FUSION M2 32 / 40
Laser System Manual | Model 13000 / 14000

Register your system now for driver
updates and access to our Training Suite!
TRAINING.EPILOGLASER.COM/REGISTERTechnical Support: +1 (303) 215-9171
Knowledge Base: support.epiloglaser.com
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Driver/Firmware: epiloglaser.com/fusion-drivers

UPDATED JULY 2019 | EPILOGLASER.COM/MANUALSTABLE OF CONTENTS
﻿Fire Warning

1

Introduction

2

How to Use This Owner’s Manual...............................................................................................................................................2
Icons Used in this Manual..........................................................................................................................................................2

Section 1: Safety3Laser Safety...............................................................................................................................................................................3
Electrical Safety..........................................................................................................................................................................4
Fire Warning...............................................................................................................................................................................5
Safety Features and Regulatory Compliance..............................................................................................................................6
Do’s and Don’ts........................................................................................................................................................................10

Section 2: Getting Started

11

1. Unpacking the Laser System................................................................................................................................................11
2. Choose Where to Locate the System...................................................................................................................................12
3. Connecting the Exhaust........................................................................................................................................................13
4. Connecting Electrical Power.................................................................................................................................................15
5. Setting Vector Cutting Table Default.....................................................................................................................................15
6. Connect the Laser to Your Computer...................................................................................................................................15
7. Set the Fusion’s IP Address..................................................................................................................................................16
8. Sign Up for Driver Updates and Register Your System........................................................................................................17

Section 3: Driver Installation

19

Windows 7: Ethernet Installation..............................................................................................................................................19
Windows 7: USB Installation....................................................................................................................................................23
Windows 8 and 10: Ethernet Installation..................................................................................................................................26
Windows 8 and 10: USB Installation........................................................................................................................................30
Setting Up CorelDRAW Beziers Setting....................................................................................................................................33
Mac Driver Installation.............................................................................................................................................................34

Section 4: The Epilog Job Manager

43

Epilog Job Manager Instructions.............................................................................................................................................43
How to Install the Epilog Job Manager.....................................................................................................................................43
Trouble Shooting Job Manager Installation..............................................................................................................................45
Important Epilog Job Manager Notes.......................................................................................................................................46
Using the Epilog Job Manager.................................................................................................................................................46

Section 5: Using The Laser Dashboard™

55

Changing Laser Dashboard Defaults........................................................................................................................................55
General Tab..............................................................................................................................................................................56
Advanced Tab...........................................................................................................................................................................60
Color Mapping Tab...................................................................................................................................................................62
Additional CorelDRAW Laser Dashboard Features...................................................................................................................63

Section 6: Using The Epilog Mac Driver65

Mac Driver Settings..................................................................................................................................................................65
Project Setup...........................................................................................................................................................................68
Vector Cutting Lines.................................................................................................................................................................69

Section 7: Fusion Control Panel71

Display.....................................................................................................................................................................................71- i -Table of Contents
﻿
Joystick....................................................................................................................................................................................80
Job Storage: Temporary Memory.............................................................................................................................................81

Section 8: Quick Start Guide

83

Artwork Setup..........................................................................................................................................................................83
Setting a Vector Cutting Line....................................................................................................................................................84
Resolution................................................................................................................................................................................85
Piece and Page Size.................................................................................................................................................................89

Section 9: Cleaning & Maintenance91

Reduce Fire Risk with a Clean Laser.........................................................................................................................................91
Cleaning the Optics..................................................................................................................................................................91
Cleaning and Lubricating the Bearing Rails..............................................................................................................................93
Cleaning the Exhaust Plenum...................................................................................................................................................94
Laser Tube................................................................................................................................................................................97
Laser Tube Air Filter.................................................................................................................................................................97

Section 10: System Features

99

Air Assist..................................................................................................................................................................................99
Auto Focus vs. Manual Focus...................................................................................................................................................99
Crash Bar...............................................................................................................................................................................101
Image Dithering.....................................................................................................................................................................102
Color Mapping.......................................................................................................................................................................103
Reset Home Position..............................................................................................................................................................110
Red Dot Pointer......................................................................................................................................................................110
Movable Home Position.........................................................................................................................................................111
Center Engraving....................................................................................................................................................................112
Emergency Stop Button.........................................................................................................................................................114
Front Access Door..................................................................................................................................................................115
Task Plate/Vacuum Hold-Down Table.....................................................................................................................................115
Exhaust Plenum.....................................................................................................................................................................116
Safety Interlock / Laser Status Indicators...............................................................................................................................117
Rulers....................................................................................................................................................................................118

Section 11: Optional Features

119

Vector Cutting Table/Vacuum Hold-Down Table.....................................................................................................................119
Pin Table................................................................................................................................................................................120
Fusion Rim-Drive Rotary Attachment.....................................................................................................................................123
3-Jaw Chuck Rotary Attachment ...........................................................................................................................................131
eView Camera Module............................................................................................................................................................141
Dual Source Option................................................................................................................................................................152
PhotoLaser Plus.....................................................................................................................................................................154

Section 12: Upgrading the Operational Firmware

161

How to Upgrade Your Firmware.............................................................................................................................................161

Section 13: Printing From AutoCAD

163

How to Print from AutoCAD to the Laser...............................................................................................................................163

Section 14: Material Engraving Techniques

165

CO2 Laser Materials/Techniques ...........................................................................................................................................165
3D Engraving......................................................................................................................................................................165- ii -

Table of Contents
﻿
Acrylic................................................................................................................................................................................166
Anodized Aluminum...........................................................................................................................................................167
Brass - Painted...................................................................................................................................................................168
Glass..................................................................................................................................................................................169
Notary Seals: Delrin............................................................................................................................................................170
Plastic Engraving/Cutting...................................................................................................................................................171
Rubber Stamps...................................................................................................................................................................172
Wood..................................................................................................................................................................................176
Fiber Laser Materials/Techniques...........................................................................................................................................179
Metal Annealing..................................................................................................................................................................179
Metal Etching .....................................................................................................................................................................179
Metal Polishing...................................................................................................................................................................180
Plastic Marking ..................................................................................................................................................................180

Section 15: Specifications

183

Fusion Laser Technical Specifications....................................................................................................................................183
Compatibility..........................................................................................................................................................................184
Recommended PC.................................................................................................................................................................184
About The CO2 Laser Source.................................................................................................................................................185
About the Fiber Laser Source.................................................................................................................................................186
Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Notice..............................................................................................................186

