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Epilog Fusion13000 Owner's Manual

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OWNER'S MANUAL FOR EPILOG
Fusion - MODEL 13000
This manual can also be found in electronic format on the
Epilog Dashboard Drivers and Documentation
disk that came with your laser system.
April 17, 2013
16371 Table Mountain Parkway
Golden, CO 80403
Phone (303) 277-1188
Fax (303) 277-9669
Technical Support Direct Line: (303) 215-9171
Email Technical Support: tech@epiloglaser.com
Technical Support Online:
www.epiloglaser.com/service.htm
www.epiloglaser.com/downloads.htm

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  • Page 1 OWNER'S MANUAL FOR EPILOG Fusion - MODEL 13000 This manual can also be found in electronic format on the Epilog Dashboard Drivers and Documentation disk that came with your laser system. April 17, 2013 16371 Table Mountain Parkway Golden, CO 80403...
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  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    Section 2: Dos and Don’ts ......................13   Section 3: Getting Started ......................1   Section 4: Installing the ECC (Epilog Control Center) ............... 12   Section 5: Installing the Epilog Dashboard Print Driver ............. 22   Section 6: Using the Epilog Dashboard ..................47  ...

  • Page 4: Contents At A Glance

    Contents at a Glance THIS PAGE WAS INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK...
  • Page 5 Setting Up Your Laser System ....................1   Connecting the Exhaust ......................7   Connecting Electrical Power....................9   Section 4: Installing the ECC (Epilog Control Center) ............... 12   USB Port ..........................17   Ethernet Port ......................... 17  ...
  • Page 6   Section 11: Engraving Machine Cleaning ................. 119   This cleaning section may show photos of other Epilog machines. The cleaning process is the same so please use these photos as a reference guide........... 119   Cleaning - Important!....................... i  ...
  • Page 7 APPENDIX B PRINTING FROM AUTOCAD........... 179   APPENDIX C ADDITIONAL DASHBOARD PRINT DRIVER INSTRUCTIONS ......................183   Windows 7: Setting up the TCP/IP Address in the Computer........... 183   Windows 8: Installing the 64-bit Epilog Dashboard Print Driver in Windows 8 ....189  ...
  • Page 8 Table of Contents INDEX....................195   THIS PAGE WAS INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK viii...

  • Page 9: Fire Warning

     ALWAYS keep a properly maintained and inspected fire extinguisher on hand. Epilog recommends a Halotron fire extinguisher or a multi-purpose dry chemical fire extinguisher. The Halotron extinguishers are more expensive than a dry chemical, but offer certain advantages should you ever need to use an extinguisher.
  • Page 10 Fire Warning! SEE PREVIOUS PAGE...

  • Page 11: Introduction

    You will be ready to use the Epilog laser system as soon as you read the first six sections. Then you can refer to topics in the remaining sections, as you work.
  • Page 12 Introduction Icons Used in this Manual Look for these symbols to help you find valuable information throughout the text: Sometimes the right perspective on a procedure is essential to success. This icon Flags a Quick Note regarding the task at hand. This Icon signifies places to look for additional information to assist with the topic currently being discussed.
  • Page 13 Introduction Indicates pages including information regarding connecting your laser system to your computer using an Ethernet connection. Indicates the potential for fire danger when operating the laser. xiii...
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  • Page 15 Manual Epilog Laser Setup...
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  • Page 17: Section 1: Safety

     Fire Safety  Safety Features And Regulatory Compliance Laser Safety The Epilog Model 13000 Laser System is a Class 2 laser product, as defined in International Standard IEC 60825-1. The Epilog Model 13000 complies with 21 CFR 1040.10 and 1040.11, the Federal Performance Standards for Light-Emitting Products, except for deviations pursuant to Laser Notice No.
  • Page 18 Class I. It is the operator’s responsibility to ensure that the installation and operation of the Epilog Model 13000 Laser System is performed in accordance with all applicable laws.

  • Page 19: Electrical Safety

    Section 1: Safety Electrical Safety The AC input power to the Epilog Model 13000 Laser System is potentially lethal and is fully contained within the cabinet.  DO NOT open any of the machine’s access panels while the unit is plugged in.

  • Page 20: Fire Safety

     ALWAYS keep a properly maintained and inspected fire extinguisher on hand. Epilog recommends a Halotron fire extinguisher or a multi-purpose dry chemical fire extinguisher. The Halotron extinguishers are more expensive than a dry chemical, but offer certain advantages should you ever need to use an extinguisher.

  • Page 21: Safety Features And Regulatory Compliance

    21 CFR 1040 and IEC 60825-1 require that certification, identification, and warning labels be placed on laser products. Reproductions of labels on the Epilog Model 13000 Laser System follow, with their locations specified: Certification/Identification Label. This engraved plate is located on the rear...
  • Page 22 Section 1: Safety Warning Label. This label is located on the rear of the machine’s cabinet, below the Certification/Identification Label above. Explanatory Label. This label identifies the classification of the Model 13000 in accordance with IEC 60825-1. It is located on the rear of the machine’s cabinet, beside the Warning Label above.
  • Page 23 Section 1: Safety Defeatably-interlocked Protective Housing Safety Label. This label is located on the machine’s cabinet door, in the upper left-hand corner. Aperture Safety Label. This label is located on the steering-mirror cover inside the machine’s cabinet, beside the aperture where the laser beams enter the cabinet. Electrical Safety Label.
  • Page 24 Section 1: Safety Emergency Stop EMERGENCY STOP Power Labels Main Breaker Labels Air Assist Label AIR ASSIST 30 PSI MAX 200 kPa MAX 12. Fire Warning Label This fire hazard label is located on the left and right sides of the top access door of your laser system:...
  • Page 25 CUTTING FLAMMABLE MATERIALS SUCH AS WOOD OR ACRYLIC. A PROPERLY MAINTAINED FIRE EXTINGUISHER SHOULD BE KEPT NEAR THE MACHINE AT ALL TIMES. EPILOG RECOMMENDS A CO FIRE EXTINGUISHER. PERIODICALLY REMOVE THE VECTOR CUTTING GRID AND REMOVE DEBRIS FROM THE TABLE PAN.
  • Page 26 Section 1: Safety...
  • Page 27 Section 1: Safety...
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  • Page 29: Section 2: Dos And Don'ts

    Section 2: Dos and Don’ts In This Section  Operating Dos and Don’ts DON’T! NEVER operate the machine without a properly operating vent to the outside! Most material will only produce an irritating smoke when engraved. Some materials, including but not limited to paint, varnish, composition board and plastics, produce compounds that can be harmful if concentrated.
  • Page 30 Section 2: Dos and Don’ts Please allow a few minutes a week for cleaning your machine. Just a small amount of effort at the end of the week will pay off with years of trouble free operation of your machine. See the Engraving Machine Cleaning section of this manual for specifics.

