Thank you for choosing Pinnacle ZX Series. You can be assured that this machine meets all of the
highest safety standards while using technological innovations shared by no other laser engraver. The
ZX Series is backed by GCC, a truly international company that is dedicated to helping your business
grow.
We at Pinnacle are proud to introduce the ZX Series, our most technologically advanced laser engraver
to date. This easy to operate machine has been designed with quality, productivity, and safety in mind.
With innovations like the QSM
TM
, Stellar Quality Under High Speed, SmartFILE file management, and the
new Linear Low Maintenance Motion System, the ZX Series is clearly on the cutting edge of all laser
systems.
Pinnacle understands that a creative technical background is the key to successful growth in the everchanging information economy. We have a strong team of R&D experts who propel our company to new
heights. From product development to manufacturing, our engineers are dedicated to innovation and
quality.
Guiding our solid technical base is a world-class management team. At Pinnacle, our leaders bring
together marketing, technical support, research development and distribution experts to create an
international network able to meet your demands. Over the years, this network has been able to span the
globe. Our technical support staff is committed to provide you with impeccable service, and when your
business is ready to grow, our team will also be there!
The Safety Interlock System .............................................................................................................................7
Unpacking and Unloading................................................................................................................................10
Working Environment.......................................................................................................................................14
CHAPTER III - BASIC MAINTENANCE.................. 107
Supplies Needed for Basic Maintenance and Cleaning............................................................................107
Cleaning the Working table and Motion System ........................................................................................108
Removing the Mirrors .....................................................................................................................................108
Cleaning the Mirrors and Lens......................................................................................................................111
Motion System Maintenance.........................................................................................................................113
Front View ..........................................................................................................................................................15
Right Side View .................................................................................................................................................16
Left Side View....................................................................................................................................................17
Back View ..........................................................................................................................................................18
Motion System & Working Table View...........................................................................................................22
Manual Focus Gauge Holders and Lens Combinations..............................................................................24
Exhaust System Installation ............................................................................................................................25
Air Assist System Installation..........................................................................................................................26
SmartGUARD Fire Alarm (Optional) ..............................................................................................................29
CHAPTER V - SOFTWARE INSTALLATION........... 48
Recommended Computer Configuration and Setup....................................................................................48
Connecting the Pinnacle ZX SERIES to the Computer...............................................................................48
Installation of the Pinnacle ZX SERIES driver (Using Windows)...............................................................50
Installation of the USB Driver (Using Windows)...........................................................................................49
2
ZX Series USER MANUAL
CHAPTER VI - MACHINE OPERATION................... 57
Graphic Control Panel Operation ...................................................................................................................57
The Control Panel.............................................................................................................................................57
Control Panel Operation Chart........................................................................................................................59
Main Operation Page........................................................................................................................................65
Function Select Page .......................................................................................................................................68
How to Set Origin..............................................................................................................................................82
CHAPTER VII - SOFTWARE OPERATION.............. 83
Page and Layout Setup....................................................................................Error! Bookmark not defined.
Color Adjustment............................................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
Vector and Raster ............................................................................................. Error! Bookmark not defined.
Vector Cutting.................................................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
Raster Engraving ..............................................................................................Error! Bookmark not defined.
Printing- ZX SERIES Driver Editing ...............................................................................................................91
Rotary Attachment Installation and Operation..............................................................................................28
CHAPTER VIII - TROUBLE SHOOTING................. 115
Other Problems ...............................................................................................................................................115
Table 6 ZX Series Specification .............................................................................................................118
6
ZX Series USER MANUAL
CHAPTER I - SAFETY
Safety Ratings
Laser engravers that have the CDRH safety rating of Class 1 are required to have key safety features
such as an enclosed laser beam and safety interlock mechanisms designed to protect the operator. In
addition to the safety features of a Class1 machine, the Pinnacle ZX Series has been equipped with a
red guidance pointer. This red dot allows the operator to safely see the focal point of the laser beam.
It also gives ZX Series the improved CDRH safety rating of 3a. Although the ZX Series is our most
powerful laser engraver, when used correctly, it is an extremely safe machine.
Principles of CO2 Laser
LASER is the acronym for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. A CO
by electrically stimulating the molecules of a carbon dioxide gas mixture. When focused through a
lens, this invisible intensive beam can vaporize many materials. Depending on the speed and
intensity of the beam, a CO
laser may be used to engrave or cut through a wide variety of materials.
