Important Notices
CAUTION!
Please Read First
To ensure the long life of your laser, it is important to plug the A/C adapter into a surgeprotected power source. Despite internal surge protection, a large power surge may cause the
laser diode to burn out, requiring the laser to be returned to the factory for extensive repair.
Failure to plug the A/C adapter into a surge-protected power source may void the warranty.
Surge Protection Strongly Recommended
Your new laser has been calibrated while it is fully warmed up. In order to ensure proper
calibration, we recommend that you let your laser warm up for at least 30 minutes for
single-plane lasers (L-730 or L-740) and up to 45 minutes for multi-plane lasers (L-732, L742, L-733 and L-743).
This does not mean the laser spindles need to be rotating; only that the laser beam should
be turned on for the recommended time.
You can use your laser prior to the warm up time to buck it in (make it parallel) to your
references. However, doing this may result in some laser drift. Accordingly, if you use the
laser prior to the warm-up period, it is recommended that you go back and check your
references before you start taking the alignment measurements. For best results, do not
start taking measurements until the recommended warm time has passed.
It is always a good metrology practice to periodically check your reference points to ensure
the laser or the base (instrument stand, table or other supporting base) it sits upon has not
drifted. Please note that most drift problems are caused by what the laser sits upon, not
due to the laser drifting itself (after the warm up period).
Please call 1-800-826-6185 or +1-203-730-4600 if you have any questions or concerns.
Laser Warm Up
WARRANTY
Hamar Laser Instruments, Inc., warrants each instrument and other articles of
equipment manufactured by it to be free from defects in materials and
workmanship under normal use and service, its obligation under this warranty
being limited to making good at its factory any instrument and other article of
equipment which shall, within one year after shipment of each instrument and
other article of equipment to the original purchaser, be returned intact to Hamar
with transportation prepaid, and which Hamar’s examination shall disclose to
Hamar’s satisfaction to have been thus defective; other than this express
warranty, Hamar neither assumes nor authorizes any other persons to assume for
it any other liability or obligation in connection with the sale of its products.
This warranty is not applicable to instruments or other articles of equipment
manufactured by other companies and limited by a warranty extending for less
than one year. In such an event, the more limited warranty applies to said
instrument or article of equipment.
This warranty shall not apply to any instrument or other article of equipment
which shall have been repaired or altered outside the Hamar factory, nor which
has been subject to misuse, negligence, or use not in accord with instructions
furnished by the manufacturer.
The software described in this manual is furnished under a license agreement and
may be used or copied only in accordance with the terms of the agreement. It is
against the law to copy the software on any medium for any purpose other than
the purchaser's personal use.
The information in this manual is subject to change without notice. No part of
this manual may be reproduced by any means, electronic or mechanical, without
written permission from Hamar Laser Instruments, Inc.
© Copyright Hamar Laser Instruments, Incorporated, 2019
5 Ye Olde Road, Danbury, Connecticut 06810
Table of Contents
The L-743 Ultra-Precision Triple Scan® Laser ............................................................................................. 1
The L-733 Precision Triple Scan
The L-742 Dual Scan Ultra-Precision Roll Alignment Laser ....................................................................... 4
The L-732 Dual Scan Precision Roll Alignment Laser ................................................................................ 5
Laser Controls ............................................................................................................................................... 6
Differences in the Lasers ........................................................................................................................... 6
Providing Power to the Laser .................................................................................................................... 7
Warming Up the Laser .............................................................................................................................. 7
Using the Control Panel ............................................................................................................................ 8
The Precision Level Vials ............................................................................................................................. 9
Reading the Precision Level Vials ............................................................................................................ 9
Reading the L-740SP Split-Prism Level Vials .......................................................................................... 9
Calibrating the Level Vials ....................................................................................................................... 9
Zeroing the Targets ........................................................................................................................ 10
Calculating the Calibration of the Level Vials – Roll Axis ........................................................... 10
Setting the First Level Vial – Roll Axis ......................................................................................... 12
Calculating the Calibration of the Levels Vials – Pitch Axis ........................................................ 12
Setting the First Level Vial – Pitch Axis ....................................................................................... 13
Checking the Levels for Accuracy ................................................................................................. 13
Measurement Overview .............................................................................................................................. 14
Selecting Reference Points on Machine Tools ........................................................................................ 14
Selecting Reference Points on Process Mills .......................................................................................... 14
Measurement Summary .......................................................................................................................... 15
Measuring Straightness .................................................................................................................. 15
Measuring Flatness ........................................................................................................................ 16
Measuring Squareness ................................................................................................................... 16
Measuring Levelness ..................................................................................................................... 17
Measuring Parallelism ................................................................................................................... 17
Level to Earth Measurements ................................................................................................................. 17
Setting Up and Leveling the Laser ................................................................................................. 17
Laser Buck-in .............................................................................................................................................. 18
Three Point Buck-In (Flatness) ............................................................................................................... 18
Three Point Buck-In Procedure Using One Target ........................................................................ 18
Setting up the Equipment ............................................................................................................... 18
Performing the Three Point Buck-In .............................................................................................. 19
Three Point Buck-In Procedure Using Multiple Targets ............................................................... 20
Two Point Buck-In (Straightness) ........................................................................................................... 20
Normal versus Remote Buck-In .............................................................................................................. 21
Normal Buck-In ............................................................................................................................. 21
Remote Buck-In ............................................................................................................................. 22
Appendix A – Troubleshooting Guide ........................................................................................................ 24
Appendix B – Equipment Drawings ........................................................................................................... 27
Appendix C – Interpreting the A-1519/1520 Type II Calibration Reports ................................................. 31
Appendix D – Care and Cleaning of Target Optics .................................................................................... 33
®
Laser ...................................................................................................... 3
The L-743 Ultra-Precision Triple Scan® Laser
• Machining centers (HBMs, VBMs, HMCs, VMCs,
VTLs, gantries and surface grinders)
• Automotive transfer-line wing bases
• Injection molding machines and presses
• Aircraft assembly (seat track alignment, setting water, butt and station planes, wing-to-body and body-
to-body join alignment, etc.)
• High-precision, laser and water-jet cutting machines
• Paper mills
• Film lines
• Circuit board drilling machines
• Printing presses
• Blown-film lines
• The flatness of almost any surface (squares, frames,
) long with
cal surfaces
Checking way twist and parallelism between
horizontal surfaces
• The straightness of horizontal and vertical
The straightness and flatness of
Checking way twist and parallelism
Warning!
Do NOT invert!
Always operate the L-730 and L-740 series lasers described below in an upright position.
The L-743 Ultra-Precision Triple Scan
Hamar Laser’s most versatile and powerful
machine tool alignment laser. It has been designed
specifically for 3-5-axis machining centers to
measure and correct machine geometry. In most
cases, all it takes is one setup to measure flatness,
straightness, parallelism and squareness of the main
axes of most typical machining centers.
Since the system provides live measurements, any
errors that are found can be fixed with the same
setup. The laser mounts on a machine or stable base
so that the laser plane can project the measurement
reference out to 100 ft. (30.5 m) in radius for each
laser plane.