Section 16: Technical Support

187

Contacting Technical Support.................................................................................................................................................187
Frequently Asked Questions ..................................................................................................................................................188

Section 17: Material Suppliers

191

Industry Material Supplier List...............................................................................................................................................191

Appendix A: Warranty Statement

195

Warranty Statement for the Fusion Laser...............................................................................................................................195

Appendix B: Material Settings

197

Fusion Series Suggested Material Settings (CO2)..................................................................................................................197
Fusion Series Suggested Material Settings (Fiber).................................................................................................................200

Index

203

- iii -

- iv -

FIRE WARNING
﻿Fire WarningYour laser system uses a high intensity beam of light that can generate extremely high temperatures whenit comes into contact with the material being engraved, marked or cut. Some materials are extremely
flammable and can easily ignite and burst into open flame setting the machine afire. This open flame is very dangerous
and has the potential to destroy not only the machine, but the building in which it is housed.
Experience shows that vector cutting with the laser has the most potential to create an open flame. Many materials are
susceptible to igniting, but acrylic, in all its different forms, has been shown to be especially flammable when vector
cutting with the laser.
Please read the following warnings and recommendations and follow them closely at all times!
• Stay with the laser. Never operate the laser system while unattended.
• Keep the area clear. Clean around the machine and keep the area free of clutter, combustible materials, explosives,
or volatile solvents such as acetone, alcohol, or gasoline.
• Be prepared with a fire extinguisher. Always keep a properly maintained and inspected fire extinguisher on hand.
Epilog recommends a Halotron fire extinguisher or a multi-purpose dry chemical fire extinguisher. The Halotron
extinguishers are more expensive than a dry chemical, but offer certain advantages should you ever need to use an
extinguisher. The Halotron extinguisher discharges a clean, easily removable substance that is not harmful to themechanics or wiring of the laser system. The dry chemical extinguisher discharges a sticky, corrosive powder that isvery difficult to clean up.
• Use Air Assist. Always use the system’s Air Assist feature when vector cutting.
• Use caution when vector cutting. Many materials have the potential to suddenly burst into flames when cut with alaser – even materials that may be very familiar to the user. Always monitor the machine when it is operating.
• Clean the laser. A buildup of cutting and engraving residue and debris is dangerous and can create a fire hazard in
its own right. Keep your laser system clean and free of debris. Regularly remove the Vector Cutting Table to clean
any small pieces that have fallen through the grid.

- 1 -INTRODUCTION
How to Use This Owner’s Manual

How to Use This Owner’s Manual
Thank you for purchasing an Epilog Fusion Laser system. Your Epilog system has been designed to be easy to operate,
but you will utilize it to its fullest potential by taking some time to read this owner’s manual prior to use. You will be readyto use the Epilog Laser system as soon as you read the first few sections. Then you can refer to topics in the remaining
sections, as you work.

Icons Used in this Manual
Look for these symbols to help you find valuable information throughout the text:

Helpful notes to keep in mind when running the laser!

This icon signifies advice you can try that will save you significant time.

This icon highlights current contact information for receiving help.

Warnings and cautions to keep in mind when running the laser.

This icon indicates the potential for fire damage when operating the laser.

- 2 -SECTION 1: SAFETY
Laser Safety

Laser Safety
The Epilog Model 13000/14000 Laser System is a Class 2 laser product, as defined in International Standard IEC 60825-1.
The Epilog Model 13000/14000 complies with 21 CFR 1040.10 and 1040.11, the Federal Performance Standards for LightEmitting Products, except for deviations pursuant to Laser Notice No. 50, dated July 16, 2001. The Center for Devices andRadiological Health, of the US FDA, issued Laser Notice No. 50 to permit manufacturers to classify and manufacture theirproducts in accordance with the International Standard.
The output of the embedded laser is fully contained. The laser cabinet has safety interlocks that turn the laser off if any
access door is opened during operation, and no special precautions are necessary to operate the laser safely. Accessdoors are interlocked and can be opened without the use of a tool. Any interlocked door that is opened while the machineis operating will immediately stop the laser from firing.
Access panels are not interlocked and require a tool for opening or removal. Access panels should always be installed
when the laser is operating. Never operate the laser system with an access panel removed.
The visible output beam of the Laser Diode Pointer (Red Dot Pointer) is accessible to the operator. While this device
employs the same technology as the familiar laser pen-pointers, like them it is potentially hazardous if its beam is directed
into the eye.
We have made every effort to make the Laser Diode Pointer (Red Dot Pointer) as safe as possible. Its beam path is locatedwell inside the cabinet, and under normal conditions, no hazardous levels of laser radiation can escape.
The operator of the Epilog Model 13000/14000 should observe the following general precautions:• DO NOT disassemble the machine or remove any of its protective covers while the unit is plugged in.
• DO NOT attempt to defeat the door interlocks.
• DO NOT view directly into the beam of the Laser Diode Pointer (Red Dot Pointer).
• DO NOT operate the Laser Diode Pointer (Red Dot Pointer) without the machine’s focus lens in place. If theunfocused beam strikes a reflective surface, it could be directed out of the cabinet.
• Caution – Use of controls or adjustments or performance of procedures other than those specified herein may
result in hazardous radiation exposure.

- 3 -Section 1: Safety
Electrical Safety

The standard reference for laser safety is the American Standard for the Safe Use of Lasers, Z136.1-2000, developedby the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). This reference is the basis for many of the federal regulations forlaser and laser system manufacturers, and for the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) laser safety
guidelines. It contains detailed information concerning proper installation and use of laser systems.
While the ANSI standard itself does not have the force of law, its recommendations, including warning signage, training,
and the designation of a laser safety officer, may be compulsory under local workplace regulations when operating laser
systems above Class I. It is the operator’s responsibility to ensure that the installation and operation of the Epilog Model
13000/14000 Laser System is performed in accordance with all applicable laws.
Copies of ANSI Standard Z136.1-2000 are available from Epilog Corporation or from:
Laser Institute of America
12424 Research Parkway, Suite 125
Orlando, FL 32826(407) 380-1553

Electrical Safety
The AC input power to the Epilog Model 13000/14000 Laser System is potentially lethal and is fully contained within thecabinet.
•DO NOT open any of the machine’s access panels while the unit is plugged in. Opening a panel
may expose the operator to the unit’s AC input power.

