GRAPHTEC FC2250 Series User Manual
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GRAPHTEC FC2250 Series User Manual

GRAPHTEC FC2250 Series User Manual

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FC2250 SERIES
CUTTING PRO
USER'S MANUAL
MANUAL NO.FC2250-UM-151

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Summary of Contents for GRAPHTEC FC2250 Series

  • Page 1 FC2250 SERIES CUTTING PRO USER’S MANUAL MANUAL NO.FC2250-UM-151...
  • Page 2 TO ENSURE SAFE AND CORRECT USE TO ENSURE SAFE AND CORRECT USE • To ensure safe and correct use of your plotter, read ths Manual thoroughly before use. • After havng read ths Manual, keep t n a handy locaton for quck reference as needed. •...

  • Page 3: Safety Precautions

    If the plotter requres repar, contact your sales representatve • or nearest Graphtec vendor. A fter confirming that smoke is no longer being generated, contact your sales representatve or nearest Graphtec vendor to request repar. • Never try to perform repar yourself. Repar work by nexperenced personnel s extremely dangerous.
  • Page 4 Safety Precautions Safety Precautions Do not allow dust or metallic matter to adhere to the Do not use the power cord if it is damaged. power plug. • U se of a damaged cord may result in electrical shock or a fire • hazard due to current leakage. A dirty power plug may result in electrical shock or a fire • hazard due to current leakage. Replace the power cord wth a new one. Prohibited Beware of Unplug the power...
  • Page 5 • Use of the plotter n such status may result n electrcal shock or a fire hazard due to current leakage. • Contact your sales representatve or nearest Graphtec vendor to request repar. Prohibited When using the cutter pen, take care not to extend Unplug the power the cutter blade excessively.

  • Page 6: Preface

    PREFACE PREFACE Thank you for purchasing an FC2250 Series Cutting Plotter. This plotter incorporates a digital servo drive to perform cutting and plotting operations at high speed and high precision. Besides being used to cut marking film, sandblast rubber, rubber stencil sheets and other media, this plotter can also be used as a pen plotter.
  • Page 7 PREFACE Precautions on the Handling of Cutter Pens Ths product uses a cuttng blade. To prevent njures (when replacng the cutter blade, nstallng the cutter pen, etc.), take the followng precautons when handlng the cutter blade. Cutter Blade The blades are sharp. Be careful not to cut your fingers or prick yourself when handling the cutter pen. Blade tip Return used blades to the accessory cutter blade case and throw them all out together when the whole case has been filled.
  • Page 8 PREFACE Precautions After Turning on the Plotter Durng operatons, mmedately after completon of operatons, and when settng cuttng plotter functons, the pen carriage, Y bar, and other parts which are not fixed, may move suddenly. Do not let your hands, hair, or clothng get too close to the movng parts or wthn ther range of movement. Do not place any foregn objects n or near these areas ether.
  • Page 9 PREFACE Daily Maintenance and Storage Durng daly mantenance, pay partcular attenton to the followng ponts. (1) Do not lubrcate the plotter mechansms. (2) To clean the plotter's metal parts, ether wpe the soled areas wth a dry cloth or wth a cloth that has been dampened wth a neutral detergent dluted wth water.
  • Page 10 PREFACE Selecting a Power Cable Be sure to refer to the followng tables f you wsh to use a cable other than the one suppled as an accessory. Table 1. 100 V to 120 V Power Supply Voltage Range Supply Voltage Reference Plug Configuration Plug Type...

  • Page 11: Table Of Contents

    CONTENTS CONTENTS PREFACE............. . I Notes on the Use of Ths Manual .
  • Page 12 CONTENTS Blade Length Adjustment ..........3-18 3.10 Meda and Cuttng Condtons .
  • Page 13 CONTENTS 5.14 Rotating the Coordinate Axes ......... . . 5-15 5.15 Setting the Cutting/Plotting Area .
  • Page 14 CHAPTER PRODUCT SUMMARY PRODUCT SUMMARY 1.1 Model Names and Basic Specifications 1.2 Standard Accessores 1.3 Features 1.4 Plotter Nomenclature 1.5 Control Panel...

  • Page 15: Model Names And Basic Specifications

    Chapter 1 PRODUCT SUMMARY 1.1 Model Names and Basic Specifications The FC2250 seres comprses the followng models. Model Meda hold-down method Cuttng area FC2250-60VC Vacuum sucton 610 x 920 mm FC2250-120MG Magnetc FC2250-120ES Electrostatc adheson 1200 x 920 mm FC2250-120VC Vacuum sucton FC2250-180ES Electrostatc adheson...

  • Page 16: Features

    Chapter 1 PRODUCT SUMMARY 1.3 Features • T he FC2250 series plotters provide a sharply-defined cutting edge. • The cuttng force can be freely selected n a 40-step range (max. 9.8 N[1 kgf]). The maxmum cuttng speed s 400 mm/s. The hgh acceleraton rate ncreases the overall cuttng speed. •...

  • Page 17: Plotter Nomenclature

    Chapter 1 PRODUCT SUMMARY 1.4 Plotter Nomenclature The names of the plotter parts are as follows. Pen carriage Y bar Control panel Writing panel CHART HOLD key (ES models only) Tilt lever Interface connector Main Stand Power inlet Power switch USB interface RS-232C interface RS-232C...

  • Page 18: Control Panel

    Chapter 1 PRODUCT SUMMARY 1.5 Control Panel POWER Lamp PROMPT Lamp F1 to F4 Key POSITION Key COPY Key CONDITIOS Key NEXT Key PAUSE Key ENTER Key TEST Key ORIGIN Key Indicator Lamps ....The POWER lamp remans lt (green) whle the plotter s on....The PROMPT lamp lghts (red) when the plotter receves data that wll cause the pen carrage to move outsde the effectve cuttng area or receves the Prompt Lght command (T) from the computer.
  • Page 19 Chapter 1 PRODUCT SUMMARY ......After settng a functon or condton at the control panel, press the [ENTER] key to regster your settng. To reset the plotter, concurrently press the [ENTER] and [ORIGIN] keys. (Key reset functon) ......Runs a cuttng test to check whether the currently selected cuttng condtons are compatble wth the medum loaded.