2
The Safety Interlock System
The Pinnacle ZX Series is complete with a safety interlock system that automatically shuts off the
power supply to the laser whenever the top or front door is opened. There are magnets on the top
and front door, which activate this safety mechanism. Do not attempt to remove or modify these
magnets or any other component of the safety interlock system.
Safety measures
zPrior to operation, carefully read and be familiar with the warning labels on your machine as well
as in this manual.
zAlways wear certified safety goggles. Reflective materials such as mirrors, enameled brass and
anodized aluminum may reflect a portion of the invisible laser radiation. This may cause sever
eye damage if appropriate safety goggles are not worn.
NOTE: Each Pinnacle laser machine is equipped with a safety goggle, if you need another one,
please contact Pinnacle for it or try to get one that meets the following specification.
zA clean, well-ventilated room with a temperature of 15cel~25cel (60far~78far) (especially the
temperature of 25cel), and a relative humidity between 30% and 40% as an office type of
environment.
zConnect the machine to a properly grounded power outlet. Make sure that the voltage level of
the machine matches that of the power source.
laser works
2
7
ZX Series USER MANUAL
z Do not open the laser access panel when the machine is plugged in.
z The top door is equipped with a pair of magnets, which act as safety interlock mechanisms.
When the door is opened, the laser beam will cease operation. Do not attempt to modify these
magnets.
z Do not attempt to modify or disassemble the laser module.
z Good ventilation is required to remove odors and vaporized materials from the work area of the
machine. An exhaust system and the cutting table/honeycomb table are recommended.
zDo not work with heat sensitive surfaces or other materials that may produce toxic fumes such
as PVC and Teflon.
z Have a fire extinguisher close to the working location at all times.
z Make sure your smoke/fire detecting system is functioning.
z When using materials that may easily catch fire, such as acrylic, wood, or paper, always use the
air assist system to prevent flames.
z Never leave the machine unattended during operation.
z Follow the maintenance and cleaning instructions well. Not only will this enable you to use the
machine effectively, but it will also ensure long and safe operation.
NOTE: An excellent Fire Detection & Alarm System has been developed by GCC. Ask your
Pinnacle ZX Series Salesperson for details.
Safety Labels
In compliance with CDRH standards, the Pinnacle ZX Series has all of the appropriate safety labels
attached. These labels are in key positions and are properly attached to the machine at the time of
manufacture. These labels are NOT to be removed for any reason. Please become familiar with the
safety messages and locations of these labels. Below is a list of all the safety labels and their
locations on the machine.
On the right of top door and outside of the first mirror cover.
INVISIBLE LASER RADIATION WHEN OPEN
AND INTERLOCK FAILED OR DEFEATED
AVOID EYE OR SKIN EXPOSURE DIRECT OR
SCATTERED RADIATION
DANGER
On the upper center of the front door.
8
ZX Series USER MANUAL
WARNING!!
Do not use reflective metals, heat sensitive
surfaces or other materials that may produce
toxic substances or cause corrosion problems,
such as PVC and Teflon.
On the front center of the top area.
CAUTION
AVOID PLACING YOUR EYES IN
THE RED BEAM PATH
On the front center of the top door.
9
ZX Series USER MANUAL
CHAPTER II - HARDWARE INSTALLATION
Unpacking and Unloading
The Pinnacle ZX Series is shipped in one crate that contains the machine, the software and all of the
necessary accessories. The following section has a detailed list of the steps required for unpacking
and assembly of the machine.
To prevent damage to the machine or personal injury, please get assistance when loading and
unloading the shipping crate.
Please save the original shipping crate in case it is needed for future transport or product
servicing.
Move the shipping crate close to the desired working location of the machine. Unpack using the
following steps.
Step 1. Remove all the screws on the outside crate.
Step 1:
Fig. 2- 1 Unpacking and Unloading
Put the sideboard on the
floor. Make sure the
outer side faces up.
10
ZX Series USER MANUAL
Step 3.
Slide step
Step 2:
Connect slide step to the side board
Move laser off settler boards
Fig. 2-2Unpacking
Fig. 2- 2 Unpacking and unloading
STEP 3:
Remove the fixed wooden
bar on the back
Unscrew and remove the fixed
wooden bar.
Slide Step
Take out the
Settled Boards
Fig. 2- 3 Unpacking and unloading
11
ZX Series USER MANUAL
Unlock the wheels.
Carefully rolls the ZX
Series off the packing crate.
