom labeling (for example, row labeling).
The font, font width, font size, underline, line spacing, tip width of the plotter pen, and
plotting speed settings can be adjusted in the lower part of the box.
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The values match the chosen marking element, but can be altered within reasonable
limits. A warning message is displayed if text length exceeds the size of the tag.
This enables you to adjust the font, font size or
font width so that the text fits onto the tag
or element.
From a certain font height upward, only capital
letters and certain special characters are allowed
in order to make best use of the available labeling
area.
In such cases the following warning is displayed:
> Only upper case letters, special characters
and symbols are allowed <
Characters as "g, j, y, Ä, Ö, Ü" are not allowed in order to make best use of the
labeling area.
Restore Default values:
If you change parameters (font types, text height, line numbers etc.) for
each element the data will be stored in a separate file. If you choose the element
again, you will find the previously used parameter settings.
Click Default values , if you want to restore the original settings.
Note: After updating the software the user´s specific parameters
remain valid.
Extended character set
Country specific characters are directly
available by selecting
extended character set, the labeling
for other countries is easy to achieve.
Selecting the option, a new window
opens up at the right side with the
provided characters.
Without looking into the windows
character set for characters not
available through the keyboard directly,
country specific characters can be
selected with a click.
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Country specific characters will be
provided according to the selected
typeface, e.g. if you choose the
font ISO_3098_ee, characters for
eastern European countries are
available.
Additional character sets such as
Cyrillic, Baltic, Turkey, Greek, will be
available by selecting the spec. font
under ISO_3089.
Also ornate fonts can be selected,
specifically to be used for engraving.
5.5 One-time, multiple and serial modes
By choosing the tab for one-time, multiple, and serial modes, corresponding
sequences of text, numbers, characters and
symbols can be entered. At the right-hand corner
of the marking window you will find a large choice
of symbols which can be selected by a click.
The number of lines opened for editing
corresponds to the number of lines set per tag.
Text can now be entered. The number of tags to
be labeled with the same text should be
entered in the Repeat field.
The data input is shown in the preview window.
If the number of repetitions exceeds the number of tags available, the following
warning is displayed: > Not enough tags selected to fit your request <,
and the number of repetitions must
either be corrected or more tags
must be provided for labeling by
confirming with Yes.
Clicking OK transfers the labeling to the tags.
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If sequential numbering is to be carried out, after
selecting the number of lines you must specify
the line in which the sequential numbering is to
appear. To allow this, the Series check box to the
right of the line is activated.
Checking this box then activates the
consecutive no. button and prevents input in the
editing field. Clicking the Consecutive no. button
opens a further window, allowing serial marking to
be entered.
Here the start value, final value, preceding text
(prefix), following text (suffix), step size, counting method, and number of repetitions
can be entered, the counting method can be chosen
to be in ascending order.
The count could be chosen in decreasing nos. (start
value higher than final value) or increasing nos. (start
value lower than final value).
The left part of the window is separated in two parts,
primary serial number and secondary serial number,
in order to create two interlinked consecutive numberings, with free chosen character for separation. The
example shows as primary series TP-1 to 5 and the
secondary series 10 to 15 –HA, with a separation
character of --, TP- is the preceding text (prefix) and
–HA the following text (suffix).
If the series labeling job specified exceeds the number of tags available, the following
warning is displayed: > Not enough tags marked for labeling <.
The number of tags must either be reduced for example, by changing the final value or
more tags must be provided for labeling.
The sequences entered are listed in the preview window.
Clicking OK returns you to the previous window, and any necessary
parameter changes can be made there.
Clicking OK again transfers the labeling to the
tags. You can edit the data in the preview window.
It is possible to delete texts, insert empty rows and
special symbols or other texts.
Note: If you want to insert more data in series,
sequences cannot be shown and edited in the
series modus.
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5.6 Importing files
After choosing the Import file tab, data can be imported from other files.
Data can be imported from other CAD/CAE programs, text files,
or spreadsheet programs.
An efficient import function is available to allow
extraction of the required data from a range of file
formats.
Clicking the Browse button makes it possible to
locate the file to be imported. Click to
select the file name, and then click Open to
access the file for importing.
A window will now open displaying the data for
importing, in table format.
You can choose the separator to be “tab”, “space”, “comma” or “semicolon” as single
or in combination. In addition further character can be
defined by clicking the box Other and entered in the
next field, e.g. “B”, enter “B” in the field and confirm
with OK.
Another possibility for separating imported files is
the no. of character.
Select the click box Text length fixed and enter the
no. of character in the empty field, clicking OK
activates the new separator.
If you want to import Conta Sign, Excel, Access or E-Plan files, the program will
automatically recognize the format and open the first worksheet for importing.
This is the default setting. You can also select other sheets from the file.
