About This Guide Welcome! Quality Vision International (QVI) has produced this Users Guide as part of its ongoing effort to provide users with useful, comprehensive documentation. This manual has been developed using documentation standards and a design that enhances readability and makes it easier to find information.
Read and familiarize yourself with this manual if you will be involved in the installation and/or operation of your Cobra. Related Publications In addition to this manual, QVI may provide the following documentation related to Cobra: • Cobra Certification Reference Guide (P/N 790281). This manual contains instructions for verifying the measurement accuracy of your Cobra system.
Note: Provides additional information related to the topic being discussed. On-line Help: Provides references to Scan-X on-line Help topics that include additional information about the topic being discussed. Customer Service QVI values all its customers. Please contact your local authorized sales representative for: • Customer service •...
For Your Safety For your personal safety, please review the following safety precautions. They are provided for your protection, and to prevent damage to your Cobra. This safety information applies to anyone who comes in contact with Cobra. Laser Safety Read the laser safety information carefully and follow all safety precautions.
Laser Safety Markings The following laser safety labels are attached to the laser sensor, and indicate Cobra’s compliance with CDRH and IEC-825 regulations. Safety Label Meaning International Laser Symbol IEC-825 Laser Safety Classification CDRH Laser Safety Classification Laser Aperture Warning For More Laser Safety Information For more information on laser safety, contact the Laser Institute of America (lia@laserinstitute.org) and ask for ANSI specification number Z136.1-1993.
Electrical Safety The Cobra DRS control module and sensor operate at low voltages and power levels. However, observe the following precautions regarding electrical safety. Power and Grounding Your Cobra is grounded through the power cord. To avoid electric shock, plug the power cord into a properly wired receptacle with an earth ground connection.
Accessories Do not use any accessory attachments other than those provided or approved by QVI. Improper accessories can cause fire, electric shock, and/or personal injury. Unsafe Operating Environments Do not operate your Cobra in the following environments, where specific regulatory compliances are required.
Section 1 Introduction This section includes an overview of Cobra, shows the components for each configuration and describes their respective functions, lists specifications, and outlines the minimum computer requirements for customers supplying their own computer. What Is Cobra? The Cobra 2D and Cobra 3D Laser Profile Scanners are economical, non-contact measurement systems ideal for quickly scanning any part or surface to produce high-resolution, two-dimensional or three-dimensional profiles.
Components Figure 1-1 shows the various components of Cobra 2D. See the table that starts on page 1-4 for information about the component functions. Figure 1-1. Cobra 2D Components Introduction...
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Figure 1-2 shows the various components of Cobra 3D. See the table that starts on page 1-4 for information about the component functions. Figure 1-2. Cobra 3D Components Introduction...
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If your Cobra system is equipped with the video camera option, it has the additional components shown in Figure 1-3. See the table below for information about component functions. Figure 1-3. Cobra Equipped with Video Camera Option This table describes the functions of the various Cobra components. Component Function •...
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Component Function • Power Cord Connects Cobra via power cord to main power source Receptacle • System LED Indicates Cobra system power is on – illuminates when Cobra is turned on • Motor Cable Provides power to the X axis motor (3D systems only) •...
Specifications This table lists the specifications for your Cobra Laser Profile Scanner. Dimensions Cobra 2D Depth 42.5 cm (16.8") Width 22.0 cm (8.6") Height 31.5 cm (12.4") Weight 10.5 kg (23 lbs) Cobra 3D Depth 61.0 cm (24.0") Width 51.0 cm (20.0") Height 39.0 cm (15.4") Weight...
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Dimensions Figure 1-4 shows the various dimensions of the Cobra main unit. N = Distance from the laser sensor to the target in the middle of the capture range Figure 1-4. Cobra Dimensions Introduction...
Computer Requirements Scan-X software is compatible with Windows™ 98 Second Edition and Windows 2000. If your purchased the Factory-supplied Computer option, do not make any configuration changes to the computer or load any software prior to consulting your authorized sales representative first; the system configuration has been optimized for use with Cobra.