Fig. 2- 4 Unpacking andUnloadingSTEP4:
Fig. 2- 5 Unpacking and Unloading
12
ZX Series USER MANUAL
Accessories Kit Checklist
Please check to make sure that all of the following items have been shipped with the Pinnacle ZX Series
ITEM QUANTITY
Cleaning Kit
Cotton swabs
Lens cleaner solution
Lens tissue
PS2 Machine Oil
1
1
1
1
Hex Screw Wrench
2” Manual Focus Gauge (blue)
Position Fixture
Tubing Connector for exhaust system unit
AC Power Cord
Printer Port Cable
USB Port Cable
Laser Setup CD.
Safety Goggle
1
1
1
1
2
1
1
1
1
Table 1 Accessories checklist
13
ZX Series USER MANUAL
Working Environment
It is very important to choose a working location that meets the following guidelines. Improper work
environments may lead to operational malfunction and/or unsafe working conditions.
The ZX Series is best suited in an office type environment. Avoid places where the machine is
exposed to high temperatures, dust, or high humidity
• Keep the machine where the room temperature is between 15 – 25 degrees Celsius or
60 – 78 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Avoid small, enclosed areas where a considerable amount of dust is present.
• Avoid areas where the humidity is above 70% or where the temperature is near the dew
point.
Choose a flat surface that is not exposed to high levels of vibration. Be sure to lock all four of
the machine’s wheels to ensure that the machine remains stationary when in use.
Choose a location that is large enough to accommodate the machine, the exhaust system, the
computer and a work/storage table.
• Having a separate working table or storage area prevents the operator from possibly
damaging the machine or the computer.
Have a fire extinguisher close to the working location at all times.
• Make sure your smoke/fire detecting system is functioning.
NOTE: A great Fire Detection & Alarm System has been developed by G.C.C. Ask your Pinnacle ZX
Series dealer for details.
Maintenance Sheet
Maintenance Item D W M Q S A
Power System
Motion System
Laser Assembly (Inside of Machine)
Optical System
Mirror 1
Mirror 2
Mirror 3
Mirror 4
Lens
Auto Focus Pen
Fans
Power Board
Power Supply
Lens Carriage
X-axis Bearings
Y-axis Bearings
Z-axis
Rotary-axis
Air Compressor
Odor Reduction
Small (3 filters)
Large (2 filters)
Water Coolant
9 9 9 9 9 9
9 9 9 9 9 9
9 9 9 9 9 9
9 9 9 9 9 9
9 9 9 9 9 9
9 9 9 9 9 9
9 9 9 9 9
9 9 9 9 9
9 9 9 9 9
9 9 9 9 9
9 9 9 9 9
9 9 9 9
9 9 9 9
9 9 9 9
9 9 9 9
9 9
9 9 9 9
9 9 9 9
9 9 9 9
9 9 9 9
14
ZX Series USER MANUAL
CHAPTER III - MECHANICAL OVERVIEW
Before you unload the ZX SERIES and complete the installation, it is a good idea to become more
familiar with the machine’s features and components. You should also make note of the new features
that have been developed exclusively for the Pinnacle ZX SERIES.
Front View
Top Door
Control
panel
Front Door
Fig. 3-1 Machine Front View
Air Assist Valve
15
ZX Series USER MANUAL
Right Side View
Switches & Ports
Fig. 3-2 Machine Right Side View
On/ Off SwitchFuses
AC Power Inlet
Fig. 3-3 Power Switch and Inlet
16
ZX Series USER MANUAL
Left Side View
Mirror 3
Access Panel
AC Power
Fig. 3-4 Compressor Power
Air Assist
Mirror 3
Access Panel
Fuse
Fig. 3-5 Machine left side view.
17
ZX Series USER MANUAL
Back View
Communication Ports
Thump
Screw
Red Pointer
Back
Access
Door
Exhaust
Outlet
Laser Access Panel
Fig. 3-6 Machine Back View
Serial Port
Parallel Port
USB Port
Fig. 3-7 Communication Ports
18
ZX Series USER MANUAL
NOTE: 1. Never open laser access panel when machine is plugged in.
To get to mirror #1, you have
to open the access panel.