You can now copy either part or the entire table and use it for marking.
Please follow these steps:
Use the mouse to select individual or multiple cells,
individual or multiple columns, individual or multiple
rows, and click the Copy marked range button.
The data will be inserted into the editing field, and
you can check whether the copied data is correct.
It is possible to edit the data in this window, like
input of new data, delete data, correct data and copy data.
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The following functions exist to aid data import:
Overwrite existing data
If you enable this function, newly copied data will automatically overwrite previously
copied data. If this function has not been enabled, the data will be appended to the
existing data.
Ignore null values
If this function is enabled, cells containing no data
will not be imported.
Left Right
This function allows the import sequence to be
changed. In the default setting, the data is transferred
by column from top to bottom. If the left-to-right
function is enabled, the data is transferred by row
from left to right.
Data can also be easily imported from files using Copy and Paste and the Windows
Clipboard.
To do this, open the relevant file and copy the data to the Clipboard.
When the original file has been closed, the data on the Clipboard can be pasted into
the editing field on the right-hand side of the import box either by pressing the
Ctrl V keys or by using the shortcut menu which pops up after clicking
the right mouse button.
After the data has been transferred to the preview window, it can be modified as
required. Available functions include deleting data, inserting data, etc.
Clicking OK transfers the labeling to the tags.
If the number of requested tags exceeds the number of tags available, the following
warning is displayed: > Not enough tags selected to fit your request <,
and the number of imported tags must either be corrected or more tags must be
provided for labeling.
Another direct import function is available from the main menu,
select
The import filter is specially designed for the import of files created
by former software programs, supporting a direct import of a
complete marker card.
There is no “select from” available, the file is recognized and
opened in the background upon importing the data. The software
opens the dedicated segment on a new base plate and transfers
the labeling to the tags accordingly. Post import of the data, all edit
functions can be used as previously described.
Special import formats are available at sales support.
> File and > Import file.
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5.7 Row labeling
After choosing the row labeling tab, marking can be easily carried out on individual
row. Please ensure that you have selected complete row, since otherwise proper
labeling will not be possible.
The editing field is used to enter the text to be printed on the
row. The characters for each tag must be separated by
commas for example, “ab, cd, ef, symbol, symbol” means print
“ab” on the first tag, “cd” on the second tag , “ef” on the third
tag, "symbol" on the forth tag and "symbol" on the fifth tag .
Clicking OK transfers the labeling to the tags.
5.8 Marking of endless strips
This software has special features for marking of endless strips:
Strip partitioning
Marking complete strip
Marking strip section
Copy a strip
Insert a strip
If you choose strip-material, the above mentioned functions for
sectioning and marking of strips are available on the menu > Edit
By clicking you can select the strip you wish to mark.
Note: In order to mark a section of strip you have to prepare it first
via menu > Edit > Strip partitioning.
.
Strip partitioning
You can open a window via > Edit
allows you to divide the strip into various sections.
First put in the width of the strip and then the amount of
elements required in that width and confirm by pressing the
button Append .
Thereafter you can select and add further sections with
different widths.
If you wish to insert a section between other sections you have to mark-out the
section before which you want to insert.
Then press the button Insert to start the process.
You can delete sections by marking-out the section and pressing the Delete button.
At the bottom part of the window you can check strip-length already occupied and the
remaining strip-length.
After completion of sectioning press OK button and the strip will show up with the
corresponding divisions.
> Strip partitioning which
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Marking complete strip
Mark-out the required strip by clicking.
Via the menu > Edit
can get to the labeling window in which
you can select the type of marking. This
function allows you to carry out marking
in multiple and serial mode in various
element-widths.
Note: The space available for marking is
calculated on the lowest element-width. Should you request
an individual marking on the various element-widths, please choose this
marking possibility over the menu by selecting > Edit
Marking strip section
Mark-out the strip section you want to work on by clicking.
Via menu > Edit
window and can select the print. This function
allows you to completely utilize the available element-width.
> Marking complete strip you
> Marking strip section
> Marking strip section you can open the labeling
Note: Cut markings can be added to the print output. The settings
are made in the print output menu (see chapter “Printing Tags”).
Copy strip / Insert strip
Mark-out the strip you wish to copy by clicking.
Via menu > Edit
Now click to the strip onto which you want the data to be
inserted. Via menu > Edit > Paste strip the data will be inserted.
> Copy strip you can prepare the copy process.
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5.9 Copying functions
To avoid having to repeatedly enter the same or similar sequences, the program
provides a multiple number of copying functions:
5.9.1. Copying a marking sequence
Select a sequence by clicking it with the left mouse button. Now click the right mouse
button and choose > Copy marking (only tags with text)
shortcut menu.
Then use the left mouse button to select the element where the
copied sequence is to be inserted.
