Spirit GX: User Manual
Spirit GX: User Manual
Spirit GX: User Manual
User Manual
www.laserproi.com
4F, No. 236, Fu-Te 2nd Rd., Hsi Chih, Taipei Hsien 221,Taiwan 886-2-6616-6692 Fax : 886-2-2694-6875
Dear Sir / Madam,
Thank you for choosing GCC and the LaserPro Spirit GX. You can be assured that this machine meets
the highest safety standards while using technological innovations shared by no other laser engraver. The
Spirit GX is backed by GCC, a truly international company that is dedicated to help your business grow.
We at GCC are proud to introduce the LaserPro Spirit GX, our most technologically advanced laser
engraver to date. This easy to operate machine has been designed with quality, productivity, and safety in
TM
mind. With innovations like the QSM , stellar quality under high speed, SmartFILE file management, and
the new Linear Low Maintenance Motion System, the Spirit GX is clearly on the cutting edge of all laser
systems.
GCC understands that a creative technical background is the key to successful growth in the ever-
changing information economy. We have a strong team of R&D experts who propel our company to new
heights. From product development to manufacturing, our engineers are dedicated to innovation and
quality.
Guiding our solid technical base is a world-class management team. At GCC, our leaders bring together
marketing, technical support, research development and distribution experts to create an international
network to meet your demands. Over the years, this network has been able to span throughout the globe.
Our technical support staff is committed to provide you with impeccable service, and when your business
is ready to grow, our team will be there!
Sincerely,
Leonard Shih
President of G.C.C.
Safety
Principles of a CO2 Laser
Safety Ratings
The Safety Interlock System
Safety Labels
Safety Measures
Operating Environment
WARNING
・ DO NOT operate the laser system if any component of the safety system is malfunctioning.
・ DO NOT attempt to remove or modify any component of the safety interlock system.
Product Label
This label is located at the right-back side of machine. All the product information such as Serial Number,
Model Numbers, Laser Power and Electric power can be found here. Before requiring any further tech
support, always provide the service person with the information on this label.
S e r i a l Nu m b e r
E50399
M a n u f a c t u r er
Product L a s e r En g r a v er
Model S p i r it G X
M o d e l N um b er SGX-100T
Wavelength 10.57~10.63 m
Power C O 2 10 0 W
Input 2 0 0 ~ 2 4 0 V A C , 50 ~ 60 H z, M a x 2 0A
CDRH Label
This label indicates the class level of CDRH.
CAUTION
AVOID PLACING YOUR EYES IN
THE RED BEAM PATH
DANGER
INVISIBLE LASER RADIATION WHEN OPEN.
AVOID EYE OR SKIN EXPOSURE TO
DIRECT OR SCATTERED RADIATION
NOTE
SmartGUARD™ is an optional fire detection alarm system developed by GCC. Contact
your local GCC authorized distributor for more details for having this safety option installed
onto your system.
• Enable the SmartAIR™ nozzle when engraving or cutting materials that may easily ignite, such as
acrylic, wood, or paper.
• Always wear safety goggles when the laser system is in operation. Reflective materials such as
mirrors, enameled brass and anodized aluminum may partially-reflect some of the invisible laser
radiation. Severe eye damage may occur if proper safety goggles are not worn.
NOTE
Each LaserPro laser machine is shipped with a single pair of safety goggles. If additional
safety goggles are required, please contact GCC directly or an authorized GCC distributor.
If you wish to purchase one on your own, please make sure the safety goggles meet
these requirements:
10,600 nm OD5+
Visible Light Transmission: 92.9%
• Connect the machine to a properly grounded power outlet. Ensure the voltage of the power source
is identical to the voltage of the machine.
• Do not open the laser access panel when the machine is plugged in.
• Do not attempt to modify or disassemble the laser module.
• Do not attempt to remove or modify any component of the machine’s laser interlock safety system.
• Ensure the immediate work area of the machine is well-ventilated. Odors, vapors, and dust are
byproducts generated during the laser engraving and cutting process. An exhaust system, vacuum
cutting box, and honeycomb table are recommended. Please contact GCC or your loca GCC
distributor for more information.
• Do not laser heat-sensitive surfaces or materials that may generate toxic fumes, such as PVC
and Teflon.
Unpacking
& Contents
Unloading and Unpacking
Contents and Accessories Checklist
WARNING
More than one person may be needed when loading and unloading the shipping crate in
order to avoid body injury or damage to the machine.
NOTE
Please store the original shipping crate as it may be needed for transportation in the
future.
Safety Harnesses
5) Remove the screws holding the spacers (left and right sides of the machine) and the step board
(front and rear of the machine). Remove the two spacers and the step board.
Spacer
Step Board
Side Board
Step Board
7) Gently push the machine off the shipping crate and relocate it to an appropriate work area.
ITEM QUANTITY
Lens Tissue 1
Focusing Tool 1
Hose Connector 1
Installation CD 1
(LaserPro Spirit GX user manual, driver, and firmware)
Pencil Sample 2
Promise Card 1
Mechanical Overview
Front View
Top View
Right ( Profile ) View
Left ( Profile ) View
Rear View
TM
SmartEXT
Pass-Throug Door
(Front)
TM
SmartLIGHT
Switch
Control Panel
Power Cable
Inlet
Power Cable
Inlet
TM
SmartLID Operation Handles
Ventilation
Openings
TM
SmartEXT Pass-Through
Laser Access Panel
Door (Rear)
CAUTION
Make sure both the LaserPro Spirit GX and the computer are turned off before connecting
either to a power source.
1) Connect the male end of the power cord to a quality surge protector and then connect the surge
protector to a properly grounded outlet.
2) Do the same for the computer system.
3) Connect the female end of the power cord into the machine’s power cable inlet located on the
right side of machine.
NOTE
• The LaserPro Spirit GX has been designed to automatically switch from 100~240
VAC.
• Make sure to supply 220V of electricity to the LaserPro Spirit GX with laser
wattages 40W or above.
Tip
Please adjust the LCD Display Screen’s Contrast before plugging in the Electrical
cord for your laser. LCD adjustment wheel is in this location under lid.
Step 1 Each Spirit GX 100W machine is equipped with the following power cord which is marked
separately with G-Ground, N-Neutral, and L-Live. Notice that the two ends of the power cord has
different type of connectors, O-shape and Y-shape.