  • Page 31: Epilog Laser Setup

     Installing the Dashboard Print Driver Setting Up Your Laser System Setting up your Epilog Laser System is easy to do! If you’ve ever installed a paper printer, this is only slightly more difficult. The following information will help you understand the entire system and how it works.
  • Page 32 3) Epilog software and connection options: Epilog provides two pieces of software for the Fusion: 1) The ECC (Epilog Control Panel). 2) The Dashboard print driver. Epilog also provides two different methods of connection the Fusion to your computer: 1) USB 2) Ethernet The software and the connection methods are associated because the connection method affects which software can be used.
  • Page 33 Section 3: Getting Started 4) ECC (Epilog Control Center) The ECC is the software program that provides job management capabilities to keep track of print jobs, laser settings and other job management tasks after the job has been sent to the laser from the Dashboard driver.
  • Page 34 Section 3: Getting Started 5) The Fusion Dashboard print driver. The print driver is the primary interface between the computer and the laser and sends all jobs and laser parameters to the laser. Your Fusion laser system cannot run without the Dashboard driver. The print driver can be used with either the USB or Ethernet connection.
  • Page 35 Section 3: Getting Started 6) Connection cables that allow your computer and laser to talk to each other. Fusion both Ethernet connections. 7) Exhaust fan. The exhaust fan is mandatory and is used to remove smoke and debris from the Fusion work area. The exhaust air can be ported to the outside or into a filter box.
  • Page 36  Connect the exhaust system to your laser  Connect electrical power  Install the ECC (Epilog Control Panel)  Install the Epilog Dashboard Print Driver –  Connect both the USB and Ethernet cables from your computer to your laser system.

  • Page 37: Connecting The Exhaust

    You should provide a metal duct (flexible aluminum or galvanized sheet metal) from the blower to the laser. All Epilog model 13000 laser systems require an exhaust fan that is rated at a minimum of 650 CFM.
  • Page 38 Section 3: Getting Started Epilog Exhaust Blower Connections There are two 4” (100 mm) ports attached to the back of the laser system. Attach your ducting to the machine as shown above. Check your exhaust system for leaks. Most small leaks can be remedied with duct tape.

  • Page 39: Connecting Electrical Power

    Connecting Electrical Power Roof or exterior wall All Epilog laser systems have an auto-switching power supply that detects the incoming voltage and automatically switches itself to operate properly at any single-phase voltage between 100 and 240 VAC. The power supply will also 4”...
  • Page 40 Requirements Operating Temperatures All Epilog laser systems use air-cooled laser tubes. Laser technology is such that the laser tubes generate a lot of excess heat and the tubes must be cooled for proper operation. There are cooling fans located at the back of the laser. The fans and vents should always be clear of restrictions and should never be covered.
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  • Page 42: Section 4: Installing The Ecc (Epilog Control Center)

    The ECC is not required to operate the laser, but it provides many user features that make operating your Fusion easy. To install the ECC, insert the Epilog install disk into your computer’s disk drive. It should Auto- Start and the following window should appear:...
  • Page 43 Section 4: Installing the ECC If the following screen appears, click on Run fusion_driver.exe and then the install screen will appear. Click on Epilog Control Center Installation. You will need to choose between the 32-bit and 64-bit driver based on your computer’s operating system.
  • Page 44 Section 4: Installing the ECC...
  • Page 45 Section 4: Installing the ECC Click on Install. The next screen will prompt you to allow Windows to install the software. Click Yes. Select Repair and then Next Click on Finish...
  • Page 46 Section 4: Installing the ECC     After installing the ECC connect your computer to the laser using either the USB connection or the Ethernet connection. The following combinations can be used. USB only connection – Both the print driver and the ECC operate simultaneously through the USB connection.

  • Page 47: Usb Port

    The Ethernet port is located at the back of the machine. Your Epilog laser has all of the versatility of a Network capable peripheral. As such, there are many different ways that the laser can be connected to a computer or a network. A direct connection using a crossover cable is the only method that will be described in this manual.
  • Page 48 Section 4: Installing the ECC Type the IP Address you want to use along with the Subnet Mask. The Gateway can remain blank. Click “ Set” to change the setting in the Fusion.   With the IP Address setting established you are ready to print to the Fusion from the Dashboard print driver:  ...
  • Page 49 Section 4: Installing the ECC         Use Ctrl P, or go to File | Print to print to the laser. Choose the Fusion driver, and then click on Preferences:      ...
  • Page 50 Section 4: Installing the ECC Set your laser parameters for the test job and then press Okay. For this test job the laser parameters are not overly important. We are just making sure the computer and laser are talking to each other and that a job can be sent and will start running.
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  • Page 52: Section 5: Installing The Epilog Dashboard Print Driver

     Installing the Dashboard Print Driver Using an USB Connection  Installing the Dashboard Print Driver Using an Ethernet Connection The Epilog Dashboard is the print driver that allows your computer to talk to your Epilog laser system when either the USB or Ethernet Crossover cables are connected.

  • Page 53: Installing The Dashboard Driver Using The Usb Connection Using Xp Or Vista

    Connect your laser system to your computer using the USB cable that came with your machine. Power up your Fusion system. Insert the Epilog driver disk into your computer’s hard drive. Your computer will prompt you to install the driver. Follow the prompts.
  • Page 54 Section 5: Installing the Epilog Dashboard Print Driver 1) Insert the Epilog driver install disk into your computer. One of the following screens will appear. For the USB installation, you will want to close then. We do not want the computer to automatically try and install the driver. Manually installing the driver will be much more successful.
  • Page 55 Section 5: Installing the Epilog Dashboard Print Driver If your computer is connected to the Internet, it will take a few minutes for your computer to display these windows. Please be patient during this process and let the computer finish trying to install the drivers. Interrupting the computer at this point will require us to restart the process.
  • Page 56 Section 5: Installing the Epilog Dashboard Print Driver 6) Select the Hardware tab. 7) Select the device EpilogEngraverFusion. Then click on Properties.
  • Page 57 Section 5: Installing the Epilog Dashboard Print Driver 8) Click on Change Settings. 9) Click on the Driver tab.
  • Page 58 Section 5: Installing the Epilog Dashboard Print Driver 10) Click on Update Driver...
  • Page 59 12) Use the Browse button to direct your computer to your disk drive that contains the Epilog driver disk that you inserted earlier in this process. For this document we show the DVD RW drive as the drive where the disk is...
  • Page 60 Section 5: Installing the Epilog Dashboard Print Driver Once you have the proper disk drive showing click on the Next button. The progress window will appear.
  • Page 61 13) You will then be asked if you want to install this driver: Click on Install this Driver Anyway 14) Your Epilog Fusion Dashboard print driver has been successfully installed on the USB port. 15) Click on Close in the next window and then Close again.
  • Page 62 Section 5: Installing the Epilog Dashboard Print Driver You will then see your Fusion driver in the Devices and Printers page. Click on the red X in the upper right corner of this page. 16) That’s it! You are ready to print to your Fusion.