Open the shortcut menu by right-clicking and choose
> Paste marking
The copy/paste functions can also be accessed via the
icons / on the toolbar or by choosing > Edit from the
menu bar.
5.9.2. Copying several marking sequences
To copy several sequences, you can use the Shift - key to extend and select the area
to be copied. Copy and paste as described above.
Note: Simultaneous copying of multiple sequences to other types of tags
is not possible.
. If desired, the sequence can be altered.
from the
5.9.3. Copying parts of marking sequences
To copy individual markings from within sequences follow these steps:
Hold down the Ctrl - key and select all the labels you wish to copy by clicking them
with the left mouse button. Copy and paste as described above.
Note: Simultaneous copying of partial marking from multiple sequences to
other types of tags is not possible.
5.9.4. Copying of marking with empty signs
If you want to copy a range of tags, including non marked tags, mark these
and click the right mouse button, select in the menu
> Copy marking (including signs without text)
Copy and paste as described above.
.
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5.9.5. Copying a complete segment with tags
Choose the segment with a mouse
click. Press the right mouse button,
select in the menu > Copy segment
and activate it. Go to the destination
segment and click the mouse to
activate it. Press the right mouse
button and select in the
menu > Paste segment
Using the menu bar > Edit and sub
menus copy and paste works in the same way as described above.
5.9.6. Copying an entire base plate
Choose > Edit from the menu bar,
followed by > Copy Plate.
Choose again > Edit from the menu
bar, followed by > Paste Plate.
The whole plate will be copied
automatically.
5.9.7 Copying of texts onto other tag sizes
In some cases, the copying function of text to other tag sizes is disabled. It is only
allowed to copy in a common sense. The preview of the print must fit on the tag, like
writing angle and text size.
In general only one sequence can be copied at a time.
Note: All copy functions described can also be used between projects.
5.10. Zoom function
In order to activate or deactivate the zoom function, choose > View
from the menu bar or click on the icon.
Click on the icon once and move the mouse to the position on the base plate you like
view differently. With the left mouse click the position will be taken as new screen
center and enlarged. A new click on the icon will deactivate the function, continuing
to work with the current zoom.
The click with the right mouse button reduces the screen by a given zoom factor.
> Zoom function
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5.11 Control print of the labeling data
You can send the print data to a standard printer by selecting
> Extras from the main menu.
Print all segments:
The printer prints two quarter size segments per page, a two page
printout from the EMS-2 full size
Print selected segments only:
The printer prints one page with the selected segment.
5.12 Preferences
Choose > Extras
To select the language please check the next window coming up.
Before the plot starts a message comes
up, reminding you how to treat the
plotter pens. If you don´t like to have it
come up please check the mark. If you select a tag ready for labeling, you can just start to enter the character on the keyboard as
first character accepted, the labeling window opens and the character is
placed on the selected tag. If you don´t like to have it in place please
check the mark.
5.13 No. of projects and base plates allowed
Choose > Windows
overview of your actual project no. and base plates activated.
In total you can have up to 10 different projects and up to 16 base plates from each
project open and work with.
> Options from the menu bar for opening the window to select form.
from the menu bar in order to receive the
5.14 Information menu > ?
Choose > ? from the menu bar to receive further information about the system.
If you select Support plates, a window with different lists comes up,
showing the actual available support plates, the description and part no.
If you select Online-help, a description of general features of the software
is available. You can click within the software at any time on the icon
or open the help file from the menu bar > ?
The information window opens from the
menu bar > ?
about the software version, the release of the database
and the firmware of the EMS-2. To close the window
click on the OK button.
> Information with important information
> Online-Help.
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6. Starting the Print Job with the EMS-2
Once all the data for printing the job are entered the tags can be plotted.
In the upper left corner of the screen you will find the
information. In order to start printing, the plotter needs to be switched on
and connected with the respective data cable.
Click on the printer icon in the main menu bar. Prior
to starting, the software verifies if the plotter runs in the
plotting mode. If you are using the engraving option for
this plotter also, the plotter could be in the engraving
mode. If that is the case, you will find some instructions
on the screen how to switch the plotter into the plotting
mode. After confirming the message the
status will be re-checked.
Now the software verifies if the selected
support plates are identical with the ones
placed on the plotter, if not, a warning message comes up on the screen you need to
confirm.
Following new information are displayed and adjustments could be selected from:
In the top part of the window the selected
plotter and interface are indicated.
The next click box you can
check to activate or deactivate priming the
plotter pen on one of the fields left or right of
the Pen Station.
The next field of the window indicates the
recognized support plates, placed on the
plotter. Are those different from the ones
chosen for this project, the necessary support
plate for this job is indicated in red.