Y shaped, connect to
electricity outlet on the
Step 2 Unscrew the laser cabinet panel at the rear side of Spirit GX.
Step 3 Unscrew the black fixing connector on the right-hand side of Spirit GX.
Step 4 Insert the O-shaped power cord through the black wiring connector to form Assembly C.
Assembly C
O-ring, B
Step 5 Install the Assembly C in step 4 to Spirit GX through an opening and use O-ring B to fix it.
Step 6 Loosen the screws on the terminal connector, affix the O-shaped power cord and re-install
the screws to fasten the O-shaped power cord.
USB Connectivity: Connect the included USB Port Cable to the USB Port on the right-hand
side of the LaserPro Spirit GX.
Printer Port Connectivity: Connect the included Printer Port Cable to the Printer Port on the
right-hand side of the LaserPro Spirit GX.
NOTE
If you have purchased additional Optional Accessories for the LaserPro Spirit GX, please
refer to chapter VII for instructions on how to properly setup your optional accessories.
These should be setup prior to working with your LaserPro Spirit GX.
Software
• The LaserPro Spirit GX drivers are designed for Windows 2000, XP, or other operating systems
developed subsequently.
NOTE
• DO NOT connect the USB cable to the PC before you have completed both the
LaserPro USB driver and LaserPro print driver installation.
• Install the LaserPro USB driver BEFORE installing the LaserPro Spirit GX print
driver.
• This set of USB driver is not the same as the native USB drivers for Microsoft
Windows.
OS Vista
USB Driver Version USB Setup1.12_01
Firmware Version 1.22_AAS
Installation Process:
< Step1>
Go to GCC Distributor Club and download the latest USB driver\USBSetup1.12_01
Fig: When the computer has been installed USB Print Support, it will show on above image
Fig: Unplug and plug again USB cable, the “ GCC USB Driver” icon can be found.
Even GCC USB has been installed correctly, it will still not be worked correctly when the you don’t use
as administrator to operate or click "upgrader.exe".
Example 1:
Directly click "upgrader.exe" and do not use "Run as Administrator". The pull down of Com Setup will
not show GCC USB driver port.
Example 2:
Under the same situation as sample 1, right click mouse and click” Run as Administrator”, you can see
GCC USB port on pull down list of Com Setup.
8) If a screen comes up informing you of the detection of a previous driver and asks to keep the
existing driver or use the new one, select <Replace Existing Driver> and click Next to
continue.
9) This screen will prompt you to provide a printer name. Simply type in <Spirit GX> and select
Yes or No if you want to use this printer as the default printer and click Next to continue.
10) At the Printer Sharing screen, select <Do not share this printer> and click Next to
continue.
11) Select <No> when asked if you want to print a test page and click Next to continue.
12) Now simply click Finish to complete the Add Printer Wizard.
13) Now the installation will proceed, if you get a Hardware Warning about the software you are
installing for this hardware has not passed Windows Logo testing, simply click Continue
Anyway to ignore this warning.
14) Congratulations, your printer driver has been successfully installed!
15) This step is required only for USB connections If you are using the Spirit GX’s USB
connection interface, then you will need to go to your Windows Control Panel Printer
and Faxes. Right-click on the Spirit GX listing, and select properties. Go to the Ports menu
and place a check next to GCC USB0, then click OK.
Operating the
LaserPro Spirit GX
Using the Hardware
- Adjusting the LCD Display Screen's Contrast Setting
- Graphic Control Panel Overview (Description)
Function Buttons
Directional and
Selection Buttons
WARNING
• DO NOT attempt to remove or modify any component of the safety interlock system.
• If at any time, any of the access doors are open and the “laser” LED is illuminated,
IMMEDIATELY unplugs the laser system and contact GCC technical support for service
instructions.
• DO NOT operates the laser system if any component of the safety system is malfunctioning.
NOTE
There is an 8 second warm up period after the door LED is triggered for systems
equipped with Synrad laser tubes. i.e. opening the top lid or the external pass through
doors of the machine. Operator must wait for 8 seconds before the laser tube can
begin to work.
Directional ( / / / ) – Four directional buttons allow you to navigate the selection cursor
through the control panel menu and adjust the value of specific settings. In general, the /
directional buttons cycle through the various selections, while the / directional buttons adjust
the value of that particular selection.
Enter – Confirms the current selection.
Start / Stop – Allows you to start or stop engraving jobs, once those jobs have been successfully
loaded onto the system.
Delete – Provides quick access to delete the current job.
Pause – Pauses the current engraving process. Press again to resume the current process.
Auto Focus – After you have positioned your material and moved the laser carriage head to the
area you want to engrave, press this button and the system will automatically adjust the optimal
vertical focal distance for the laser.
Manual Focus (▲ / ▼) – To manually adjust the vertical focal distance between the laser head
and the material, you can use the ▲ / ▼ buttons to do so. Doing so will adjust the vertical height
(z-axis) of the worktable.
Functions Page
Set Auto-Standby
Mode Page
Others Page
Reset Page
The main work page is the page that the LaserPro Spirit GX will default to upon startup and will be
the “home base” for when navigating through the various functions of the control panel. This will be
the page that is displayed when you are processing your jobs. This page contains specific job
information such as the current job’s name, Speed, Power, PPI, DPI, processing / remaining times,
and jobs loaded.
press , , , ,
or F3
The Carriage / Work Table Adjustment Page allow you to manually increase and decrease the
height of the work table (Z-axis). In addition, you can manually adjust the Y-axis and X-axis of the
laser carriage.
press F3
SmartCENTER Page
Under SmartCENTER mode the job will begin after the system positions the carriage to the center
position between two points indicated by the user. There are two ways to activate the SmartCENTER
mode, either through driver or direct from control panel.
Enter SmartCENTER page and you can move the carriage by hand and press enter to save the
positions indicated by the red pointer. After both points are set, the carriage will move to the center
of the two entered points and the job will begin.
SmartCENTER Page
press F4
Functions Page
• File Management Page – this page allows you to manage the files that you have loaded onto
the LaserPro Spirit GX.
• Machine Setting Page – this page allows you to access and modify various machine settings,
including: Set Lens, Tune Auto Focus, Set Table Down, Set Red Beam, Carriage Lock, Set
Command Mode, Save Position, Flash Memory, Set File Save Mode, Set Vector Mode, Tune
Image Power, Set Laser Wattage, Set Fine Mode, Other, Reset.