  • Page 63: Installing The Dashboard Driver Using An Ethernet Connection And A Crossover Cable

    Note: The following instructions work only for a direct connection from the computer to the Epilog laser using a Crossover cable. This procedure does not work with a hub or a server. For Ethernet connections that require a hub, server, or multiple machines/computers, please consult with your network administrator.
  • Page 64 Section 5: Installing the Epilog Dashboard Print Driver Step 1: Setting the Ethernet IP Address on the Laser The easiest way to set the IP Address on the Fusion is to first install the ECC and make the change from the Configuration tab.
  • Page 65 Section 5: Installing the Epilog Dashboard Print Driver Step 2: Setting up the Computer’s TCP/IP Address Once you have set the IP Address on the laser you will need to set the TCP/IP Address in your computer. From the Start menu at the bottom of your computer monitor screen select Start | Control Panel | Network Connections.
  • Page 66 Section 5: Installing the Epilog Dashboard Print Driver The window below will appear. Select Use the following IP address radio button. Type in the following (leave everything else blank on this page). IP Address 192 168 3 3 Subnet Mask...
  • Page 67 Step 3: Installing the Dashboard Driver for an Ethernet Connection Insert the Epilog Laser CD into your computer’s disk device. It should Auto-Start and the following window should appear: If the following screen appears, click on Run fusion_driver.exe and then the install screen will appear.
  • Page 68 Section 5: Installing the Epilog Dashboard Print Driver Click on Add Local Printer:...
  • Page 69 Click on Create New Port and then click on the dropdown menu and select Standard TCP/IP Port Enter the IP Address you want to use. Most Epilog users will use 192.168.3.4 that is what we use in this document. Whatever number you use, it must be the same number you assigned to the IP Address in the Fusion laser.
  • Page 70 Section 5: Installing the Epilog Dashboard Print Driver Wait while the computer identifies the port. Select Custom and then Settings, then click on Next...
  • Page 71 Section 5: Installing the Epilog Dashboard Print Driver Select LPR and type in Laser into the Queue Name. Then, Click on OK. Set Protocol to LPR. This is a very important step. Your download time will be greatly increased if LPR is not selected.
  • Page 72 Section 5: Installing the Epilog Dashboard Print Driver Click on Have Disk Click on Browse Find the disk drive with the Epilog install disk and click on Open Select the driver folder and then click on Open...
  • Page 73 Section 5: Installing the Epilog Dashboard Print Driver Click on the EpilogWinALLFusion file and then click on Open...
  • Page 74 Section 5: Installing the Epilog Dashboard Print Driver Click on OK Click on Next You can rename your printer here. We have not changed it for this document. We have not changed it for this document, but many users like to associate the driver name with the IP Address they are using.
  • Page 75 Section 5: Installing the Epilog Dashboard Print Driver Click on Finish and the driver has been installed! You are ready to print.
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  • Page 77: Section 6: Using The Epilog Dashboard

    The Dashboard is shown below and can be installed from the driver CD that came in your accessories kit. It can also be downloaded from the Epilog web site – www.epiloglaser.com. If you are just getting started and are in a hurry to engrave...
  • Page 78 Section 6: Using the Epilog Dashboard Now that you have printed a simple job, you are ready to gain a better understanding of the different printing options available from the Dashboard. Most engraving and cutting jobs can be accomplished by using only the General tab.
  • Page 79 Section 6: Using the Epilog Dashboard You can move the little slider box by clicking down, holding and then moving to the desired number before releasing your mouse. You can type the setting into the number box. The following sections provide detailed explanations of the different features in the Print Driver.
  • Page 80 Section 6: Using the Epilog Dashboard General Tab Job Type One of the first things new users want to know is how the laser system knows when to engrave and when to cut. The decision is based on several variables: 1) Line weight (or Stroke) as defined in your graphic image from Corel, Illustrator, etc.
  • Page 81 Section 6: Using the Epilog Dashboard Select the Job Type here. Raster Raster mode is used for marking or engraving materials. Typical uses would be reproducing clipart, scanned images, photos, text and graphic images. The Raster Speed and Raster Power boxes will be enabled when you have selected Raster under Job Type.
  • Page 82 Section 6: Using the Epilog Dashboard Vector Vector mode is used for thin line marking as well as cutting applications. The Vector Speed, Power and Frequency bars will be enabled when you have selected Vector or Combined under Job Type.
  • Page 83 Section 6: Using the Epilog Dashboard When using vector mode, it is necessary to design your job to give the intended result. Objects and text should be unfilled and drawn with the thinnest possible outline (other than zero), as shown below. A .001 inch (.025 mm) is recommended.
  • Page 84 Section 6: Using the Epilog Dashboard Power Comp: Power Comp (Compensation) adds another dimension to Vector Cutting settings. Selecting Power Comp is especially useful for vector cutting jobs that incorporate a large number of curves. Power Comp slows the lens carriage and automatically reduces the laser power to compensate for the change of speed as the carriage moves through a curve.
  • Page 85 Section 6: Using the Epilog Dashboard Speed and Power settings are dependent on resolution setting. For example, there is greater overlap of each raster line at 600 DPI than there is at 300 DPI. The additional overlap at 600 DPI has the effect of lasering over more of each line twice.
  • Page 86 Section 6: Using the Epilog Dashboard are however some users that appreciate this high level of quality and are willing to take twice as long to produce an image at 1200 DPI as it would take them at 600 DPI.
  • Page 87 Section 6: Using the Epilog Dashboard The photos below show a CorelDraw clipart image engraved at 300 DPI (top) and at 600 DPI (bottom). This clipart image is full of different shades of gray and you can see that the dot spacing is spread out more on the 300 DPI than it is on the 600 DPI.
  • Page 88 Section 6: Using the Epilog Dashboard Piece Size Many users like to create their artwork on a page size in CorelDraw or other software program that matches the size of the piece that is to be lasered. Compensating for beveled edges or placing an image in an exact location is easy when there is a one-for-one relationship between the material and the page size of the artwork.
  • Page 89 Section 6: Using the Epilog Dashboard Auto Focus Most users prefer to use the Auto Focus capability when focusing because it is so quick and easy to use. To use auto focus first measure the thickness of the material you are using. Click on Auto Focus and the input the material thickness using decimal units into the Thickness box.
  • Page 90 Section 6: Using the Epilog Dashboard Note: Please be careful when auto focusing on irregularly shaped items. The crash bar and air assist tube must clear all edges of the work piece in this situation also. Crash bar...
  • Page 91 Section 6: Using the Epilog Dashboard Engrave Direction This feature applies to Raster engraving only and allows you to engrave your project either from the top down, or the bottom up. This is very helpful for some materials like plastic or rubber stamps. In standard top-down engraving there can be a large amount of engraving debris generated.
  • Page 92 Section 6: Using the Epilog Dashboard Raster Settings Speed The Speed setting determines the travel speed of the carriage in Raster mode and is adjustable in 1% increments from 1 to 100%. The slower the speed, the deeper the engraving. Speed settings are heavily dependent on the hardness and the thickness of the material being engraved, with harder materials requiring slower speeds for deeper engraving.
  • Page 93 Section 6: Using the Epilog Dashboard material (and sometimes even the bonding agent), you may be better off slowing the machine down to give the laser time to properly interact with the different layers in the material. If you have a multi-layered material that you can mark easily, but not well, at high speeds, try lowering the speed to see if that produces a better mark.
  • Page 94 The choice is entirely up to you! We have included some sample photographs on the Epilog driver disk for you to experiment with. Use these photographs to engrave on different materials using the different dithering options so you can get a feel for how each dithering pattern affects the image and the material.
  • Page 95 Section 6: Using the Epilog Dashboard What is Dithering? - The best way to show dithering is with an example. In the example below, we engraved the exact same photo in Standard mode and Stucki mode. Both photos were engraved at 300 DPI. As you can see, the photos look dramatically different. As you can also see, the Standard mode shows a very structured pattern, while the Stucki pattern shows a much more random pattern that is much more pleasing to the eye.
  • Page 96 Section 6: Using the Epilog Dashboard Clipart Modes: Standard - This mode is the default mode and will be used for most engraving jobs that include text and clipart at 600 DPI. Brighten – Many users find this mode good for engraving photographs onto wood or marble at 600 DPI.
  • Page 97 Section 6: Using the Epilog Dashboard Vector Settings Speed The Speed setting determines the travel speed of the carriage in Vector cutting mode and is adjustable in 1% increments from 1 to 100%. The slower the speed, the deeper the cut.
  • Page 98 Section 6: Using the Epilog Dashboard Freq (Frequency) Frequency is the number of laser pulses that the laser fires per inch of travel and is set in the dashboard and can be adjusted from 1 to 100. A lower frequency number will have the effect of less heat because fewer pulses are being used to cut the material.
  • Page 99 Section 6: Using the Epilog Dashboard Vector Sorting A checkmark in the vector sorting box will order the sequence of vector cuts. If sorting is enabled, you have two choices of how the vector lines will be sorted: Optimize and Inside-Out. In Optimize mode, vectors will be cut in the most efficient manner, and will generally vector the next closest line to the one just finished.
  • Page 100 Section 6: Using the Epilog Dashboard Configurations The “Configurations” feature is a comprehensive data management tool that is used to save all of your Dashboard settings for individual jobs. Saving the Dashboard settings as a database file allows you to retrieve the job parameters at a later time.
  • Page 101 Section 6: Using the Epilog Dashboard First, set all of the desired settings (Speed, Power, Piece Size, Color Mapping values, etc. for a particular job. To save the Dashboard settings and identify them with a name, go to the advanced tab and click on Save.
  • Page 102 Section 6: Using the Epilog Dashboard The path for the Configurations folder is shown here: My Documents /Epilog/engraving_setting. Give your file a name and then click on Save. You now have a custom Configuration file that can be used the next time you need to run this job or material.
  • Page 103 Section 6: Using the Epilog Dashboard Loading Configuration Files: To load a configuration file, click on the Browse… button. The Browse for Folder window will open. Click Okay. After selecting your folder all of the configuration files will now show in the Dashboard.
  • Page 104 Section 6: Using the Epilog Dashboard Click on the General tab to see the settings that the loaded file brings Upgrade Firmware Please see Upgrading the Operational Firmware section of this manual for detailed instructions on using this feature of the Dashboard.