•

DO NOT make or break any electrical connections to the system while the unit is turned on.

- 4 -Section 1: Safety
Fire Warning

Fire Warning
Didn’t you see this already? Yes! That’s how important we think it is for you to read this information.
Your laser system uses a high intensity beam of light that can generate extremely high temperatures when it comes into
contact with the material being engraved, marked or cut. Some materials are extremely flammable and can easily ignite
and burst into open flame setting the machine afire. This open flame is very dangerous and has the potential to destroy
not only the machine, but the building in which it is housed.
Experience shows that vector cutting with the laser has the most potential to create an open flame. Many materials are
susceptible to igniting, but acrylic, in all its different forms, has been shown to be especially flammable when vector
cutting with the laser.
Please read the following warnings and recommendations and follow them closely at all times!
• Stay with the laser. Never operate the laser system while unattended.
• Keep the area clear. Clean around the machine and keep the area free of clutter, combustible materials, explosives,
or volatile solvents such as acetone, alcohol, or gasoline.
• Be prepared with a fire extinguisher. Always keep a properly maintained and inspected fire extinguisher on hand.
Epilog recommends a Halotron fire extinguisher or a multi-purpose dry chemical fire extinguisher. The Halotron
extinguishers are more expensive than a dry chemical, but offer certain advantages should you ever need to use an
extinguisher. The Halotron extinguisher discharges a clean, easily removable substance that is not harmful to themechanics or wiring of the laser system. The dry chemical extinguisher discharges a sticky, corrosive powder that isvery difficult to clean up.
• Use Air Assist. Always use the system’s Air Assist feature when vector cutting.
• Use caution when vector cutting. Many materials have the potential to suddenly burst into flames when cut with alaser – even materials that may be very familiar to the user. Always monitor the machine when it is operating.
• Clean the laser. A buildup of cutting and engraving residue and debris is dangerous and can create a fire hazard in
its own right. Keep your laser system clean and free of debris. Regularly remove the Vector Cutting Table to clean
any small pieces that have fallen through the grid.

- 5 -Section 1: Safety
Safety Features and Regulatory Compliance

Safety Features and Regulatory Compliance
Epilog has incorporated specific safety features into the Model 13000/14000 Laser System in order to meet the requirementsof 21 CFR 1040 and the International Standard IEC 60825-1. These safety features include:•

A safety enclosure (cabinet), which fully encloses the engraving laser and its beam path.

•

Dual redundant interlock systems that turn off the engraving laser when the window is opened.

•

A visible emission indication when the Laser Diode Pointer (Red Dot Pointer) is operating. There is an LED indicatoron the machine’s front panel.

21 CFR 1040 and IEC 60825-1 require that certification, identification, and warning labels be placed on laser products.
Reproductions of labels on the Epilog Model 13000/14000 Laser System follow, with their locations specified:
1. Certification/Identification Plate: This engraved plate is located on the left rear of the machine’s cabinet.

Epilog Corporation
16371 Table Mountain Pkwy.
Golden, CO 80403 USA
Model Number: 14000 Laser System
Serial Number: 14060- 1512383220
Date of Manufacture: May, 2015

Class 2 Laser Product

Authorized Representative:
cameo Laser Franz Hagemann Gmbh
Stuhrbaum14
28816 Stuhr
Deutschland
Tel: 0421 80 95 60-0
Fax: 0421 80 95 60-25
E-Mail: info@cameolaser.deThis product complies with 21 CFR 1040.10 and
1040.11 except for deviations pursuant to Laser
Notice No. 50, dated July 26, 2001.
This product complies with IEC 60825-1: 2007.
Mass:
35 kg max

Patents
Pending

Made inUSA

2. Warning Logotype: This label is located on the left rear of the machine’s cabinet, above the Certification/
Identification plate.

- 6 -Section 1: Safety
Safety Features and Regulatory Compliance33.

Descriptive Label: This label identifies the classification of the Model
13000/14000 in accordance with 21 CFR 1040.10 and IEC 60825-1. It
is located on the left rear of the machine’s cabinet, below the Warning
Logotype.

4.

Non-interlocked Protective Housing Safety Labels: These labels are locatedon, or adjacent to, removable access covers on the machine’s cabinet asshown in the diagrams to follow. Where a label is located on a removable
cover, there is an additional label under the cover so that it will be visible
when the cover has been removed.

5.

Defeatably-interlocked Protective Housing Safety Labels: There is one labelon each of the machine’s cabinet doors; one on the front door and one on the
top door.

6.

Emergency Stop Label: This label is located above the red Emergency Stop
switch on the right front of themachine’s cabinet.
12

7.

Electrical Safety Label: This label islocated on the power supply module,
inside the bay at the lower righthand side of the machine.

8.

Main Breaker Label: This label
is located on or below the power
module panel at the left rear of themachine’s cabinet.

9.

Air Assist Label: This label is locatedon the laser bay cover, at the left rearof the machine’s cabinet.

4

5

6

7

10. Aperture Safety Label: This label islocated above the aperture, inside
the cabinet, where laser beams enter
the machine’s engraving area.

89

11. Power Labels: The appropriate label
for the machine is located on or
above the power module panel at theleft rear of the machine’s cabinet.
12. Fire Warning Label: There are
two labels on top of the machine’s
cabinet; one to the left and one to theright of the top cabinet door.

11

10

- 7 -

Section 1: Safety
Safety Features and Regulatory Compliance

The following diagrams show the location of each specific label.

- 8 -Section 1: Safety
Safety Features and Regulatory Compliance- 9 -Section 1: Safety
Do’s and Don’ts

Do’s and Don’ts
Don’tsDo Not Run the Laser Unvented: Never operate the machine without a properly operating vent to the outside or to afiltration unit! Most material will only produce an irritating smoke when engraved. Some materials, including but notlimited to paint, varnish, composition board and plastics, produce compounds that can be harmful if concentrated. A
properly installed vent is the only way to ensure that problems do not occur.
Do Not Engrave or Cut PVC: Never engrave or cut any material containing PVC or vinyl. When engraved, a corrosive agent
is produced that will destroy your machine. Your warranty will be void if your machine is damaged by corrosion fromengraving or cutting PVC or Vinyl.
Do Not Operate Machine While Unattended: Never operate your machine without someone watching the system. Thereis a significant risk of fire if the machine is set improperly, or if the machine should experience a mechanical or electricalfailure while operating.
Do Not Vector Cut While Machine is Unattended: Never laser cut any material with the laser without someone watching
the system. Because vector cutting moves relatively slowly compared to raster engraving, a tremendous amount of heatis applied to the material being cut. This buildup of heat can cause significant fire risk and the machine should always bemonitored. Additionally, the Air Assist should always be turned on when vector cutting to reduce the risk of fire.
Do Not Operate The System While Doors are Open: Never operate with any of the covers or enclosures removed, andnever modify the enclosure. The laser beam is invisible and is very dangerous!