  • Page 20: Types Of Cutter Blades And TheR Features

    CHAPTER CUTTER BLADES, CUTTER PENS AND PENS PRODUCT SUMMARY 2.1 Types of Cutter Blades and Ther Features 2.2 Cutter Pen Nomenclature 2.3 Replacng the Cutter Blade 2.4 Adjustng the Blade Length 2.5 Pen Types and Ther Features...
  • Page 21 Chapter 2 CUTTER BLADES, CUTTER PENS AND PENS 2.1 Types of Cutter Blades and Their Features Handle cutter blades with care! Blade type Blade features Supersteel blades • CB15U (φ1.5) Less expensve than other types of blades. • The maxmum cuttng dstance s about 4000 m (dependng on the medum and cuttng pressure used).

  • Page 22: Cutter Pen Nomenclature

    Chapter 2 CUTTER BLADES, CUTTER PENS AND PENS 2.2 Cutter Pen Nomenclature Handle cutter blades with care! PHP31-CB09-HS Cutter pen for 0.9-mm diameter blades Protective cap Plunger Holder A Spring Cutter blade* Holder B Plunger cap Blade length adjustment knob (blue) * The CB09UA supersteel blade is shown in the figure above.

  • Page 23: ReplacNg The Cutter Blade

    Chapter 2 CUTTER BLADES, CUTTER PENS AND PENS 2.3 Replacing the Cutter Blade There are four types of cutter pen. Each type has dfferent dameter blades. The blade dameter s ndcated by the color of the blade length adjustment knob as shown n the table below. When replacng the cutter blade, check the table below to ensure that you are usng the correct combnaton of cutter pen and cutter blade.
  • Page 24 Chapter 2 CUTTER BLADES, CUTTER PENS AND PENS Color of the blade length adjustment knob: Red PHP31-CB15-HS cutter pen for 1.5 mm blades (1) Remove holder (B) by turnng the blade length adjustment knob n the counterclockwse drecton. Holder (B) (2) Remove the cutter blade from the holder.
  • Page 25 Chapter 2 CUTTER BLADES, CUTTER PENS AND PENS Color of the blade length adjustment knob: Silver PHP34-CB30-HS cutter pen for3.0 mm diameter blades fitted with a spring (1) Turn the blade length adjustment knob to retract the cutter blade nsde the plunger. (2) Remove the plunger by turnng the plunger cap n the counterclockwse drecton.

  • Page 26: Adjusting The Blade Length

    Chapter 2 CUTTER BLADES, CUTTER PENS AND PENS 2.4 Adjusting the Blade Length Be sure to correctly adjust the blade length. If the blade length is too long for the thickness of the medium being used, you may damage the writing panel and/or the cutter blade. Adjusting the Blade Length (1) The blade length s adjusted by turnng the blade adjustment knob (blue, red, green or slver).
  • Page 27 Chapter 2 CUTTER BLADES, CUTTER PENS AND PENS 2.5 Pen Types and Their Features Pen types Pen features • Water based fiber-tip pens (KF550 Series) 8 colors are avalable • Lne wdth ranges from 0.3 to 0.7 mm • Easer to handle than other pen types •...
  • Page 28 Chapter 2 CUTTER BLADES, CUTTER PENS AND PENS Tool types Tool features Creasing tools (CP-002/003) CP-002 • Roller-type creasng tool • Used for creasng card up to a thckness of around 0.5 mm CP-003 • Roller-type creasng tool • Used for creasing E/F/G-flute grade cardboard Note: Creasing may be difficult to perform on some types of media.

  • Page 29: BasC OperatOnal Flow

    CHAPTER PREPARATIONS FOR CUTTING/PLOTTING PRODUCT SUMMARY 3.1 Basc Operatonal Flow 3.2 Connectng to a Computer 3.3 Mountng the Tools 3.4 Adjustng the Pen Carrage Heght 3.5 Tltng the Wrtng Panel 3.6 Turning on the Plotter and Initialization 3.7 Loadng the Medum 3.8 Settng the Cuttng Condtons (Settng Condtons) 3.9 Runnng a Cuttng Test 3.10 Achevng Optmum Cuttng Results...
  • Page 30 Chapter 3 PREPARATIONS FOR CUTTING/PLOTTING 3.1 Basic Operational Flow For smooth operaton, please follow the steps outlned below and make the approprate settngs explaned n the relevant sectons. (1) Before turnng on the power supply, make sure that the plotter s connected to your computer and to any other perpheral devces as requred.
  • Page 31 nterface to use accordng to the requrements of your applcaton software and/or whch of your computer’s nterface ports are avalable for use. Use a USB cable or an RS-232C cable n accordance wth the nterface chosen. Obtan a Graphtec- approved nterface cable that s compatble wth your computer.
  • Page 32 Chapter 3 PREPARATIONS FOR CUTTING/PLOTTING 3.3 Mounting the Tools When you are facng the pen carrage, the holder at the left s tool holder 1 and the holder at the rght tool holder 2. Tool holder 2 Tool holder 1 Registration mark sensor Example showing tools mounted Always mount the cutter pen in tool holder 2.
  • Page 33 Chapter 3 PREPARATIONS FOR CUTTING/PLOTTING 3.4 Adjusting the Pen Carriage Height Adjust the heght of the pen carrage to sut the thckness of the medum. • Always make sure that the writing panel is in the horizontal position before making this adjustment. •...
  • Page 34 Chapter 3 PREPARATIONS FOR CUTTING/PLOTTING 3.5 Tilting the Writing Panel Ths plotter can be used wth the wrtng panel tlted up to 60°. The tlt can be adjusted n the followng way. When using an MG (magnetic hold-down) or ES (electrostatic adhesion) model in a tilted position, please observe the following points.
  • Page 35 Chapter 3 PREPARATIONS FOR CUTTING/PLOTTING 3.6 Turning on the Plotter and Initialization The moment you turn on the power, the plotter's Y bar and pen carriage will start to move. Do not put your hands or other objects on the writing panel. Such actions are dangerous. (1) Make sure the power s turned off.
  • Page 36 Chapter 3 PREPARATIONS FOR CUTTING/PLOTTING 3.7 Loading the Medium • This plotter is available with a magnetic writing panel, a vacuum suction writing panel, or an electrostatic writing panel. Note that the medium is loaded differently depending on the media hold-down method. •...
  • Page 37 Chapter 3 PREPARATIONS FOR CUTTING/PLOTTING 3.8 Setting the Cutting Conditions (Setting Conditions) Ths plotter lets you regster eght dfferent groups of cuttng condtons n the plotter's memory. The cuttng condtons stored n memory are referred to as settng condtons. Specfy each group of settng condtons to match a partcular meda type.

