Universal Laser Systems VLS3.60, VLS4.60, VLS6.60 User Manual
User Guide
www.ulsinc.com
©2008 Universal Systems, Inc. All Rights Reserved. The Universal Laser Systems logo and name, and VersaLASER are registered trade-
marks, and High Power Density Focusing Optics, Quick Change, Rapid Reconguration, SuperSpeed are trademarks of Universal
Laser Systems, Inc. All other company and product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies.
Universal’s laser systems are protected under one or more of U.S. Patents: 5,051,558; 5,661,746; 5,754,575; 5,867,517; 5,881,087; 5,894,493; 5,901,167;
5,982,803; 6,181,719; 6,313,433; 6,342,687; 6,423,925; 6,424,670; 6,983,001; 7,060,934. Other U.S. and international patents pending.
The VersaLASER system has been awarded U.S. Design Patent No. D517,474 for the unique design of its external cabinet, which also functions as a
Class 1 laser safety enclosure.
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Thank you for choosing Universal Laser Systems®. We appreciate innovative customers like you who
have made Universal Laser Systems an integral part of their business.
Universal Laser Systems is committed to providing the highest level of customer satisfaction and
support. To ensure your satisfaction, we urge you to read the documentation contained within the
Reference Guide and User Guide CD.
Since 1988, Universal Laser Systems has been committed to continually improving our technology
and customer-driven laser solutions. Your satisfaction is very important to us and we welcome your
feedback. Tell us about your experience with Universal Laser Systems and our systems at
moreinfo@ulsinc.com
Should you have any questions during your installation, please contact your local representative or
Universal Laser Systems’ Customer Service Team at 480-609-0297 (USA), +43 1 402 22 50 (Austria),
+81 (45) 224-2270 (Japan) or e-mail us at support@ulsinc.com.
Again, thank you for choosing Universal Laser Systems.
Your Universal Laser Systems Team
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USER GUIDE CD
Chapter 1 - Laser System Specications
VersaLASER VLS2.30, VLS3.50…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………7
VersaLASER VLS3.60, VLS4.60 and VLS6.60…………………………………………………………………………………………………………9
Professional Laser System PLS3.75, PLS4.75, PLS6.75 and PLS6.150D……………………………………………………………………………11
Industrial Laser System ILS9.75, ILS9.150D, ILS12.75 and ILS12.150D………………………….…………………………………………………13
Table of Contents
Chapter 2 - Glossary of Terms
Chapter 3 - User Manual
Laser System Operation
The Universal Control Panel (UCP)……………………………………………………………………………………………………………24
VLS2.30, VLS3.50, VLS3.60, VLS4.60 and VLS6.60 System Tab…………………………………………………………………………29
PLS3.75, PLS4.75, PLS6.75 and PLS6.150D System Tab…………………………………………………………………………………31
ILS9.75, ILS9.150D, ILS12.75 and ILS12.150D System Tab………………………………………………………………………………33
Material Database Printer Driver………………………………………………………………………………………………………………39
The VersaLASER Keypad………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………42
The PLS Keypad..………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………43
The ILS Keypad..………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………45
Advanced Laser System Operation
Manual Control Printer Driver…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………48
Raster Sub-Tab…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………51
Vector Sub-Tab…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………59
Engraving Field Sub-Tab…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………60
Third-Party Graphic Software Conguration
Adobe Illustrator CS or CS2……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………62
Adobe Illustrator CS3…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………63
AutoCAD 2000i, 2002, and 2004………………………………………………………………………………………………………………65
AutoCAD LT 2007 and 2008……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………66
CorelDRAW X3 or X4……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………68
Graphic Page Conguration for Rotary (CorelDRAW)………………………………………………………………………………………70
General Software Set-up………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………72
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………16
Chapter 4 - Accessories - Installing and Operating
VersaLASER VLS2.30, VLS3.50
Air Assist Back Sweep…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………77
Air Assist Cone……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………79
Computer Controlled Air Cleaner Cart……………………………………………………………………………………………………80
Computer Controlled Compressed Air Unit………………………………………………………………………………………………83
Cutting Table…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………85
Rotary Fixture…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………88
VersaLASER VLS3.60, VLS4.60 and VLS6.60
Air Assist Back Sweep………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………95
Air Assist Compressor………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………97
Air Assist Cone………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………99
Cutting Table…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………100
High Power Density Focusing Optic (HPDFO)……………………………………………………………………………………………103
Lens Kits………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………103
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Manual Air Assist……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………104
Rotary Fixture…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………106
Professional Laser System PLS3.75, PLS4.75, PLS6.75 and PLS6.150D
Air Assist Back Sweep………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………111
Air Assist Compressor………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………113
Air Assist Cone………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………115
Computer Controlled Air Assist……………………………………………………………………………………………………………116
Cutting Table…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………118
Dual Head……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………121
High Power Density Focusing Optic (HPDFO)……………………………………………………………………………………………126
Lens Kits………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………126
Manual Air Assist……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………127
Rotary Fixture…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………129
Industrial Laser System ILS9.150D and ILS12.150D
Air Assist Back Sweep………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………134
Air Assist Compressor………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………137
Air Assist Cone………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………139
Automation Kit………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………140
Class 4 Module………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………143
Computer Controlled Air Assist……………………………………………………………………………………………………………148
Cutting Table…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………152
Heavy-Duty Use Air Kit……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………155
High Power Density Focusing Optic (HPDFO)……………………………………………………………………………………………156
Lens Kits………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………156
Manual Air Assist……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………157
Rotary Fixture…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………159
Traveling Exhaust……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………165
Chapter 5 - Basic Maintenance
VersaLASER VLS2.30 and VLS3.50………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………170
VersaLASER VLS3.60, VLS4.60 and VLS6.60……………………………………………………………………………………………………………177
Professional Laser System PLS3.75, PLS4.75, PLS6.75 and PLS6.150D…………………………………………………………………………………184
Industrial Laser System ILS9.150D and ILS12.150D……………………………………………………………………………………………………191
ULS REFERENCE GUIDE BOOKLET
Your Universal Laser Systems Reference Guide Booklet contains the following documentation:
Software Installation CD
Your Reference Guide contains the Software Installation CD. Please follow the instructions for proper installation.