The right side of the window is used to show the different plotter pens to be used for
this job, also with a color indication according to the standard color coding of the
EK-TEAM Plotter Pens.
If the tip of the pen used is larger than .5 mm a message comes up, telling that the
standard pen sizes (.18 mm to .5 mm) for
this job will be different.
17
Different print options could be set up in the lower part of the window:
Use one Plotter Pen Size only
In order to execute this job, two or more pens
to be used might be indicated. If you
like to use one tip size, please check this box
and select the respective Pen.
Use Pen inserted in Pen Holder
Once checked this box, no Pen will be picked
up from the Pen Station. The pen directly
inserted into the Pen Holder will be used. This
option could be used, if pens
used are different from the EK-Team Pens, although they might have a HP compatible
outside dimension, but will not fit into the Pen Station of the plotter.
Use one Plotter Speed only
In order to execute this job, different speeds (10 to 40 mm per second) could be
selected from the data entry. In order to work with one speed selection only, please
check this box and select the respective speed.
Print selected tags only
If you check this box, only the tags marked before are subject to be printed.
Select a sequence
Just click in the edit window on the sequence once and it is marked.
Select multiple sequences
Just click in the edit window on the first sequence once, hold down the
Shift Button and click on the next sequence ones etc. and all are marked.
Select single tags
Hold down the Ctrl Button and just click in the edit window on the single
tag or multiple tags once and they are marked.
Print selected segments only
If you check this box, only the segments marked before are subject to be printed.
Just click in the edit window on the segment once and it is marked. In order to mark
two or more segments, hold down the Ctrl Button and click on each segment once.
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If you print on endless strips, additional adjustments are subject to be
checked.
Insert a cutting line
No
no cutting line is printed
Yes
cutting lines are printed after each tag length
Final
cutting line is printed after the last tag of the
whole strip length
The print job starts with a click on the OK Button.
The software checks again if the selected support plates are placed on the plotter.
If not, a warning message comes up to be
confirmed, either continue or cancel.
In case the already started job should be stopped, please click on the
icon Stop Plot in the menu bar. The printout will be interrupted, the data
(if any left) in the print spooler of the PC and the EMS-2 will be deleted.
The EMS-2 will re-align and move back to the origin, waiting for the new job.
Alternative the power of the EMS-2 can be re-cycled by pressing the OFF and ON
button. All existing data will be deleted and the zero position re-aligned.
Other plotter connected might be different in the operation, please refer to the
instruction manual.
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7. Scale factor
The data created from each individual tag for the database was carefully investigated,
although they are not frequently checked. There could be a chance for the printable
tags to receive by the time a slight mechanical deviation, spec. in the scale factor,
means the distance from one tag to the next in both of the directions x and y.
Temperature and humidity at the work bench could influence the distance as well as
new production series and different production techniques during the process like
material and temperature changes. Covering the complete x and y dimension of the
marker card, deviations of > 1 mm are noticeable. In order to be able to correct the
settings a special function is provided under menu > Extras
> Elements> Scale factor.
Once a segment with a marker card is placed on
scale in x-direction
the EMS-2 the first upper left tag should be checked,
if the print is centered in both directions
(see also item 10 Calibration). There after the last tag
scale in
y- direction
at the lower right corner needs to be printed in the same
manner. If not printed exactly the same, the
scale factor for this particular card is
not perfectly correct.
In order to correct the scale factor select one tag on the segment and choose > Extras
> Elements and > Scale factor from the menu.
The tags are changing into red and the EMS-2
moves with the inserted pen or magnifying tool
to the lower right corner to the point of the
beginning of the last tag.
With the button Pen Up /Down the plotter pen
or magnifying tool can be lowered in order to
find exactly the correct spot of the beginning of
the last tag at the lower right corner.
You can move the arm of the plotter with the four cursor buttons in
the pre-selected steps from 0.025 mm up to 10 mm, the default value is 0.1 mm.
After completion you must press the button Accept in order to save the changes to the
user file within the database, the general database is always kept original.
Closing the window moves the plotter arm back to the previous position.
The next start of the software will take the changed information from the user database. You can return to the original values by clicking the Reset button.
The complete dimension in x and y direction can be changed with the correction of the
scale factor. Re-check the result of the print again by printing the last tag at the lower
right corner, centered in both directions.
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8. Designing new Tags
This part of the program allows you to design own tags and elements or labels.
In order to open the program, choose > Extras and > Elements from the main menu.
To open the designer for labels for the endless
TT-Printer and Office Printer choose > Extras and
> Labels from the main menu.
There are two versions available designing new tags:
Design tags with same size
Design tags with different sizes
If you like to design e.g. a label sheet with same sized labels in a matrix, use
> Design tags with same size. If you like to design e.g. a serial no. plate with different
sized label areas, use > Design tags with different sizes.