  • Page 38: [Force]

    Chapter 3 PREPARATIONS FOR CUTTING/PLOTTING (3) Press a key from [F1] to [F4] to move the blnkng cursor to the parameter that you wsh to set. (4) Change the settng value of the parameter that you wsh to set. (5) Press the [ENTER] key to regster the settng condtons n the plotter’s nternal memory. To cancel your settngs, press the [NEXT] key.

  • Page 39: SettNg The Cutter Blade Type And Offset [Offset]

    Chapter 3 PREPARATIONS FOR CUTTING/PLOTTING (2) Press the [CONDITIONS] key to dsplay the followng screen. (The dsplay wll dffer accordng to the settng condtons that have been made.) FORCE OFFSET X20 COND1 09U 0 30 CHANGE TOOL1 SPEED QUALITY (3) Press the [F2] key to move the blnkng cursor to the SPEED parameter. FORCE OFFSET X20 COND1...

  • Page 40: Creaser SettNgs

    Chapter 3 PREPARATIONS FOR CUTTING/PLOTTING (6) When the dsplayed settngs are correct, press the [ENTER] key. To cancel your settngs, press the [NEXT] key. Creaser Settings The creaser settngs enable you to specfy the creasng mode, the spacng between creases, the number of creasng operatons and the creasng start and end ponts.
  • Page 41 Chapter 3 PREPARATIONS FOR CUTTING/PLOTTING (5) Use the [ ] or [ ] key to move the poston of the blnkng cursor, and the [ ] or [ ] key to select the value. Setting range: 0 to 9.99 mm Mode 2 (Crease two lines) Mode 3 (Crease three lines) Spacing...

  • Page 42: SettNg The QualTy [Quality]

    Chapter 3 PREPARATIONS FOR CUTTING/PLOTTING Setting the Quality [QUALITY] Ths settng determnes the qualty of the cut or plotted results. Please see Secton 3.10, "Meda and Cuttng Condtons" for further detals on the settng values. (1) Wth the plotter n Ready status, press a key from [F1] to [F4] to select the COND No. that you wsh to change. (2) Press the [CONDITIONS] key to dsplay the followng screen.

  • Page 43: PerforatOn SettNgs

    Chapter 3 PREPARATIONS FOR CUTTING/PLOTTING • • ] mark. Press the [F1] and [F3] key to move the [ (4) The actve mode s ndcated by the [ ] mark between Mode 1 and Mode 2 and select the desred mode. Mode 1: Perform overcuttng for the cuttng start and end ponts and for corners wth acute angles to prevent uncut areas.

  • Page 44: Cutter Pen Test

    Chapter 3 PREPARATIONS FOR CUTTING/PLOTTING 3.9 Running a Cutting Test A cutting test is performed to check whether the specified cutting conditions are suitable for the tool and meda beng used. Perform the test that s approprate for the tool that you are usng. The pen carriage starts moving as soon as a cutting test is selected. To avoid injury to yourself or damage to the plotter, keep your hands, face and other obstacles out of the vicinity of any moving parts.

  • Page 45: CuttNg A Sample

    Chapter 3 PREPARATIONS FOR CUTTING/PLOTTING (3) Wth the plotter n Ready status, press a key from [F1] to [F4] to select the COND No. for the creasng tool test. Select ether "CP001" or "CP002" as the cutter blade type. (4) Use the [ ] keys to move the pen carrage (the tp of the tool selected by the current settng)to the startng poston for the cuttng test.
  • Page 46 Chapter 3 PREPARATIONS FOR CUTTING/PLOTTING (7) Press the [F2] key (BALL) for GP-GL, and the [F4] key (BOX) for HP-GL. When GP-GL has been selected When HP-GL has been selected FORCE OFFSET FORCE OFFSET BOX _ A BALL S BOX _ B BALL L SPEED QUALITY...
  • Page 47 Chapter 3 PREPARATIONS FOR CUTTING/PLOTTING 3.10 Media and Cutting Conditions Blade length Adjust the blade length accordng to the thckness of the medum. Please see Secton 2.4, "Adjustng the Blade Length" and Secton 3.9, "Runnng a Cuttng Test" for the settng procedure. FORCE, SPEED, QUALITY Use the followng table as a gudelne to set these condtons.
  • Page 48 Chapter 3 PREPARATIONS FOR CUTTING/PLOTTING 3.11 Setting the Cutting Origin This function allows you to move the starting point of cutting to the desired position as shown in the figure below. Newly selected origin Cutting from the new origin Cutting from the original origin Original origin (1) Use the [ ] keys to move the pen carrage (the tp of the tool selected by the current settng) to the desred new orgn pont.
  • Page 49 Chapter 3 PREPARATIONS FOR CUTTING/PLOTTING 3.12 Using the Copy Function Ths functon allows you to automatcally cut duplcates of the data sent from the computer. Once the data has been stored n the plotter's receve buffer, t can be repeatedly cut. (1) Send data to the plotter and then perform a cuttng operaton to enable the data to be stored n the plotter's buffer.
  • Page 50 Chapter 3 PREPARATIONS FOR CUTTING/PLOTTING The following figures illustrate the sequence in which copies are cut, with the shaded areas representing the parts of the medum that are not cut. Copes are normally cut n the sequence shown below. COPY space 3rd copy 6th copy COPY space 2nd copy 5th copy 1st copy 4th copy Original cut COPY origin (the point at which copying starts) X Origin When MIRROR mode s selected, copes are cut as follows.
  • Page 51 Chapter 3 PREPARATIONS FOR CUTTING/PLOTTING 3.13 Using the Hold Function Press the [PAUSE] key durng a cuttng or plottng operaton to temporarly suspend the cuttng or plottng operaton. When the PAUSE key setting in Special Functions is "Pause" When the plotter s paused, an operaton selecton menu appears. Select whether to contnue or qut the suspended cuttng or plottng operaton.