Applications: (for alignments with tolerances of 0.00002 in/ft or 0.0017 mm/m or greater)
®
Laser is
Roll parallelism in:
Measuring and aligning:
ways, flanges, circles, etc.)
• The squareness of up to 3 surfaces
• Measuring surfaces up to 200 ft. (61 m
one setup
• The parallelism of horizontal and verti
even if those surfaces are 100 ft. (30.5 m) apart
•
surfaces
•
horizontally and vertically traversing axes
• Checking plumb of a vertical surface up to
100 ft. (30.5 m)
•
between vertical surfaces
1
Features
• 3 continuously rotating laser planes with operational
/ft or
Axis Wireless Target with 1
higher accuracy
Diode laser 2 times more stable than HeNe based
Battery or AC powered
• Laser planes flat to ½ arc seconds (.00003
Includes Pitch/Roll/Yaw base with coarse
based software for
quickly recording and analyzing machine
range of 100 ft. (30.5 m) in radius.
• Instant on with virtually no warm-up
• Planes are mutually square to 1 arc sec (.00006 in/ft
or 0.005mm/m).
• Levels accurate to 1 arc second (.00006 in
0.005mm/m).
• Targets provide live data display
• Uses A-1520 Single-
Micron (.00004 in.) resolution for
applications.
• Laser and targets fit into a small, portable shipping
case
•
laser systems
•
in/ft or 0.0025mm/m) in 180º sweep and ¼
arc second (.00001 in/ft or 0.0008mm/m) in
90º sweep).
•
and fine adjustments and lighted levels.
• Standard target: A-1519-2.4ZB Single-Axis
Wireless Target with 1 in. measuring range
and .0001 in. resolution.
• System uses Windows-
geometry data
• Typical setup time 20 minutes or less
• Completely self-contained
2
The L-733 Precision Triple Scan® Laser
• Machining centers (HBM, VBM, VTL, VMC, HMC,
gantries, surface grinders)
• Water jet and laser cutting machines
• Leveling machine beds and ways
• Checking the alignment of large bearing surfaces and
fabrications
• Roll alignment (rubber, steel, textile and lower
accuracy film lines)
• Aircraft assembly (seat track alignment, setting water,
join alignment, etc.)
• Saw mills
• The flatness of almost any horizontal or vertical surface
• The squareness of any 2 vertical surfaces or axes
• The straightness of vertical and horizontal axes
one setup
• Way twist and parallelism between vertical or horizontal
surfaces
• The parallelism of vertical or horizontal surfaces,
even if those surfaces are 100 ft. (33 m) apart
• Way twist and parallelism between vertical or horizontal
surfaces
• The squareness of any vertical machine axis or
surface to horizontal axis or surface
• Checking plumb of a vertical surface up to 100 ft.
(33 m)
• Continuously rotating laser planes with operational
• Completely self-contained
• Laser planes flat to 2 arc seconds in 180º sweep and 1
to 2 arc seconds.
• Standard target: A-1519-2.4ZB Single-Axis Wireless
based software for quickly
• Includes Pitch/Roll/Yaw base with medium-
d levels. Levels
The L-733 Triple Scan Laser was specifically designed for
machining centers to measure and correct machine geometry.
It has all of the innovative and highly useful features of the L743 Ultra-Precision Triple Scan Laser, with lower accuracy
and a medium adjustment base. It is very useful for checking
the alignment of large fabrications or aligning large airplane
sections in aircraft manufacturing.
In most cases, all it takes is one setup to measure flatness,
straightness, parallelism and squareness. Since the system
provides live measurements, any errors that are found can be
fixed with the same setup. The laser mounts on a machine or
stable base so that the laser plane can project the measurement
reference out to 100 ft. (33 m) in radius for each laser plane.
Applications: (for alignments with tolerances of .0005 in/ft or (0.038 mm/m) or greater)
butt and station planes, wing-to-body and body-to-body
Measuring and aligning:
(squares, frames, ways, flanges, circles, etc.) or axes
Features:
range of 100 ft. (33 m) in radius.
Target providing live data display
• System uses Windows-
recording and analyzing machine geometry data
• Typical setup time 20 minutes or less
• Diode laser 2 times more stable than HeNe-based laser
systems
• Vertical press alignment
• Measuring surfaces up to 200 ft. (66 m) long with
arc-second in 90º sweep. Planes are mutually square
resolution adjustments and lighte
accurate to 2 arc seconds.
• Instant ON, with virtually no warm up
• Battery or AC powered
3
The L-742 Dual Scan Ultra-Precision Roll Alignment Laser
• Roll parallelism in paper mills, printing presses and
film lines
• Leveling almost any surface (squares, frames, ways,
flanges, circles, etc.
• Roll forming machines
• High-precision, laser and water-jet cutting machines
• Checking plumb of a vertical surface up to 100 ft.
(30.5 m)
• Measuring surfaces up to 200 ft. (61 m) long with one
setup
• Checking way twist and parallelism between
surfaces
• Circuit board drilling machines
• The flatness and straightness of almost any surface
(squares, frames, ways, flanges, circles, etc.)
• The flatness and straightness of horizontally and
vertically traversing axes
• The parallelism of vertical or horizontal surfaces, even
if those surfaces are 100 ft. (30.5 m) apart
• The squareness of any two surfaces
• The flatness and straightness of vertical surfaces
With two continuously sweeping, ultra-flat, orthogonal
laser planes, the L-742 is ideally suited to roll alignment
applications. The laser can be configured at the factory
to have either two vertical planes, or one horizontal and
one vertical plane, allowing a user to not only measure,
but also fix alignment problems in a fraction of the time
needed with conventional methods.
Using the L-742 you can quickly and easily check and
correct horizontal roll parallelism of even the tallest
process mills, pick up and check offset centerline
benchmarks, and perform similar alignments with
increased accuracy and shorter setup times.
Applications: (for alignments with tolerances of .00002 in/ft or 0.0017 mm/m or higher)
Measuring and aligning:
4
The L-732 Dual Scan Precision Roll Alignment Laser
• Normal or blown-film lines (roll alignment)
• Rubber (roll alignment)
• Leveling almost any surface (squares, frames, ways,
flanges, circles, etc.
• Laser cutting machines
• Water-jet cutting machines
• Checking plumb of a vertical surface up to 100 ft.
(30.5 m)
• Steel (roll alignment)
• Saw Mills
• Checking way twist and parallelism between
vertical surfaces
• Textiles (roll alignment)
• The flatness of almost any vertical surface (squares,
frames, ways, flanges, circles, etc.)
• The straightness of horizontally and vertically
traversing axes
• The parallelism of vertical or horizontal surfaces, even
if those surfaces are 100 ft. (30.5 m) apart
• The squareness of any two vertical surfaces
• The flatness and straightness of vertical surfaces
• Measuring surfaces up to 200 ft. (61 m) long with one
setup
Primarily designed for roll alignment and other similar
alignment applications that do not require the exacting
tolerances of the L-742 Ultra-Precision Laser, the L-732
Precision Dual Scan Laser also offers two automatically
rotating laser planes that can be configured at the factory
to have either two vertical planes, or one horizontal and
one vertical laser plane. The L-732 laser planes are flat
and square to 2 arc seconds (.00012 in/ft or 0.01 mm/m).