Section 2 Installation and Setup This section describes how to install and set up your Cobra, install the Scan-X software, set up the parallel port address, enable the Scan-X 3D mode, and register Scan-X. System Certification All Cobra systems are inspected and certified at the factory prior to shipment using NIST-traceable step standards.
Unpacking and Setting Up Cobra 2D This subsection only applies to Cobra 2D. See the topic, Unpacking and Setting Up Cobra 3D, for information on how to unpack and set up Cobra 3D. When you receive your Cobra 2D, the shipment will consist of a box that contains the main unit, individually wrapped laser sensor(s), and video camera package (if applicable).
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Level Cobra to the work surface. Use the thumb wheel (located on the back panel) to raise or lower the back of the unit until a machinist square (or other quality square tool) rests squarely on the sensor mounting pad, as shown in Figure 2-1 below. Note: You may need to re-level Cobra once the unit is operational in order to compensate for the work surface or part.
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Unpack the DRS laser sensor you want to mount. If you purchased the video camera option, perform the Mounting the Video Camera and LCD Screen Assemblies procedure that starts on page 2-6. If you did not purchase the video camera option, continue with Step 5 of this procedure.
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If you purchased the Factory-supplied Computer option, unpack and set up the computer and components at this time. Connect a parallel cable from the PARALLEL PORT on the Cobra back panel (see Figure 2-3) to the parallel port on the associated computer. 10.
Mounting the Video Camera and LCD Screen Assemblies This subsection only applies to Cobra 2D systems equipped with the video camera option. The procedure outlined below assumes that Steps 1 through 4 of the Mounting and Setting Up Cobra 2D procedure have already been completed. If they have not, they must be completed before starting this procedure.
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Use a 3 mm hex key (Allen) wrench to remove the two screws shown in Figure 2-5, which partially frees the camera from its mounting plate. Set the screws aside; you will need them later. The camera is still attached to the mounting plate via the LED power wires (red and black).
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Carefully swing the camera assembly to the right (or left) to reveal the lower screw hole in the camera mounting plate. Then insert one of the three partially-threaded screws into the hole and push it through the camera mounting plate and sensor. The camera is still attached to the mounting plate via the LED power wires (red and black).
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Use a 3 mm hex key (Allen) wrench and the two screws removed in Step 3 to resecure the camera to the camera mounting plate (see Figure 2-). Figure 2-7. Securing the Camera to the Mounting Plate Insert the other two partially-threaded screws into the upper two screw holes in the camera mounting plate and sensor.
10. Reinstall the camera cover (using the screws removed in Step 2). 11. Screw the LCD screen assembly onto the Cobra handle. Use a 5/32" hex key (Allen) wrench to tighten the mounting screw (see Figure 2-9). 12. Follow the procedure described next to make the necessary cable connections.
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Connect J12 to Camera Power and J6 to LED Power on top of the camera (see Figure 2-11). Figure 2-11. Connecting the Camera and LED Power Cable Locate the LCD Screen Power cable. Connect the male end to the Cobra back panel (see Figure 2-12, Part A) and connect the female end to the back of the LCD screen (see Figure 2-12, Part B).
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Locate the Video Signal cable. Connect the female end to the top of the camera (see Figure 2-13, Part A) and connect the male end to the back of the LCD screen (see Figure 2-13, Part B). Figure 2-13. Connecting the Video Signal Cable Never connect or disconnect the laser sensor cable from the top of the sensor while power is applied to Cobra.
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If you purchased the Factory-supplied Computer option, unpack and set up the computer and components at this time. Connect a parallel cable from the PARALLEL PORT on the Cobra back panel (see Figure 2-14) to the parallel port on the associated computer. Plug the female end of the supplied Cobra power cord into the power cord receptacle on the back panel of Cobra (see Figure 2-14) and connect the male end into a properly configured outlet.
Unpacking and Setting Up Cobra 3D This subsection only applies to Cobra 3D. See the topic, Unpacking and Setting Up Cobra 2D, for information on how to unpack and set up Cobra 2D. When you receive your Cobra 3D, the shipment will consist of a bounded pallet containing the Cobra 3D and any optional accessories.