Note: Designing tags is only possible with a plotter as output device selected. If you
are working with the engraving feature, the software
suggests to use either the half (DIN A4) or full size
(DIN A3) plotter.
The use of the design program is described below,
after saving, the designed elements are available for
labeling in the folder > User defined
(manufacturer) after selecting the correct output
device.
under > Producer
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8.1 Example for designing a label sheet (matrix) with same sized labels for plotting and engraving
Open the designer from the main menu with > Extras > Elements
> Design tags with same size as described above.
The following window appears:
With a click on the button New a new element can be named in the window under
<Untitled>. It is useful to work with the element recognition system of the plotter in
order to find the element more easy later on.
For the element you want to design, enter a
new name in the window <Untitled>.
If you don´t want to use the element
recognition system or you are working offline
(without being connected to the EMS-2),
select the type of support plate for the sheet.
You can select between a quarter size, half
size or full size support plate.
You can always assign the support plate to
the project later on. As soon as you are connected back to the plotter place
the support plate and click on the button Assign support plate identification.
Pre-selected is the plate for sheets (half size plate).
Further you can select in the lower left part of the window, if the new designed material
is for plotting only or plotting and engraving. The buttons are only active once the
support plate is recognized or assigned to the project.
Once selected, click on the Edit button.
Note: Engraving is only possible on dedicated support plates.
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A new window opens up,
where you can enter the data
of the tag (size of the label),
if known.
You can always take the
measurements using the
plotter system, if the data is
not available.
You need only to enter the
nos. of tags in x and y
direction.
All other data necessary for the program, can be taken with the plotter system.
Please enter the no. of tags in x and y direction as shown in the window.
If available enter also the size of the tag (label) and the distance to the next tag. You
can always correct the data later on, if the exact nos. are not present at the moment.
Always take the start position of the first tag with the plotter system!
Further on, you can decide on the labeling direction of the tags.
For the sequence for plotting or engraving you can choose between upper left to upper
right (by row) or upper left and lower left (by column).
Attention: It is essential for continuing the design to switch on the plotter and have the
support plate with the label sheet placed on.
Insert a plotter pen directly into the pen holder of the plotter.
If you have entered minimum the no. tags (label) in each direction, please click on the
Take measurements button.
A new window opens up, providing
buttons and entry windows, in order
to take all relevant measurements
for the new element.
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Please follow the steps for taking measurements:
Determine the exact position of the
first tag on the label sheet. In order to
do so, please click on the most left
button Initial position of the window.
The arm of the plotter moves to its upper left corner limit (zero position). From there
you can move the arm with the pen inserted to the upper left corner of the first tag with
the cursor buttons. You can select the size per step in mm in the upper right area of
the window.
Please check with the Pen Up/Down button the correct position after you moved the
pen to the initial point of the tag. The respective co-ordinates are shown in real nos. in
the x- and y- window based on the zero position.
Determine now the exact position
at the lower right corner of the first
tag. Just repeat the steps as for the
upper left corner, described above.
As next step, determine now the
exact position of the upper left corner
of the last tag (size of matrix).
Take the initial position in the same
manner as described above.
After completion of the three steps all measurements are taken for the element.
In order to save the data for the new element, please click on Accept.
The window "Take corner measurements of tags" will be closed and you are back to
the previous window.
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Please click on the button Accept in the window and the new designed
element will be shown.
Now you can check, if all
the data where taken
correctly . Any up-coming
error or warning message
at this point means,
please re-check the data
manually or allow the
automatic correction by the program.
Click on the button Close in order to
terminate the designer program.
You can find the new element for
labeling in the folder > User defined
under > Producer.
Example
Note: All new elements in the folder User defined will continue
to be available after program updates.
8.2 Example for designing a serial no. plate with different sized label areas for
plotting and engraving
Open the designer from the main menu with > Extras > Elements > Design tags with
different sizes.
The same window appears, as described before for designing
tags with the same size. All adjustments will be done in the same
manner. After clicking on the button Edit a similar window
appears, extended by additional functions.
Now you have the ability to implement different sized
labeling areas. Each new area or field needs to have an own name.
Taking the measurements is now similar to the
previous sample of the label sheet matrix.
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In case you like to copy the labeling field and place it at a different y-position,
click on the Button Duplicate. Please enter the new position in the new
upcoming window and confirm the entry by clicking on Accept.
Note: The new labeling areas could be part of a label sheet (matrix) as well as a
single area.
Please click on the button Close in the previous window and the new
designed element will be shown.
Now you can check, if all the data were taken
correctly.
Click on the button Close in order to terminate
the designer program. You can find the new
element for labeling in the folder
> User defined
In case the labeling is not exactly centered, you are allowed to edit the new designed
elements at any time. Open the designer program again, choose the element or part
of the element you want to change and click on the button Edit for making the
adjustments.
under > Producer.