  • Page 105: Additional Dashboard Driver Features

    Section 6: Using the Epilog Dashboard Additional Dashboard Driver Features Multiple Passes You can automatically engrave or cut a job multiple times by setting the Number of Copies to the number of passes that you want to make. When each pass is finished the laser will automatically start another pass until all passes are complete.
  • Page 106 Section 6: Using the Epilog Dashboard Multiple Pages CorelDraw allows you to set up and print multiple pages. The screen shot below shows the Corel print window that is set up to print all three pages of a three page document.

  • Page 107: Changing Dashboard Driver Defaults

    All of the Dashboard driver default settings can be modified to suit your engraving needs. Go to Start | Control Panel | Printers Right mouse click on the Epilog Engraver Click on Properties Click on Printing Preferences Change any of the settings. These changes will become the default settings for each new print job.
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  • Page 109: Basic Operations

    Manual Basic Operations...
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  • Page 111: Section 7: Quick Start & Easy Setup

    Section 7: Quick Start & Easy Setup In This Section  Artwork Setup  Job Setup Artwork Setup Create your job in the graphics software of your choice, (for example – CorelDraw). There are three different modes of operation for the laser and the way you setup your artwork will determine if you raster engrave or vector cut.
  • Page 112 Section 7: Quick Start & Easy Setup Vector cutting is a continuous path that follows the outline, or profile, of an image. Vector cutting is normally used to cut completely through materials such as wood, acrylic, paper, etc. It can also be used for quick marking of characters and geometric patterns.
  • Page 113 Combined or Vector mode. If you only want to Raster engrave, make sure you select Raster mode in the Epilog Dashboard. For more information on Vector cutting refer to the Using the Epilog Dashboard Driver section of this manual.

  • Page 114: Job Setup

    Section 7: Quick Start & Easy Setup Job Setup Your Epilog laser system has a prime reference point that is in the upper-left corner of the laser table. This is the 0,0 (zero, zero), or “Home” position. All artwork and material placement is normally referenced from here. Keep this 0,0 point in mind when measuring and setting up your work.
  • Page 115 Section 7: Quick Start & Easy Setup Material Orientation Some materials such as wood or plastics that have a grain (brushed look) will look nicer when engraved if the grain of the material runs parallel with the X-stroke of the carriage. The orientation of material without a grain pattern is usually not important.
  • Page 116 Section 7: Quick Start & Easy Setup using the Epilog Integrated Vacuum Table. Simply place it on the table flush against the upper and left hand rulers. Then cover any remaining holes in the metal table with scrap material or a made jig. This will create a semi-suction and hold the piece of material in place.
  • Page 117 Section 7: Quick Start & Easy Setup joystick. Once the focus position has been established, remove the gauge. Press the Reset key. If your material has a taper or curve, pick an intermediate point between the highest and lowest points being engraved and focus on that point. In general, the area of the material being engraved needs to be relatively flat.
  • Page 118 Section 7: Quick Start & Easy Setup Auto Focus Most users prefer to use the Auto Focus capability for focusing. It’s quick and easy to use. Auto Focusing Through the Dashboard Activating the Auto Focus can be done on your computer by checking the “Auto Focus”...
  • Page 119 Section 7: Quick Start & Easy Setup WARNING: If you are using Auto Focus and you know there is not enough clearance between the lens carriage and your material, you will need to lower the table before you insert your material and start the job. To lower the table, use the Arrow keys on the keypad to illuminate the light next to the word “Focus”.
  • Page 120 Section 7: Quick Start & Easy Setup The Fusion keyboard will display the job: Job: Untitled Place your work piece in the upper left corner of the engraving table, close the door and then press the Go key to start the job. To access the ECC after the job has printed go to your Icon tray in the lower right corner of your Windows screen and double click on the ECC icon.

  • Page 121: Section 8: Using The Front Control Panel

    Section 8: Using the Front Control Panel In This Section  Keyboard Commands  Loading Your Work  Operation  Job Storage The Keyboard Commands are useful tools for operating your laser system and is arranged into functional groups: 1) Function Menu - Action Keys - Display – Joystick - Red Dot Pointer and Laser Function Menu Display Action Keys...