It comes with a pitch, roll and yaw adjustment base for
setting the laser planes parallel to reference points, 2arc-second level vials and a powerful magnet for
maximum stability.
Applications: (for alignments with tolerances of .00015 in/ft or (0.01 mm/m) or greater
Measuring and aligning:
5
Laser Controls
Differences in the Lasers
The differences in the four laser models discussed in this manual are as follows:
• Accuracy: the L-743 and L-742 are four times more accurate for flatness and two times more
accurate for squareness than the L-733 and L-732. The L-733 and L-732 have a pitch/roll/yaw base
with medium adjustments and the L-743 and L-742 have a pitch/roll/yaw base with both coarse and
fine adjustments (see Figure 1).
• Number of laser planes: the L-743 and the L-733 have three laser planes and the L-742 and L-732
have two laser planes that can be factory-configured for two vertical planes (wall/wall) or one vertical
and one horizontal plane (wall/ceiling).
When drawings are used to describe a procedure, the laser model will be identified in the caption.
However, the procedures themselves are essentially the same for all four lasers. Appendix A, beginning
on Page 24, provides detailed drawings and specifications for each laser model.
Figure 1 – L-733 Laser (left) and L-743 Laser (right) top and side views
6
Providing Power to the Laser
CAUTION!
Power to the laser is supplied by either an external battery pack using four 9V cells, (Hamar Laser
recommends using alkaline or NiCad cells for best performance) or by a 115V AC adapter (see Figure 2
for the location of the battery pack/AC adapter connection on the laser control panel). The laser uses more
power with each additional scanner that is activated.
To ensure the long life of your laser, it is important to plug the A/C adapter into a surge-protected
power source. Despite internal surge protection, a large power surge may cause the laser diode to
burn out, requiring the laser to be returned to the factory for extensive repair. Failure to plug the
A/C adapter into a surge-protected power source may void the warranty.
Warming Up the Laser
Your new laser has been calibrated while it is fully warmed up. In order to ensure proper calibration, we
recommend that you let your laser warm up for at least 30 minutes for single-plane lasers (L-730 or L-
740) and up to 45 minutes for multi-plane lasers (L-732, L-742, L-733 and L-743).
This does not mean the laser spindles need to be rotating; only that the laser beam should be turned on for
the recommended time.
You can use your laser prior to the warm up time to buck it in (make it parallel) to your references.
However, doing this may result in some laser drift. Accordingly, if you use the laser prior to the warm-up
period, it is recommended that you go back and check your references before you start taking the
alignment measurements. For best results, do not start taking measurements until the recommended warm
time has passed.
It is always a good metrology practice to periodically check your reference points to ensure the laser or
the base (instrument stand, table or other supporting base) it sits upon has not drifted. Please note that
most drift problems are caused by what the laser sits upon, not due to the laser drifting itself (after the
warm up period).
Surge Protection Strongly Recommended
7
Using the Control Panel
Figure 2 -- Laser Control Panel—L-743 and L-733 Lasers
Figure 2 shows the control panel for the L-743 and
L-733 lasers, including the locations of:
• The battery pack/AC adapter connection
• The power switches and POWER ON
indicator for the laser
• The power switches for the individual
scanners
• The light for the precision level vials
Note: As of January 1, 2014, the level light
switch has been modified. The level light now
stays on permanently to increase stability and
allow the laser to warm up faster.
• The rotation speed control. This control slows
the scanner spin until you can see the laser
beam pass over the target (the farther away the
target is located, the slower the turret must
spin).
Figure 3 shows controls panel for the L-742 and L-732 lasers, both the “Wall-Wall” configuration with
two vertical laser planes, and the “Wall-Ceiling” configuration, with one vertical laser plane and one
horizontal laser plane.
Figure 3 – Laser Control Panels for the L-742 and L-732 Lasers. On the left is the “Wall-Wall” configuration, or two vertical laser planes. On
the right is the “Ceiling-Wall” configuration, or one vertical plane and one horizontal plane.
8
The Precision Level Vials
center (bottom)
Figure 5 –L-740SP Split-Prism Level Vial Assembly for L-
Please Note!
Our level vials are designed to be calibrated by the customer. We cannot guarantee that the level
vials are calibrated when you receive the equipment because of movement during shipping. Please
follow the procedure below specific to the level vials on your laser.
Reading the Precision Level Vials
Secure the laser base to a metal surface by turning the locking
magnetic base ON. Once the laser is in position, power it on
and light the level vials (if necessary) using the LEVEL switch
located on the control panel. Use the adjustment knobs to bring
the bubbles to the center of both vials (see Figure 4).
When both the PITCH and ROLL vials are reading level, a
level beam can be scanned at 360 degrees with a .0003 in.
deviation per 10 ft.
Reading the L-740SP Split-Prism Level Vials
Once the laser unit is in position on the base, connect
power to the base power supply input jack and press the
red button to light the precision level vials. Use the
coarse alignment micrometers to bring the bubbles to the
center of the vials.
When the bubbles are close to the center, use the fine
adjustment micrometers to align the bubble halves to
each other in the viewing prism window (see Figure 5).
When both the long axis and short axis vials are reading
level, a level beam can be scanned at 360 degrees with a
.0003 in. deviation per 10 ft.
Calibrating the Level Vials
Note 1: This procedure calibrates only one level vial at
a time and must be repeated for the other axis.
Note 2: It is very important to warm up the laser for at
least 30 minutes before starting this procedure. It is also
very important to level both the Pitch and Roll axis level
vials during this procedure. Failure to do this makes it
nearly impossible to calibrate the levels.
The calibration procedure involves a series of steps to adjust the laser beam to be level to earth. Because
the leveling process is subject to so many variables, repeat the procedure to check for accuracy once the
initial readings are taken and adjustments are made. A typical sequence would be as follows:
• Determine the set point and set the first axis.
• Use the set point value to set the second axis.
• Check both the first and second axes. Reset the levels if necessary.
• If the levels are reset, make a final check to determine if the laser level error is acceptable.
Figure 4 – Precision Level Vial entered (top) and off
740 Series Lasers
9
When calibrating the precision level vials, work on a surface that is level to earth within .001 to .002 in/ft.
A surface that is 10 to 20 ft. in length is ideal. When calibrating to shorter surfaces, do so with the
readout set to the .0001 in. mode. If you are using the A-1519 or A-1520 Wireless Targets with the R1356 PDA or with Hamar Laser’s alignment programs, set the readout display through the software.
Figure 6 -- Laser and Target Setup for Calibrating the Precision Level Vials
Zeroing the Targets
The following sections refer frequently to “zeroing” the target. When a target is zeroed, the readout is
reset to zero at the point where the laser beam currently hits the target cell.
When using the A-1519/A-1520 Universal Targets, this is accomplished through the Read15 software (or
through Hamar Laser’s other alignment programs). This reading is stored in memory and then subtracted
from all future readings. Once the target is zeroed, subsequent readings show only the difference from the
original reading.