• Machine Information Page – this page allows you to view information regarding the system
such as the GCC logo, machine name, firmware version, and other information.
Functions Page
press F4
Functions Page
Select<File Manage-
ment>from the menu
The File Management Page allows you to manage the files that you have loaded onto the LaserPro
Spirit GX. You can scroll through your jobs, delete a selected job, delete all jobs, and go to the Link /
DLink Page to set and arrange multiple loaded jobs into a single job queue for processing.
press F4
Functions Page
Select<File Manage-
ment>from the menu
press F2
The Link / DLink Page allows you to set, arrange, and remove loaded jobs to and from a job queue
for processing. Use the directional keys to cycle through your loaded jobs, then simply press the
<F2 (Link)> key to add a file to the job queue. The job queue will be set in a sequential order based
on the order you link the files. To remove a job from your job queue, press the <F4 (DLink)> key.
The first column field (before the file name) displays the job number. The sequence for your job
queue is displayed in the two columns to the right of your file names. The first column to the right of
your job file name displays the job number of the previous file in the job queue sequence. The
second column after the file name displays that job’s next file in the job queue sequence. First and
last jobs in the job sequence you set will have a (---) in the first and second columns respectively. So
according to the image above, the job queue sequence has been set to be processed in this order:
03:Marble.cdr 01:Marble.cdr 02:Marble.cdr.
press F4
Functions Page
Select<File Manage-
ment>from the menu
The File Information Page allows you to view the speed, power, DPI, and PPI settings of the
selected job. In addition, you will be able to go to the File Management Edit Page from this menu
to change raster / vector speed and power settings for the selected job.
press F4
Functions Page
Select<File Manage-
ment>from the menu
press F4
The File Management Edit Page allows you the choice to modify your raster or vector settings for
the selected job, as well as setting the number of times to repeat the process of the selected job
(Repeat Num).
press F4
Functions Page
Select<File Manage-
ment>from the menu
press F4
The File Edit Raster Page allows you to edit the raster power and speed settings, as well as
enable or disable SmartACT for the selected job. These settings correspond to the same settings
found on the LaserPro Spirit GX print driver. This page allows you to easily adjust these values
to make immediate adjustments while processing your loaded jobs, even when you have
disconnected your computer from the LaserPro Spirit GX.
• Raster Power: 0.0% - 100%
• Raster Speed: 0.0% - 100%
• SmartACT: YES / NO
press F4
Functions Page
Select<File Manage-
ment>from the menu
The File Edit Vector Page allows you to edit the vector pen, vector power, vector speed, and vector
PPI, and power ramp settings for the selected job. These settings correspond to the same settings
found on the LaserPro Spirit GX print driver. This page allows you to easily adjust these values to
make immediate adjustments while processing your loaded jobs, even when you have disconnected
your computer from the LaserPro Spirit GX.
• Vector Pen: 1 - 16
• Vector Power: 0.0% - 100%
• Vector Speed: 0.0% - 100%
• Vector PPI: 30 - 1524
• Power Ramp: YES / NO
press F4
Functions Page
Select<File Manage-
ment>from the menu
The Machine Setting Page allows you to access and modify various machine settings, including:
Set Lens, Tune Auto Focus, Set Table Down, Set Red Beam, Carriage Lock, Set Command
Mode, Save Position, Flash Memory, Set File Save Mode, Set Vector Mode, Tune Image Power,
Set Laser Wattage, Set Fine Mode, Other, and Reset.
press F4
Functions Page
Select<Machine
Setting>from the menu
Select<Set Lens>
from the menu
The Set Lens Page allows you to modify the lens settings after you have changed to a different
focal lens. Remember to save your settings after you have made the proper changes. Now by
pressing the Auto Focus button, the LaserPro Spirit GX will conduct auto focus accordingly using
the new lens. The LaserPro Spirit GX’s default setting is <2.0">
• Lens: 1.5" / 2.0" / 2.5" / 4.0"
Functions Page
Select<Machine
Setting>from the menu
The Tune Auto Focus Page allows you to manually set the default auto focus distance / vertical
height of the worktable (Z-axis) when the Auto Focus button is pushed.
press F4
Functions Page
Select<Machine
Setting>from the menu
Select<Set Table
Down>from the menu
The Set Table Down Page allows you to select whether or not the LaserPro Spirit GX displays
a warning prompt at startup. If the Table Down selection is set to <YES>, the LaserPro Spirit GX
will display a warning prompt: at startup, stating: “Table will move down and remove objects on
table”. Pressing the Enter key at this point will confirm the prompt to move the work table to its
lowest position. If the Table Down is set to <NO>, then the LaserPro Spirit GX will not display this
warning prompt at system startup.
• Table Down: YES / NO
• Distance: 0 - 165 mm
press F4
Functions Page
Select<Machine
Setting>from the menu
Select<Set Red
Beam>from the menu
The Set Red Beam Page allows you to turn on or off the red dot laser pointer on the laser carriage.
Enabling this function will indicate the exact area the engraving laser will fire upon.
• Red Beam YES / NO
press F4
Functions Page
Select<Machine
Setting>from the menu
Select<Carriage
Lock>from the menu
The Carriage Lock Page allows you to set whether the laser carriage is to be locked or free. If the
Carriage Free setting is set to <YES>, then you will be able to manually move the laser carriage
along the X and Y axis by hand with the top door open. Whereas setting the Carriage Free to
<NO> will lock the laser carriage and movement or positioning can only be done by the control
panel.
• Carriage Free YES / NO
press F4
Functions Page
Select<Machine
Setting>from the menu
Select<Set Command
Mode>from the menu
The Command Mode Page allows you to configure vector settings when outputting in Default
or HPGL mode. Default mode is the standard Windows print driver and also recognized by the most
popular graphic software programs such as CorelDraw, Photoshop, Illustrator, and more. Whereas,
HPGL mode is a less common output format generated from some RIP applications (signage
industry). Regardless of which format you will be working with, both output formats are supported.
• Mode: Default / HPGL
• Vector Pen: 1 - 16
• Vector Speed: 0.0% - 100%
• Vector PPI: 0.0% - 100%
• Power Ramp: YES / NO
press F4
Functions Page
Select<Machine
Setting>from the menu
The Set File Save Mode Page allows you to set whether or not the LaserPro Spirit GX automatically
deletes each job file after processing. Setting File Save to <NO> will automatically and immediately
delete each job file from the LaserPro Spirit GX after the engraving or cutting process. Setting File
Save to <YES> will retain all job files on the LaserPro Spirit GX.