Note: All new elements in the folder User defined
program updates.
will continue to be available after
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8.3 Example for designing same sized labels for endless TT-Printer
Open the designer from the main menu with > Extras > Labels
> Designer endless labels
The following window appears:
With a click on the button New a new element can be named in the window
under <Untitled>.
Confirm the new name by clicking on Edit
and the new window for entering the data of
the label will open up.
Take the measurements of the label and the distance between two labels.
Enter the data into each field incl. the no. of labels in x-direction,
confirm the entry with Accept and the labels will be shown as designed.
as described above.
Please check if all measurements were taken
correctly. With Close the designer will be
terminated.
After selecting from the main menu > New
correct output device, the designed labels are
available for labeling in the folder
> User defined under > Producer (manufacturer).
the
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8.4 Example for designing same sized labels for Office Printer
Open the designer from the main menu with > Extras > Labels
> Design label sheets with same size as described above.
The following window appears:
With a click on the button New a new
element can be named in the window under
<Untitled>.
Confirm the new name by clicking on Edit
and the new window for entering the data of
the label will open up.
Take the measurements of the label, the distance between two labels and the start
point from the left and upper side. Enter the data into each field incl. the no. of labels
in x- and y-direction, confirm the entry with Accept and the labels will be shown
as designed.
Please check if all measurements were taken
correctly.
With Close the designer will be terminated. After
selecting from the main menu > New
output device, the designed labels are available
for labeling in the folder
> User defined
under > Producer (manufacturer).
the correct
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8.5 Example for designing different sized labels for Office Printer
Open the designer from the main menu with > Extras > Labels
> Design label sheets with different sizes
The same window appears, as described
before for designing label with the same
size. All adjustments will be done in the
same manner.
After clicking on the button Edit a similar
window appears, extended by additional
functions.
Now you have the ability to implement different sized labeling areas. Each new area or
field needs to have an own name.
Taking the measurements is now similar to
the previous sample of the label sheet
matrix.
In case you like to copy the labeling field and
place it at a different y-position, click on the
Button Duplicate.
Please enter the new position in the new upcoming window and confirm the entry by
clicking on Accept.
as described above.
Note: The new labeling areas could
be part of a label sheet (matrix) as
well as a single area.
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8.6 Import / Export of User elements
You can import or export user designed elements and exchange with other
users (created as described in chapter 8.1 and 8.2).
To export an user designed element, click on the
button Export and select the folder saving the .txt-file.
The file name is suggested as the element name.
Exported files can be imported at another work
stations.
To import an user designed element, click on the
button Import and select the file to be imported. You can
find the new element in the User defined
overwrite an already existing name for an
element.
folder. You can
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9. Engraving Tags
Please select the output device first in order to start engraving with the
EMS-2 Engraver (see also chapter 3 page 3). In the upper left corner of the screen
you will find the information.
Connect the engraving unit according to the manual and switch on the Controller
first, followed by the plotter EMS-2.
The steps getting used to the software, starting at chapter 5, are not changed using
the engraver. Just where the functions are different or additional a new description is
implemented into the manual as described in the following.
9.1 Engraving with the EMS-2 Engraver
Double-click the tag or element where the engraving process is to begin.
This opens the labeling dialog box, which contains all the setting options. In order to
open the edit window, please click on the first tag to start with, use the right
mouse button and choose > Labeling
start typing a character on the keyboard (check under > Extras> Option from the menu
first).
Further adjustments using the engraving tool
are available by clicking on the button
Adjustments Engraving Tool
from the menu (see also item 5.4 page 7) or
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Following adjustments for the engraving unit could be made and selected from.
Size of tool
Engraving needle in the size of .2 mm up
to 1 mm could be selected from.
Engraving speed
Adjustments of 2 mm/s up to 20 mm/s
could be selected from
Revolution per minute (RPM)
Adjustments of 5,000 up to 50,000 RPM
for the engraving spindle could be selected from
Penetration speed
Adjustments of 0.1 mm/s up to 1 mm/s could be selected from in steps of .1 mm/s
The type of the tool and the penetration depth will be suggested according to the
selected engraving material.
Restore Default values:
If you change the above parameters for each element the data will be stored in a
separate file. If you choose the element again, you will find the previously used
parameter settings.
Click Default values , if you want to restore the original settings.
Note: After updating the software the user´s specific parameters remain valid.
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9.2 Starting the Engraving
Once all the data for engraving the job are entered the tags can be engraved. In the
upper left corner of the screen you will find the information.
In order to start engraving, the engraving unit needs to be installed and
connected according to the manual. There after switch on the engraving
controller EMS-2 first followed by the plotter EMS-2.
Click on the printer icon in the main menu bar.