Unpacking Procedure Note: Before unpacking Cobra 3D, be sure to review the Support Surface Requirements topic for information about setting Cobra 3D on a stable working surface. To unpack and set up Cobra 3D, follow the steps below. Note: This procedure assumes that if you are supplying your own computer, the computer is already set up and ready to be connected to Cobra.
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Remove all the boxes, except the Cobra 3D shipping carton, from the pallet and set them aside. The Cobra 3D shipping carton is the largest box on the pallet and is bound by plastic bands (see Figure 2-16). Note: Figure 2-16 illustrates the typical packing arrangement for international orders.
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Verify that both lifting straps are securely wrapped around the granite base. Then align the ends (loops) of the lifting straps and place them over the hook of a power or manual hoist, as shown in Figure 2-17. To avoid personal injury, lift the system with a power or manual hoist. If a power or manual hoist is unavailable, use at least two people capable of lifting at least 80 kg (175 lbs) to lift the system manually.
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12. If you purchased the Factory-supplied Computer option, unpack and set up the computer and components at this time. 13. Connect a parallel cable from the PARALLEL PORT on the Cobra back panel (see Figure 2-18) to the parallel port on the associated computer. 14.
Installing Scan-X This subsection describes how to install the Scan-X software on Windows 98 Second Edition and Windows 2000 systems. If you purchased the Factory-supplied Computer option, you can skip this section because Scan-X was installed on your computer at the factory. Note: Before installing Scan-X, make sure your computer meets the minimum requirements outlined in Section 1 of this manual.
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The system loads the InstallShield Wizard and displays the Welcome to the InstallShield Wizard for Scan-X dialog box. Read the dialog box message. Then click on the Next button to continue. The system displays the Choose Destination Location dialog box. If you agree with the recommended Destination Folder shown at the bottom of the dialog box, click on the Next button to continue.
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The system displays the Select Program Folder dialog box. If you agree with the recommended Program Folder shown in the command line, click on the Next button to continue. If you want a different folder, type a new folder name or select a folder in the Existing Folders list.
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The system starts copying files from the CD-ROM, and displays the InstallShield Wizard Complete dialog box when finished. Click on the Finish button to complete the Scan-X installation program. Scan-X automatically places an icon on the desktop of your computer. Note: We recommend restarting your computer at this time to ensure that Scan-X installs properly.
Installing on Windows 2000 Systems To install the Scan-X software on a Windows 2000 system, follow the steps below. Turn on your computer and bring up the Windows desktop. Note: We strongly recommend closing all Windows programs before installing Scan-X. This ensures that the software installs properly. Insert the Scan-X installation CD-ROM into your system CD drive.
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If the system loads the InstallShield Wizard and displays the Welcome to the InstallShield Wizard for Scan-X dialog box, continue with Step 9 of this procedure. Click on Start. Then highlight and select Run. The Run dialog box is displayed. Type c:\ZCSetup.exe in the command line and click on OK.
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The system displays the following dialog box. Select the Load Driver On Boot check box and click on Install. Reboot your computer and go back to Step 1 of this procedure. Read the dialog box message. Then click on the Next button. The system displays the Choose Destination Location dialog box.
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The system displays the Select Program Folder dialog box. 11. If you agree with the recommended Program Folder shown in the command line, click on the Next button to continue. If you want a different folder, type a new folder name or select a folder from the Existing Folders list.
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The system starts copying files from the CD-ROM, and displays the InstallShield Wizard Complete dialog box when finished. 13. Click on the Finish button to complete the Scan-X installation program. Scan-X automatically places an icon on the desktop of your computer. Note: We recommend restarting your computer at this time to ensure that Scan-X installs properly.
Setting the Parallel Port Address and Mode In order for Scan-X to communicate with Cobra, the parallel port address and mode need to be set properly. In the event that these settings are incorrect, the following error message will be displayed when you launch Scan-X. Note: If your Cobra came with a factory-supplied computer, you can skip this section (the parallel port on your system was set at the factory).
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The parallel port address setting needs to match the physical port to which the parallel cable is connected. This is done by editing the Scan-X Configuration Settings file, SCANX.INI, located in the following default folder: C:\Program Files\Scan-X\Config Assign the port address to the appropriate parallel port being used by typing in either the port number (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4) or the port address (e.g., &H378).