Installation & Set-up Guide
VersaLASER VLS2.30, VLS3.50……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………199
VersaLASER VLS3.60, VLS4.60 and VLS6.60………………………………………………………………………………………………………216
Professional Laser System PLS3.75, PLS4.75, PLS6.75 and PLS6.150D………………………………………………………………………240
Industrial Laser System ILS9.150D and ILS12.150D……………………………………………………………………………………………266
Safety
ULS Safety Guide……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………291
Warranty
Your Reference Guide contains Warranty documents pertaining to your purchase. Should you require a copy of the warranty please contact
ULS at 1-800-859-7033 or email support@ulsinc.com.
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User Guide
Laser System Specifications
Chapter 1 - Laser System Specications
Link to Table of Contents
6
User Guide
VersaLASER VLS3.60, VLS4.60 and VLS6.60
System Operating Environment Requirements (User Provided)
VLS3.60 VLS4.60 VLS6.60
Operating
Environment
Well-ventilated oce (recommended) or clean, light-duty manufacturing
Laser System Specifications
Operating
Temperature
Storage Temperature 50ºF (10ºC) to 95ºF (35º C)
Operating Humidity Non-condensing
Power Consumption
up to:
Particulate/Odor
Outside Ventilated
Exhaust System
Computer
Requirements
(See the Installation & Set-up
Guide for more information)
Software
Requirement
250 CFM (cubic feet per minute) @ 6 inches static pressure
Grounded (earthed) and stable (surge and spike protected)
(425m3/hr at 1.5kPa)
Windows XP or Windows Vista (32-bit versions only)
Graphics or CAD based (See page 61 for recommendations)
50ºF (10ºC) to 95ºF (35º C) capable
73ºF (22ºC) to 77ºF (25º C) for best performance
Single Phase 110/240V AC, 10/5 Amp, 50/60 Hz
High-pressure vacuum blower capable of:
2.0 GHz Processor (minimum)
1 GB of RAM (minimum)
40 GB Hard Drive (minimum)
500 CFM (cubic feet per
minute) @ 6 inches
static pressure (850m3/hr at
1.5kPa)
Link to Table of Contents
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User Guide
Model System Specications
VLS3.60 VLS4.60 VLS6.60
Laser Safety
Work Area*
Table
Maximum Part
(WxHxD)
24 x 12 in
(609.6 x 304.8 mm)
29 x 17 in
(737 x 432 mm)
29 x 17 x 9 in
(737 x 432 x 229 mm)
CO2 Laser, Interlocked Safety Enclosure = Class 1
Red Diode Pointer = Class 3R
24 x 18 in
(609.6 x 457.2 mm)
29 x 23 in
(737 x 584 mm)
29 x 23 x 9 in
(737 x 584 x 229 mm)
Resolutions 1000, 500, 333, 250, 200, 83 dpi/lpi
Laser System Specifications
32 x 18 in
(812.8 x 457.2 mm)
37 x 23 in
(940 x 584 mm)
37 x 23 x 9 in
(940 x 584 x 229 mm)
Control
Requires a dedicated PC to operate; requires Windows XP or Windows Vista
(32-bit versions only)
Interconnection USB 2.0 High Speed port only
Cabinet Style Floor Standing
Laser Options 10, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50 and 60 watts
Power Consumption
up to:
Overall Dimensions
(WxHxD)
36 x 38 x 30 in
(914 x 965 x 762 mm)
110V/10A
230V/5A
36 x 39 x 36.5 in
(914 x 991 x 927 mm)
44 x 39 x 37.5 in
(1118 x 991 x 953 mm)
Weight (uncrated) 235 lbs (107 kg) 270 lbs (122 kg) 325 lbs (147 kg)
Exhaust Hookup One 4-inch (10.16 cm) port Two 4-inch (10.16 cm) ports
10 Watt = 13 lbs (6kg)
Laser Cartridge
Weight
25/30 Watt = 20 lbs (9 kg)
35/40 Watt = 23 lbs (10 kg)
45/50/60 Watt = 26 lbs (12 kg)
Available Options
Standard Air Assist, Air Assist Cone, Air Assist Back Sweep, Air Compressor (desiccant or
refrigerated dryer options), Honeycomb Cutting Table, Rotary Fixture, Lens Kits
Specications subject to change without notice
Link to Table of Contents
*Work area various by speeds and thruput.