  • Page 52: OutlNe Of The RegStratOn Mark FunctOn

    CHAPTER REGISTRATION MARK SETTINGS AND DETECTION PRODUCT SUMMARY 4.1 Outlne of the Regstraton Mark Functon 4.2 Settng the Regstraton Mark Mode 4.3 Settng the Regstraton Mark Pattern 4.4 Settng the Regstraton Mark Adjustment Dstance 4.5 Setting the Registration Mark Size 4.6 Settng the Regstraton Mark Offset 4.7 Adjustng the Regstraton Mark Sensor 4.8 Settng the Regstraton Mark Detecton Judgment Level 4.9 Settng the Regstraton Mark Detecton Speed...
  • Page 53 Chapter 4 REGISTRATION MARK SETTINGS AND DETECTION 4.1 Outline of the Registration Mark Function The regstraton mark functon allows you to algn the orentaton of the plotter’s X and Y axes wth the coordnate axes on a medum that s pre-prnted wth regstraton marks or other marks. The plotter uses a sensor to read the regstraton marks prnted on the meda, and then adjusts the axes to match the coordnate data so that cuttng can be performed on pre-prnted meda wthout any shft between the prnt and cut data.
  • Page 54 Chapter 4 REGISTRATION MARK SETTINGS AND DETECTION 4.2 Setting the Registration Mark Mode Ths mode s used to specfy the angle and dstance adjustment methods, as well as to specfy the dstance between regstraton marks for skppng by the sensor durng regstraton mark detecton. 2-point reading: The plotter performs adjustment between ponts 1-2 and of a sngle axs (angle adjustment).
  • Page 55 Chapter 4 REGISTRATION MARK SETTINGS AND DETECTION To perform manual axs adjustment usng a pre-prnted frame or other marks on the medum as reference ponts, press the [F2] key (AXIS). To perform automatc or manual detecton of the regstraton marks, press the [F4] key (MARKS). When the dsplayed settng s satsfactory, press the [ENTER] key to confirm your selection.

  • Page 56: Mark Type

    Chapter 4 REGISTRATION MARK SETTINGS AND DETECTION 4.3 Setting the Registration Mark Pattern Your plotter can read five registration mark patterns: 1, 2, 3, Mirror 1 and Mirror 2. If pattern 3, Mirror 1 or Mrror 2 has been selected, ths functon allows you to set the spacng between the regstraton mark lne segments. Registration mark pattern 1 Registration mark pattern 2 Registration mark pattern 3 Registration mark pattern Mirror 1 Registration mark pattern Mirror 2...

  • Page 57: SettNg The Center RegStratOn Mark

    Chapter 4 REGISTRATION MARK SETTINGS AND DETECTION Setting the Registration Mark Spacing (1) If regstraton mark 3, mrror 1 or mrror has been selected, the menu for settng the regstraton mark pattern spacng s dsplayed. FORCE OFFSET MARK TYPE:3 SPACING = 3.0 mm SPEED QUALITY...

  • Page 58: User (Manual Input)

    Chapter 4 REGISTRATION MARK SETTINGS AND DETECTION 4.4 Registration Mark Distance Adjustment The dstance between regstraton marks can be adjusted automatcally. If 5 mm was selected for CUSTOM, for example, and the dstance between regstraton marks was read as 312 mm, any dstance less than 5 mm s rounded off to the nearest whole number.
  • Page 59 Chapter 4 REGISTRATION MARK SETTINGS AND DETECTION (3) If the regstraton mark mode settng was 3-pont readng or 4-pont readng, the menu for adjustng the dstance between ponts 1 and 3 wll be dsplayed. Make the settngs n the same way as for the dstance between ponts 1 and 2.

  • Page 60: Setting The Registration Mark Size

    Chapter 4 REGISTRATION MARK SETTINGS AND DETECTION 4.5 Setting the Registration Mark Size This function allows you to specify the size of the registration marks drawn on the medium. (1) Press the [PAUSE] key to select PAUSE mode. (2) Press the [NEXT] key repeatedly untl the followng menu s dsplayed. FORCE OFFSET MARK TOOL U/D BUFFER CLR.