Do’s
Clean the System: Please allow a few minutes a week for cleaning your machine. Just a small amount ofeffort at the end of the week will pay off with years of trouble free operation of your machine.
See the “Section : Cleaning & Maintenance” on page 91 for specifics.

- 10 -

SECTION 2: GETTING STARTED
1. Unpacking the Laser System

Setting up your Epilog Laser System is easy to do! If you’ve ever installed a paper printer, this is only slightly more difficult.
The following information will help you understand the entire system and how it works.
Your Fusion laser system consists of the following components:
1. Fusion Laser System
2. Epilog Driver Disc
3. USB and Ethernet Cables
4. A Preprogrammed Router (eView Camera Module only)
You will also need:
1. A computer or laptop.
2. An exhaust fan: The exhaust fan is mandatory and is used to remove smoke and debris from the Fusion work area.
The exhaust air can be ported to the outside or into a filter box.
Follow these steps to setup your Fusion Laser system:
1. Unpack the laser system.
2. Choose where to locate the system.
3. Connect the exhaust system to your laser.
4. Connect the electrical power.
5. Connect the laser to your computer through USB or Ethernet.
6. Sign up for driver update and register your system at www.epiloglaser.com/register.

1. Unpacking the Laser System
Unpack the laser system from the crate provided by Epilog. Please be sure to hold on to all packing
materials and crating in case you need to move the system in the future.

- 11 -

Section 2: Getting Started
2. Choose Where to Locate the System

2. Choose Where to Locate the System
Cooling Requirements and Operating Temperatures
All Epilog Laser systems use air-cooled laser tubes. Laser technology is such that the laser tubes generate a lot of excess
heat and the tubes must be cooled for proper operation. There are cooling fans located at the back of the laser. The fansand vents should always be clear of restrictions and should never be covered.

Cooling Fans
Laser Tube Air Filter is a standard 12” x 20”
x 1” (304 x 762 x 25 mm) furnace filter andcan be found at any home store. This is more
likely to need to be changed in a dustier shop
environment.

Warning: The cooling fans and vents are located at the back of the Fusion and should never be coveredor blocked in any way. Lasers that overheat will not operate properly and may begin to produce erratic
laser output or possibly complete failure.
Ambient air temperature where the laser system is operating should not exceed 90 degrees F (32 C). Operating in anenvironment where the ambient air temperature is above 90 degrees F (32 C) will void the Epilog warranty.

- 12 -

Section 2: Getting Started
3. Connecting the Exhaust

3. Connecting the Exhaust
In this manual, the term “exhaust” refers to either an exhaust fan or a filter unit and the term “exhaust” is used forsimplicity. The important point is that it is mandatory that an exhaust unit or filter system is incorporated as part of yourlaser system. Never operate your laser system without a properly functioning exhaust. The exhaust removes the dust,
debris and smell from the engraving cavity and exhausts it to the outside of the building or to the filter unit. Prior to theinstallation of the laser system, you may need a contractor to install the exhaust system. The blower should be mounted
outside your building for noise considerations. Ideally, the blower should not be more than twenty feet (6 meters) from thelaser. You should provide a metal duct (flexible aluminum or galvanized sheet metal) from the blower to the laser. All Epilog
model 13000/14000 laser systems require an exhaust fan that is rated at a minimum of 650 CFM for external exhaust.
Epilog provides recommended exhaust flow rates (CFM) only for direct ventilation exhaust systems that are ported to theoutside. Please note that this is also a recommendation and not a requirement because factors such as length and typeof tubing from the Epilog laser to the exhaust fan and from the exhaust fan to the outside of the building can produce
significant losses on the true amount of air that is drawn from the Epilog laser.
Exhaust flow rates (CFM) for filter systems are not specified in this document. However, exhaust flow rates for filtration
units will be lower than a direct ventilation exhaust systems because filters are designed to be placed directly adjacent to
the laser system and do not exhibit the air-flow losses that are typically found with direct exhaust fans. Epilog has worked
with most major filter manufacturers to recommend a specific filter system for each model of Epilog laser. Please contact
your Epilog distributor to match a filter to the Epilog laser system you are using.
Note: Remember to put the blower switch for the laser system in an obvious and accessible place so it canbe routinely switched on prior to using the engraver. Please connect the exhaust blower to the laser asshown below and on the following
pages.
Remember, you may need a contractor to install theexhaust. This must be done PRIOR to installation of
the laser system.
Warning: It’s important that either rigid
or flexible metal ducting be used for allconnections leading to and from thelaser system and the exhaust fan. Vinyl, plastic, or
any type of “soft” ducting is potentially flammableand should not be used unless provided by thefiltration system manufacturer and made from fireproof materials.
- 13 -

Section 2: Getting Started
3. Connecting the Exhaust

Epilog Exhaust/Filter Connections
There are two 4” (102 mm) ports attached to the back of the laser system. Attach your ducting to the machine as shownin the diagram.

Roof or Exterior Wall4” (102 mm) flexible
aluminum duct orrigid galvanized sheet
metal (do not use
vinyl, plastic or “soft”
flexible duct).

Exhaust Blower

Roof or Exterior Wall4” (102 mm) flexible aluminum
duct or rigid galvanized sheet
metal (do not use vinyl, plastic or“soft” flexible duct).

Exhaust Blower

The drawings above show the typical exhaust setup. The left drawing shows the exhaust near the machine and the rightdrawing shows the exhaust fan on the roof. Where the exhaust fan is placed is a choice of personal preference. Some
users like the exhaust fan outside because of noise considerations.

Check your exhaust system for leaks. Most small leaks can be remedied with duct tape. DO NOT OPERATE
your laser with inadequate or leaking exhaust.