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User Guide
Glossary of Terms
Chapter 2 - Glossary of Terms
Link to Table of Contents
15
User Guide
Glossary of Terms
#2 Mirror – A mirror located at the far left side of the X-Axis Arm (within the #2 mirror cover) used to direct the
horizontal laser beam from the Beam Window into the Focus Carriage.
#3 Mirror – A mirror (part of the focus lens assembly) (1) located in the Focus Carriage used to direct the horizontal
laser beam downward onto the work piece.
Air Assist Cone (Coaxial Air Assist) – An accessory that attaches to the Focus Carriage to direct compressed air vertically
downward, in line with the laser beam, onto the surface of the work piece. On some materials, air assist can be used to
reduce the burning eects of the material from the laser beam’s intense heat. It also can help disperse smoke and gasses
created by processing some materials.
Air Dryer – A refrigerated device or a desiccant moisture trap that reduces the moisture content of air going to the
laser system for air assist. Air assist requires oil-free, clean, dry air with no water droplets. Water on optics can damage
them. The refrigerated dryer uses a Freon cooler to chill the air and remove moisture. The desiccant type uses replaceable
desiccant crystals that must be changed when they become lled with moisture.
Back Sweep – An accessory that attaches to the Focus Carriage to aim a jet of compressed air onto the surface of the
work piece at an adjustable angle. On some materials it can be used to reduce the burning eects of the material from the
laser beam’s intense heat. It also can help disperse smoke and gasses created by processing some materials.
Beam Alignment – A procedure that is performed on the laser system by adjusting the #2 Mirror to produce optimal
laser engraving/cutting.
Link to Table of Contents
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User Guide
Glossary of Terms
Beam Window – An optic (1) mounted in the left hand rear of the enclosure through which the laser beam enters the
enclosure.
Belt – A toothed belt with high-strength, stretch-free Kevlar construction, driven by a motion system motor. Belts included: X belt for left-right movement of the lens carriage; two Y belts that move the Arm forward and backward; and a Z
belt that moves the engraving table up and down.
Class 1, Class 3R, Class 4 (Laser Classication) – Denitions created by the laser industry council to indicate degrees of
laser emission and safety requirements.
Class 1• laser has a beam that is fully contained in an interlocked enclosure. A Class 1 laser is designed for safe use
in oce and production environments without the need for special eyewear or other protective measures. Universal Laser Sysetms builds systems with Class 1 enclosures for their CO
lasers.
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Class 3R• laser requires caution (must not stare into the beam) and is the rating for the red diode pointer used in
Universal’s laser systems.
Class 4• laser has a beam that is not fully contained and that can result in direct or reected beam exposure to the
user or others. Class 4 laser users must utilize laser safety eyewear and must take other precautions to ensure safe
operation. Universal oers a Class 4 compliant option for its ILS Series models and requires a signed agreement
of understanding from the prospective Class 4 user.
For further information, please refer to the Universal Laser Systems’ Safety Manual.
Computer Controlled Air Cleaner/Cart – An accessory for VersaLASER models VLS2.30 and VLS3.50 that provides a
self-contained, computer-controlled exhaust ltration system when used with the Materials Database driver only.
Computer Controlled Compressed Air Unit – An accessory that provides dry, oil-free compressed air for use with
the Air Assist Cone and Back Sweep Accessories. With Computer Controlled air assist, the laser system turns the
compressor on and o automatically.
CPU – A Circuit Board in the laser system that communicates with the PC to drive the Motion System, pulse the Laser
Cartridge, monitor interlocks and sensors, etc.
Cutting Table – An accessory with a honeycomb insert used to support the work piece when
vector cutting. Also provides downdraft to pull smoke and debris away from the bottom of materials being cut. The
cutting table can be used as a vacuum base for holding thin sheet stock at while cutting.
Engraving Table – The solid, at metal plate that supports the work piece.
Link to Table of Contents
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User Guide
Glossary of Terms
Engraving Field – The horizontal work area (24” x 12” or 610 x 305mm) that is accessible by the laser beam for engraving and cutting – equal to the maximum “page” size for your laser system. Engraving area may vary based on speeds and
thruput.
Exhaust Port – Round spigot located on the back of the enclosure that allows connection of a fume extraction hose.
Fill – A color, bitmap, fountain or pattern applied to the interior area of a vector graphic.
Focus Carriage – The red or black aluminum housing which houses the Focus Lens and #3 Mirror. The Focus Carriage
moves back and forth along the X-Axis arm when rastering or vectoring.
Focus Lens – An optic (part of the focus lens assembly) located in the Focus Carriage that concentrates the laser beam
into a very small, highly intense spot for cutting and engraving.