Enabling Scan-X 3D Mode This subsection only applies to users who are using Scan-X on a Cobra 3D system that was purchased without the Factory-supplied Computer option. If your Cobra 3D system was purchased with the Factory-supplied Computer option, you can skip this section because Scan-X 3D mode was enabled at the factory.
Registering Scan-X When you initially start Scan-X, the software displays the Machine Registration dialog box, which prompts you to register the software. You can register Scan-X now or later. To register Scan-X now, follow the steps below. Insert the supplied Options disk into the floppy drive. Enter the serial number of your Cobra (for example, CB1105) in the Serial Number box.
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Section 3 Getting Started This section describes how to power up and shut down your Cobra system, access the Scan-X software and its on-line Help, raise and lower the sensor, perform a scan, and optimize laser settings. Powering Up Your System After unpacking your Cobra and installing the Scan-X software on the associated computer (if applicable), you are ready to power up your Cobra system.
Screen Layout (3D Mode) The Scan-X screen in 3D mode is divided into the areas and windows displayed below. Accessing the Scan-X On-Line Help The on-line Help topics describe the software functions, explain how to use the software, and provide information for specific dialog boxes and fields. To access the Scan-X on-line Help, select Scan-X Help in the Help menu or press F1 on the keyboard.
How to View Help Topics To view a topic from the Contents list, follow the steps below. 1. Access the Scan-X on-line Help, as described on the previous page. 2. Click on the Contents tab. 3. Double-click on the desired topic book. Repeat for other books until you see the desired book, e.g., Windows.
Help Topic Window When you are viewing a single Help topic, the window is divided into the following two parts: • The top portion, or banner, contains the topic title and navigation buttons. • The bottom portion contains the Help text. If it does not fit into one window, use the scroll bar on the right to view the rest of the text.
Raising and Lowering the Sensor The sensor mounting pad (Z axis slide) on your Cobra includes the following two components: • The knurled Focus Knob is located on the right side of the sensor mounting pad, as shown in Figure 3-1, and is used to raise or lower the sensor to focus the sensor on the surface of a part.
How to Perform a Scan: Scanning a Penny This sub-section includes a tutorial on how to create a profile by scanning a penny. This tutorial is intended to familiarize you with the basic functions of Scan-X and help you become familiar with the Cobra motion controls. In this tutorial you will: •...
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To create a profile by scanning a penny, follow the steps below. Click on the Laser Home icon and then click on Yes in response to the prompt. If necessary, click on the Laser Locator button to turn on the Laser Locator.
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Click on the MM icon or select Millimeters in the Units menu. Check the X and Y boxes in the Motion Control window to specify the XY axes (Cobra 3D only). Click on the Start button in the Motion Control window to identify the current sensor position as the starting point of the scan.
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13. Click on the Differential icon or select Differential in the Cursors menu. 14. In the Output window, select Height (Avg) in the first measurement drop-down box. 15. Click and drag the primary cursor boundaries, so that the cursor includes the top of a column, as shown below.
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18. In the Output window, select Length in the second measurement drop-down box. 19. Click and drag the primary cursor boundaries to the start of the first column and the end of the last column in the profile, as shown below. The position of the reference cursor does not have an effect on this measurement.
Optimizing Laser Settings When using your Cobra, you may find it necessary to adjust the Maximum Exposure and/or Threshold settings to obtain optimal scan results. These two settings can be manipulated in the Sensor Settings window, which is accessed by clicking on the Sensor Settings tab.
Set the maximum exposure value based on the reflectivity of the part surface. • For highly reflective part surfaces and/or specular sensors, use shorter maximum exposure values. • For less reflective part surfaces and/or diffuse sensors, use longer maximum exposure values. •...
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Section 4 Swapping Sensors One unique feature of Cobra is that you can quickly and easily replace one sensor model with another to accommodate your specific application. This section provides information on the different DRS models available and how to swap one sensor for another.