- 14 -

Section 2: Getting Started
4. Connecting Electrical Power

4. Connecting Electrical PowerAll Epilog laser systems have an auto-switching power supply that detects the incoming voltage and automatically switches
itself to operate properly at any single phase voltage between 100
and 240 VAC. The power supply will also automatically compensate
for either 50 or 60 Hz. Epilog supplies the appropriate power cordforthe system you ordered. The power cord is found in the accessory
package with your machine. The power cord for the laser plugs
into the power receptacle located on the left side of the machine inElectrical Connection
the rear corner. It is recommended that a dedicated 15 amp circuit
110/220 V - 50/60 Hz
be used if available, but it is not required.
The Fusion 120 watt laser system requires 208/220/240 volt electrical
power. This system will not operate on 120 volt power. The Fusion 120 watt power cord comes with a male plug type
NEMA L6-15R (which is a Hubble HBL4570C equivalent).
While the 60 and 75 watt Fusion models can operate on 110 volts, we recommended
using 208/220/240 volt electrical power to achieve maximum performance. If you would likea 220V cord for your 60 or 75Watt Fusion, please request it at time of ordering.

5. Setting Vector Cutting Table Default
If you have ordered the optional Vector Cutting Table, install it into your system (see “Installation of the Vector Cutting
Table” on page 119). On the Fusion Control Panel, use the Joystick to scroll down until Settings is highlighted. Use the
Joystick to scroll through the options until you see Vector Grid In. This indicates if the Vector Cutting Table is installed.
Center click to gain access, tilt the Joystick up or down to toggle to Yes if the Vector Cutting Table is installed. Press theGo key to make your change permanent.

6. Connect the Laser to Your Computer
You are now ready to connect your computer to the laser. The following connections can be used:
1. USB only connection: You can use the USB port for the print driver and Epilog Job Manager. Multiple laser systems
cannot be operated from a single computer through the USB connections. If you are using the USB connection, youwill need one computer for each laser system.
2. Ethernet only connection: With an Ethernet connection you can print from the Laser Dashboard and use the Epilog
Job Manager.
3. If you are using the optional eView Camera Module, you will need to use both USB and Ethernet connection. For
this connection, please see “Attaching the eView Camera System to Your Computer” on page 141.
- 15 -

Section 2: Getting Started
7. Set the Fusion’s IP Address

USB Connection
A USB cable is included in the accessory kit. The USB port is located at
the rear of the machine. USB cables have different connectors on each
Connect to the laser.
end. Before plugging in the USB cable, turn the laser OFF, then connect
one end to the laser and connect the other end into any available USB port
on your computer. After connecting the USB cable, turn the laser back on.
The computer will recognize a new USB device and walk you through the print driver installation. For detailed instructions,see “Windows 8 and 10: USB Installation” on page 30.

Ethernet Connection
The Ethernet Port is a standard 10BaseT connection. Your Epilog Laser has all of the versatility of a network capable
peripheral. As such, there are many different ways that the laser can be connected to a computer or a network. A directconnection using a crossover cable is the only method that will be described in this manual. Connect the crossover cable(included in the accessories kit) to the Ethernet port, located at the back of the machine. Plug the cable into the Ethernet
port on the laser, then plug the other end into the Ethernet port on your computer.
The Epilog Dashboard is the print driver that allows your computer to talk to your Epilog Laser system when either the USB
or Ethernet Crossover cables are connected. The driver is included in the accessories kit on a CD-ROM or on our website
at www.epiloglaser.com. To see detailed instructions on installing the print driver, see “Windows 8 and 10: Ethernet
Installation” on page 26.

7. Set the Fusion’s IP Address
1. To set the IP Address from the Fusion’s control panel, press the downarrow until Settings/Config is selected. It’ll vary depending if you have thesymbolic or text keypad.
2. Tilt the joystick down until IP Address appears.
3. Center click to gain access, tilt the Joystick up or down to increment ordecrement. Tilt left or right to move to the different sets of three numbers.
Press the Go key to make your change permanent.

- 16 -

Section 2: Getting Started
8. Sign Up for Driver Updates and Register Your System

Most Epilog users will use the IP Address of
192.168.003.004, which is what we use inthis manual.

8. Sign Up for Driver Updates
and Register Your System

IP Address
192.168.003.004

Go to www.epiloglaser.com/register and register yoursystem. You can also sign up for our monthly e-newsletter,quarterly customer printed newsletter, and sign up fordriver update notifications.

4. With CONFIG still selected, tilt the Joystick down
until Subnet Mask appears.
5. Center click to gain access, tilt the Joystick up or
down to increment or decrement. Tilt left or right tomove to the different sets of three numbers. Set theSubnet Mask to 255.255.255.0. Press the Go key tomake your change permanent.

Subnet Mask
255.255.255.0- 17 -

Section 2: Getting Started
8. Sign Up for Driver Updates and Register Your System- 18 -

SECTION 3: DRIVER INSTALLATION
Windows 7: Ethernet Installation

Next we’ll be installing the print driver. Choose youroperating system. We demonstrate Windows 7, 8, and 10
installations.

3. Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IP). Make
sure you do not select Version 6.

Windows 7: Ethernet
Installation
Set Up TCP/IP Address in theComputer
Go to your Network and Sharing Center in your computer’sControl Panel.
1. Click Change Adapter Settings.

4. If you do not have an eView Camera Module
installed, select Use the following IP Address. Typein the following IP Address: 192.168.3.3.
This number is not an error; the last digit of
the IP address in this window must be
different than the IP address you set in thelaser.
Type in a Subnet Mask of 255.255.255.0, then clickOK.

2. Right click Local Area Connection, then click
Properties.

- 19 -

Section 3: Driver Installation
Windows 7: Ethernet Installation

5. If you do have an eView Camera Module installed,choose Obtain an IP address automatically. Thenclick the OK key.

You can also download the latest driver from
epiloglaser.com/tech-support/epilog-drivers.
htm. Go to Devices and Printers on yourcomputer and click Add a Printer to start theprocess.
3. Click Add a local printer.

Installing the Driver
1. Insert the Driver CD in the computer and select yourlaser system.