Focus Tool – An essential tool supplied with every laser system that acts as a gauge to accurately set the distance
from the Focus Lens to the work piece.
Link to Table of Contents
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User Guide
Glossary of Terms
Fume Extraction (Exhaust) Blower – A radial-vane motorized blower that generates high vacuum to pull exhaust air
through the enclosure. Must be properly installed and connected with ducting.
Gear – A toothed pulley that is secured to the motor drive shaft. The gear drives a belt.
Graphics Program – The software used to create bitmap and vector artwork executed by the laser system. CorelDRAW
and Adobe Illustrator are examples of graphics programs. Engineering software packages, such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks
and DesignCad, and engraving software programs, such as LaserType and EngraveLab, can also be used to drive a laser
system. A ULS laser system can also be driven as a printer from virtually any Windows software (word processing programs,
for example).
Home – The initial reference position of the lens carriage at one corner of the engraving eld. When the system is
powered on, the motion system “homes” the lens carriage to the upper right hand corner by moving it to engage
sensors in the X and Y directions. The home location is a reference point for the motion system to know the location
of the beam precisely. The user can “home” the system at any time from the print driver control screen. The system can
also “home” the Z-Axis.
Interlock – The safety mechanism that prevents the laser beam from being emitted when any enclosure door is opened.
Laser (Cartridge or Tube) – The CO
laser device that generates the beam used to cut and engrave the work piece.
2
Leveling – A procedure in which the feet of the laser system are adjusted in order to have the engraving table parallel to
the focus carriage for optimal engraving. This procedure is performed with a Focus Tool or calipers to accurately gauge the
distance from the lens carriage to the engraving table at all four corners. The distance should be the same.
Main Enclosure – The “box” in which the X-Y-Z motion system moves and the work piece is engraved or cut. The enclosure
has interlocks and viewing window designed for laser safety, as well as air inlet and exhaust ports for fume extraction.
Motion System – The mechanical/electrical system that receives commands from the CPU and moves the lens carriage
in X – Y raster or vector fashion. The motion system also controls the Z-Axis vertical location and turns the Rotary Fixture
when it is in use.
Operating System – The software that runs your computer. ULS laser systems are compatible only with a 32-bit Windows
operating system such as XP or Vista.
Optic – Any optical element such as a beam window, mirror or lens.
Link to Table of Contents
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User Guide
Glossary of Terms
Outline – The line that denes the shape of a vector graphic. In order for an outline to be recognized as a vector, it
must be of minimum thickness – a “hairline” – less than 0.003 inches or 0.076 mm.
PC – Personal Computer. The laser system requires a Windows-based operating systems as an integral part of its operation.
Power Supply – An electrical component that converts wall-plug electricity into voltages required for electronics and
laser operation.
CO
2
Pulley – A mechanisim composed of a wheel with groves that a belt runs across to change the direction of the focus
carriage.
Print Driver – Software that is the link between a computer and the laser system. The Print Driver for a ULS laser system
is proprietary software written by Universal Laser Systems. It has screens to allow selection of laser settings and to show
system status and conguration. When the user prints a job, the Print Driver issues software commands to the laser
system.
Raster Engraving – A method of engraving whereby the laser beam is scanned back and forth,
engraving horizontal lines in the work piece as it steps down the work piece vertically. At each pass
a series of laser pulses are applied to create the engraved image—similar in action to an inkjet or
laser printer.
Red Diode Pointer – The red beam used to indicate the path and position of the laser beam and focused spot. It is very
eective for correctly positioning work pieces and is also a beam alignment aid for maintenance. The red diode pointer
turns on whenever an interlock is open and turns o when all interlocks are closed.
Rotary Fixture – An accessory used to engrave or cut cylindrical objects.
Link to Table of Contents
20
User Guide
Glossary of Terms
Universal Control Panel (UCP) – The software supplied by Universal Laser Systems used to operate the laser system.
This software program allows the user to view, store and execute jobs. Accessed by clicking the diamond-shaped
Icon in the System Tray.
USB 2.0 – Universal Serial Bus version 2.0 for high speed two-way communication. A standardized cable connection and
communications protocol used to connect external devices (such as the laser system) to a computer. USB connections are
very ecient and transmit information even faster than a network connection.
USB Port – A connector on the laser system into which the USB cable is connected.
Vector Cutting / Marking – A method whereby the laser beam is made to follow a path to cut or
engrave a desired outline—similar in action to a pen plotter or hand tracing lines and curves.
X-Arm or X-Axis – The black metal rail that moves front to back in the Main Enclosure during rastering or vectoring. The
Focus Carriage moves right and left along this rail. The rail has precision-honed V-shaped tracks that are pathways for the
bearings of the Focus Carriage. These tracks are designed to keep bearings properly centered and also allow debris to
move away from the bearing contact surfaces.
X-Axis Bearings – The three/four bearings on the X-Axis Arm which guide the Focus Carriage along the arm.