Mirror 1 with dust
cover
Fig. 3-8 Mirror Access
Take off the dust
cover to access
mirror 1
Fig. 3-9 Remove mirror 1
19
ZX Series USER MANUAL
Fig. 3-10 Remove mirror 1
Red Pointer
Access Panel
Fig. 3-11 Red Pointer Access Panel
20
ZX Series USER MANUAL
Red Pointer Access
Fig. 3-12 Red Pointer Access
21
ZX Series USER MANUAL
Motion System & Working Table View
Mirror 2
Mirror 3
Y rail
NOTE
1. Typically the working table can load material from 65lbs./30kg, and 86lbs./40kg. 86lbs is the
maximum.
2. The origin point of Pinnacle ZX Series is set at (3”, 0), and the position fixture can help you to easily
align the working piece with the origin.
Lens Carriage
and air nozzle
Working table
Position
Fixture
Fig. 3-13 Motion System
X rail
Position
Alignment
Jig
22
ZX Series USER MANUAL
A
A
r
Focus Lens Holder Assembly
Mirror 4 Cover
Manual Focus
Gauge
Focus
Lens
Holde
uto Focus Pin
Manual Focus Gauge
ir Nozzle
Fig. 3-14 Laser Carriage Assembly
Fig. 3-15 Manual Focus Gauge
23
ZX Series USER MANUAL
TM
The Pinnacle ZX Series comes equipped with the FOCAL SHARP
precision etching and cutting. However, certain special laser effects may require that the Auto Focus
Gauge be disengaged. Blurred or fuzzy laser cutting and etching techniques require different Manual
Focus Gauges Holders to be used. The Pinnacle ZX Series has four different sizes of Manual Focus
Gauges Holders available: Purple, Blue, Gold, and Red. Become familiar with the cutting and etching
difference between the FOCAL SHARP
combinations. See Table 3-2 to find out how to use the Manual Focus Gauges Holders.
TM
, Manual Focus Gauges Holders and different Lens
Auto Focus Gauge for consistent,
Lenses
The Pinnacle ZX Series gives you the choice of four lens sizes to best suit your cutting and engraving
applications. Shorter lenses work better for most etching application, as the laser’s focal point is
targeted at the surface of the material. Longer lenses are more suitable for cutting applications, as the
laser’s focal point is targeted behind the material. The machine comes equipped with a standard 2.0”
Lens, and has 1.5”, 2.5” and 4.0” lenses available. The different lenses have been color coded
Purple, Blue, Gold and Red to easily pair with the Manual Focus Gauges Holders.
Manual Focus Gauge Holders and Lens Combinations
1.5” Optional Purple Purple
2.0” Standard Blue Blue
2.5” Optional Gold Gold
4.0” Optional Red Red
Lens
Color
Manual Focus
Gauge Color
Resolution
High
↑
Low
Cutting
Capability
Thin
↓
Thick
Table 2 Manual Focus Holders and Lens
24
ZX Series USER MANUAL
Exhaust System Installation
To properly remove dust, vaporized materials and smoke from the materials and the machine, it is
necessary to install a suitable exhaust system. The exhaust system will remove these potentially
harmful contaminants from the machine and the work area. An exhaust system is not included with
the machine. However, the exhaust blower and other components are readily available from your
Pinnacle ZX Series dealer. The exhaust system needs to be vented outside.
Attach an air duct from the exhaust blower to an appropriate hole through the wall or ceiling. Use a
rigid, smooth walled tubing such as PVC or sheet metal that is the same diameter as the exhaust
blower opening. Try to keep this tubing as straight as possible as bends reduce the exhaust efficiency.
Use the appropriate sized clamps to ensure proper attachment.
In an easily accessible location, install a shut off gate to the exhaust blower tubing. This gate restricts
outside air and dust from gaining access to the machine when not in use. It is highly recommended
for cold and/or humid climates.
You can install exhaust blower on the outside of the building close to the working location of the ZX
Series. You will need to ensure it is protected from the elements.
For exhaust blowers that have larger than a 4” diameter outlet, install an appropriate reducing coupler.
The Pinnacle ZX Series requires tubing that is 4” in diameter.
Locate the exhaust outlet in the back door of the Pinnacle ZX Series. This needs to be reversed in
order to be of use. Using a #2 Phillips screwdriver, unscrew the outlet; reverse it so that the flange is
facing outward and reattach. (see fig. 3-16 & fig. 3-17)
Exhaust
Outlet
Fig. 3-16 Exhaust Outlet
25
ZX Series USER MANUAL
Unscrew the outlet
and reverse it.