Calculating the Calibration of the Level Vials – Roll Axis
Note: It is very important to warm up the laser for at least 30 minutes before starting this procedure. It is
also very important to level both the Pitch and Roll axis level vials during this procedure. Failure to do
this makes it nearly impossible to calibrate the levels.
1. Level the laser.
Using the adjustment knobs, level the laser so both the pitch and roll levels are exactly level (see top
of Figure 4).
2. Zero the target in the Near Position.
Beginning with the Roll Axis, place a target on a point near to the laser. Mark this point so you can
always reposition the target at the same point. Zero the target according to the readout you are using.
3. Determine Far Reading 1.
Move the target to the Far Point, mark this point and record the target reading. This is Far Reading 1.
Measure the distance (D1) between the Near Point and the Far Points and write it down.
Note: It is recommended to repeat the measurements two or three times to check repeatability.
4. Determine Far Reading 2.
Rotate the entire laser unit 180 degrees. Re-level the laser using the adjustment knobs so both the
pitch and roll levels are exactly level. Return the target to the Near Position, ensuring that it is placed
10
in the exact position as before. Re-zero the target on this point. Move the target back to the Far
Position, again ensuring that it is positioned exactly as before. Record the target reading. This is Far
Reading 2.
Figure 7 -- Setup after rotating the laser 180 degrees
5. Calculate the Set Point – Roll Axis
Add Reading 1 and Reading 2 and divide by 2 (Set Point). Divide the Set Point by the D1 (distance
between the points). The result is the calibration of the level vial in units of in/ft or mm/m. To be
within specifications, the calibration result should be as follows:
Split Prism Vial Assembly:
Standard Levels:
≤ .00006 in/ft (0.005 mm/m)
≤ .00012 in/ft (0.01 mm/m)
Example:
15 ft. (D1)
.000 (Near Reading)
.020 (Far Reading 1)
+ -.010 (Far Reading 2)
+.010 (Sum of the two readings)
+.010 / 2 = +.005 (Set Point)
Calibration = Set Point / D1
.005 / 15 = .0003 in/ft (out of spec)
If this value is out of the specification, then you will need to use the Set Point to bring it back into
specification. See the first step in the next section.
11
Setting the First Level Vial – Roll Axis
Figure 8 – L-733 (top view) showing location of Precision Level Vials and
6. Tilt the laser to the Set Point
Move the target back to the Near Point to verify it still reads zero. If not, re-zero it. Then move the
target back to the Far Point and tilt the laser by adjusting the Roll Axis adjustment knob on the laser
base until the readout displays the calculated Set Point.
7. Adjust the level.
Locate the two recessed adjustment
screws for the Roll Axis level you are
adjusting (see Figure 8). Using the
wrench provided, adjust the level
assembly until the bubble is centered in
the window for the Standard Level Vials
or the two halves of the bubbles line up
for the Split Prism Level Vial (see Figure
4 and Figure 5). For example, to move
the bubble to the left, loosen the left
screw and tighten the right screw. When
the bubble is centered, tighten the left
screw until the bubble is stationary.
Check your work by repeating these
steps and ensuring that the level is
calibrated to within the specified
tolerances.
Note: Tighten the set screws just firmly
corresponding adjustment screws
enough to hold the window assembly in place.
Over-tightening these screws may cause
damage.
Calculating the Calibration of the Levels Vials – Pitch Axis
1. Level the laser.
Rotate the entire laser unit 90° to calibrate the Pitch Axis level vial. Using the adjustment knobs, level
the laser so that both the pitch and roll levels are exactly level.
2. Zero the target in the Near Position.
Set the target on the same Near Position as before and re-zero it.
3. Determine Far Reading 1.
Move the target to the same Far Position as before and repeat Step 3 (Roll Axis) above.
4. Determine Far Reading 2.
Rotate the entire laser unit 180°. Re-level the laser using the adjustment knobs so both the pitch and
roll levels are exactly level. Return the target to the Near Position, ensuring that it is placed in the
exact position as before. Re-zero the target on this point. Move the target back to the Far Position,
again ensuring that it is positioned exactly as before. Record the target reading. This is Far Reading
2.
5. Calculate Level Calibration and the Set Point – Pitch Axis
Add Reading 1 and Reading 2 and divide by 2 (Set Point). Divide this Set Point by the D1 (distance
between points). The result is the calibration of the level vial in units of in/ft or mm/m. To be in
specification, the calibration result should be as follows:
12
Split Prism Vial Assembly: ≤ .00006 in/ft (0.005 mm/m)
Figure 9 – L-733 (top view) showing location of Precision Level Vials and
Standard Levels:
Example:
15 ft. (D1)
.000 (Near Reading)
.035 (Far Reading 1)
+ .010 (Far Reading 2)
.045 (Sum of the two readings)
+.045 / 2 = +.0225 (Set Point)
Calibration = Set Point / D1
.0225 / 15 = .0015 inches/ft. (out of spec)
If this value is out of the specification, then you will need to use the Set Point to bring it back into
specification. See Step 6 below.
Setting the First Level Vial – Pitch Axis
6. Tilt the laser to the Set Point
Move the target back to the Near
Point to verify it still reads zero. If
not, re-zero it. Then move the target
back to the Far Point and tilt the
laser by adjusting the Pitch Axis
adjustment knob on the laser base
until the readout displays the
calculated Set Point.
7. Adjust the level.
Locate the two recessed adjustment
screws for the Pitch Axis level you
are adjusting). Using the wrench
provided, adjust the level assembly
until the bubble is centered in the
window for the Standard Level vials
or the two halves of the bubbles line
up for the Split Prism Level vial (see
Figure 4 and Figure 5). For
example, to move the bubble to the
left, loosen the left screw and
tighten the right screw. When the bubble is centered, tighten the left screw until the bubble is
stationary. Check your work by repeating these steps and ensuring that the level is calibrated to within
the specified tolerances.
Note: Tighten the set screws just firmly enough to hold the window assembly in place. Overtightening these screws may cause damage.
≤ .00012 in /ft (0.01 mm/m)
corresponding adjustment screws
Checking the Levels for Accuracy
To check for accuracy, repeat the steps for setting the precision level vials. The Set Point should be the
same as the previous Set Point. If not, calculate a new set point and adjust as necessary.
13
Measurement Overview
In general, a laser is used for alignment by making it parallel to reference points and using a target to
measure deviations from those points. Reference points are points chosen on a surface or in a bore that
represent the starting point for which all other points on the surface or in a bore will be compared. For
bore, spindle and rotating shaft applications, two reference points are needed to establish a datum, or the
basis used for calculating and measuring. For surfaces, three reference points are needed to establish a
datum.
For continuously rotating laser applications, like machining centers and presses, three to five reference
points are needed, although Level to Earth Measurements are frequently used instead of reference points.
Laser buck-in refers to the adjustment of a laser plane or beam to be parallel to the reference points (a
table top, a surface plate, or a way surface).