Link to Table of Contents
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User Guide
Glossary of Terms
Y-Axis – The front to back direction in the Main Enclosure. Also, the mechanical system used to move the X-Axis Arm front
to back in the enclosure.
Y-Axis Bearings – The bearings on the ends of the X-Axis Arm that guide it along the Y-rails.
Y-Rails – The two parallel rails that guide the X-Arm front and back inside the Main Enclosure.
Z-Axis – The up and down direction in the Main Enclosure. Also, the mechanical system used to raise and lower the
table on which the work piece is placed.
Link to Table of Contents
22
User Guide
User Manual
Chapter 3 - User Manual
Link to Table of Contents
23
User Guide
LET’S GET STARTED!
The User Guide is designed to provide you with information on how to operate your Universal laser system. The Users
Guide section will walk you through System Operation, Accessories, and Basic Maintenance.
User Manual
Laser System Operation
From the Universal Control Panel menus and buttons to the laser system keypad and basic printer driver features, this
section describes many of the features of the laser system. If you have not done so already, power ON your computer
and let it boot up completely. You do not need to turn on your exhaust system at this time.
CAUTION: Please refer to the Safety Manual before operating the laser system.
The Universal Control Panel (UCP)
The Universal Control Panel (UCP) on the computer provides a convenient interface for
interacting with and controlling your laser system. Once you have installed the UCP using the
installation disk, a red diamond-shaped icon (Figure 1) will appear in the lower right corner of
your Windows taskbar. If for any reason the UCP is deactivated, you can reactivate it by
double-clicking on the shortcut (Figure 2) found on your computer’s desktop screen. The UCP is
organized into three convenient tabs: Viewer, System and Diagnostics. The following describes the
features of each tab of the UCP.
Figure 1
Figure 2
Viewer Tab
You send jobs to your laser system by printing to it. Anytime you print to the laser system, a job is created and inserted
into the laser systems job queue. Selecting the viewer tab allows you to navigate through and manage the jobs in
the laser system job queue. The viewer tab also allows you to operate your laser system right from your computer.
(page 25)
System Tab (page 29)
The System Tab allows you to congure certain features of the laser system. If your laser system needs to be calibrated,
you will need to do so from this tab.
Diagnostics Tab (page 35)
The Diagnostics Tab gives you important information about your laser system for troubleshooting purposes. When
calling the Customer Service Department, please have the laser system serial number available.
Link to Table of Contents
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User Guide
Viewer Tab
User Manual
System Controls
The green START button begins the engraving process.•
Clicking the PAUSE button stops the engraving process and clicking the PAUSE button again resumes the •
engraving process where it was last stopped.
The four Navigation buttons move the focus carriage back and forth or left and right.•
The two up and down buttons move the Z-Axis engraving table up or down.•
The Home XY button re-homes/moves the focus carriage to the upper right hand corner.•
The Home Z button re-homes/moves the Z-Axis table towards the bottom of the laser system.•
Basic View (drop down list)
The Basic View shows a preview window of the job currently selected.•
The cursor becomes a magnifying glass (Zoom Tool) if you pass it over the preview window. Left-clicking the •
mouse zooms in and right-clicking zooms out.
Clicking the Settings button takes you back to the printer driver. If mistakes were made or you would like •
to make additional changes, clicking this button allows for those changes. Further information about the
printer driver can be found on page 39 of this guide.
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User Guide
User Manual
Focus View (drop down list)
The Focus View allows you to move the focus carriage to a desired position on the laser system table.
To have a full range of motion of the X-Axis arm, verify that you are zoomed out in the preview window by •
right-clicking on the mouse before entering the manual focus window.
Moving the cursor over the preview window once the focus button has been clicked changes your cursor •
to a blue target with dashed vertical and horizontal lines. Clicking once on the preview window moves the
focus carriage to that position. Selecting another feature from the drop down list terminates the focus
feature and moves the focus carriage to the home position.
To move the focus carriage to a specic location, click the GO button. Type in the X and Y coordinates. Once •
you have nished typing in the coordinates, press the GO button within the Focus window and the focus
carriage will move to the specied location. You can also move the engraving table to a specic Z-height by
entering the height in the Z box.
Focus window
Estimate View (drop down list)
The “estimate” feature approximately calculates the amount of time it will take the laser system to nish
the engraving or vector cutting job. The more complex the engraving job is, the longer it will take to nish.
The less complex the engraving job is, the less time it will take to nish.
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User Guide
User Manual
Relocate View (drop down list)
The Relocate feature gives you the opportunity to move the image on the UCP into another area of the
engraving eld. This feature does not modify your original le’s image location.
When this feature is activated, the image is surrounded by nine small white squares (anchor points) allowing
you to move it around the basic view screen. The current anchor point selected, in blue, is the axis of movement.
If you would like to move the graphic back to its original location, click on the Undo button under the X and Y
cordinates until the grahic is in the desired location.
Relocation Types
You can click on any anchor point available to move the graphic within the basic view area.1.
If you would like to move the graphic to the upper left hand corner, select the top left hand anchor 2.
point and type in your desired X Y coordinates into the boxes that appear on the right hand side. This
process can be done with any available anchor point.