Swapping Sensors on Systems Equipped with the Video Camera Option This subsection only applies to Cobra systems equipped with the video camera option, and describes how to remove the video camera assembly and sensor so that you can swap sensors. Note: The video camera option can only be used with DRS-300 and DRS-500 lasers;...
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Use a 3 mm hex key (Allen) wrench to remove the two screws securing the video camera to the camera mounting plate (see Figure 4-1). The camera is still attached to the mounting plate via the LED power wires (red and black).
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Carefully swing the video camera to the right (or left) to reveal the lower sensor mounting screw. Then use a 3 mm hex key (Allen) wrench to remove the screw. See Figure 4-2. Figure 4-2. Removing the Lower Mounting Screw Hold the camera assembly, mounting plate, and sensor as you remove the other two sensor mounting screws (see Figure 4-3).
Remove the camera assembly, camera mounting plate, and sensor, and set down gently. When ready, reinstall the video camera assembly, mounting plate, and replacement sensor, as described in the next subsection. Note: The video camera option can only be used with the DRS-300 and DRS-500 lasers;...
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Figure 4-4. Installing the Camera Mounting Plate and Sensor Use a 3 mm hex key (Allen) wrench and the two screws removed in Step 4 of the previous procedure to resecure the camera to the camera mounting plate (see Figure 4-5). Figure 4-5.
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Insert the other two partially-threaded screws into the upper two screw holes in the camera mounting plate and sensor. Then use a 3 mm hex key (Allen) wrench to tighten the screws firmly (see Figure 4-6). Figure 4-6. Installing the Upper Two Screws Never connect or disconnect the laser sensor cable from the sensor while power is applied to Cobra.
Swapping Sensors on Systems Not Equipped with the Video Camera Option This subsection only applies to Cobra systems not equipped with the video camera option, and describes how to remove and replace sensors. Removing a Sensor To remove the sensor currently installed on your Cobra system, follow the steps below.
Remove the sensor from the sensor mounting pad, by pulling it away from the Cobra. When you are ready, install the replacement sensor, as described in the next procedure. This completes the procedure for removing the laser sensor. Mounting a Sensor To mount a sensor onto your Cobra system, follow the steps below.
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Insert the three mounting screws into the mounting holes, and tighten with a 3 mm hex key (Allen) wrench Never connect or disconnect the laser sensor cable from the sensor while power is applied to Cobra. Doing so could seriously damage the sensor. Connect the sensor cable to the top of the sensor, see Figure 4-8 on the previous page.
Section 5 Adjusting the Sensor Mounting Pad This section describes how to adjust the rotational and vertical mounting position of the sensor mounting pad (Z slide). It may be necessary to adjust the rotational mounting position of the mounting pad in the event of a certification failure and any time the vertical position of the mounting pad is altered.
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Twist the Focus knob to raise or lower the sensor mounting pad along the Z axis slide so that the two M4 socket-head cap screws used to secure the mounting pad to the system are visible through the access holes in the mounting pad (see Figure 5-1).
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Figure 5-2. Rotational Alignment Use a 3 mm hex key (Allen) wrench to loosen (do not remove) the two M4 socket-head cap screws used to secure the sensor mounting pad to the Cobra main unit (see Figure 5-1 on the previous page). Gently rotate the sensor mounting pad until both positioning pins make contact with the square tool.
Vertical Adjustment In order to satisfy specific application requirements, you may find it necessary to adjust the vertical position of the sensor mounting pad. You can move the sensor mounting pad 25.4 mm (1.0") with this procedure. To adjust the vertical position of the sensor mounting pad, follow the steps below.
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Raise or lower the sensor mounting pad to the desired position. Verify that at least one pair of access holes in the sensor mounting pad is aligned with a pair of mounting screw holes in the Y axis arm on Cobra. Adjust the position of the mounting pad if necessary.
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Section 6 Troubleshooting This section provides information that will help you troubleshoot and resolve system problems. If the solutions do not resolve your system problem(s), contact your local authorized sales representative for further assistance. Note: Refer to the Scan-X Reference Guide (P/N 790338) for troubleshooting information related to the Scan-X software.