  • Page 61: SettNg The RegStratOn Mark Offset

    Chapter 4 REGISTRATION MARK SETTINGS AND DETECTION 4.6 Setting the Registration Mark Offset The default poston of the orgn pont s the lower left corner of the cuttng/plottng area. Use ths functon whenever you wsh to move the regstraton mark orgn pont. (1) Press the [PAUSE] key to select PAUSE mode.
  • Page 62 Chapter 4 REGISTRATION MARK SETTINGS AND DETECTION 4.7 Adjusting the Registration Mark Sensor Ths functon allows you to adjust the regstraton mark sensor. Two adjustment methods are provded—use the one that best suts your requrements. Adjusting the Registration Mark Sensor by Using a Pre-printed Cross Symbol and a Plotted Cross Symbol Ths functon allows you to adjust the regstraton mark sensor by readng a pre-prnted cross symbol, and then plottng another cross symbol for use n adjustment.
  • Page 63 Chapter 4 REGISTRATION MARK SETTINGS AND DETECTION (10) Use the [ ] keys to move the pen carrage (the tp of the tool selected by the current settng) to the area under the cross symbol ndcated n the dagram below) and then press the [ENTER] key. The sensor wll read the cross symbol.
  • Page 64 Chapter 4 REGISTRATION MARK SETTINGS AND DETECTION (6) Press the [F3] key (ADJ. SENS) to dsplay the menu shown below. FORCE OFFSET ADJUST SENS. SPEED QUALITY (7) Press the [F2] key (X+) to adjust the X-axs sensor, and the [F4] key (Y+) to adjust the Y-axs sensor. The prompt shown below s dsplayed.
  • Page 65 Chapter 4 REGISTRATION MARK SETTINGS AND DETECTION 4.8 Setting the Registration Mark Detection Judgment Level Ths functon sets the color densty judgment level of the lne segments that are read durng a regstraton mark detecton operaton. Ths level determnes the exstence of a lne segment by a change n densty of the specified percentage from an area where there are no line segments (white area).
  • Page 66 Chapter 4 REGISTRATION MARK SETTINGS AND DETECTION registration marks can be detected) but the floating up of the medium from the surface of the plotter or dirt on the medum may cause erroneous detecton. Make settngs for regstraton mark pattern 3, Mrror 1 and Mrror 2 n the same way. Adjusting the Sensitivity of the Registration Mark Sensor If you have changed the medium to a different type, we recommend that you perform this procedure. (1) Press the [PAUSE] key to select ntl the followng menu s dsplayed.
  • Page 67 Chapter 4 REGISTRATION MARK SETTINGS AND DETECTION (10) Use the [ ] keys to move the pen carrage (the tp of the tool selected by the current settng) to a blank area of the medum (an area where there s no drawng) and then press the [ENTER] key. The prompt shown at the left s dsplayed durng the adjustment process, and the prompt shown at the rght s dsplayed when adjustment has been completed.
  • Page 68 Chapter 4 REGISTRATION MARK SETTINGS AND DETECTION 4.9 Setting the Registration Mark Detection Speed Ths functon sets the speed of the pen carrage at the tme when regstraton mark lnes are detected. Change the speed settng f regstraton marks cannot be detected due to the type of meda used or the thckness of the regstraton mark lnes.
  • Page 69 Chapter 4 REGISTRATION MARK SETTINGS AND DETECTION 4.10 Setting the Sensing Interval If the line segments are fine, registration marks may not be detected even when the slowest registration mark detecton speed has been set. If the nterval has been set to 0, the regstraton marks are detected through samplng durng movement. If the nterval s set to 5, 10 or 15µ, regstraton marks are sensed at the specified interval.

  • Page 70: AxS Adjustment

    Chapter 4 REGISTRATION MARK SETTINGS AND DETECTION 4.11 Axis Adjustment When AXIS has been selected for the regstraton mark mode, axs adjustment s performed manually. If 2, 3, or 4 points are specified on the X and Y axes, adjustment is performed for the angle of the coordinate axes (X-axs and Y-axs tlt) and the dstance (lne segment length). • •...

  • Page 71: Distance Adjustment

    Chapter 4 REGISTRATION MARK SETTINGS AND DETECTION If the value you nput s exceedngly large (1.5 tmes or greater) or very small (0.5 tmes or less), or f the angle of tlt wth respect to the orgnal axs tlt s 45° or greater, the followng prompt s dsplayed. In ths case, please re-nput the value.
  • Page 72 Chapter 4 REGISTRATION MARK SETTINGS AND DETECTION 4.12 Registration Mark Detection When MARKS has been selected for the regstraton mark mode, the plotter detects the regstraton marks prnted on the medum and adjusts the angle of the coordnate axes (X-axs and Y-axs tlt) and the dstance (lne segment length).
  • Page 73 Chapter 4 REGISTRATION MARK SETTINGS AND DETECTION (4) Press the [F1], [F2] or [F3] key to select the correspondng number for the Mark Move No. settng. The followng prompt s dsplayed whle the plotter detects the adjustment ponts. FORCE OFFSET ARMS IS OPERATING WAIT..
  • Page 74 Chapter 4 REGISTRATION MARK SETTINGS AND DETECTION (4) Use the [ ] keys to move the pen carrage (the tp of the tool selected by the current settng) to the first point position ( point 1 area) and then press the [ENTER] key. The plotter detects pont 1. Registration mark pattern 1 Registration mark pattern 2 Registration mark pattern 3 Point 4...

  • Page 75: RegStratOn Mark DetectOn

    Chapter 4 REGISTRATION MARK SETTINGS AND DETECTION 4.13 Setting the Registration Mark Cutting Function If your regstraton mark pattern s Mrror 1 or Mrror 2, the regstraton marks can be cut after they have been detected. (1) Select ether AXIS or MARKS for the regstraton mark mode (see Secton 4.2, "Settng the Regstraton Mark Mode".) (2) Wth the plotter n Ready status, press the [ORIGIN] key to dsplay the followng menu.
  • Page 76 Chapter 4 REGISTRATION MARK SETTINGS AND DETECTION 4.14 Setting the Registration Mark Detection Start Position Ths functon sets the start poston for regstraton mark detecton. (1) Select ether AXIS or MARKS for the regstraton mark mode (see Secton 4.2, "Settng the Regstraton Mark Mode". (2) Wth the plotter n Ready status, press the [ORIGIN] key to dsplay the followng menu.
  • Page 77 CHAPTER FUNCTION SETTINGS AND OPERATIONS PRODUCT SUMMARY 5.1 PAUSE Menu Configuration 5.2 Clearng the Buffer 5.3 Rasng/Lowerng the Tool 5.4 Movng the Pen Carrage to the Upper Rght Poston 5.5 Settng the Communcaton Condtons 5.6 Settng the Data Format to be Receved 5.7 Assgnng THICK Mode 5.8 Settng the Overlay Functon 5.9 Assgnng Tool Numbers...