Using your Navigation buttons, move the focus carriage to the desired location where you would 3.
like the image to be placed. Use the red LED as a reference point. Click on the TO CARRIAGE button.
According to the anchor point you have selected, the image on the Relocate View will move to
the location of the focus carriage’s red LED.
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User Guide
User Manual
File Management
File Management displays the name of the current job, the number of jobs stored, the date and time the job
was stored on your hard drive and the run time near the top of the window. Once the Print Cache reaches the
maximum number of jobs, the printer driver deletes the oldest jobs as newest jobs enter the cache.
The print job navigation buttons allow you to preview the print jobs stored on your hard drive.•
The “open folder” button displays and allows you to select your print jobs in a le management style. It also •
allows you to delete print jobs stored from your hard drive and save print jobs as .efm les.
The PURGE button deletes ALL cached print jobs stored on your hard drive.•
If the Permanent box is marked, this indicates that the selected le will not be deleted from your hard •
drive even after clicking the PURGE button.
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User Guide
User Manual
VLS2.30, VLS3.50, VLS3.60, VLS4.60 and VLS6.60 SYSTEM TAB
The System Tab allows you to congure certain features of the laser system. Not all features will appear on the System
Tab.
The PRINT CACHE number is adjustable. It indicates the maximum number of print jobs that you would like to •
be stored on your hard drive. If you exceed the number shown, the software will automatically begin deleting
the oldest jobs as newest jobs enter the cache, unless “Permanent” is checked in the File Managment window.
LANGUAGE allows you to switch between available languages according to your preference.•
UNITS allow you to choose between Metric or Inches.•
AUTO Z should be enabled if you would like the device to focus the laser beam by automatically adjusting •
the height of the Z-Axis table. This operating principle is based on the material thickness that you specify in the
laser system printer driver. If it is disabled, you will need to set focus manually by using the included Focus Tool.
The TUNING (UNIVERSAL) number is a value set by the ULS factory for your particular machine. In the fu-•
ture, as your laser system is used, it may be necessary to change this value to sharpen the resulting
image. Do not change this number unless instructed to do so by our Customer Service Department.
The LENS SIZE selected from the list should be the same as the number printed on the lens assembly on the front •
of your Focus Carriage. If you change lens (available accessory) and use something other than the standard 2.0
lens, then you MUST select the value that matches your installed lens. You will need to calibrate the focus lens
to the top surface of the table by clicking the red CALIBRATE button, otherwise the system will not focus
the laser beam properly. Contact the Customer Service Department if you have any question about lens
calibration.
The ALIGNMENT Launch button opens the Alignment Mode window. The Alignment feature should only be •
used if instructed by our Customer Service Department at ULS.
CUTTING TABLE allows you to calibrate a new Z-height to the top surface of Cutting •
Table. You need to have the Cutting Table installed in the system to activate the
CALIBRATE button.
ROTARY is activated once the rotary accessory is installed. Rotary calibration should be done once when the •
rotary is installed for proper engraving. For more information about the rotary, read the Accessories section of
this manual.
PULSE CALIBRATION manipulates the laser beam to be tuned for ner pulsing. • Do not use this feature unless you
have been ULS factory trained or with factory approval.
If the SOUNDS box is checked, the computer will play the sound shown indicated once the le has nished •
engraving. Be sure that your computer speakers are on and at an appropriate volume.
HOMING OPTIONS disable or enable certain homing features from the laser system.•
Normally after the engraving job is complete it will return home after engraving. If you would like to keep •
the focus carriage from going home, check the ‘Don’t Return Home After Engraving’ box.
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If the laser machine was improperly shut down, the engraving table will home at start up. To have this •
feature turned o, check the ‘Disable Automatic Z-Homing.’ Disabling this feature can also be helpful when
troubleshooting Z-Axis problems.
If you would like the laser system to re-home before it engraves a job, select ‘Home XY Before Engraving.’•
Universal laser systems contains an Air Pressure detection switch. This feature is only present when you use Manual •
Air Assist. To enable this feature, check the DETECT AIR PRESSURE box. If sucient air pressure (1.5 psi) is not
present, then an error message is displayed. If you use Computer Controlled Air Assist, this feature is not present
because our laser system automatically detects if sucient air pressure is present.
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User Guide
User Manual
VLS3.60, VLS4.60 and VLS6.60 DIAGNOSTICS TAB
The Diagnostics Tab displays important information about your laser system and personal computer. This information
can be used for troubleshooting purposes.
ENGRAVER shows the current Firmware and FPGA version being used. It also displays the Serial Number of •
your laser system. The Serial Number is needed when calling the Customer Service Department at ULS.
SOFTWARE displays the current Materials Database, Language Database and Printer Settings Library versions •
being used.
OTHER DEVICES displays the current rmware version for the devices listed.•
LASER displays the watts being produced by the laser cartridge. It also displays the current version rmware •
being used. If a red ‘x’ appears, this indicates that the laser tube is not functioning properly or a door is opened
on the laser system.