  • Page 122: Section 8: Using The Front Control Panel

    Section 8: Using the Front Control Panel Joystick: The Joystick is used to control, move, or change all of the available features found in the Fusion keyboard. Left Right Center After you highlight a Function Menu item you will Click use the Joystick to control, move or change that function by tilting or depressing the Joystick.
  • Page 123 Section 8: Using the Front Control Panel Under some circumstances you will be asked to perform a ‘Center Click” action. To Center-Click, press straight down on the center of the Joystick. This will produce a tactile “Click” that indicates you have confirmed a specific change. This feature will be described later in this section. Display: The display shows valuable information associted with the the highlighted Funtional Menu items.
  • Page 124 Section 8: Using the Front Control Panel carriage has stopped, you can open the door to examine the engraving. By closing the door and pressing the Go key, the engraving / cutting job will commence where it left off. If the item being engraved is not moved the engraving / cutting registration will not be affected.
  • Page 125 Section 8: Using the Front Control Panel When a job has been printed to the laser and the Job menu is highlighted, you will be see the job in the first line of the display. The estimated job time and the print resolution will show on the second line of the display.
  • Page 126 Section 8: Using the Front Control Panel To Restore the carriage to its standard upper left corner position, go to Config. The first menu item in Config is Restore Home. Center-Click the Joystick to move the lens carriage back home. Speed: With Speed highlighted, the speed setting will be displayed.
  • Page 127 Section 8: Using the Front Control Panel 6) Serial # - This establishes a S/N for USB use. 7) IP Address – This sets the IP Address of the laser system. 192.168l.3.4 8) Subnet Mask – This sets the Subnet mask for the laser system. 255.255.255.0 9) Gateway –...
  • Page 128 Section 8: Using the Front Control Panel For instance, follow these steps to change your X Home position: 1) Highlight Config – Restore Home will show on the display 2) To scroll through the Config menu items flick the Joystick down. 3) The first menu item after flicking once is X Home.
  • Page 129 Section 8: Using the Front Control Panel The laser on button allows you to move the carriage and fire the laser without having a job in the display. This is a very handy feature because it allows you to do simple tasks without printing a job to the laser system! To use the Laser On feature you must be in Jog mode.
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  • Page 131: Section 9: Using The Ecc (Epilog Control Center)

    Section 9: Using the ECC (Epilog Control Center) In This Section – Standard Features  Job Tab  Control Tab  Configuration Tab To access the ECC either double click on the ECC icon on your desktop or double click on it from your system tray in the lower right corner of your computer monitor.
  • Page 132 Section 9: Using the ECC (Epilog Control Center) The image below shows that Job #3 has now been completed because there is no asterisk in the Run Time section. This image also shows that now Job #2 is selected and that it has entirely different laser parameters than Job #3.
  • Page 133 Section 9: Using the ECC (Epilog Control Center) Clicking on the Play button will start the job you have selected. If you have placed your material in the machine, pressing the Play button will start the job. Pressing the Play button eliminates the need to start the job using the GO key on the Fusion keyboard.
  • Page 134 Section 9: Using the ECC (Epilog Control Center) At the bottom of the ECC you can see a visual indicator in green that shows the progress of the job. As you can see, this job is about 2/3rds complete and has been running for 23 seconds.

  • Page 135: Configuration Tab

    Section 9: Using the ECC (Epilog Control Center) Configuration Tab The Configuration tab allows you to change the factory setting from the ECC. These setting are not something you would normally change on a regular basis, but making minor adjustments to your machine is easy form the configuration tab.
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  • Page 137: Section 10: Standard & Optional Machine Features

    This photo at left shows the air assist tube. All Epilog systems have the plumbing for the air assist included (a pump is optional) as a standard part of the machine.

  • Page 138: Front Access Door

    Section 10: Standard & Optional Machine Features The pump can either be purchased through your Epilog representative or you can connect your existing compressed air supply to the ¼ inch (6 mm) receptacle at the back of the machine (30PSI max).

  • Page 139: Task Plate

    Section 10: Standard & Optional Machine Features Task Plate The task plate is the flat stainless steel table that is used as the standard engraving surface for jobs that don’t include vector cutting. The task plate is magnetic and allows you to use magnets to hold oddly shaped items in place. Optional Vector Grid/Vacuum Hold- down Table The optional vector grid/vacuum hold-down table is primarily used for vector cutting...
  • Page 140 Section 10: Standard & Optional Machine Features enough of the grid holes, you can use any material (including paper) to cover the exposed grid. Simply blocking most of the grid holes will be enough to flatten most sheet stock as long as it is not too severely warped, bent or too rigid. Installation of the Vector grid The rulers on the task plate have slots that align and hold the pins mounted to the bottom of the vector grid.
  • Page 141 Section 10: Standard & Optional Machine Features Rulers The rulers have both English and metric units printed on them. Simply unscrew the rulers and flip them over if you want to change which units are displayed. Crash Bar The Crash Bar is mounted to the lens assembly and prevents the table from “crashing”...
  • Page 142 Section 10: Standard & Optional Machine Features Crash Bar and locating pins. Emergency Stop The emergency stop can be used to completely shut down the Fusion system in case of an emergency. If the emergency stop is used you will need to turn off the machine using the regular power switch, and then pop the E-Stop back out and then restart the Fusion as normal.

  • Page 143: Pin Table

    Section 10: Standard & Optional Machine Features Pin Table The Pin Table option offers a method for users to keep all back reflections of the laser beam from marking the sides or back of the material being cut. The Pin Table lifts the cutting material completely off the vector grid and provides a means to eliminate the tick marks that can be created when the laser beam comes into contact with the grid material.
  • Page 144 Section 10: Standard & Optional Machine Features Assembly Instructions After unpacking the Pin Table, remove the four thumbscrews from the Pin Table assembly. Install the four fences along the two sides using the thumbscrews you just removed. At this point the Pin Table is almost ready to use. The next step involves placing the pins anywhere on the grid so that they support the piece you are going to be cutting, and are out of the laser beam cutting path.
  • Page 145 Section 10: Standard & Optional Machine Features Additional pins can be purchased from Epilog. Ask for P/N LF231. The Pin Table is designed so that multiple Pin Tables can be set next to each other and maintain the one inch (24.4 mm) grid pattern.
  • Page 146 Section 10: Standard & Optional Machine Features The following illustrations show tips on how to easily use the Pin Table. In CorelDraw, set up a 12 x 12 inch (305 x 305 mm) page: Select View, and scroll down and click on Grid and Ruler Setup. Set the Frequency to 1.0 per inch (both Horizontal and Vertical), and put a check mark in the Show grid box.
  • Page 147 Section 10: Standard & Optional Machine Features Your Corel page now shows a grid pattern that matches the grid of the Pin Table. Set up your artwork on the grid so that the vector lines do not cross the path of any of the pins. The small black circles within the letter “B”...
  • Page 148 Section 10: Standard & Optional Machine Features...