  • Page 78: Pause Menu Configuration

    Chapter 5 FUNCTION SETTINGS AND OPERATIONS 5.1 PAUSE Menu Configuration When the plotter s n PAUSE mode, each of the functons lsted below can be accessed by pressng the [NEXT] key untl the desred menu appears and then pressng functon key [F1] [F2] [F3] or [F4] to select the desred menu parameter.
  • Page 79 Chapter 5 FUNCTION SETTINGS AND OPERATIONS 5.2 Clearing the Buffer Ths functon allows you to clear all the output data n the plotter's buffer. (1) Press the [PAUSE] key to select PAUSE mode. (2) Press the [NEXT] key repeatedly untl the followng menu s dsplayed. FORCE OFFSET MARK...
  • Page 80 Chapter 5 FUNCTION SETTINGS AND OPERATIONS 5.3 Raising/Lowering the Tool Ths functon allows you to rase or lower the tool from the control panel. (1) Press the [PAUSE] key to select PAUSE mode. (2) Press the [NEXT] key repeatedly untl the followng menu s dsplayed. FORCE OFFSET MARK...
  • Page 81 Chapter 5 FUNCTION SETTINGS AND OPERATIONS 5.4 Moving the Pen Carriage to the Upper Right Position Ths functon allows you to move the pen carrage to the upper rght (VIEW) poston. (1) Press the [PAUSE] key to select PAUSE mode. (2) Press the [NEXT] key repeatedly untl the followng menu s dsplayed.
  • Page 82 Chapter 5 FUNCTION SETTINGS AND OPERATIONS 5.5 Setting the Communication Conditions When your plotter s connected va an RS-232C cable to a computer, be sure to set dentcal communcaton condtons n the software and OS communcaton settngs for the data transfer rate (baud rate), data length, and party.
  • Page 83 5.6 Setting the Data Format to be Received Before data is sent from the computer, your plotter must be set to recognize the data format (command mode) sent by the software. Your plotter supports two data formats (command modes): GP-GL (Graphtec commands) and HP-GL commands. Select the command mode best suted for your applcaton. (1) Press the [PAUSE] key to select PAUSE mode.
  • Page 84 Chapter 5 FUNCTION SETTINGS AND OPERATIONS 5.7 Assigning THICK Mode Ths functon allows you to assgn the THICK mode to COND Nos. 1 to 8. THICK mode s used for cuttng thck meda such as maskng rubber for sandblastng, thck pattern paper for apparel desgn as well as for hard media such as acrylic film.
  • Page 85 Chapter 5 FUNCTION SETTINGS AND OPERATIONS 5.8 Setting the Overlay Function The Overlay functon enables repeated cuttng to be performed on a medum that cannot be cut wth one cutting operation. In the first cutting operation, a cutting force that is lighter than the specified FORCE value s used to leave cuttng trace marks on the medum. For the second and subsequent cuttng operatons, the specified FORCE value is used.
  • Page 86 Chapter 5 FUNCTION SETTINGS AND OPERATIONS 5.9 Assigning Tool Numbers Ths functon enables you to assgn tool holder 1 and tool holder to COND Nos. 1 to 8. If the application software is used to perform pen exchange operations, "PROGRAM" must be selected for the CONDITION PRIORITY setting (please see Section 5.27, "Using the Special Functions").
  • Page 87 Chapter 5 FUNCTION SETTINGS AND OPERATIONS 5.10 Assigning Perforation Cutting Ths functon allows you to assgn the perforaton cuttng operaton to COND Nos. 1 to 8. (1) Press the [PAUSE] key to select PAUSE mode. (2) Press the [NEXT] key repeatedly untl the followng menu s dsplayed. FORCE OFFSET FUNCTION...

  • Page 88: AssGnNg Tool Numbers

    Chapter 5 FUNCTION SETTINGS AND OPERATIONS 5.11 Setting the Tool Interval Adjustment Value Ths functon allows you to make adjustments for any devaton between the ntal drawng/cuttng postons of tool holder 1 and tool holder 2. Use plottng pens to draw the lnes for ths adjustment and specfy the same plottng condtons for tool holder 1 and tool holder 2.
  • Page 89 Chapter 5 FUNCTION SETTINGS AND OPERATIONS 5.12 Setting the Distance Adjustment Values Ths functon s used to correct any dscrepances n the lengths of the cut or plotted lne segments. If, for example, the DISTANCE ADJUST setting is specified as 0.05%, and the distance of the cut is 500 mm, the cut distance is increased by 500 x 0.05% (= 0.25 mm), which means that the total cut distance is 500.25 mm. (1) Press the [PAUSE] key to select PAUSE mode. (2) Press the [NEXT] key repeatedly untl the followng menu s dsplayed.

  • Page 90: SortNg

    Chapter 5 FUNCTION SETTINGS AND OPERATIONS 5.13 Sorting Sortng helps prevent wasted tme n tool changes and reduces the tme requred for a cuttng/plottng operaton. When sorted data from the software s receved, less tme s requred for processng than when sortng s performed on your plotter.

  • Page 91: Rotating The Coordinate Axes

    Chapter 5 FUNCTION SETTINGS AND OPERATIONS 5.14 Rotating the Coordinate Axes This function is used to move the origin and rotate the coordinate axes by 90° as shown in the figure below. Origin in ROTATE mode Coordinates when ROTATE mode is selected (ON) Coordinates when Origin ROTATE mode is not selected (OFF) (1) Press the [PAUSE] key to select PAUSE mode. (2) Press the [NEXT] key repeatedly untl the followng menu s dsplayed.

  • Page 92: Setting The Cutting/Plotting Area

    Chapter 5 FUNCTION SETTINGS AND OPERATIONS 5.15 Setting the Cutting/Plotting Area The U.R. (Upper Rght) and L.L. (Lower Left) functons are used to specfy the effectve cuttng area of the plotter so that any data specfyng coordnate postons outsde of the effectve cuttng area s dsregarded. The orgn moves together wth the new cuttng area.
  • Page 93 Chapter 5 FUNCTION SETTINGS AND OPERATIONS ] keys to move the pen carrage (the tp of the tool selected by the current settng) to the Use the[ desred new U.R. pont and then press the [ENTER] key. At such tme, the X= and Y= coordnate values respectvely represent the current pen carrage poston as X- and Y-axs dsplacements from the orgnal orgn.