Fig. 3-17 Exhaust System Installation
From the reducing coupler to the Pinnacle ZX Series, use the 4” diameter flexible rubber tubing
provided with your machine. Attach with proper hose clamps. Run this tubing to the inlet of
your odor reduction unit / blower.
Air Assist System Installation
One of the great features of the Pinnacle ZX Series is the Air Assist System. This system keeps a lot
of the heat, vaporized particles and dust from getting on the lens. This extends the life of your lens and
mirrors. Using the air compressor and ¼” tubing, the Air Assist System safely blows heat and excess
particles from the working table towards the exhaust outlet. This allows the exhaust system and the
machine itself to function more effectively.
Follow the steps below to correctly install the Air Assist System.
NOTE: To take advantage of Pinnacle ZX Series computer controlled Air Assist System,
plug the compressor into the AC Power Outlet on the side panel of the machine.
Use enough flexible ¼” tubing to connect from the air compressor to the Pinnacle ZX Series’s
air assist valve. The valve is located at the lower right-hand side of the front of the machine.
Air Flow
Fixer
Turn clockwise to decrease
the air flow and
counterclockwise to increase
the air flow.
Press the ring to pull
out the air tube.
Connect other
end of hose to air
compressor.
NEVER turn
completely off.
ZX Series USER MANUAL
26
Fig. 3-18 Air Assist Installation
Push the ¼” tubing into the Air Flow valve. Pull on the tubing to make sure that it is locked
into place.
The outer ring of the valve needs to be pushed in before the tubing can be released.
Open the Air Flow valve. The valve has a dial that allows and restricts airflow. To avoid
damage to the air compressor, never fully close the Air Flow valve. Adjust the valve to find the
setting that is best for each application. (See fig. 3-19)
NOTE: It is important that the ¼” tubing has clean, straight cuts on each end. Any jagged or
slanted cuts will not produce a good seal between the tubing and the valve. Use a sharp knife
on a flat surface to ensure a proper cut.
Fig. 3-19 Air Assist Installation
Test the Air Assist System. Turn on the air compressor and make sure that the Air Flow valve
is open. The air nozzle located near the Auto Focus Gauge should emit a steady flow of air. If
the Air Assist System is not functioning properly, double-check the installation steps. If the
system is still not working properly, consult your ZX Series dealer.
27
ZX Series USER MANUAL
p
r
Rotary Attachment Installation and Operation
To
Window View
Ruler
Center to 10”
Connect the cable of
Lever Track
rotary attachment to
the port at the middle
right of ZX SERIES.
Screw
Front Doo
Fig. 3-RRotary Attachment Top View
Connect the
cable of rotary
attachment to
the port at the
middle right of
the ZX Series
Fig. 3-21 Rotary Attachment Installation
28
ZX Series USER MANUAL
SIDE VIEW
r
Adj
The length of working piece
ustable end
motor
Base of the padded
rubber wheel
Fig. 3-22 Rotary Attachment Side View
Offset
Value
Open end of the working piece
EngraveLab Rotary Attachment Setup
1) Turn off the laser.
Leve
2) Place the rotary attachment onto the engraving table. Ensure the two screw holes on right side of
rotary attachment match the two corresponding holes on the table. The mark on the left side lines up
to the 9.45 inch (24cm) position of on the ruler, then tighten the screws supplied.
3) Plug the cable of the rotary attachment into the port in the middle front of the engraver.
4) Turn on the power and the engraving table moves down to the lowest position automatically.
Operation:
NOTE:
The maximum length of the engraving object is 17.322 inch (450 mm).
The maximum diameter of the padded rubber wheel is 3.70 in (94 mm).
The maximum diameter of the loaded object is 7.09 in (180mm) and the limited loading weight is 15.4 Lb
(7 Kg).
1. Measure and write down the diameter of the engraving object.
2. If you engrave objects with a diameter that is smaller than 3.00 inch’s please use the 2.5 inch or 4
inch lens to prevent collision between carriage and rotary attachment device. If he diameter is 0.001
to 0.92 inch’s use the 4 in lens. If the diameter is between 0.92 and 3.0 inch the 2.5 inch lens will be
needed.
3. Lift the lever, load the engraving object, slide the adjustable end to the bottom of the object firmly,
then lower the lever of the fixture to secure it in place shown as in Fig 6.
4. Focus the laser. (Manual focus is suggested)
5. The following is an example of engraving process by using EngraveLab.
6. After importing or creating an image, click on File then Print.
29
ZX Series USER MANUAL
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