  • Page 149: Section 11: Engraving Machine Cleaning

    Machine Cleaning In This Section  Cleaning Important!  Laser Tube This cleaning section may show photos of other Epilog machines. The cleaning process is the same so please use these photos as a reference guide. Cleaning - Important! Fire Warning! Through normal use your laser system can collect debris and soot that are potentially flammable.
  • Page 150  ALWAYS keep a properly maintained and inspected fire extinguisher on hand. Epilog recommends a Halotron fire extinguisher or a multi-purpose dry chemical fire extinguisher. The Halotron extinguishers are more expensive than a dry chemical, but offer certain advantages should you ever need to use an extinguisher.
  • Page 151 If you run out of the cleaner supplied by Epilog, acetone can be used as a temporary measure, but should not be used for regular cleaning as it contains impurities which can contaminate the optics.
  • Page 152 Section 11: Engraving Machine Cleaning Crash Bar and locating pins.
  • Page 153 Section 11: Engraving Machine Cleaning In addition to the focus lens and the mirror directly above it, there is a mirror located on the left side of the X-beam. This mirror is very well protected and should not need regular cleaning. It can be accessed with a cotton swab if it does need cleaning.
  • Page 154 After cleaning the rail, place about an inch long bead of Epilog supplied grease into the top and bottom grooves of the X- axis rail. The following photo shows where to grease the bottom groove of the rail.
  • Page 155 Section 11: Engraving Machine Cleaning Place a bead of grease along the bottom groove of the X-axis rail. This photo shows the location of the X-axis carriage and the X-axis bearing (which is behind X-axis rail. the X-axis belt. X-axis carriage and belt.
  • Page 156 Section 11: Engraving Machine Cleaning Clean the length of the right side Y-axis rail using a soft cotton cloth. Lubrication is not required. Clean the length of the left side Y-axis rail using a soft cotton cloth. Lubrication is not required.
  • Page 157 Section 11: Engraving Machine Cleaning Cleaning the Exhaust Make sure the exhaust blower you are using receives proper maintenance. Periodically clean the exhaust blower and duct system to remove built-up debris. If you detect odor while engraving, or if the smoke in the cabinet is visible in the area of the lens carriage, inspect the exhaust system.
  • Page 158 Section 11: Engraving Machine Cleaning In addition to cleaning the inside of the machine you should occasionally clean the exhaust plenum. The exhaust plenum can be completely removed from the Fusion. Remove the six screws that hold the exhaust plenum in place. The photos below the plenum partially removed and the back of the machine with the plenum fully removed.

  • Page 159: Laser Tube

    Replacing laser tubes is common practice and Epilog has made the process of changing tubes extremely easy for users to perform with a minimum amount of effort. The laser tubes can be refurbished and are available on an exchange basis by contacting Epilog technical support.
  • Page 160 Section 11: Engraving Machine Cleaning...

  • Page 161: Section 12: Speed And Power Recommendations

    Section 12: Speed and Power Recommendations In This Section  Engraving Speed  Engraving Power  Recommendations  Multiple Passes  Speed and Power Recommendation Tables Engraving Speed Speed settings determine the travel speed of the carriage as it moves back and forth in Raster Mode and as it profile cuts in Vector Mode.

  • Page 162: Recommendations

    Section 12: Speed and Power Recommendations Recommendations The Epilog Mini Speed and Power guidelines are included on the following pages. Please remember that these are only guidelines. Depth of cut is a matter of personal preference. As such, there is no “correct” setting.

  • Page 163: Multiple Passes

    Multiple passes may also allow you to cut through thicker materials than the laser is rated for. See how to automatically engrave or cut multiple passes at the end of the Using the Epilog Dashboard section of this manual.

  • Page 164: 30 Watt

    Section 12: Speed and Power Recommendations 30 Watt 300 DPI 400 DPI 600 DPI VECTOR RASTER RASTER RASTER CUTTING ENGRAVING ENGRAVING ENGRAVING SPEED/POWER SPEED/POWER SPEED/POWER SPEED/POWER/FREQUENCY ⅛” (3 mm) – 12/100/50 Wood ¼” (6 mm) – 6/100/50 20/100 25/100 30/100 Cherry –...

  • Page 165: Watt

    Section 12: Speed and Power Recommendations 40 Watt 300 DPI 400 DPI 600 DPI VECTOR RASTER RASTER RASTER CUTTING ENGRAVING ENGRAVING ENGRAVING SPEED/POWER SPEED/POWER SPEED/POWER SPEED/POWER/FREQUENCY ⅛” (3 mm) – 15/100/50 Wood ¼” (6 mm) – 8/100/50 25/100 30/100 40/100 Cherry –...

  • Page 166: 50 Watt

    Section 12: Speed and Power Recommendations 50 Watt 300 DPI 400 DPI 600 DPI VECTOR RASTER RASTER RASTER CUTTING ENGRAVING ENGRAVING ENGRAVING SPEED/POWER SPEED/POWER SPEED/POWER SPEED/POWER/FREQUENCY ⅛” (3 mm) – 20/100/50 Wood ¼” (6 mm) – 10/100/50 35/100 40/100 50/100 Cherry –...

  • Page 167: 60 Watt

    Section 12: Speed and Power Recommendations 60 Watt 300 DPI 400 DPI 600 DPI VECTOR RASTER RASTER RASTER CUTTING ENGRAVING ENGRAVING ENGRAVING SPEED/POWER SPEED/POWER SPEED/POWER SPEED/POWER/FREQUENCY ⅛” (3 mm) – 30/60/500 Wood ¼” (6.4 mm) – 15/100/500 60/100 70/100 80/100 Cherry –...

  • Page 168: 75 Watt

    Section 12: Speed and Power Recommendations 75 Watt 300 DPI 400 DPI 600 DPI VECTOR RASTER RASTER RASTER CUTTING ENGRAVING ENGRAVING ENGRAVING SPEED/POWER SPEED/POWER SPEED/POWER SPEED/POWER/FREQUENCY ⅛” (3 mm) – 40/100/50 Wood ¼” (6 mm) – 20/100/50 80/100 90/100 100/100 Cherry –...

  • Page 169: Section 13: Material Engraving Techniques

     Rubber Stamps  Wood Your Epilog Laser system is very versatile. It can mark and cut many different materials. Following is information regarding some of the materials the laser will mark and cut. Check the Epilog website www.epiloglaser.com periodically for new laser applications, tips, and techniques to use with your laser.
  • Page 170  ALWAYS keep a properly maintained and inspected fire extinguisher on hand. Epilog recommends a Halotron fire extinguisher or a multi-purpose dry chemical fire extinguisher. The Halotron extinguishers are more expensive than a dry chemical, but offer certain advantages should you ever need to use an extinguisher.
  • Page 171 Section 13: Material Engraving Techniques Acrylic Engraving Techniques Most acrylic is engraved on the backside to produce a look through effect from the front surface. Remove the back protective cover layer before engraving. Leave the top protective cover layer on so that it remains intact to prevent scratching while handling the acrylic.

  • Page 172: Anodized Aluminum

    Section 13: Material Engraving Techniques Warning! Never leave your laser unattended when vector cutting any material! Acrylic is very flammable. Anodized Aluminum Anodized aluminum comes in a variety of colors and can usually be easily engraved with a CO2 laser. Black anodized aluminum is great to work with because it turns white when lasered.
  • Page 173 Section 13: Material Engraving Techniques for the finished product. When laser engraving brass-coated steel, you are removing only the paint and exposing the polished brass coating that is protected by the lacquer. The lacquer prevents the brass from oxidizing and the bright reflective surface will stay bright for years.

  • Page 174: Glass

    Section 13: Material Engraving Techniques to remove all of the blue color, but again, try alcohol or lacquer thinner to remove the shadow. Glass Glass Background When a laser strikes glass it fractures the surface but it will not engrave deeply or remove material.
  • Page 175 Section 13: Material Engraving Techniques  Place the glass into the engraver and laser through the paper while it is still wet.  Remove the glass, discard the remaining paper, and clean the glass.  If necessary, gently polish the glass with a ScotchBrite pad. Note - You need to be especially careful when laser engraving leaded crystal.