4. Click Create New Port, then click on the drop-downmenu and select Standard TCP/IP Port, then click
Next.

5. Enter the IP Address to match the IP Address you
set at the Fusion laser in “Setting the IP Address”
on page 16. Most Epilog users will use the IP
Address of 192.168.3.4, which is what we use in thisdocument. After typing in the IP Address, click Next.
Wait while the computer identifies the port.

2. Select the Dashboard Driver.

- 20 -

Section 3: Driver Installation
Windows 7: Ethernet Installation

6. Select Custom and then Settings.

7. Set Protocol to LPR. This is a very important step.
Your download time will increase significantly if LPR
is not selected. Type Laser into the Queue Name,then click OK.

9. Click Have Disk.

10. Click Browse and go to the folder where you saved
the driver and click Open. (The default location is C:/
fusion_drivers.)

11. Click EpilogWinALLFusion file and click Open.

12. Click OK.
8. Click Next.

- 21 -

Section 3: Driver Installation
Windows 7: Ethernet Installation

13. Click Next.

16. If you see this screen, click Install.

17. Click Next.
14. Click Replace the current driver if requested, thenclick Next.

18. Click Finish and your driver is installed.

15. You can rename your printer here. We have notchanged it for this document, but many users like toassociate the driver name with the IP Address they
are using, for example Fusion 192.168.3.4. This isespecially helpful if there is more than one laser
connected to a single computer. Click Next.

19. You must now restart your computer before youcontinue.
20. If you will be printing from CorelDRAW, go to“Setting Up CorelDRAW Beziers Setting” on page33.

- 22 -

Section 3: Driver Installation
Windows 7: USB Installation

Windows 7: USB Installation
Please follow these instructions closely! Using a different
process to install the Dashboard driver is likely to fail if
you are using Windows 7.

4. A small window will appear in the lower right cornerof your computer screen that indicates installation
was successful. This is only partially true.
5. After a short wait you will see another small window

1. Insert the Epilog driver install disc into yourcomputer (or download the files from the website).
One of the following screens will appear. For the
USB installation, you will want to close them. We do
not want the computer to automatically try to installthe driver.

that indicates the installation was not successful.
This is what we hope to see and will lead us to
the next step in the process. If your computer isconnected to the Internet, it will take a few minutes
for your computer to display these windows. Pleasebe patient during this process and let the computer
finish trying to install the drivers. Interrupting thecomputer at this point will require you to restart theprocess.
6. After the failure notification, go to the Windows startkey (lower left corner of your computer screen).
Click Devices and Printers.

2. With the power of your laser turned off, connect theUSB cable to your computer and your Fusion.
3. Power on your laser system. It will take about aminute for the laser to initialize. After it initializes itwill start the process of installing the driver. You will
see activity on the USB icon in your system tray
(lower right corner of your computer screen).

- 23 -

Section 3: Driver Installation
Windows 7: USB Installation

7. Right click on the Fusion, Zing, Mini/Helix, orFiberMark icon. Then click Properties.

10. Click Change Settings.

11. Click the Driver tab.
8. Select the Hardware tab.

12. Click Update Driver.

9. Select the device EpilogEngraver then click
Properties.

- 24 -

Section 3: Driver Installation
Windows 7: USB Installation

13. Click Browse my Computer for driver software.

16. Once you have the proper disc drive showing clickon the Next key.

17. The progress window will appear.
18. If you see this screen, click Install.
14. Use the Browse key to direct your computer to yourdisc drive that contains the Epilog driver disc thatyou inserted earlier in this process. (You can also
download the latest driver from epiloglaser.com/
tech-support/epilog-drivers.htm.)

19. Your Epilog Laser Dashboard print driver has beensuccessfully installed on the USB port. Click Close.

15. For this document we show the DVD RW drive as
the drive where the disc is located.

20. Click Close in the next window and then Closeagain. You will then see your laser driver in the
Devices and Printers page. Click on the red X in theupper right corner of this page. That’s it! You areready to print to your laser.
21. If you will be printing from CorelDRAW, go to“Setting Up CorelDRAW Beziers Setting” on page33.

- 25 -

Section 3: Driver Installation
Windows 8 and 10: Ethernet Installation

Windows 8 and 10: Ethernet
Installation

3. Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IP). Make
sure you do not select Version 6.

Set Up TCP/IP Address in theComputer
Go to your Network and Sharing Center in your computer’sControl Panel.
1. Click Change Adapter Settings.

4. If you do not have an eView Camera Module
installed, select Use the following IP Address. Typein the following IP Address: 192.168.3.3.
This number is not an error; the last digit of
the IP address in this window must be
different than the IP address you set in thelaser.
2. Right click Local Area Connection, then click
Properties.

Type in a Subnet Mask of 255.255.255.0, then clickOK.

- 26 -

Section 3: Driver Installation
Windows 8 and 10: Ethernet Installation

5. If you do have an eView Camera Module installed,choose Obtain an IP address automatically. Thenclick the OK key.

You can also download the latest driver from
epiloglaser.com/tech-support/epilog-drivers.
htm. Go to Devices and Printers on yourcomputer and click Add a Printer to start theprocess.
3. Windows 8 and 8.1/10 have different paths.
Choose your operating system:
In Windows 8:

Installing the Driver
1. Insert the Driver CD in the computer and select yourlaser system.

4. In Windows 8.1/10:
Select The printer that I want isn’t listed.

2. Select the Dashboard Driver.

Click Add a local printer or network printer withmanual settings. Click Next.

- 27 -

Section 3: Driver Installation
Windows 8 and 10: Ethernet Installation

5. Select Create a new port, then Standard TCP/IP
Port. Click Next.

8. Set Protocol to LPR. This is a very important step.
Your download time will be greatly increased if LPR
is not selected. Type Laser into the Queue Name andclick OK.

6. Enter the IP Address to match the IP Address you
set at the Fusion laser in “Setting the IP Address”
on page 16. Most Epilog users will use the IP
Address of 192.168.3.4, which is what we use in thisdocument. After typing in the IP Address, click Next.
Wait while the computer identifies the port.

9. Click Next.

10. Click Have Disk.
7. Select Custom, then Settings.

- 28 -

Section 3: Driver Installation
Windows 8 and 10: Ethernet Installation

11. Click Browse, browse to the folder where you saved
the download. The default location is c:/fusion_
driver.

15. Click Replace the current driver if requested andclick Next.

12. Click EpilogWinALLFusion file and click Open.
16. You can rename your printer here. We have notchanged it for this document, but many users like toassociate the driver name with the IP Address they
are using, especially if there is more than one laser
connected to a single computer. For example, wemight rename the driver Fusion 192.168.3.4. Click
Next.