  • Page 94: Setting The Mirror Mode

    Chapter 5 FUNCTION SETTINGS AND OPERATIONS 5.16 Setting the Mirror Mode When MIRROR mode s selected usng ths functon, the orgn and coordnate axes are nverted as shown in the figure below. Origin when MIRROR mode is selected MIRROR mode is selected (ON) MIRROR mode is not selected (OFF) Origin (1) Press the [PAUSE] key to select PAUSE mode.

  • Page 95: Scaling The Image Data

    Chapter 5 FUNCTION SETTINGS AND OPERATIONS 5.17 Scaling the Image Data Ths functon s used to expand or reduce the mage data usng the program orgn as the startng pont. (1) Press the [PAUSE] key to select PAUSE mode. (2) Press the [NEXT] key repeatedly untl the followng menu s dsplayed. FORCE OFFSET FUNCTION...

  • Page 96: Setting The Initial Cutting Force

    Chapter 5 FUNCTION SETTINGS AND OPERATIONS 5.18 Setting the Initial Cutting Force Ths functon s effectve n THICK mode, the mode used manly to cut thck meda. When a thck medum s cut, more tme than usual may be requred for the blade to reach the base of the medum even f a suitable cutting force has been specified. If this happens, the cutting operation may start before the blade has reached the base and the medum may not be cut through at the start pont.

  • Page 97: Setting The Offset Force

    Chapter 5 FUNCTION SETTINGS AND OPERATIONS 5.19 Setting the Offset Force Since the direction in which the blade tip is facing cannot be determined during initialization of the plotter, ntal blade control must be performed. The Offset Force functon s used to specfy the force appled durng ntal blade control. It s also used to specfy the force appled durng blade tp rotaton n THICK mode. (1) Press the [PAUSE] key to select PAUSE mode.

  • Page 98: Setting The Offset Angle

    Chapter 5 FUNCTION SETTINGS AND OPERATIONS 5.20 Setting the Offset Angle Your plotter rotates the blade tip according to the initial angle of rotation required by each line segment defined in the data sent from the computer. This operation is called "initial blade control". The OFFSET ANGLE function specifies the reference blade offset angle for determining whether or not to perform initial blade control.

  • Page 99: Setting The Step Pass

    Chapter 5 FUNCTION SETTINGS AND OPERATIONS 5.21 Setting the Step Pass Use ths functon when you ntend to cut extremely detaled data. The cuttng data sent from the computer will be processed in blocks corresponding to the number of steps specified by the STEP PASS function, thereby ensurng consstent blade control and hgher cuttng qualty. (1) Press the [PAUSE] key to select PAUSE mode. (2) Press the [NEXT] key repeatedly untl the followng menu s dsplayed.

  • Page 100: Setting The Tool Movement Speed

    Chapter 5 FUNCTION SETTINGS AND OPERATIONS 5.22 Setting the Tool Movement Speed Ths functon allows you set the movement speed of the tool n rased status separately from the cuttng/ plottng speed. A tool movement that s faster than the cuttng/plottng speed enables a reducton n the overall cuttng/plottng tme.

  • Page 101: Setting The Pen Carriage Movement Speed

    Chapter 5 FUNCTION SETTINGS AND OPERATIONS 5.23 Setting the Pen Carriage Movement Speed Ths settng determnes how far and how fast the pen carrage moves when the [ ] keys are used to move t. When one of the [ ] keys s pressed ntally, the pen carrage moves only the specified distance. If the key is held down, the pen carriage moves slowly, but then moves more quickly after moving the specified length (distance).

  • Page 102: Setting The Low Movement Speed

    Chapter 5 FUNCTION SETTINGS AND OPERATIONS Setting the Low Movement Speed Ths settng determnes the slower speed when one of the [ ] keys s ntally pressed, and the length (dstance) before faster movement begns. (1) Press the [PAUSE] key to select PAUSE mode. (2) Press the [NEXT] key repeatedly untl the followng menu s dsplayed.

  • Page 103: Setting The High Movement Speed

    Chapter 5 FUNCTION SETTINGS AND OPERATIONS Setting the High Movement Speed Ths settng determnes the hgh speed settng when one of the [ ] keys s held down. (1) Press the [PAUSE] key to select PAUSE mode. (2) Press the [NEXT] key repeatedly untl the followng menu s dsplayed. FORCE OFFSET OPTION1...

  • Page 104: Printing A Conditions List

    Chapter 5 FUNCTION SETTINGS AND OPERATIONS 5.24 Printing a Conditions List Ths functon allows you to prnt a lst of the current cuttng/plottng settngs (condtons). The pen carriage starts moving as soon as this function has been selected. To avoid injury to yourself or damage to the plotter, keep your hands and other obstacles out of the vicinity of any moving parts.
  • Page 105 Chapter 5 FUNCTION SETTINGS AND OPERATIONS Cutting/Plotting Conditions List 5-29...

  • Page 106: Printing The Self-Test Pattern

    Chapter 5 FUNCTION SETTINGS AND OPERATIONS 5.25 Printing the Self-Test Pattern The self-test functon enables the plotter to check ts own functons by drawng a self-test pattern. The pen carriage starts moving as soon as the SELF TEST mode has been selected. To avoid any injury to yourself or damage to the plotter, keep your hands and other obstacles out of the vicinity of any moving parts.

  • Page 107: Printing A Character Dump List

    Chapter 5 FUNCTION SETTINGS AND OPERATIONS 5.26 Printing a Character Dump List Ths mode enables you to check whether data s beng transferred correctly from the computer to the plotter. If the output data and the program data are dfferent, check the transmsson condtons and the cable connectons.