  • Page 176: Notary Seals - Delrin

    Section 13: Material Engraving Techniques Notary Seals - Delrin Notary Seals Engraving Techniques Notary seals can be easily manufactured using 1/16-inch (1.5 mm) thick delrin plastic. A seal consists of two pieces - a male die and a female die, both shown below.

  • Page 177: Plastic

    Section 13: Material Engraving Techniques Plastic Plastic Background Engraving plastics have changed greatly in the past few years. Before lasers, plastic manufacturers designed plastic for rotary engraving systems. A rotary engraving system uses a mechanical spinning bit to remove material. Therefore the depth of the top layer or “cap sheet”...
  • Page 178 Never leave your laser unattended when vector cutting plastics! WARNING! Plastic can be very flammable. Do not engrave PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride). PVC will destroy the WARNING! optics and mechanics of your Epilog system. Cutting or engraving PVC will void your warranty.

  • Page 179: Rubber Stamps

    Every type of wood has its own characteristics. Some wood is denser than other wood, with the denser, harder woods requiring more laser power to cut or engrave. Epilog recommends that when working with wood other than the ones listed in this section that you investigate the engraving and cutting characteristics before committing to use.
  • Page 180 Epilog laser systems can engrave in very fine detail. The spot size ranges from .003” (0.08mm) to .008” (0.02 mm) of an inch in diameter, and, if there are large variations in the material that one is engraving into it will greatly affect the quality of the finished piece.
  • Page 181 This will create a shading effect that is almost 3-D in its appearance. Wood Vector Cutting Techniques Epilog Laser Systems are ideal for cutting through solid wood material. thickness of the wood that you can cut varies with the wattage of the laser and the hardness of the wood, but in general you can cut approximately ¼...
  • Page 182  ALWAYS keep a properly maintained and inspected fire extinguisher on hand. Epilog recommends a Halotron fire extinguisher or a multi-purpose dry chemical fire extinguisher. The Halotron extinguishers are more expensive than a dry chemical, but offer certain advantages should you ever need to use an extinguisher.
  • Page 183 The chamois that Epilog recommends has a sponge in the middle of it, and is available in the automotive car wash section of many Target stores or many automotive supply shops.
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  • Page 185: Section 14: Material Suppliers

     CerMark Metal Coating  Color Fill Materials  Tapes and Foils The following list contains supplier information for materials typically used with your Epilog laser. Additional suppliers and links can be found on our website at http://www.epiloglaser.com/industry_links.htm Laser Engravable Products LaserBits, Inc.
  • Page 186 Section 14: Material Suppliers Dimension Espacio S. A. de C.V. Av. Morelos #80 Naucalpan, Mexico 53370 Phone (52)(55) 5312-0333 Fax: (52)(55) 5312-4790 www.dimensionespacio.com.mx Laser Engravable Coated Metals Identification Plates, Inc. 1555 High Point Drive Mesquite, TX 75149-9009 Phone: 972-216-1616 USA Toll Free Phone: 1-800-395-2570 Fax: 1-972-216-1555, 1-800-934-8304 www.idplates.com Victory...
  • Page 187 Section 14: Material Suppliers AlumaMark Horizons Incorporated 18531 South Miles Road Cleveland, Ohio 44128 USA Toll Free Phone: 1-800-482-7758 Outside US: 216-475-0555 Fax: 1-216-475-6507 www.horizonsisg.com Leather Tandy Leather Factory, Inc. 3847 East Loop 820 South Fort Worth, TX 76119 For local locations visit their Website (orders also taken online) USA Toll Free Phone: 1-800-433-3201 www.tandyleatherfactory.com Pressboard Plaques - Melamine...
  • Page 188 Section 14: Material Suppliers Wood Plaques & Specialty Wood Products Colorado Heirloom 333 E. 4th Street Loveland, CO 80537 USA Toll Free Phone: 1-800-643-8880 Phone: 1-970-667-4222 Fax: 1-970-667-8880 e-mail: cheirloom@aol.com www.coloradoheirloom.com Wood Design/WDI Companies (previously Kentucky Woodcrafts Co.) 908 SW 15 Street Forest Lake, MN 55025 Phone: 651-464-6190...
  • Page 189 Section 14: Material Suppliers Marble Laser Sketch, Ltd 12301 New Avenue, Suite E Lemont, Illinois 60439 Phone: 630-243-6360 Fax: 630-243-6908 www.lasersketch.com Engravable Plastics Innovative Plastics Inc. P.O. Box 7065 Algonquin, IL 60102 Phone: 1-815-477-0778 Fax: 1-815-477-1210 e-mail: ipi@mc.net www.inoplas.com Johnson Plastics 9240 Grand Avenue South Minneapolis, MN 55420-3604 USA Toll Free Phone: 1-800-869-7800...
  • Page 190 Section 14: Material Suppliers Flat Glass Gold Coast Graphics 15841 Graham Street Huntington Beach, CA 92649 USA Toll Free Phone: 1-888-733-0061 Fax: 1-714-898-9432 www.goldcoastgraphics.com CerMark Metal Coating CerMark Material FERRO Corporation USA Toll Free Phone: 1-800-245-4951 www.cerdecmark.com LaserBits, Inc. 1734 West Williams Drive - Suite 10 Phoenix, Arizona 85027 U.S.A.

  • Page 191: Technical Support, Troubleshooting And Specifications

    Manual Technical Support, Troubleshooting and Specifications...
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  • Page 193: Section 15: In Case Of Difficulty

     Contacting Technical Support Contacting Technical Support The technical support department at Epilog is available to assist with solving problems you may encounter using your Epilog. Please review first the common problems and solutions as noted below, then if you are still in need of assistance you may contact Epilog’s technical support department at the number or website listed...
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  • Page 195: Section 16: Specifications

    Section 16: Specifications In This Section  Epilog Fusion 32 x 20 Specifications  Compatibility  Recommended PC  Other Computer Hardware Recommendations  Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Notice Epilog Fusion 32 x 20 Specifications Maximum Engraving Area 32" x 20" (812.8 x 508 mm) Maximum Material Thickness 14"...

  • Page 196: Compatibility

    Section 16: Specifications Compatibility Your Epilog laser has been designed as an “open architecture” product that can be run from almost any Windows based software. Epilog provides both Windows 32-bit and 64-bit print drivers. Recommended PC For Optimum Computer Performance Investing in a new computer is a great way to make sure you’re getting the most out...
  • Page 197 Additionally, the technical support staff at Epilog may be less familiar with software other than Corel and less able to help with questions. Consult with your Epilog distributor on software compatibility issues.

  • Page 198: Other Computer Hardware Recommendations

    About The Laser Your Epilog CO2 laser system uses the latest in waveguide laser technology to provide a powerful tool that is simple and safe to setup and operate. The Epilog laser can mark, engrave, and cut a variety of non-metallic materials.

  • Page 199: Federal Communications Commission (Fcc) Notice

    Section 16: Specifications you notice that the laser operates with a door or window open, please contact Epilog technical support immediately. The laser has two basic operating methods. For cutting (vector), the laser is driven along a path and the laser is left on all the time. The path could be the outline of a letter or a geometric shape like a circle.
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  • Page 201: Section 17: Upgrading The Operational Firmware

     Installing New Firmware Onto Your Computer  Transferring New Firmware From Your Computer To Your Laser System  Upgrading The Epilog Dashboard Print Driver  Converting Old .Dat Files To Be Compatible With A New Driver Version: Upgrading Your Firmware Your laser system is capable of having its operation firmware upgraded.