If you press the Test button under USB LATENCY, it displays the time it takes for information to travel on the •
USB cable. Avg USB should be below 10 msec and Max USB should be below 100 msec.
SYSTEM displays information about your personal computer.•
ALARMS alerts you if the inside of the laser system is above the recommended temperature or if the Thermal •
Sensor battery is low in power. If the Thermal Sensor inside the laser system is triggered, an alarm will sound
and shut down your laser system.
FIXTURES indicates if a Engraving Table, Cutting Table or Rotary is installed and properly communicating.•
INTERLOCKS shows you if the Top, Front or Rear Doors are opened or closed.•
COMPRESSOR displays the current device being used, shown by a green check mark, to supply compressed air to •
the laser system. If a ULS compressor is connected, it will show the current rmware version.
The RUNTIME DIAGNOSTICS box is for ULS Engineering use only.•
The PRINT button gathers the information displayed on the Diagnostics Tab into a PDF le. This PDF le can be •
emailed to the Customer Service Department for troubleshooting.
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User Manual
Materials Database Printer Driver
This tab of the printer driver is for the beginning user and
automatically calculates the appropriate power and speed
settings according the material selected.
Category List
This section allows you to choose from eight original types
of material categories.
Material List
Once you select a category, a variety of material types will
appear to the right of the category section.
Intensity Adjustments
Intensity Adjustments allows you to change the intensity of your Raster Engraving, Vector Marking and Vector
Cutting. The default settings are set to 0%, but they can be changed from -50% to +50%. Increasing the settings
increases the intensity of the engraving process, giving you deeper results. Decreasing the setting decreases the
intensity of the engraving and gives you shallower results. Always start at 0% on a scrap piece of material and
make any appropriate changes accordingly. There is no need to make changes to these controls unless undesired
results are produced.
Which Laser? (Dual laser systems only)
If you would like to only use the top or bottom laser tube to engrave or vector cut, select from TOP or BOTTOM. If
you only purchased one laser tube, select the appropriate laser tube according to the set-up of your laser system. If
you would like to use both laser tubes for your project, select both boxes.
Air Assist (Computer Controlled Air Assist systems only)
If you have the Air Assist accessory on the laser system, you can activate it through this option. You are able to turn
on Air Assist for Raster Engraving, Vector Marking and Vector Cutting. If you activate this feature, adjust the air ow
according to the desired results. If the laser system does not come equipped with Air Assist, turn the feature OFF.
Material (Only available when Manual Control Tab is activated)
The NEW button allows you to add a custom Category and Material to the printer driver. The EDIT button gives you
the opportunity to modify the selected Material by creating a copy of the original.
Note: This part of the Materials Database requires knowledge of the Manual Control features. Learn more
about the Manual Control Tab in the Manual Control section of the User Guide.
Material Editing
This feature gives you further control over the
Materials Database and has similar features to the
Manual Control Tab in the printer driver. Custom
categories and materials can be added and deleted.
They can also be modied to your specic requirements.
Once you have added the new material, the printer
driver will add the new material to the list. This new
material will be available for you to use in future jobs.
To access this window, you will need to select a current
category or material and click the NEW or EDIT button.
The Materials Editing window and the Manual Control
Tab have similar features. You can refer to the Manual Control section for further explanation of these features.
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Material Code
The Material Code box will automatically display a new material code number when making a new
material and category. You can add a custom Material Code from 9000-9999 if desired.
Taper
This drop down menu is activated when Print Mode is set to Rubber Stamp. This feature is similar to the one
in the Raster sub-tab for Rubber Stamping.
3D Power
This button can be activated by setting the Print Mode to 3D. This feature can be modied similarly to the
Raster sub-tab for 3D.
Vector Marking - Blue Pen
These settings are similar to the settings on the Raster Sub-Tab under the Manual Control Tab.
Vector Cutting - Red Pen
This section of the Material Editor window allows the user to input preliminary numbers for the Material
Editor to properly calculate future power and speed settings. To properly congure the Vector Cutting - Red
Pen section, you will need to vector cut two materials in the laser system so the Material Editor can calculate
the appropriate percentage amounts for dierent thicknesses.
If the material being added to the Material Editor can be vector-cut, check the empty box called “Material
Can Be Vector Cut” and input the percentages.
The Shallow Cut Settings and Deep Cut Settings sections are similar to one another. First measure two
identical material types, but with dierent thicknesses. For example, test a 1/8” piece of acrylic and a ½” of
acrylic. Input the thinnest material measurement in the Cut Depth box of the Shallow Cut Settings. Next,
type in the thickest material measurement in the Cut Depth box of the Deep Cut Settings section. The
Power and Speed in both settings refer to the least amount of percentage power required to cut through
the material without causing undesired results. You may have to experiment with this section several times
to get the exact results you desire.
Max Depth
The number input in this box refers to the maximum material thickness that the laser system is able to
cut.
PPI
Available settings are 1 to 1000. For further explanation about this setting, read the Manual Control
section of the User Guide.
Shallow Cut Settings
These parameters set the starting point for the Printer Driver’s Material Editor.
Deep Cut Settings
These parameters set the ending point for the Printer Driver’s Material Editor.