• File Save: YES / NO
press F4
Functions Page
Select<Machine
Setting>from the menu
Select<Set Fine
Mode>from the menu
The Set Auto-Standby Mode Page allows you to turn ON or turn OFF the auto-standby timer. The
machine will set itself to standby mode after being idle for 20 minutes when the Auto-Standby
mode is turned ON.
• Set Auto-Standby mode: YES / NO
press F4
Functions Page
Select<Machine
Setting>from the menu
Select<Others>from the
menu
Others Page
The Others Page allows you to change various settings that correspond to the control panel. The
Language setting will allow users to change available languages displayed on the control panel.
The Unit setting will allow you to change whether the units displayed by the control panel is in the
metric or imperial system. The EOF (end of file) Alarm setting will enable or disable an audible
notification when jobs are complete. The Air Delay setting allows you to specify the delay in seconds
of the SmartAIR air-assist after the point of laser firing.
• Language: ENGLISH (others dependent on Firmware)
• Unit: METRIC / ENGLISH
• EOF Alarm: YES / NO
• Air Delay: 1-100 seconds
Tip
Depending on the material you are engraving with, your laser settings, and the
desired results, please experiment with the air delay to achieve your desired results.
Others Page
press F4
Functions Page
Select<Machine
Setting>from the menu
Select<Reset>from the
menu
Reset Page
The Reset Page allows you to reset all changes made to the LaserPro Spirit GX’s Machine
Settings Page to their default settings. This does not affect the settings saved to an image file
on the computer. The User Reset setting will set all settings back to default. After any firmware
updates, you must use the System Reset setting (your previous settings are saved).
• User Reset (a confirmation will pop up, press Enter to confirm and continue)
• System Reset (a confirmation will pop up, press Enter to confirm and continue)
Reset Page
press F4
Functions Page
Select<Advanced
Options>from the menu
The Advanced Options Page allows you to use various advanced options such as: Save Position,
SmartMEMORY, SmartGUARD, Vector Settings and Standby Mode.
press F4
Functions Page
Select<Advanced
Options>from the menu
The Save Position Function allows you to save the current X-axis and Y-axis positions of the laser
carriage and sets this position to be the origin for subsequent jobs.
Tip
This is an excellent function to use when you are processing identical items or
engraving relatively smaller objects positioned away from the default start position
(top left) of the work table.
Recall Position
press F4
Functions Page
Select<Recall> by pressing F4
To recall the saved position, simply go to Functions page and press F4 again to recall the saved
position. The laser carriage will be moved to the saved position.
press F4
Functions Page
Select<Advanced
Options>from the menu
Select<SmartMEMORY
>from the menu
SmartMEMORY Page
The SmartMEMORY Page allows you to read and write data with the optional SmartMEMORY
module installed. Selecting <Save to SmartMEMORY> will copy all current jobs on the LaserPro
Spirit GX to the SmartMEMORY module. Selecting <Load SmartMEMORY> will copy all job files
from the SmartMEMORY module to the LaserPro Spirit GX.
SmartMEMORY Page
press F4
Functions Page
Select<Advanced
Options>from the menu
Select<SmartGUARD
>from the menu
SmartGUARD Page
After hardware installation, please enter the function menu on the control panel to enable the
SmartGUARD fire alarm.
SmartGUARD Enable / Disable:
Press directional key (left or right) to enable the SmartGUARD device or disable it.
Sensitivity:
Press directional key (left or right) to set the sensitivity of SmartGUARD. There are five
sensitivity settings (1, 3, 5, 7, 9 seconds) that can be selected. Sensitivity is defined by the delay
time from when a fire is detected until the fire alarm alerts user, and automatically shuts down the
system. For example, if the sensor delay switch is set to the 3 second position, the SmartGUARD
will start an alarm and automatically shutdown the laser system after detecting a fire for 3
seconds.
press F4
Functions Page
Select<Advanced
Options>from the menu
Select<Vector Mode
>from the menu
press F4
Functions Page
Select<Advanced
Options>from the menu
Select<Standby
>from the menu
Standby Page
The Set Standby Page allows you to turn on or off the standby mode. Enabling this function will
cause the machine to go into standby mode immediately.
• Standby YES / NO
press F4
Functions Page
Select<Machine
Information>from the
The Machine Information Page allows you to view information regarding the system such as the
GCC logo, machine name, firmware version, and other information.
NOTE
Please make sure the LaserPro Spirit GX is set to the default printer before proceeding
to the page and layout setup.
Ensure that the LaserPro Spirit GX has been selected as the DEFAULT PRINTER. You can do so by going
into your Windows Control Panel→ Printers and Faxes.
If the LaserPro Spirit GX is not selected as DEFAULT PRINTER, you may set it up through the graphics
software as well. The following example takes CorelDraw to demonstrate how to set up LaserPro Spirit GX
as the Printer.
Tip
Instead of manually selecting the Landscape and setting the Paper Width and
Height, you can simply click the Set From Printer function and CorelDraw will
automatically set the proper orientation and dimensions based on LaserPro
Spirit GX’s work table. (You MUST have the Spirit GX set as the default printer
prior to doing this.)
The LaserPro driver uses pen color settings to control laser engraver’s engraving and cutting
parameters. In addition to having your Page Setup and Orientation properly set in your graphics
software, you will also need to make sure Color Management is DISABLED prior to working with
the LaserPro Spirit GX Print Driver.
From your graphic software’s Color Management page:
• Disable Color Management or set Color Management to Off.
1) From the primary menu, click TOOLS → COLOR MANAGEMENT and CorelDRAW’s
Color Management will appear.
2) Under the Style pull down menu, select COLOR MANAGEMENT OFF.
3) Click OK to complete the color management adjustments.
NOTE
For this screenshot example, CorelDraw was used as the software application.
The LaserPro Spirit GX Print Driver consists of seven primary sections (pages) in which you will
be able to choose various engraving / cutting options and settings:
• Options Page
• Pen Page
• Advanced Page
• Paper Page
• Language Page
• Raster Page (appears only in Black & White Mode)
• Stamp Page (appears only in Stamp Mode)
The LaserPro Spirit GX print driver will interpret colored and shaded areas as different shades of
gray by producing a halftone effect while engraving. Instead of engraving only solid lines, gray /
halftone areas will be a collection of dots with varying density.