  • Page 108: Special Functions

    Chapter 5 FUNCTION SETTINGS AND OPERATIONS 5.27 Special Functions • Setting the Display Language (LANGUAGE SELECTION) [Default setting: ENGLISH] Ths functon determnes the language used on the dsplay panel. • Setting the Length Unit (LENGTH UNIT) [Default setting: mm] Ths functon enables the dsplay unt shown on the LCD panel to be changed. If "mm"...
  • Page 109 Chapter 5 FUNCTION SETTINGS AND OPERATIONS • Enabling or Disabling Tool Up Movement [Default setting: DISABLED] When the plotter receves commands that specfy consecutve tool movements n rased status, ths functon determines whether to move the tool to each coordinate point or to move the tool directly to the final coordinate point. When ENABLED s selected, the tool moves to each coordnate pont n sequence. When DISABLED is selected, the tool moves directly to the final coordinate point.
  • Page 110 Chapter 5 FUNCTION SETTINGS AND OPERATIONS Procedure Turn on the plotter whle holdng down the [ ] key to dsplay the specal functons menu on the LCD. In GP-GL command mode In HP-GL command mode LANGUAGE SELECTION LANGUAGE SELECTION English English LENGTH UNIT LENGTH UNIT...

  • Page 111: Troubleshooting

    CHAPTER TROUBLESHOOTING PRODUCT SUMMARY 6.1 Troubleshootng 6.2 Error Messages...
  • Page 112 AC lne nlet and to • the electrcal outlet. Nothng appears on the LCD panel. The plotter s defectve. Contact your sales representatve or nearest Graphtec dealer. The Cutting/Plotting Results are Unsatisfactory (1/2) Symptom Cause Solution •...
  • Page 113 Chapter 6 TROUBLESHOOTING The Cutting/Plotting Results are Unsatisfactory (2/2) Symptom Cause Solution • The cuttng results dffer from the The programmable resoluton (STEP SIZE) Set both the plotter and software to the same specified size. has been set dfferently at the plotter and the programmable resoluton.

  • Page 114: Error Messages

    • internal speed control is faulty. Turn the plotter off then back on again. POWER OFF THEN ON * If the error occurs frequently, contact your sales representative or nearest Graphtec dealer. • • The POWER lamp lights. The tool height sensor detected abnormal Turn the plotter off then back on again.
  • Page 115 Chapter 6 TROUBLESHOOTING GP-GL Command Mode Error Messages If any of the followng error messages are dsplayed, one of the followng reasons s lke to be the cause: (1) The software’s output or nterface settngs have been changed. g Configure the software for output by this plotter. g Ensure that the software’s nterface settngs are correctly set. (2) The plotter’s nterface settngs have been changed.
  • Page 116 Chapter 6 TROUBLESHOOTING HP-GL™ Command Mode Error Messages Error message Cause Solution An unrecognizable instruction was executed. Execute a recognizable command. ERROR 1 Instruction not recognized Nose was nput to the plotter upon executon Press the [ENTER] key. of the software applcaton. The software's output settngs have been Configure the software for output by this changed.
  • Page 117 CHAPTER VACUUM SUCTION PRODUCT SUMMARY 7.1 Selectng the Vacuum Pump 7.2 Installaton Locaton 7.3 Vacuum Pump Wrng...

  • Page 118: Selecting The Vacuum Pump

    Chapter 7 VACUUM SUCTION 7.1 Selecting the Vacuum Pump Select the vacuum pump accordng to the gudelnes lsted n the table below. Item FC2250-60VC FC2250-120VC FC2250-180VC Ratngs Airflow(m /mn) 0.3 or more 0.5 or more 0.6 or more Statc pressure(kPa) 5.4 or more 6.4 or more 7.9 or more...

  • Page 119: Installation Location

    Chapter 7 VACUUM SUCTION 7.2 Installation Location When connectng the vacuum pump to your plotter, please refer to the followng dagram. The exhaust from the vacuum pump is hot, and so do not place anything flammable near the exhaust outlet. Failure to observe this precaution could cause a fire.

  • Page 120: Vacuum Pump Wiring

    Chapter 7 VACUUM SUCTION 7.3 Vacuum Pump Wiring When connectng the vacuum pump to a power supply, be sure to follow the wrng nstructons gven n the user's manual provded wth your pump. • Make sure that the cables and switches used for the wiring of your vacuum pump conform to the pump's rated specifications and to the safety standards of the country in which it is used.
  • Page 121 CHAPTER SPECIFICATIONS PRODUCT SUMMARY 8.1 Main Specifications 8.2 External Dmensons...

  • Page 122: Main Specifications

    Chapter 8 SPECIFICATIONS 8.1 Main Specifications FC2250-60VC FC2250-120VC/MG/ES FC2250-180VC/ES Configuration Flatbed Effectve cuttng area 610 x 920 mm 1200 x 920 mm 1740 x 920 mm Meda hold-down method VC models: Vacuum sucton, MG models: Magnetc ES models: Electrostatc adheson Maxmum cuttng speed 400 mm/s Cuttng force...

  • Page 123: External Dimensions

    Chapter 8 SPECIFICATIONS 8.2 External Dimensions FC2250-60VC 1040 Unt: mm Dmensonal accuracy: ±5 mm...
  • Page 124 Chapter 8 SPECIFICATIONS FC2250-120VC/MG/ES 1568 1100 1040 Unt: mm Dmensonal accuracy: ±5 mm...
  • Page 125 Chapter 8 SPECIFICATIONS FC2250-180VC/ES0 2068 1600 1040 Unt: mm Dmensonal accuracy: ±5 mm...

  • Page 126: Index

    INDEX INDEX Sign Cutter pen nomenclature ..... . . 5-32 ":" and ";" Commands ......Cutter pen set .
  • Page 127 INDEX Installaton locaton ......Power nlet ........Interface connector .
  • Page 128 INDEX Tlt lever ........TO ENSURE SAFE AND CORRECT USE .
  • Page 129 Specifications are subject to change without notice. FC2250 Seres User's Manual FC2250-UM-151 Fe bruary 3, 2009 2nd edton-01 GRAPHTEC CORPORATION...

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