13. Click OK.

14. Click Next.

17. If you see this page, click Always trust softwarefrom “Epilog Corporation” then Install.

18. Click Next.

- 29 -

Section 3: Driver Installation
Windows 8 and 10: USB Installation

19. Click Finish and your driver is installed.

4. Once your laser has initialized, there will not be any
real indication on your computer that it is ready to
install the Epilog driver, but it is ready.
5. In Windows 8, open the Charms Bar and click on the
Search charm. To access the Charms Bar move yourmouse into the lower right corner of your display.

20. You must now restart your computer before you
print to the laser.
21. If you will be printing from CorelDRAW, go to“Setting Up CorelDRAW Beziers Setting” on page33.
6. Type the word Control into the search bar. Click on
the Control Panel box under Apps in the upper left ofthis window. In Windows 10, you can search for thisfrom the desktop.

Windows 8 and 10: USB
Installation
Windows 8 will not automatically walk you throughthe installation process so it is important to follow the
instructions below.
1. Insert the Epilog driver install disc into yourcomputer (or download the files from the website).
One of the following screens will appear. For the
USB installation, you will want to close them. We do
not want the computer to automatically try to installthe driver.

2. With the power of your laser turned off, connect theUSB cable to your computer and your Fusion.
3. Power on your laser system. It will take about aminute for the laser to initialize.
- 30 -

7. Click Devices and Printers.

Section 3: Driver Installation
Windows 8 and 10: USB Installation

8. In the Unspecified section of Devices and Printers,right click on the Fusion icon, then click Properties.

11. Click Change Settings.

12. Click the Driver tab.
9. Select the Hardware tab.

13. Click Update Driver.
10. Select the device EpilogEngraver. Then click
Properties.

- 31 -

Section 3: Driver Installation
Windows 8 and 10: USB Installation

14. Click Browse my Computer for driver software.

17. Once you have the proper disc drive showing click
the Next key.

15. Use the Browse key to direct your computer to yourdisc drive that contains the Epilog driver disc thatyou inserted earlier in this process.
18. Wait while until the progress window disappears,
then you may be asked if you want to install thisdriver. Click Always trust software from “Epilog
Corporation” then Install.

19. Your Epilog Laser Print Dashboard has beensuccessfully installed on the USB port. Click Close.
16. Find the disc drive with the Epilog install disc andclick OK.

- 32 -

Section 3: Driver Installation
Setting Up CorelDRAW Beziers Setting

20. In the next window, click Cancel.

Setting Up CorelDRAW
Beziers Setting
Due to the way that the Fusion series handles vector lines,
there is a setting in CorelDRAW that needs to be changed
for vector cutting to work properly. This only affects
CorelDRAW and is not necessary if you are using othergraphic software.
1. In CorelDRAW, go to Tools > Options.

21. You will see your driver in the Devices and Printerspage. Click on the red X in the upper right corner ofthis window and you are ready to print!

2. Under Global > Printing, choose DriverCompatabilities. Next to Printer choose the Fusion
Laser you just installed. Check the box “Sendbeziers and paths to driver” and click OK.
22. If you will be printing from CorelDRAW, follow thenext steps for Setting CorelDRAW’s Beziers.

- 33 -

Section 3: Driver Installation
Mac Driver Installation

Mac Driver Installation

4. Click Continue.

Installing the Epilog Mac Driver for
the First TimeIf you already have the Mac Driver installed
and just want to add the ability to work on
Sierra OS, go to “Installing the Mac Driveron Sierra OS” on page 35.
1. Go to epilogfiles.com/epilog-test/EpilogApps.dmg
and double click to load the file.
2. The following screen will appear. First double click
the GhostscriptInstaller.mpkg file.

5. The software license agreement will appear. Click
Continue.

3. A welcome screen appears. Click Continue.

6. Choose to Read License then click Agree.

- 34 -

Section 3: Driver Installation
Mac Driver Installation

7. Select Install.

10. Go back to the installer and double click
EpilogInstall.mpkg.

11. The installation process for the EpilogInstaller is thesame as for the Ghostscript file. At the end of theinstallation you will be asked to reboot. Reboot tocomplete the driver installation.
8. Type in the password epilog (lower case) as the
password then click Install Software.

Installing the Mac Driver on Sierra
OS
To install the Mac Driver on Sierra OS there are a few
additional steps.
1. Go to Settings.

9. Press Close to finish the first part of the install.

- 35 -

Section 3: Driver Installation
Mac Driver Installation

2. Select Printers and Scanners.

5. Click the IP icon.

3. Highlight and delete any existing Epilog drivers byselecting the minus symbol.

6. Fill out the following information:aType 127.0.0.1:55000 next to address.
Important! Notice that a colon separates the 1
and 55000.

b

Set Protocol to HP Jetdirect - Socket.

cProvide a name for the printer. We have named
the printer Epilog.

d

In the Use drop-down menu, click on SelectSoftware.

4. Add a new driver by clicking the plus symbol.
a
b

c

d

- 36 -

Section 3: Driver Installation
Mac Driver Installation

7. Select Epilog Corporation Epilog PDE, then clickOK.

11. Go to the Finder/Applications.

12. Finally, drag the Epilog icon into the dock.

8. Click Add.
13. Click the Epilog icon and the Epilog viewer willopen. At this point, there is nothing in the viewer,
but it needs to be open before we print a job.

9. And you’re done! The Mac driver has been installed.
10.

Setting up an IP Address:
After installing the Epilog print App, we need to establish
IP Addresses for both the Fusion and the computer.
Setting an IP Address in the Fusion is detailed in Section
2 of the Fusion Owner’s Manual.
The Epilog Mac driver can only print using an Ethernet
connection. A USB connection will not work.
We will first set up an IP Address in the print App thatmatches the IP Address in your Fusion laser system.

- 37 -

Section 3: Driver Installation
Mac Driver Installation

1. To establish an Ethernet connection, connect yourcomputer to the Fusion laser system using an
Ethernet cable. Turn on your Fusion.