The resolution and depth of these halftone areas can be adjusted with the DPI setting found on
the Options page. Please note that selecting the Black & White mode will add a new Raster page
to the menu. The Black & White mode dithering settings can be changed from the Raster page.
(Please refer to the Raster section below for details). Experiment with different dithering settings
to attain the desired results.
Tip
The Black & White mode interprets the processed image by the varying colors
and shades. For the best results, we suggest you convert the image to a
grayscale image with your graphics software prior to engraving in the Black &
White mode.
NOTE
Selecting the Black & White mode will enable the Raster page on the LaserPro Spirit GX
Print Driver, allowing you to adjust advanced stamp-related settings.
NOTE
Selecting the Stamp mode will enable the Stamp page on the Spirit GX Print Driver,
allowing you to adjust advanced stamp-related settings.
Below is a chart for your convenience detailing the Set DPI (your input setting) vs. Actual DPI (your
output results).
Set
DPI 125 250 300* 380 500 600* 760 1000
NOTE
Outputting a full-table (34" x 18") job using 300 or 600 DPI will result in a truncation error;
this is due to the large differences in set DPI vs. actual DPI output for those two particular
DPI settings. Therefore, when processing a 34" x 18" job using 300 DPI, we recommend
you move to the next higher DPI setting of 380. Similarly, for a 34" x 18" job using 600 DPI,
we recommend you use 760 DPI.
Tip
When engraving a stamp, via the stamp mode, the stamp image needs to be engraved
in reverse (mirrored) for the final stamp to be correctly laid out.
B Mirror Effect B
Invert (Options Page) [DEFAULT SETTING: Unselected]
Checking this box automatically inverts / reverses the color of your image (the white areas become
black and vice versa). The Invert option is not available if disabled while Manual Color File mode is
selected.
B Invert Effect
Tip
There is a greater performance gain when enabling SmartACT for designs that are
vertically longer than they are horizontally wide, as the SmartACT optimization
modifies the movement of the X-axis of the laser carriage.
NOTE
If you are using Windows 2000 or XP as your operating system, then make sure you log in
with an administrator or administrator-rights account in order to properly save laser
parameter settings.
Tip
LaserPro material database settings allow you easy to load the several parameters.
If you are loading LaserPro parameter database as your operating parameter, please
direct load from several build-in parameter folders.
Tip
Cutting / engraving depth and quality are determined by a combination of power and
speed. Slower speeds at higher power will produce deeper cuts and engravings,
whereas higher speeds at lower power will produce more shallow cuts and engravings.
If you drag the PPI slider to the furthest right (maximum), the value will change to X. This
completely disables the PPI control and continuously fires the laser non-stop, without pulsing.
Think of setting PPI to X as being equivalent to turning a water faucet on with the water continuously
flowing out. This also disables the power ramp functionality, which automatically controls the PPI
depending on the speed of the laser carriage (such as vector cutting around the corner of a square).
Tip
・ For Vector Engraving jobs, we recommend a PPI setting > 150
・ For Vector Cutting jobs, we recommend a PPI setting of > 400
• Home: Resets the positioning of the laser head to the ‘home position’ (upper-right) before
and after each job.
• Without Home: The laser head will start the next job based on the position from its graphic
application software setting, from the last position of the previous job. Upon completion of the
current job, the laser head will remain at the last position of the previous job.
• Relative: This mode sets the current laser head position to correspond to the origin (top
left) position of the graphic software. Therefore, the laser head will process the job from its
current position relative to its setting in the graphics software.
• Center: Sets the current position of the laser head as the center point for your subsequent
job. As an example, if the subsequent job is to vector cut a circle and you have the Position
Mode set to Center, then the Spirit GX will vector cut a circle around the initial position of the
laser head.
Tip
The SmartCENTER function is a quick and easy way to precisely locate the center
point between two points. A great tool for users whose jobs often require engraving
on specific locations such as on award signs and plaques.
Tip
It is highly recommended you enable the red dot laser pointer when setting / adjusting
the Position Modes, as this will ease your job positioning with enhanced accuracy.
Normally, the LaserPro Spirit GX engraves from left to right, top to bottom. Selecting Bottom Up
will force the machine to start from the bottom and work its way to the rear of the working table.
Tip
In situations where the material you will be working with may produce a lot of dust
byproducts and you are utilizing the optional air extraction system, it is recommended
that you select the Bottom To Top image output direction option. This will minimize the
amount of dust byproducts lodged in the engraved sections as the air extraction
system is vented from the rear of the machine, the same direction as the image is
processed.
This mode is useful for engraving rubber stamps, as it allows you to create the outline around
your stamp image.
NOTE
If you wish to use the Border and Cluster function simultaneously, then the Border Thickness
value must be less than the Distance value specified in the Cluster setting.
NOTE
If you wish to use the Border and Cluster function simultaneously, then the Border Thickness
value must be less than the Distance value specified in the Cluster settin
NOTE
When using the optional rotary attachment system and with the Rotary Fixture option checked,
the X value represents the length of your working piece. The Y value will be changed
to Diameter, which represents the diameter of your working piece (at the position you wish to
engrave).
When you look at your engraved test square under a magnifying glass, you may notice the edges
of your square may be slightly offset, with every consecutive engraved even or odd line protruding
past the square’s ideal edge. This occurrence may occur on the left or right side of the square and
can be compensated for by the image tuning setting. In the diagram below, the arrows refer to the
direction the laser head is moving to generate that engraved line. If the first and every other line
protrude to the left of the square’s ideal edge, you will want to set the image tuning to a negative
value. If the first and every other consecutive line protrude to the right of the square’s ideal edge,
you will want to set the image tuning to a positive value. The further the protruding lines are from
the square’s ideal edge, the larger you will need to set the Image Tuning value to compensate.
NOTE
With the Extend function enabled, the following functions are disabled: 3D Mode (Options
Page), Stamp Mode (Options Page), SmartACT (Options Page), Disable Skip White (Advanced),
Auto Focus (Pen Page), and Rotary Fixture (Paper Page).
NOTE
This option is only to be used with the Rotary Attachment optional accessory properly set up. For
instructions on how to set up the Rotary Attachment, please refer to Chapter VII of this manual.