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How to create a new Category and Material
Select one of the existing Categories on the left and click on the NEW button.1.
From the Category drop down menu list on the left, select ‘**New Category.’2.
The Material Category window appears allowing you to type a name of the new category in the blank 3.
space. A Category ID (900-999) will automatically be assigned once a new category is made.
Click the OK button.4.
Once a category is made, you can add a material name to the new category by typing in a name in the 5.
Material Name blank area.
Once that is done you can make your necessary modications to each area in the Material Editing 6.
window.
To save your new category and material, you must click the APPLY button, then click the CLOSE button. 7.
If you click the CLOSE button, without rst clicking APPLY, your changes will not be saved in the
Materials Database Tab.
Material Thickness
In order for the laser system to properly vector cut and/or engrave on the material, the printer driver needs to know
the thickness of the material before it starts engraving. Using a caliper or similar measuring device, measure the
thickness of your material and enter it into the Material Thickness box.
Units
This section allows you to switch between Metric and Inches.
Fixture Type
None
If you are not using any type of xture, set the drop down menu to NONE.
Rotary
If you have purchased this accessory, read how to install and operate this xture in the Accessories section of
the User Guide.
Custom
If you use a prop (other piece of material) to adjust the height of the material you want to process, you need
to compensate for that additional height by using the Custom Height eld.
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The VersaLASER Keypad
The Keypad on the laser system provides limited access to controls necessary for cutting and engraving operations. When
the laser system has nished initializing and homing, and if all the doors are closed, the red light on the keypad will be
illuminated and ready to run a le.
The Green or Red LED (Light Emitting Diode) will display dierently depending on the current state of the laser system.
Please refer to the chart below.
CONDITION RED LED GREEN LED
O The doors are closed The VersaLASER is o
On The front, top or back door is open The VersaLASER is on
VLS2.30
and
VLS3.50
VLS3.60,
VLS4.60 and
VLS6.60
POWER: This button turns the VersaLASER on, only if the computer is powered on,
booted into Windows, the Universal Control Panel is running and the USB cable is
connected from the computer to the VersaLASER. Holding the key down for about ve
seconds will power the VersaLASER o.
START: Begins laser processing of the current le displayed on the UCP. If any of the doors
are opened when you press this button, the motion system will start to move as if it is
processing the le, however, the CO
laser beam is disabled and the red diode pointer will
2
be enabled to simulate the laser process.
PAUSE: If a le is running, the PAUSE button halts the engraving or cutting process and
the focus carriage will move to its home position in the upper right corner of the
engraving area. If the PAUSE button is pressed again after the initial pause it will resume
cutting or engraving again at the location where the motion system was paused. Please
wait for the motion system to stop and move to the home position before opening any
door otherwise the laser beam will not resume from the position it stopped at.
UP and DOWN: These buttons allow you to move the table up and down.
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Advanced Laser System Operation
From the PPI and speed settings to Rubber Stamp and Image Enhancement settings, this section covers how each
feature of the Manual Control Printer Driver funtions for the advanced user.
Note: When adjusting the printer driver settings in the Manual Control Tab, it is highly recommended that you
practice engraving or cutting on a scrap portion of that material in case the settings need to be re-adjusted to
obtain the desired results.
Manual Control Printer Driver
The Manual Control Tab in the printer driver gives you full control
of the engraving and vector settings. This tab of the printer driver
is meant for the advanced user.
Color, Power, Speed, and PPI
To change the % Power, % Speed and/or PPI of a color, position
the mouse arrow on the color name and click once. This will
highlight the color’s parameters and will allow you to change
the settings by using the scroll bars, plus (+) or minus (-)
buttons or by typing in each setting in the appropriate
control box. It is possible to click on more than one color to
set them to the same setting at the same time.
% Power
Available settings are from 0 to 100%. This setting is directly related to how deep the engraving will be. The higher
the setting, the deeper it engraves, marks or cuts, and vice-versa.
% Speed
Available settings are from 0 to 100%. This setting determines the maximum rate of travel of the motion system.
Actual engraving time (throughput) is not only dependent on the % Speed setting, but is also dependent on
the size and the placement of the graphic in the engraving eld. The motion system will accelerate/decelerate
as fast as it can up to the chosen speed. If the motion system cannot achieve the chosen speed based on the
size of the graphic or graphical placement in the eld, it will automatically adjust its speed internally to the
maximum speed it can achieve. This is evident when you see the motion system automatically slow down while
cutting curves or circles as opposed to straight lines. Automatic proportional pulsing (see PPI) of the laser beam
will ensure that there is no dierence in the depth of cut from straight lines to curves. We will discuss how to
optimize the throughput of the system later in this manual.
% Power and % Speed work together in determining how deep the engraving or cutting will be. Higher power and
slower speeds produce deeper results. Lower power and higher speeds produce shallower results.
Note: 100% raster speed is dierent than 100% vector speed. Due to the inertia of the X-Axis arm, movements
in the Y-direction, and also depending on which model you have, vector speeds will range from one-third
to one-half the maximum raster speed.
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