Once the laser is "bucked in," any point within range of the laser device, typically up to 100 ft. (30.5 m),
can be measured for deviation in one axis for rotating laser applications. One of the principal advantages
of geometry lasers is that they provide live alignment data, which means a machine or part may be
aligned without moving or changing the laser's setup. In effect, the targets act as a live digital indicator of
the alignment. When the target reads zero, the point is aligned and the next point is measured.
Selecting Reference Points on Machine Tools
When using a laser system or any other alignment method, it is important to select reference points
carefully. Poor reference points, like those on the heavily worn portion of a machine bed where all the
work is performed, may mean extra time to bring the machine back into tolerance. In other words, it could
be the reference points that need alignment rather than the rest of the axis.
In metrology, it is recommended that some sort of data analysis be performed on a machine's axis before
proceeding to the alignment stage. This step may save countless hours when aligning a machine tool that
has only a couple of bad points. Typically, a least-squares, best-fit algorithm is applied to a set of data for
an individual axis. This algorithm calculates a line or a plane that best fits the data and will quickly show
any bad data points. The data can also be adjusted so the alignment for each point would bring it parallel
to the best-fit line or plane.
Selecting Reference Points on Process Mills
Conventional methods of roll alignment usually use floor benchmarks (monuments) at the side of the
machine as references. The L-742 and L-732 offer the versatility of using the benchmarks or of picking
up a reference roll, such as a cooch roll on paper mills. However, we strongly believe that using a
reference roll provides a more accurate reference and results in better alignments.
Benchmarks are usually set in a thin concrete floor, are rarely covered, and are routinely run over and
nicked. More importantly, they move with their slab of concrete and rarely hold their position relative to
the mill itself. Most floors in a typical plant have multiple slabs and are usually cracked throughout,
creating instability of the monuments. Unless checked every time they are used, the use of the benchmark
probably will result in significant alignment errors.
14
Measurement Summary
The following section is a brief summary of how the laser is used to measure straightness, flatness,
squareness, levelness and parallelism. Note that if a machine is going to be aligned, rather than just
measured, it is important to put the laser on an instrument stand. If the laser is on the machine bed or
table, adjustments will likely move the laser and affect the setup.
Figure 10 – Measuring Straightness, Flatness and Squareness
Measuring Straightness
To measure (horizontal) straightness of a surface or machine axis, two reference points and one vertical
laser plane are needed.
1. Mount a target horizontally at the closest reference point to the laser and adjust the target so
that it detects the laser.
2. Zero the target and move it to the farthest reference point from the laser. Use the YAW
adjustment to produce the same reading for both reference points.
The laser is now parallel or “bucked in” to the reference points.
3. Place the target at intervals along the surface or machine axis.
Any deviations from zero are a measure of straightness relative to the reference points. If the target is
mounted so that its top is to the left of the laser plane, then a "+" reading means the measured point is
to the "left" of the reference points and a "-" reading means the point is to the right of the reference
points.
15
Measuring Flatness
To measure flatness, a horizontal, continuously rotating laser plane is “bucked in” or adjusted so that it is
parallel to three reference points on a table, set of ways, or a surface.
1. Place all the targets on one reference point and adjust them up or down so they detect the laser
plane.
2. Zero the targets.
3. Reposition the targets so that one target sits on each reference point.
4. Using the PITCH and ROLL adjustments, adjust the laser scan plane until all three targets
produce the same value or zero, thus making the laser parallel to the reference points.
This may also be accomplished by using one target, zeroed on the closest reference point to the laser,
and moving it back and forth from the reference points until it produces a reading of zero at all three
points.
5. Move the target to user-specified points on the surface.
The resulting reading is a measure of the deviation from the reference point, helping to produce a
flatness profile. The measurement will show either a plus (+) or a minus (-) sign. A plus reading
indicates that the target is higher than the reference points and a minus reading means the target is
lower than the reference points.
Measuring Squareness
After bucking in the laser to the five reference points described in
Measuring Straightness and Measuring Flatness, (to determine the
straightness and flatness of the machine's axes) measuring
squareness is a simple process. To truly measure squareness, one
must compare the least-squares, best-fit line of the one axis to the
other axis. If this is not done, bad reference points or severely worn
ways might produce what looks like a squareness error, but in fact
is not. To facilitate this type of analysis, our software programs may
be used to automatically calculate the best-fit line.
To measure Y-to-Z squareness:
1. Lower the column/spindle to its lowest Z position and
Figure 11 – The X, Y and Z Axes
position a target horizontally to pick up the vertical laser
plane that is perpendicular to the X-axis (parallel to the
Y-axis).
2. Zero the target and traverse (raise) the column along its axis.
The data produces a measurement of both the straightness of the Z-axis and the squareness of the Yaxis to the Z-axis.
To measure Z-to-X squareness:
1. Position and zero the target to detect the vertical laser plane that is parallel to the X-axis.
2. Traverse the column upward.
The resulting data is a measure of the Z flatness and Z-to-X squareness.
To measure X-to-Y squareness:
1. Position and zero the target to detect the vertical laser plane that is parallel to the X-axis.
2. Traverse the table or column (whichever is moveable) along the Y-axis.
The result is a measure of both Y straightness and X-to-Y squareness.
16
Measuring Levelness
1. Level the laser using the built-in level vials.
2. Place a target on one reference point, adjust it up or down so that it detects the laser plane, and
zero the target.
3. Moved the target to any other point on the surface to see the deviation of that point from the
reference point.
Measuring Parallelism
1. Buck in the laser plane to three reference points on the first surface (see Measuring Flatness).
2. Place a target on the second surface on one reference point and adjust the target so it detects
the laser plane.
3. Zero the target.
4. Move the target to other points on the surface.
Any deviation from the reference point is a measure of the parallelism of the first surface to the
second.
Note: At least three points should be measured. The best way to determine parallelism is to measure
both surfaces with the laser plane and enter the data into Hamar Laser’s Plane5 software, which
calculates the least-squares best-fit plane for both surfaces and then compares them. When using
Plane5, the "buck-in" procedure is not necessary because the software removes the slope error from
the laser not being parallel to the surface.
Level to Earth Measurements
The leveling of machine tools, surface plates and different types of bases can be performed using
scanning lasers, as follows:
Setting Up and Leveling the Laser
1. Place the laser on any stable steel surface such as a machine bed or an L-106 floor stand.
2. Twist the magnetic lever on the base of the unit to the “ON” position.
This locks the instrument down securely to the surface.
3. Plug in and power on the laser.
4. Turn the adjustment knobs and adjust the tilt of the laser to exactly center the level bubble in
each of the level vials.
5. Place a target on the unit that needs to be leveled or adjusted.
Adjust the target height so that the beam scans near the middle of the target cell. Zero the readout.
6. Set the target on various places on the surface to be leveled and adjust the unit until the readout
reads zero.
Once the laser has been leveled and the target has been set to zero, these two units will not be
adjusted any further. Any further adjustments will be made in the unit to be leveled.
Note: Some users prefer to take readings at the various leveling points to find the highest point, and
then use the highest point to set the target to zero and bring all the other points up to this height.
17
Laser Buck-in
The following section covers laser buck-in procedures in detail, including the three point buck-in for
flatness, the two point buck-in for straightness, and the differences between Normal and Remote buck-in.