You will need to select this option when processing a job with the optional rotary attachment
system to engrave on rounded or cylindrical objects. When you have your material and rotary
attachment properly set up:
1) Check the Rotary Fixture function and notice the change in the Paper Size fields Under
Paper Size, the X value represents the length of your work piece. Enter the length of
your work piece in this field.
NOTE
The Raster Page is only available when Black & White Mode Setting is selected from the Options
Page, this page offers a number of advanced Raster Engraving output options.
Tip
There are other ways to adjust an engraved image’s contrast such as: adjust the
power / speed settings or simply adjust the contrast of the image in software with the
graphic software application.
o Dithering Matrix: Variable depending on the Pattern Type selected. [DEFAULT
SETTING: 8x8]
This controls the resolution (dot size) and the number of dots the image is broken down
into for the dithering process. As an example, selecting 2 x 2 will shade with a 5-grade
halftone, where as an 8 x 8 Dithering Matrix will dither with a 65-grade halftone.
The following diagram is an example of the raster effects when using the different
dithering matrices.
• Error Diffusion (Raster Page): Interprets and outputs the raster engraving via the error
diffusion method. This mode will allow you to select from three diffusion types: Floyd, Stucki,
and Jarvis.
o Diffusion Type: Floyd, Stucki, Jarvis [DEFAULT SETTING: Floyd]
Each diffusion type presents the shade of image as different spread halftones instead of
dots to compose a raster image.
The following diagram is an example of the raster effects when using the different
diffusion types.
Tip
There is no “correct” or “best” setting when using the Raster options. The most
appropriate settings will be based on a variety of factors: your design, the material
you are engraving on, and the results you wish to achieve, etc. Please take some time
to experiment with the multitude of raster options to get the one you feel is the best for
your piece. This is where much of the fun in engraving is….experimentation!
NOTE
The Stamp page will only appear and be accessible when you have selected the Stamp Mode
from the Options Page.
Tip
Functions located on the other pages that are useful when making a stamp: Set
Shoulder, Pitch, Border, Invert, and Mirror.
Engraving and
Cutting Techniques
Raster Engraving
Vector Cutting
Vector and Raster
3D Tips
The Spirit GX Print Driver determines which sections should be raster engraved or vector cut based on the
outline width of that particular area or section of the design. In order to prep a particular section for vector
cutting, you will need to set that object’s fill color to white and set its outline thickness between 0.001"
(0.025mm) to 0.004" (0.1mm) via the graphics software.
1) With the text function, create a string of characters and select those characters by clicking on
the text.
2) Change the text fill color of the selected characters to white by left clicking on the white color
from the CorelDraw Color Palette (located on the right hand side of the screen)
3) Change the outline color of the selected characters outline by right clicking on the desired color
from the CorelDraw Color Palette.
4) Change the selected characters outline thickness to the thinnest width by right clicking on the
selected text → select <Properties> → Click on the <Outline> tab and change the Width to its
thinnest dimension. Click on “OK” to apply the changes.
5) Now your string of characters has been properly designated as an area to be vector cut. Simply
“print” your job (output the file to the Spirit) and watch as your string of characters is vector cut.
In these situations when there are raster engraving and vector cutting operations on a single project, the
LaserPro Spirit GX driver will interpret between raster sections and vector sections by the types of lines
and line widths of your design. Areas of your design with line widths set between 0.001" (0.025mm), 0.004"
(0.1mm) will be designated for vector cutting, and the other areas will be designated for raster engraving.
The perfect image for 3D is like those shown below. When image is ready, choose 3D Effect as the output
mode in the driver. Sometimes, for materials such as acrylic, it would show better effect if you run the job
with 2nd pass with the firing laser out-of-focus. Especially with acrylic, the 2nd pass will smooth out the
surface.
For engraving wood, as it burns easily and leaves blackened surface after the 1st pass, it is necessary to
run the 2nd pass to remove the burned surface. To do that, simply fill the image with black color as the
mask (see below) and run the black mask image with PWR 100% and SPD 100%.
Create a black
image for polishing
Optional Items
Air Extraction System Option
Air Compressor Option
SmartBOX Option
SmartMEMORY Module Option
Rotary Attachment Option
SmartGUARD Fire Alarm Option
LaserPro's Air Extraction Systems are specifically designed to prevent personnel from inhaling hazardous
fumes and dust generated by the laser process. Available for all LaserPro engravers, the LaserPro Air
Extraction System represents the latest in fume extraction and odor reduction technology for all types of
applications. Quiet operation, high vacuum capacity, compact design and long life expectancy are but
a few outstanding features. Each LaserPro Air Extraction System is powered by a maintenance-free,
continuous-running turbine. In order to ensure personnel safety and legal compliance, the LaserPro Air
Extraction System is CE-compliant for Europe and ETL-certified for the United States and Canada. To
purchase a LaserPro Air Extraction System, contact your local authorized GCC distributor.
Power Cord B
Power Cord A
2b
2a
Plugs
3) Connect a 1/4" tubing to the air tube fastener valve on the air compressor.
NOTE
It is important that the 1/4" air tubing has clean, straight cuts on each end. Jagged or slanted cuts
will not produce adequate sealing capabilities.
4) Open the bottom doors found on the front side of the Spirit GX to locate both the Air-Assist
Valve and Internal Power Sockets. As indicated below:
7) Take the unattached end of the 1/4" air tubing (other end already connected to air compressor)
and connect it to the air tube connector on the air assist valve. Make sure you press down on
the air tube fastener when inserting the 1/4" air tubing, to form a tight, secure attachment as
indicated in the diagram below.
8) Congratulations, you have finished setting up the air compressor. Make sure you have the proper
SmartAIR nozzle installed (depending on your application), before you turn on and utilize the air
compressor.
With the SmartAIR nozzle and air compressor properly installed and operating, all configurations and
settings relating to air-assist functions are controlled through the LaserPro Spirit GX print driver and
hardware control panel. Please refer to the LaserPro Spirit GX print driver and graphic control panel
sections of this manual for details on how to enable and configure air-assist functionalities.
SmartBOX Components b
a
• Cutting Box (a)
• Thumb Screws(d)
d
c
It is highly recommended that you use different setups of the SmartBOX depending on the physical
properties of the material you will be working with. Here is the recommended SmartBOX component
setups based on your working material.