Prior to starting, the software verifies if the plotter
runs in the engraving mode. If the plotting mode is
detected, you will find some instructions on the
screen how to switch the plotter into the engraving
mode.
After confirming the message the status will be
re-checked.
Now the software verifies if the selected support plates are identical with the ones
placed on the plotter. If not, a
warning message comes up on the screen
you need to confirm.
Following new information are displayed and
adjustments could be selected from:
In the top part of the window the
selected plotter and the used interface is
indicated.
The field below in the window indicates the
recognized support plates, placed on the
plotter. Are those different from the ones
chosen for this project, the necessary
support plate for this job is indicated in red.
The right side of the window is used to show
the different engraving needles to be used for
this job, also with a color indication.
33
Various engraving options could be set in the middle part of the window:
Only one engraving tool and depth to be used
In order to execute this job, two or more
engraving needles to be used might be indicated. If you like to use one needle size and
penetration depth only, please check this box.
Only one engraving speed to be used
In order to execute this job, different engraving
speeds (2 to 20 mm per second) could be
selected from the data entry. In order to work
with one speed selection only, please check
this box and select the respective engraving
speed.
Only one revolution speed (RPM) to be used
In order to execute this job, different revolution speeds (5000 to 50000 RPM) for the
engraving spindle could be selected from the data entry. In order to work with one
selection only, please check this box and select the respective revolution speed.
Only one penetration speed to be used
In order to execute this job, different penetration speeds (0.5 mm to 5 mm per second)
for the engraving needle could be selected from the data entry. In order to work with
one selection only, please check this box and select the respective penetration speed.
All selected tags will be engraved
If you check this box, only the tags marked before are subject to be engraved.
Select a sequence
Just click in the edit window on the sequence once and it is marked.
Select multiple sequences
Just click in the edit window on the first sequence once, hold down the
Shift Button and click on the next sequence ones etc. and all are marked.
Select single tags
Hold down the Control Button and just click in the edit window on the single
tag or multiple tags once and they are marked.
All selected segments will be engraved
If you check this box, only the segments marked before are subject to be engraved.
Just click in the edit window on the segment once and it is marked. In order to mark
two or more segments, hold down the Control Button and click on each segment
once.
34
Various options for the frame are available in the lower part of the window:
Reverse labeling
With this option selected, the lettering will be reverse engraved. You will have a clean
surface at the front, engraved from the back side. Useful for engraving letterings used
in harsh environments, no particle could stick
in the engraved groves making the lettering
unreadable (specific material required).
Engrave frame around lettering
With this option selected, a frame will be
engraved around the lettering. First the
lettering will be engraved. Thereafter the
engraving process stops asking you in a
message box to change the engraving needle
or to alter the engraving depth.
If no tag is selected, all frames around the
tags will be engraved, even if they don’t carry
any lettering.
Engrave frame only
With this option selected, the frame will be engraved only without the lettering.
This selection is useful engraving multiple depths on thicker material. Using first a
lower penetration depth and for the second run the final setting.
Round frame corners
With this option selected, you can select in a combo box various
radius settings for the corner engraving of the frame. Possible settings for the radius
are between 1 mm and 5 mm in .5 mm steps.
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The engraving job starts with a click on the OK Button.
The software checks again if the selected support plates are placed on the plotter.
If not, a warning message comes up to be
confirmed, either continue or cancel.
There after the software reminds you by a
message to verify, if the selected engraving needle is inserted into the spindle.
This message needs to be confirmed with a click on the
OK Button and the engraving job starts.
In case the already started engraving job should be stopped, please click on the
icon Stop Plot in the menu bar. The engraving will be interrupted, the data
(if any left) in the print spooler of the PC and the EMS-2 Engraver will be deleted.
The EMS-2 Engraver will move back to the origin, waiting for the new job.
Alternative the power of the EMS-2 can be re-cycled by pressing the OFF and ON
button. All existing data will be deleted and the zero position re-aligned.
For further information, please refer to the operating instructions of the
Plotter EMS-2.
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10. Calibrating the Plotter
The EMS-2 is calibrated during the production. In case of small deviations, like the
printout is not correctly in the center of the marker, the plotter could be calibrated
manually.
In order to do so, please make sure there are no parts on the plot field, like ball
pen, not proper mounted support plates etc., then go to the
menu > Output
The arm moves into the center position.
In the window on the screen you have 4 cursor buttons in order to move the setting in
either direction, in steps .025 mm up to 10 mm, the default setting is .1 mm.
Each click in the button will move the Pen holder
connected to the arm into the desired direction. After
the changes made, hit the CCCCaaaalllliiiibbbbrrrraaaatttteeee button and the
new settings are stored in the software.
Please check again during the next print, if necessary
use the calibration function again until the output
performance is satisfied.