Three Point Buck-In (Flatness)
The Three Point Buck-In procedure requires adjusting the laser plane to be parallel to the surface being
measured; for example, a table top, a surface plate, or a way surface. Three points are required in order to
relate one plane to another. Any three points on a surface may be used, however Hamar Laser
recommends the setup illustrated in Figure 12.
Figure 12 – Three Point Buck-in Using One Target (recommended setup)
When performing this procedure, it is best to place the laser source in a position that is as close to the near
target position as possible. The third target position should be approximately 90° to these two points.
This is not always possible, but this is the easiest configuration for this procedure.
Three Point Buck-In Procedure Using One Target
Setting up the Equipment
1. Position and secure the laser.
Position the laser as shown and turn the lever on the magnetic base to ON to lock it securely to the
metal surface.
18
2. Coarse level the laser.
Power on the laser and use the speed control knob on the control panel slow the scanner spin until you
can see the laser beam pass over the target (the farther away the target is located, the slower the
scanner must spin). Turn the light switch for the bubble level vials ON. Using the adjustment knobs
and observing the position of the precision level vials, coarse-level the laser so that the laser plane is
approximately parallel to the surface.
3. Position and secure the target.
Place the target in the Near Position (see Figure 12). Move the target in its magnetic base until the
laser beam roughly hits the mid-position of the target and turn the lever on the magnetic base to ON
to lock it securely to the metal surface.
Note: As you move the target to the Near Position, Far Position A and Far Position B, mark where
the base of the target sits on the surface so that it may be repositioned in the same place each time.
4. Set the readout.
If you are using the A-1519 or A-1520 Wireless Targets with the R-1309 system or with Hamar
Laser’s alignment programs, set the readout display through the software.
the sampling rate to dampen the effects of atmospheric turbulence in the Read15 software (or in the Hamar
Laser alignment program you are using).
Performing the Three Point Buck-In
You may also need to adjust
1. Center the target in the Near Position.
With the target in the Near Position, zero the target.
2. Move the target to Far Position A and tilt the laser beam until the readout reads zero.
With the target in Far Position A, tilt the laser beam with the laser adjustment knobs until the readout
reads zero. Be sure to use only the adjustment knobs that face the target (in the setup displayed in
Figure 12, this would be the adjustment knob marked ROLL).
Note: When the target is in the Near Position, always use the appropriate zero function to center the
target photocell. When the target is in the Far Position, always use the laser adjustment knobs to tilt
the laser beam. This is easily remembered by the phrase, “Center Near, Tilt Far.”
3. Repeat Steps 1 and 2 until the readout reads zero with no adjustments.
Continue to move the target between the Near Position and Far Position A, zeroing the target at the
Near Position and tilting the laser beam using the adjustment knobs at the Far Position until the
readout reads zero without adjustments.
4. Move the target to Far Position B and tilt the laser until the readout reads zero.
Be sure to use only the laser adjustment knobs that face the target when tilting the laser beam (in the
setup displayed in Figure 12, this would be the PITCH adjustment).
5. Recheck the readings at the Near Position and at Far Positions A and B and adjust to zero if
necessary.
When all readings are zero without adjustment, the laser plane is parallel to the surface.
19
Three Point Buck-In Procedure Using Multiple Targets
This method requires three targets. The procedure is basically the same as with one target, but it saves the
time required to move a single target to the three different footprints.
Figure 13 – Three Point Buck-in Using Multiple Targets
1. Zero all three targets on the near footprint.
2. Place two of the targets on the other two footprints.
3. Tilt or aim the laser until all three readouts read the same numbers and the same sign.
4. When all three readouts read the same, the laser plane is then parallel to all three points.
Two Point Buck-In (Straightness)
A laser beam is often used as a "straight edge" to measure straightness. Examples are machine tool ways
or bore straightness measurement. The laser beam must be adjusted to be parallel to or coincident with an
edge or centerline. The process of making that adjustment is called "bucking in." This section describes
two types of buck-in methods: close (simple) and remote (more difficult).
Two points in space define a unique straight line; therefore, two reference points are needed in order to
relate the position of a laser beam to a surface or centerline. Any two points may be chosen (the suitability
of the points cannot be judged until after the measurement has been done). The points are usually selected
near the extreme ends of the job for the sake of convenience. A Two Point Buck-In makes the laser beam
parallel with these two points. It is best to place the laser source in a position that is as close to the near
target position as possible. Orient the laser so that either the long axis of the base or the short axis of the
base is parallel to the near and the far target positions.
20
Normal versus Remote Buck-In
There are two procedures for bucking in
the laser, the close and
the remote buck-in.
The procedure used
depends on the relationship of two
distances: the distance
between the laser unit
and the first target,
and the distance between the first and
second targets. The
normal buck-in is
easier; the remote
buck-in is useful in
situations where the
normal method would
be nearly impossible.
Figure 14 illustrates
the general rule for
determining the buckin method to use. L1
represents the distance
from the laser to the
first target. L2 represents the distance between the two targets.
If L1 is less than one
Figure 14 – Close vs. Remote Buck-in
tenth of L2, the normal
buck-in procedure is used. If L1 is greater than one tenth of L2, the remote buck-in procedure should be
used. When in doubt, or if the close procedure is not producing good results, use the remote procedure.
Normal Buck-In
The normal buck-in procedure can be remembered by the rule, “Zero Near, Point Far.” Buck in the laser
beam by zeroing it on the near target, and then "point" the laser beam using the appropriate adjustment
knobs to center on the far target. The two steps are repeated until both targets show zero readings.
21
Remote Buck-In
As the distance between the laser and the near target
increases with respect to the distance between the two
targets, bucking in by the close method becomes nearly
impossible. A special remote procedure has been
developed for these situations. The remote buck-in uses
simple geometry to make the laser beam parallel to the
centerline of the two targets, and then centers the beam
on that line. Figure 15 illustrates how the remote method
works.
Unlike normal buck-in, where the laser is pointed to zero
on the far target, the remote procedure has the laser point
through zero to a point called the "set." The set distance
is the offset between the parallel laser beam and the target
centerline.
The uncorrected laser
Figure 15 – Remote Buck-in
beam, the offset parallel
beam and the set distance form a triangle.
The uncorrected laser
beam, the target centerline and the distance
between the far target
center and the far reading form a second triangle. The two triangles
have the same three angles and are therefore
geometrically identical
Figure 16 - Calculating the Set Point
(see Figure 16).
A relationship between these two triangles can be stated in the formula, “The set is to L1 as the far
reading is to L2.” Stated mathematically, the ratio is Set/L1 = Far/L2. If L1, L2, and the far reading are
known, the set can then be determined by the following formula: Set = -(Far reading * L1/L2).
(Note: This is a simplified formula for cases where the laser beam is centered on the near target).
In remote buck-in, point through zero to the set point. This means moving the laser until it reads the set
amount on the other side of zero from the starting point. In doing so, the sign of the number (negative or
positive) will be reversed. Figure 16 illustrates this by taking sample readings and showing how the set
point is derived. Notice the far reading is a negative number and the set point is positive as you go
"through zero," resulting in a laser beam parallel to the target centerline, but offset by the set distance.