Congratulations, you are now ready to position your thin, flexible materials on top of your honeycomb
table / cutting box and commence your tasks.
Damage may occur to the system if you try to raise the work table without proper setting
of the metal guard.
7) Now position the included material support stands so they support the thick, firm material you
will be working with, while avoiding the laser path. In other words, avoid placing the support
stands underneath any section of the material that will be lasered, especially during laser cutting.
INSTALLATION:
CAUTION
It is highly recommended you completely turn off the Spirit GX and unplug its cord from the
power source before installing or removing the SmartMEMORY module.
1) To install the SmartMEMORY module, you will need to first access the system’s motherboard.
To do so, use a screwdriver to remove the two screws securing the panel on the right hand side of
the Spirit GX.
2) Open the panel and to expose the Spirit GX’s motherboard.
3) Simply connect the SmartMEMORY module to the connector on the Spirit GX’s motherboard
(indicated in the pictures below).
SmartMEMORY Module
OPERATION:
With the SmartMEMORY module installed, you will be able to SAVE to and LOAD from the
SmartMEMORY :
NOTE
In order to properly use the SmartMEMORY module with the Spirit GX, please ensure the Spirit
GX’s firmware is version 1.02 or later. Also keep in mind, the capacity of the SmartMEMORY
module is 4MB, please do not save files that exceed this limit.
INSTALLATION:
1) Turn off the power of the engraver.
2) Set the rotary attachment onto the engraving table so that the bottom mounting screws
correspond to the positional holes on the engraving table. In addition, the top end of the rotary
attachment must be leveled against the engraving table with the rotary’s positional indicator
(center point of the top of the rotary attachment) aligned to the center position on the engraver’s
vertical axis.
3) With the rotary attachment properly positioned, tighten the mounting screws to secure the rotary
attachment.
4) Open the front panel of the Spirit GX and connect the rotary attachment cable to the rotary
attachment port located inside the Spirit GX's front panel (shown in the picture below).
OPERATION:
1) Use a ruler to measure the diameter (at the point on the work piece you will be engraving) and
length of the work piece you will be engraving. Make a record of this.
2) Load the work piece onto the rotary attachment by first listing the lever on the rotary attachment,
unlocking the adjustable end of the rotary attachment. Slide the adjustable end to accommodate
the length of the work piece. Load the working piece by centering the open end of the work piece
against the rubber wheel and slide the adjustable end to fit the bottom of work piece firmly. Now
simply lower the lever to secure the work piece with the rotary attachment.
CAUTION
If your work piece is small, please apply 4" focal lens for operation to prevent the lens
carriage from colliding with the rotary attachment.
3) Prepare the graphic you would like to engrave with the rotary attachment and go to the Paper
Page of the Spirit GX print driver.
NOTE
Please refer to section 5.2 of the reference manual for complete instructions on how to use the
Spirit GX's Print Properties.
4) From the Paper Page, the first thing you must do is to check the Rotary Fixture. The Paper Size
options and Rotary Parameter will change to allow for proper input based on your rotary
attachment.
NOTE
The maximum diameter and length of the to-be-engraved object is 90mm and 450mm respectively.
Its maximum weight should not exceed 7kg.
INSTALLATION:
If you have purchased your system with SmartGUARD, then no installation is required, as your system will
arrive with SmartGUARD pre-installed.
For system owners that did not initially purchase this option, but would now like to add the SmartGUARD,
they will need to contact your local authorized GCC distributor to have this great feature installed.
SmartLID™ Handles
Protective Cover
OPERATION MENU:
press F4
Functions Page
Select<Advanced
Options>from the menu
Select<SmartGUARD
Setting>from the menu
After hardware installation, please enter the function menu on the control panel to enable the
SmartGUARD fire alarm.
Basic Maintenance
Suggested Cleaning and Maintenance Supplies
Maintaining the Work table and Motion System
- Accessing the Work table and Motion System
- Cleaning the Work table and Motion System
The frequency of the cleaning schedule will depend on number of variables such as the types of material
you work with, the immediate work environment, the frequency of use, the quality of the exhaust system,
etc.
WARNING
• Electrical shock may occur if you do not turn off and unplug the Spirit GX before cleaning.
• Damage may occur to the system if you do not turn off and unplug the Spirit GX before
cleaning.
• Always turn off and unplug the Spirit GX before cleaning!
2) Manually lock the SmartLID via the two sliding locks found on each side of the metal support
rails by sliding them to the locked position (as shown in the picture below).
WARNING
Anytime you have the SmartLID open, always make sure you have properly engaged the
SmartLID manual locks on both sides of the metal support rails. Failure to do so may pose
a serious risk if the SmartLID slams down.
CAUTION
Tip
Please clean the AutoFocus pin each time after completing the engraved
job to make sure the AutoFocus pin is free to move.
You can purchase PS2 grease from NSK dealers worldwide. Please visit
http://www.nsk.com/eng/company/network/index.html for additional information.
NOTE
• Mirrors should be removed for cleaning one at a time to avoid beam misalignment after placing
them back to the lens holders.
• Refer to section 8.3.2 on how to clean the mirrors.
The following section will illustrate the location of the four mirrors found on the LaserPro Spirit
GX for cleaning.
Mirror 1
This mirror is located inside the bottom left access panel of the LaserPro Spirit GX.
1) Use a #2 Phillips Screwdriver to remove the access panel located on the bottom left side of
the LaserPro Spirit GX.
2) Loosen the thumbscrew and remove the dust cover.
3) Loosen the thumbscrew securing mirror 1. (As shown in the picture below).
Thumbscrew
Mirror 2, 3, 4
These mirrors are located in the work table area of the LaserPro Spirit GX.
Mirror 2
Mirror 4
Mirror 3
Mirror 2
1) Unscrew and remove the black dust cover covering mirror 2.
2) Unscrew the thumbscrew holding mirror 2 in place.
3) Clean the lens in the proper manner.
4) Place the mirror back to the optics holder after cleaning.
5) Tighten the thumbscrew.
6) Replace and secure the black dust cover.
Mirror 3
1) Unscrew the thumbscrew holding mirror 3 in place.
2) Clean the lens in the proper manner.
3) Place the mirror back to the optics holder after cleaning.
4) Tighten the thumbscrew.