Use always the first tag at the upper left corner of the
segment (see also item 7 Scale factor).
The RRRReeeesssseeeetttt button takes you back to the original setting.
> Output device and choose > Calibration.
Although the other output devices you might want to use are pre-calibrated, because
of the different starting point, the calibration procedure as described is essential with
those other devices.
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11. Firmware update of the plotter
11. Firmware update of the plotter11. Firmwareupdate des Plotters
With this option you are able to update the existing firmware of the plotter.
It is necessary e.g. if you are using a EMS-2 plotter already, purchased in 2005
or earlier and now wanted to use the engraving feature.
In order to download a new version, please follow the steps as described:
Start the program CONTA Sign CS and switch on the plotter. Make sure the plotter is
connected with the interface cable to the PC and the interface is selected correctly
(see point 3).
Choose from the main menu > Output
The upcoming window shows the actual firmware in
nos. A later version of the firmware is shown in the
field below with a higher no.
Now you can update to the next level of the firmware.
If the later version is not in the pre-selected folder,
please use the find file button to search for in
another folder.
With a click on the button Update a new message window opens up.
You are asked to switch the plotter into the download mode.
In order to do so, turn off the
plotter, hold down the button
Clear buffer and the button STOP together and press ON again.
The control LEDs STOP and Clear buffer are on.
> Output devices the tab > Firmware update.
Confirm the setting with the OK button and the update process
starts. A new message opens up telling you the plotter will turn off
automatically after completion. Confirm with the OK button.
In order to check if the new firmware is stored correctly in the plotter,
turn on the plotter again and choose from the main menu > Output
the tab > Firmware update. In the field “Actual firmware version” should now be the no.
of the latest version.
> Output devices
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12. Printing on other output devices
11. Firmware update of the plotter11. Firmwareupdate des Plotters
With the connection of other output devices, labeling data could be printed on
Thermal-Transfer Printer (TT-Printer) as well as standard Office Printer.
As described in chapter 8 the labels need to be designed first.
12.1 Printing on endless TT-Printer
Please select first the output device from the main menu > File
In the upper left corner of the screen you will find the information
> New.
The designed labels are available for labeling in the folder > User defined
> Producer (manufacturer).
Enter the labeling data in the editing window as
usual. The data can be changed and modified as
described in chapter 5.4 to 5.6.
By selecting a margin, a fixed distance within the
label can be set, making sure the print is always
within the label area.
In addition the text can be manipulated for printing
in Bold, Italic, Underline, clicking OK transfers the
data to the label.
After all entries are completed,
click on the icon Print / Plot / Engrave.
A message window opens up with the information to
select first a system printer, clicking OK opens the
window with the available printer list, please select
the TT-Printer.
If necessary you can change the size of the label just
to perform a final correction of the total length
by entering a factor.
under
Clicking on Apply, opens the print window with the
possibility of entering the margin to the left border of
the endless labels.
Please confirm with OK and the printout will be
started.
Please check the print on the label regarding
the position, if necessary change the entry of
the left border margin or go back to the
designer and make the corrections in view of
size and distance of the label.
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12.2 Printing on standard Office Printer
11. Firmware update of the plotter11. Firmwareupdate des Plotters
Please select first the output device from the main menu > File > New.
In the upper left corner of the screen you will find the information.
The designed labels are available for labeling in the folder > User defined
> Producer (manufacturer).
Enter the labeling data in the editing window as
usual. The data can be changed and modified as
described in chapter 5.4 to 5.6.
By selecting a margin, a fixed distance within the
label can be set, making sure the print is always
within the label area.
In addition the text can be manipulated for printing
in Bold, Italic, Underline, clicking OK transfers the
data to the label.
After all entries are completed,
click on the icon Print / Plot / Engrave.
A message window opens up with the information to
select first a system printer, clicking OK opens the
window with the available printer list.
Please select the Office Printer you like to use for the
printout.
In addition you need to enter the data of the
non printable areas from the top and left in both of the
formats, portrait and landscape.
under
Click on Test page in order to print the two pages
for you to take the measurements from the
top and left side, enter the data and click on Apply.
The data are stored for the selected printer and the
print window opens accordingly.
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In the top part of the window you enter the no. of copies, in the lower part you have
11. Firmware update of the plotter11. Firmwareupdate des Plotters
the following choices to select from:
Print frame around lettering
With this option selected, a frame will be
printed around the lettering.
Print frame only
With this option selected, the frame will be
printed only without the lettering.
All selected tags will be printed
If you check this box, only the labels marked before are subject to be printed.
Please confirm with OK and the printout will be started. Check the print on the
label regarding the position, if necessary change the entry of the upper and left
border margin or go back to the designer and make the corrections in view of size
and distance of the label.
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