  • Page 202: Installing New Firmware Onto Your Computer

    Downloads tab. Or, you can contact Epilog Technical Support and they can e-mail the appropriate file to you. (You can also join our Driver Notification mailing list to be automatically notified when new versions of firmware or the driver become available!). The firmware version that your system is currently running is displayed on the LCD panel when you first power up your laser system –...
  • Page 203 Section 17: Upgrading the Operational Firmware At this time it’s important to know which folder you are unzipping this file to. If you are unsure, use the Browse button to select a folder where you know you can retrieve this file later. Click on the Unzip button.

  • Page 204: Transferring New Firmware From Your Computer To Your Laser

    Section 17: Upgrading the Operational Firmware Transferring New Firmware from Your Computer to Your Laser Use the following procedure to transfer the legendMini.hex file to the laser: Create a simple drawing in your graphics package. For this example, we’ve typed in the text “Firmware Upgrade”.
  • Page 205 Section 17: Upgrading the Operational Firmware Go to the Advanced tab, check the Update Firmware box and then click on the Load button. Go to the folder that contains the unzipped .hex file, select it and then click Open.
  • Page 206 Section 17: Upgrading the Operational Firmware The .hex file will show in the Update Firmware File box. Click Okay. Click Print. At this point, the .hex file will begin transfering to your laser. The laser knows that it is being upgraded and the graphic that you created will not print, nor will it show up as a Job.

  • Page 207: Appendix Awarranty Statement

    All other costs for replacement or repair, including, but not limited to, packaging and shipping both to and from Epilog, shall be paid by the owner. A “Core” charge may be required by Epilog to insure the return of replacement and repair parts. This warranty excludes any damage from abuse (including, without limitation, incorrect voltages, power surges, fires, improper or insufficient ventilation “acts of God”...
  • Page 208 APPENDIX A THIS PAGE WAS INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK...

  • Page 209: Appendix Bprinting From Autocad

    Below are general instructions for printing from AutoCAD. AutoCAD versions 14 to the present are mostly compatible with Epilog systems. Each version of AutoCAD uses slightly different printing conventions that may or may not affect the way you print from AutoCAD and each different version may produce different output from the laser.

  • Page 210: Appendix B Printing From Autocad

    Color mapping assigns different Speed and Power settings to an object based on its color allowing you to both cut and mark in a single setup. For a detailed description of how Color Mapping works, refer to the Using The Epilog Legend Dashboard, Color Mapping section of this manual.
  • Page 211 Appendix B Printing From AutoCAD Set the Piece Size to match your AutoCAD page size. Setting your AutoCAD page and the Dashboard print driver settings to a square configuration (36” x 36”, for instance) necessary overcome AutoCAD’s tendency to rotate your artwork 90 degrees.
  • Page 212 Appendix B Printing From AutoCAD Other useful settings in the AutoCAD print window are: Set the page orientation to Portrait. Set Plot area to Limits. Scale set to 1:1. Pen Sizes .001 inch (0.0254 mm). Dashboard print driver installation for Ethernet connection...

  • Page 213: Appendix Cadditional Dashboard Print Driver Instructions

    APPENDIX C ADDITIONAL DASHBOARD PRINT DRIVER INSTRUCTIONS In This Section  Windows Vista Dashboard print driver installation for USB connection  Windows Vista Dashboard print driver installation for Ethernet connection  Windows 7: Setting up the TCP/IP address in the computer Windows 7: Setting up the TCP/IP Address in the Computer Windows 7 uses a slightly different, but very similar protocol than previous...
  • Page 214 Appendix C Additional Dashboard Instructions Click on Network and Sharing Center Click on Change adapter settings...
  • Page 215 Appendix C Additional Dashboard Instructions Select the Local Area Connection option and then right click on Properties Highlight Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IP) and then click on Properties...
  • Page 216 Appendix C Additional Dashboard Instructions Select Use the following IP address: Type in the following IP Address and Subnet mask: 192.168.3.3 255.255.255.0 Default gateway: Leave blank This number is not an error; the last digit of the IP address this window must different than the IP address...
  • Page 217 After clicking on Add a Printer you can follow the instructions earlier in the manual. Follow the screen prompts and navigate to the Epilog CD ROM where the files for the driver are located. If you have any trouble, Epilog Technical support is available at 303-215- 9171.
  • Page 218 Appendix C Additional Dashboard Instructions...

  • Page 219: Windows 8: Installing The 64-Bit Epilog Dashboard Print Driver In Windows 8

    Epilog Dashboard Print Driver in Windows 8 Before you can install the 64-bit Epilog Dashboard Driver in Windows 8 the Driver Signature Enforcement feature in Windows must be disabled. Once the Driver Signature Enforcement is disabled, you will be able to proceed using standard Windows driver installation protocol.
  • Page 220 Appendix C Additional Dashboard Instructions Select “General”. Scroll to the bottom of the General page. Under “Advanced Start-Up” select “Restart Now”.
  • Page 221 Appendix C Additional Dashboard Instructions Once the PC comes back up, select “Troubleshoot”. Select “Advanced Options”. Select “Start-Up Settings”. Select the “Restart” button.
  • Page 222 After pressing either key your computer will reboot. Now, Log in as normal and go to the Control Panel. Select “Devices and Printers” and you are ready to install the driver as illustrated in your Epilog Owner’s manual. Because the Desktop of Windows 8 is so much different than any previous...
  • Page 223 Appendix C Additional Dashboard Instructions below. There are many paths that will get you to the Control Panel so if you are comfortable with another method, use it instead. Open your Charms Bar and select the Search icon. Type “Control Panel” into the Search box. As you type, the icons that do not start with a “C”...
  • Page 224 Appendix C Additional Dashboard Instructions Select Devices and Printers. You will now be able to install a print driver.

  • Page 225: Index

    Appendix C Additional Dashboard Instructions INDEX Pointer · 98 General Purpose Keys Go · 94 2  Reset · 87 Stop · 93 21 Cfr 1040 · 1, 5 Control Panel Keys Indicator Lights Pointer Light · 98 A  Cooling · 1, 11 Coreldraw ·...
  • Page 226 INDEX Delrin Seals · 130, 131, 132, 133, 134 H  Dithering · 63, 65, 66 Do Not · 2, 3, 8, 172 Home Position · 84, 114 Door Interlocks · 2 Dpi · 54, 55, 56, 57, 65, 66, 130, 131, 132, 133, 134, 147 I ...
  • Page 227 INDEX Marble · 130, 131, 132, 133, 134, 151, 155 P  Material Suppliers Acrylic Idea Factory · 151 Pdu · 153 Alumamark Horizons Inc. · 153 PDU · 153 Colorado Heirloom · 154 Photograph Mode Educational Materials · 151, 154 Floyd Steinberg ·...
  • Page 228 INDEX OSHA · 2 Online · i Scanned Images · 51, 52, 81 Temperature · 161 Scanner · 164 Service · xi Software · 163, 175 U  Coreldraw · xi, 47, 57, 58, 76, 81, 115, 162 Solid Wood · 145 Upgrade Firmware ·...

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