Mirror 4
1) Unscrew the three thumbscrews securing the laser carriage
panel and remove the laser carriage panel to reveal mirror 4 and the focal lens.
2) Loosen the top thumbscrew to remove mirror 4 (as shown in the picture below).
1) Hold the mirror with the reflective side up, without touching the reflective side of the mirror
(DO NOT apply any finger pressure or any other cleaning solutions to the mirror surface).
2) Drape a new sheet of lens tissue over the mirror.
3) Apply a few drops of lens cleaner on the tissue covered mirror (apply enough so that the tissue
absorbs just enough solution to cover the mirror surface).
4) Pull the tissue across the mirror in only one direction.
5) Repeat the cleaning processes if the mirror is not completely clean after the first attempt.
6) Make sure that the mirror is completely dry before reinstalling it.
If the center of the mirror is scratched, contact your LaserPro Spirit GX dealer for a
replacement.
Basic
Troubleshooting
Non-operational Problems
• Laser does not fire
1. If the red alignment beam is not visible, the laser beam may be misaligned. Adjust the
reflection mirrors for exact focus.
2. If the red alignment beam is visible, please check the driver power. The laser power may
be set to too low for detection. Increase the percentage setting of the Laser Power from
the software driver or the control panel.
3. Check if the laser power connector is connected.
4. For safety purposes, the laser will not fire when the top lid or the front door is open unless
the door sensors are defeated by shorting them with magnets.
5. Check water level or temperature of water cooler if the equipped laser requires water
cooling. The laser tube will automatically shut down itself if the laser tube is over-heated.
NOTE
Unplug the machine before examining the mirrors, lens, motion system or any other part of the
laser system.
Other Problems
• "Graphic Was Clipped…" Message
The size or location of graphic image may be bigger or beyond the legal working area. Do not place
graphic object, especially vectors, right from (3,0) origin position, or 0 at either x or y rail of working
area on application software. Take Corel Draw for instance, even when the vector line’s width has
been set to the thinnest, it may still go beyond the border and causes the error. If the message
appears randomly but frequently even image object is smaller or within the legal border, check or
change DRAM module, a bad contact or faulty DRAM could cause such error.
The focus pin could be stocked by greasy residue that gradually forms a coating. Clean the probe
with alcohol or acetone. Check the cable of focus pin, there might be a bad contact or breakage.
Appendix
Glossary
LaserPro Spirit GX Specification Sheet
DPI – Dots Per Inch or Pixels Per Inch. The resolution of an image is defined by the amount of dots/pixels
included in an inch. The DPI setting of 500, will tell the machine to include 500 laser firings within an inch.
Driver – A software program that allows the computer to communicate with its components and
peripherals: printers, scanners, monitors, etc.
Error Diffusion (Dithering Method) - This effect uses a series of random black and white pixels to
represent shading.
Firmware – Programming permanently set into a computer’s ROM chips. This information is burned into
the computer chips and can only be changed by replacing the chips, or in the case of EEROM, by special
procedure.
Parallel Cable – The cable connection between the computer and another device (usually the printer).
This allows the computer to send several bits of data simultaneously.
Parallel Port – An outlet on your computer or electronic device that allows the computer and device
to be connected and share information simultaneously. Another common name for the parallel port is the
LPT port.
PPI – Pulses Per Inch. PPI determines the gross amount of laser pulses there will be per linear inch.
PPI is exclusively used for the vector setting. A PPI setting of 500 results in the laser firing every .002”
(500 times per inch). If the standard lens is producing a vector laser focal point of .007”, then higher
PPI settings will result in deeper, overlapping laser pulses. PPI settings lower than 150 will result in the
individual laser pulses being spread far apart, so they will not touch each other. Low PPI settings are a
good example of perforate paper.
Raster – The process of rendering a cutting or engraving by multiple horizontal lines. For example: when
cutting out or engraving a square, the raster setting will make the laser use numerous horizontal lines to fill
in the outlined space.
Raster Image – An image that is defined as a collection of arranged pixels in a rectangular array of
lines. A raster image is similar to a “Bitmap” graphics image.
Raster Line – A raster line is the individual horizontal line that makes up the raster image.
Serial Port – A connection that allows a computer to send data to a peripheral device one bit at a time.
Usually it is a COM port that meets the RS232C specification.
Vector – The process of cutting or engraving an image by using single horizontal, vertical and curved
lines. For example: when cutting out or engraving the outline of a square, the vector setting will make the
laser use a thin single line to follow the outline of the shape.
Spirit GX
Work Area 34 x 24 in. (860 x 610 mm) Extendable to 38 x 24 in. (965 x 610 mm)
Maximum Part Size All doors closed 40 x 24 x 7 in.(1016 x 610 x 177 mm)
(W x D x Thick) All doors open 40 x ∞ x 7 in. (1016 x ∞ x 177 mm)
Table Size 40.3 x 27.7 in. (1025 x 705 mm)
Dimensions 53.7 x 34.6 x 39.7 in. (1365 x 880 x 1010 mm)
Laser Source 30 to 100 Watt Sealed CO2 Laser
Cooling Air-cooled, operating environment temperature 15o- 30o C (60o - 86o F)
Drive Closed-loop DC Servo Control
Maximum Speed* 80 IPS
2
Throughput*(SIPH-Square inch per Hour) 260.9 in / hr (1683 cm2 / hr)
Throughput* with SmartACT Enabled
322.1 in2 / hr (2078 cm2 / hr)
(SIPH- Square inch per Hour)
Speed Control Adjustable from 0.1~100% (Up to 16 color-linked speed settings per job)
Power Control Adjustable from 0~100% (Up to 16 color-linked power settings per job)
Z-Axis Movement Automatic
Resolution (DPI) Available 125, 250, 300, 380, 500, 600, 760, 1000
Computer Interface Standard printer port and USB port
Memory Buffer 32MB standard (Upgradeable to 64MB)
Display Panel 4-line LCD panel showing current file name, total working time, laser power,
engraving speed, file(s) loaded into memory buffer, setup and diagnostic menus
Safety Class 3R for red pointer
Electrical Below 40Watt, 100~240 Volt AC Auto Switching;
40Watt and above, 200~240 Volt AC Auto Switching
Power Consumption 2000W- 4400W
Air Exhaust System External exhaust system required, one 4" connection on the back of the
machine.
* Speed is not equal to throughput. See dealer or visit www.laserproi.com for more