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Problem Possible Cause Possible Solution Computer monitor does Main power is off Turn on the main power not turn on Monitor is not Connect monitor to the main power connected to the main source power source Faulty monitor Swap suspected faulty monitor for known good one;...
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Problem Possible Cause Possible Solution Sensor gives Inappropriate step size Adjust the step size inaccurate data Dirty lenses Check lenses for dirt; clean if necessary Inaccurate sensor Check the model and serial number model and serial in the Sensor Information box (in the numbers Sensor Settings window) to see if they match the sensor on your...
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Appendix A Setting the Display Properties This appendix describes how to adjust the display settings on your system in order to view laser scans in “real-time.” When you perform a laser scan in Scan-X, the data points are plotted in the Profile View as the sensor moves over the part and takes height measurements.
Reducing the Number of Displayed Colors To reduce the number of displayed colors, follow the steps below. Close all programs. The Windows desktop should now be displayed. Right-click on the Windows desktop and select Properties in the pop-up menu to display the Display Properties window. Note: Alternately, you can select Settings / Control Panel in the Windows Start menu and then double-click on Display in the Control Panel window to display the Display Properties window.
Reducing the Hardware Acceleration To reduce the hardware acceleration setting, follow the steps below. Select Settings / Control Panel in the Windows Start menu. Highlight and select Display. Click on the Settings tab. The Display Properties window is displayed (see image on the previous page). Click on the Advanced button.
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Appendix B Focusing and Aligning the Camera This appendix only applies to Cobra systems equipped with the video camera option, and describes how to focus and align the camera. Focusing the Camera To focus the camera, follow the steps below. You will need a 2 mm hex key (Allen) wrench.
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Turn the camera collar in a counter-clockwise direction, and loosen it completely (see Figure B-1). The camera is now free to move up and down. Figure B-1. Focusing the Camera Manually, adjust the vertical position of the camera until the image on the LCD screen is sharp and in focus.
Aligning the Camera to the DRS Laser Sensor To align the video camera on your Cobra system to the DRS laser sensor, follow the steps below. You will need a 2 mm hex key (Allen) wrench. Power up your Cobra system and access Scan-X. Focus the sensor over the surface of a part, and observe the laser spot on the LCD display.
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Figure B-2. Camera Alignment Screws Reinstall the camera cover. This completes the procedure for aligning the video camera on your Cobra system to the DRS laser sensor. Focusing and Aligning the Camera...
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Index DRS models, 4-1 DRS-2000, 4-1 Accessing Scan-X on-line help, 3-3 DRS-300, 4-1 Adjusting the mounting pad, 5-1 DRS-500, 4-1 Alignment DRS-8000, 4-1 Camera, B-3 Rotational, 5-1 Electrical safety, vii Enabling Scan-X 3D mode, 2-30 Camera Explosive atmosphere, viii Alignment, B-3 Focusing, B-1 Camera assembly, 1-5 Certification, 2-1...
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Installation OGP Customer Service, iv Cobra 2D, 2-2 Operating environment, 1-6 Cobra 3D, 2-14 Optimizing laser settings, 3-12 Scan-X, 2-19 Organization, i Windows 2000, 2-23 Windows 98, 2-19 Sensor, 2-2 Video camera and LCD assemblies, 2-6 Installation and setup, 2-1 Parallel port, 1-4 Installing a sensor, 4-9 Setting the address and mode, 2-28...
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Safety Threshold, 3-13 Accessories, viii Thumb wheel, 1-4 Electrical, vii Troubleshooting, 6-1 Laser, v Liquids, vii Power and grounding, vii Power cord, vii Servicing, vii Vertical adjustment, 5-4 Unsafe operating environments, viii Safety markings, laser, vi Scan-X Enabling 3D mode, 2-30 Icon, 3-1 Windows Installation, 2-19...
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The information contained herein is based on the experience and knowledge relating to the subject matter gained by QVI prior to publication. No patent license is granted by this information. QVI RESERVES THE RIGHT TO CHANGE THIS INFORMATION WITHOUT NOTICE AND MAKES NO WARRANTY, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, WITH RESPECT TO THIS INFORMATION.
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