If the calculated set point exceeds the linear range of the target, (for example, the A-1519 target has a
range of 1.0 in. or 25 mm) the laser unit itself must be moved by the set point amount. New
measurements must then be retaken for both targets, and a new set calculated.
Figure 17 shows how to move the laser depending upon the sign of the calculated set point. (Note: If the
laser is mounted on an L-106A screw lift stand, each full turn of the knob lifts or lowers the stand .125 in.
or 3 mm).
22
Once the laser beam is parallel to but offset from
the target centerline, center the beam on the near
target. The targets should give the same reading,
both number and sign, for both axes (horizontal
and vertical). If not, refigure the set and buck in
again. In most cases, remote buck-in can be
accomplished in two or three passes. This method
will work even when L1 is much greater than L2,
or when the beam does not even hit the target (in
such cases the far reading can be taken by using a
ruler to measure the beam's distance from the
target center).
The determining factor for which method to use
can be summed up as follows:
• Use Normal Buck-in if the distance from the
laser to the first target is less than one-tenth of
the distance between the two targets. When
using normal buck-in, the rule is: Zero Near,
Point Far. Buck in the laser beam by zeroing
it on the near target, and then "pointing" the
laser beam using the appropriate adjustment
knobs to center on the far target. The two steps
are repeated until both targets show zero
readings.
• Use Remote Buck-in if the distance from the laser to the first target is more than one-tenth of the
Figure 17 - Moving the laser when the set point is out of range of the
target cell
distance between the two targets, or if normal buck-in method is not effective. When using remote
buck-in, the rule is: Point Through Zero to Set. Zero the near target, determine the set point (making
sure the sign is correct), and adjust the laser beam using the appropriate adjustment knobs to point to
set rather than zero on the far target. Repeat if necessary, until both targets read zero. The laser beam
is now bucked in to the reference points defined by the two targets.
23
Appendix A – Troubleshooting Guide
Problem
Possible Solutions
1
Laser turret spinning and
• Power off laser and turn back on (all L-740 and L-730 series lasers have a
2
Turret spinning; laser
• Power off laser and turn back on. If the laser does not power on, it could
3
Laser beam on; turret not
• Ensure rotation switch is turned on.
4
Laser not spinning and no
• Ensure power supply is connected.
5
Noisy target
• NOTE: On average the user can expect .00002 in/ft to .00005 in/ft
A-1519/1520 target not
detecting laser (target LED
not illuminated)
beam not on
spinning
laser beam
(A-1519/1520) readings on
PDA
power protection circuit that needs to be reset if a power surge causes the
laser to turn off).
• Turn off rotation of laser if the beam is OK and check target battery.
• Check where beam is hitting target. If it hits too low, target will not turn
on.
be a blown laser diode. Return to HLI for repair.
• Ensure rotation speed knob is turned up.
• Check batteries – if the battery is low, there may not be enough voltage to
spin the turret, but the laser may still be visible.
• Environment is too cold. Laser cannot be used below 32
• Belt drive may be broken. Return to HLI repair.
• Replace batteries in the battery pack.
• Check power supply connector. Widen split in pin inside the female
connector on the laser with a small screwdriver.
• Check A/C power source. Use second A/C power supply if available.
(0.0025 mm/m- 0.004 mm/m) of noise in good operating conditions.
• Check for vibration in laser instrument stand (tripod) or surface the laser
is sitting on. If laser is mounted on a machine tool, try turning machine
tool off.
• For very noisy readings, check for rotary lights (like on fork lift) or strobe
lights (this will look like a “laser” to the target).
• Check for air turbulence – air conditioning vents right over target? Check
for open doors in summer or winter. See manual for Atmospheric
Conditions.
• Check for reflections from metal surfaces by turning off the rotation of the
laser and slowly rotating it by hand to look for reflections—dim overhead
lights if possible.
• Check for excess background light (use light shields). A warning may pop
up on PDA display.
• Ensure only one laser is hitting the target at a time. Turn off other laser
plane rotation to see if this helps.
• Ensure the target is facing/pointing directly at the laser (within ±5
degrees).
• Check light frequency (50 Hz vs. 60 Hz for background light). For
correction feature of A-1519/1520 targets, see Target Utility Manual.
North & South America is 60 Hz. Europe, Australia and parts of Asia are
50 Hz.
• If PDA is plugged in, try unplugging PDA from A/C adapter.
• Check for possible radio interference.
° F (0° C).
24
6
No target readings in PDA.
• Check Zigbee radio communication. There should be 2 green LED
7
No target readings in
• Ensure A-910 radio base station is connected to USB port.
Target LEDs illuminated
(means target is detecting
laser)
lights in PDA boot, (1) solid, (1) blinking. If no lights, hold green
power button down for three seconds and release, restart PDA and
tap Cancel on Unidentified USB Device Pop-up.
• Check Radio Receiver battery – plug in A/C adapter to ensure it has
power.
• Ensure the check box to the left of the display window in Read15
(see manual) is checked for each target.
• Ensure channel setting (system ID) on A-1519/1520 matches the
setting in PDA – See Read15 Manual.
• Ensure Target ID on A-1519/1520 is set to 1-4 for first screen or 5-
8 in second screen in Read15.
• Target is too close to laser (target LEDs blink).
• Check for reflections.
• Check for strobe lights and rotary lights.
• Check for excess background light (normally target LEDs blink)
• Plug target into computer via USB cable and open Target Utility
software. If software shows reading, then there is probably a
problem with the radio.
• Ensure PDA has same radio frequency as Target (900 MHz or 2.4
GHz)
• Hit reset switch on target (use paper clip in hole near Target
ID/Channel Selector Panel).
• Laser could be hitting too low or high on target window (it should
be near the window). It is possible for the laser to activate the auto
wake up feature of target, but not enough of the beam is hitting the
PSD (target sensor) to get a reading.
software. Target LED
illuminated
• Ensure the correct COM port is selected for the USB bridge controller –
see Windows Device Manager (has to be lower than COM10).
• Check Device Manager in Windows Control Panel. Set COM port for
USB bridge controller lower than COM10.
• Ensure the correct target ID is chosen in Machine Tool Geometry or
Read8 software.
• Ensure channel setting (system ID) on A-1519/1520 matches the setting in
A-910 (see the Target Utility Manual).
• Ensure SND/RC LEDs on A-910 are blinking (see the Target Utility
Manual).
• Ensure ACTUAL TARGETS (RADIO in Plane5) is selected in Read8,
Plane5 or Machine Tool Geometry software.
• Ensure antenna is connected to A-910.
• Target may be too close to laser (target LED’s blink).
• Check for excess background light (normally target LEDs blink).
• Ensure A-910 radio base station has same radio frequency as target (900
MHz or 2.4 GHz).
• Laser could be hitting too low or high on target window (it should be near
the window). It’s possible for the laser to activate the auto wake up
feature of target, but not enough of the beam is hitting the PSD (target
sensor) to get a reading.
25
8
Target LEDs Blink – Laser
• Check for reflections.
9
“OFF TGT” shown in target
• Radio communication is working, but the target does not “see’ the
10
Cannot see level vials
• Turn on level light switch.
• Check power supply connection.
11
“Runtime Error” in software
• Do not unplug the A-910 from the USB port while still using the
• Report to HLI the exact key strokes that created the Runtime Error.
12
Software crashes upon
loading
• Ensure USB/Serial Converter cable is connected to the laptop’s USB
port. If problem persists, contact HLI.
13
PDA locks up
• Hit RESET switch
14
PDA turns off automatically
• Check the Power Saving Options in the PDA (see PDA manual for
details).
15
PDA is frozen
• Check the lock switch on the side of the PDA. If that does not work,
press RESET.
16
Nomad PDA – no
• Check Zigbee radio communication. There should be 2 green LED
PDA and tap CANCEL on Unidentified USB Device pop-up.
Beam OK and Rotating
display – PDA
• Check for strobe lights and rotary lights.
• Check for excess background light (normally target LEDs blink).
• Ensure the beam is not being clipped by an obstruction or not on the
edge (upper or lower) of the PSD sensor.
• Laser rotation may be too slow.
• Make sure two lasers are not sweeping across the target.
• Make sure target is facing the laser within ± 5 degrees.
• Reset target (use paper clip in hole near Target ID/Channel Selector
Panel).
laser.
Ensure laser beam is not blocked.
Ensure laser beam is bright.
Check laser power supply, especially if using a battery pack.
communication
• Turn on master power switch.
program.
• Nomad PDA – Hold green POWER button down for 3 seconds and
release. Tap RESTART on the power menu.
Dell PDA – RESET is on right hand side of the back of PDA, near
the lower right corner of the radio module.
HP IPAQ – RESET is on bottom end of PDA.
lights in top PDA boot (1 solid, 1 blinking). If there are no lights, hold
the green power button down for three seconds and release. Restart
26
Appendix B – Equipment Drawings
L-733 Precision Geometry Laser
27
L-743 Ultra-Precision Geometry Laser
28
The L-732 Dual Scan Precision Roll Alignment Laser
29
The L-742 Dual Scan Ultra-Precision Roll Alignment Laser
30
Appendix C – Interpreting the A-1519/1520 Type II Calibration Reports
The A-1519-2.4 Target has a 0.5 micron resolution and 3.5 micron accuracy, versus the A-1520-
2.4 Target, which has a 0.25 micron resolution
and 1.5 micron accuracy. When the elevation of
either target is set near zero (within ± 1 mm from
zero), the most accurate part of the sensor is in
use. The calibration graph on Page 32 shows that
the error in the central part of the sensor for the
A-1519-2.4 is less than 1 micron, which is better
than the total error of the A-1520-2.4 (± 1.5 microns). Furthermore, when a target is zeroed on a
given spot on the sensor for high-accuracy measurements (for example, measurement deviations
of less than 25 microns), the error in the measurement from one point to the next is extremely
small.
When a target is calibrated, measurements are
taken every 1 mm and the error in between is
interpolated. This makes is very likely that the
error in measurement at the point where the target
is zeroed is nearly identical to the error in each
subsequent measurement because the difference
in sensor area between the two points is less than
1 mm. In effect the error really does not matter –
it’s like having the same error “offset” at each point. The errors start becoming important only when large
deviations from zero are being measured, for example 1 mm or more.
The accuracy of the A-1519/A-1520 Type II targets is specified in the report below as an error of 3.2
microns (µm). This means that the maximum error of a given measurement could be ± 3.2 µm over the
central 80 percent of the measuring area of the target.
For example, if one measurement point was at -12.5 mm (-.492 in.) and the next measurement point was
+12.5 mm (+.492), then the maximum error in the 25 mm deviation would be no more than 6.4 µm
(.00024 in.).
When measuring small deviations in flatness/straightness (less than .1 mm), the maximum error is much
lower (usually about 1 micron or better). See the explanation of the graph below for more details.
31
+ 2 microns
- 2 microns
0.000
Error in this area is 1 micron or less
Approx. +/- 4 mm of measuring area – each
vertical line on the graph equals 1 mm.
Total Error = +/- 3.3 microns
+ 2 microns
- 2 microns
0.000
Each green vertical line equals 1 mm of
measuring area on the detector. The total area
here is 8 mm.
32
Appendix D – Care and Cleaning of Target Optics
The proper care and cleaning of optical windows and/or lenses of Hamar Laser’s position-sensing devices
(targets) assures optimum performance. Contaminants on an optical surface increase scatter, absorb laser
energy, and eventually degrade the accuracy of the position-sensing devices. Because cleaning any
precision optic risks damaging the surface, optics should only be cleaned when absolutely necessary.
When cleaning is required, we recommend the following supplies and procedures.
Required Supplies
Optics Cleaning Tissue: Soft, absorbent, lint-free lens tissue
Swabs: Cotton swabs with wooden handles or polyester swabs with polypropylene handles
Dust Blower: Filtered dry nitrogen blown through an antistatic nozzle is best. Canned dusters, such
as Dust-Off, will also work.
Mild Soap solution: Neutral soap, 1 percent in distilled water. Avoid scented, alkali, or colored soap
such as liquid dishwashing detergents or hand soap. Ten drops of green soap (available at a
pharmacies and optical cleaning suppliers) per 100 cc of distilled water is an acceptable alternative.
Isopropyl Alcohol: Spectroscopic grade. Over-the-counter alcohol contains too much water and may
have impurities.
Acetone: Spectroscopic grade. Do not use over-the-counter Acetone, such as the type intended for
nail polish removal.
NOTE: When cleaning precision optics, even with the best quality optical cleaning tissue, use gentle
pressure to avoid scratching the surface or damaging the optical coating(s). Always wipe using a figureeight motion in one direction (begin at the top and work toward the bottom in a figure-eight motion).
Use only moistened (not soaked) optical cleaning tissue, Swabs and Spectroscopic grade Acetone and
Isopropyl Alcohol. Never spray any type of liquid directly on the device or submerge any part of the
device.
Removing Dust
Dust can bind to optics by static electricity. Blowing only removes some of the dirt. The remainder can be
collected by using wet alcohol and Acetone swabs wrapped with optical lens tissue. Acetone dries rapidly
and helps to eliminate streaks.
1. Blow off dust.
2. If any dust remains, twist lens tissue around a cotton swab moistened in alcohol and repeat as
necessary.
3. Repeat using Acetone.
Cleaning Heavy Contamination
Fingerprints, oil, or water spots should be cleaned immediately. Skin acids attack coatings and glass and
can leave permanent stains. Cleaning with solvents alone tends to redistribute grime.
1. Blow off dust.
2. Using a soap-saturated lens tissue around a swab, wipe the optic gently. Repeat as necessary.
3. Repeat using a distilled water-saturated lens tissue wrapped around a swab.
4. Repeat using an alcohol-saturated lens tissue wrapped around a swab.
5. Repeat using an acetone-saturated lens tissue wrapped around a swab.
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