6. From your computer go to System Preferences andthen select Network.

2. From your computer, open the EpilogApp and click
the + button in the Machine section.

3. Type in a Name for your Fusion and the IP Address
the Epilog print App is going to send/print files to.
This IP Address must be the same as the IP Addressthat is set in your Fusion Laser system.

4. Click OK. The Epilog App is now ready to print to IP
Address 192.168.3.5.
5. We now want to set up an IP Address for yourcomputer that is different from the IP Address inyour Fusion laser system.

7. If your Fusion laser system is powered on and the
Ethernet cable is plugged in your Ethernet should beconnected.

8. Select Manually for the Configure IPv4 setting, andthen type in an IP Address that is different from the
IP Address of your Fusion system.
9. Type in the Subnet Mask as shown, then click on
Apply.
10. You should now be able to print a job from yourcomputer to your Fusion laser system.

- 38 -

Section 3: Driver Installation
Mac Driver Installation

11. Now, go back to Illustrator and setup your artwork.
The artwork below has been prepared on a 8” x
10.5” page. We’re ready to print so go to File/Print.

12. The standard print window will come up. It will bedifferent depending on which version of Mac OS you
are using. Set you Printer and PPD to Epilog.

15. Select Epilog Settings

16. Set your laser Settings.

13. Click on Printer to access the laser settings.

14. Click on the Layout dropdown menu.

17. Once your settings have been established, click on
Print. This will take you back to the Print window.

- 39 -

Section 3: Driver Installation
Mac Driver Installation

Vectors

18. After establishing your settings, you will return tothis window. Click on Print again.

Unlike Windows, the Mac driver can vector many different
line weights. However, like Windows, the most predictable
way to designate which lines will be vectors is to set thestroke in Illustrator to the smallest line available.
One of the really nice features in the Mac driver is that you
can actually see the lines that are vectors in the viewer.
1. To see the lines that will vector cut, click on Preview
Final. The vector cut lines less than 1 px will beshown in red.
19. After clicking Print, the driver will transfer the jobfrom the Print window to the Epilog viewer. The
Epilog Transfer icon will appear in the Dock. The
transfer takes several seconds, but once the transfer
icon disappears you can click on the Epilog icon toaccess the viewer.

20. Once the Transfer icon disappears, the Viewer
icon will bounce up and down and you can clickon it to access the Epilog viewer. It’s important toremember that the Epilog viewer icon must be open
before Printing. If it is not open, pause the transfer,open the viewer, and then restart the transfer.
You are now ready to Print to the Fusion (lower rightcorner). You can click on Edit Settings if you would
like to access or change your laser parameters forthis job.

In this example, you can see there are red vector linesthat will vector. There are red lines that make up the iPad
Air template, used for alignment, and another red box
above the photograph.
Notice that there is a box in this example with a wide
black line, this line has a 3.5 px stroke, and is designatedto engrave at this size. We can designate this line tovector cut instead.
2. Adjust the Vector Less Than value in the lower rightcorner. Increasing this value will designate thisheavy line as a vector cut line.

- 40 -

Section 3: Driver Installation
Mac Driver Installation

3. After increasing the value to 4 px and clicking on
Preview Final again, we now have two boxes that will
be vector cut.
When using this beta version it is a goodidea to use px (pixels) to determine stroke
thicknesses of your vector cut lines. This will
make it easier to define which vector lines cut
and which vector lines engrave in the Epilog Mac DriverApp.

- 41 -

SECTION 4: THE EPILOG JOB MANAGER
Epilog Job Manager Instructions

Epilog Job Manager
Instructions

3. In Windows 8 or 8.1 you may see this message.
Click More Info.

The Epilog Job Manager is a powerful new tool that willquickly become one of your favorite features on yourlaser system. From one piece of software, you can accessany job you have sent to the laser, view the settings
you used on any past job, re-run projects, access yourmaterial database, and much more. It’s a great addition to
the Epilog Laser product features, and we look forward toseeing how our customers use this software!
• Windows 7/8/10 is required to use the Epilog Job
Manager.

4. Click Run Anyway.

How to Install the Epilog Job
Manager
1. If you have a previous version of the Epilog Job
Manager installed, you must uninstall it before youcontinue.
2. On your driver CD, select the Job Manager.
5. Click Next.

You can also download the Job Manager
from epiloglaser.com/tech-support/drivers.
htm.

- 43 -

Section 4: The Epilog Job Manager
How to Install the Epilog Job Manager

6. Click Next.

9. Click Next.

7. Click Next.

10. Click Install.

8. Accept the license, then click Next.

11. The installation will take a few moments.

- 44 -

Section 4: The Epilog Job Manager
Trouble Shooting Job Manager Installation

12. Click Finish and the Job Manager is installed.

Trouble Shooting Job
Manager Installation
If you were unable to install the Job Manager, it’s possiblethat your Anti-Virus software is blocking installation.
To disable Symantec Anti-Virus software, choose
Options. Other anti-virus packages should havesomething similar to Symantec.

13. A Job Manager icon will be automatically added toyour Desktop. You are now ready to use the Job
Manager.

Disable all Virus and Spyware Protection Features. Afterthe Job Manager has been installed go back into yourAnti-Virus software and re-enable the setting that was
disabled.

- 45 -

Section 4: The Epilog Job Manager
Important Epilog Job Manager Notes

Important Epilog Job Manager Notes••

Warning: Before activating your laser, install the newest version of the driver to properly associate thecorrect machine with the Job Manager.
We suggest a minimum of 1 GB of free RAM space when managing very large raster and vector jobs.

Using the Epilog Job Manager
Activate a Laser
1. The first time you open the Job Manager you’ll see a tab for each of the models. You will need to activate your laser
system to get started. Click the correct tab, then your system. You can activate multiple machines if you havemore than one laser.

2. To activate your machine:●● Machine Name: Give your machine a name (Fusion M2 32).
●● Printer Name: Select your installed laser from the drop-down list.
Important - if you do not choose the correct printer you will not
be able to print from the Epilog Job Manager!
●● Serial Number: This is not your machine serial number, but theUSB serial number that can be found in your system’s Settings
menu. On the laser’s control panel, arrow down to Settings, thenmove the Joystick down until you see Serial #.
●● Select the correct machine series, wattage, etc. The Laser Power is very important because it will automaticallyload the proper material setting files for your specific wattage of laser.
- 46 -

Section 4: The Epilog Job Manager
Using the Epilog Job Manager●● Select eView System Installed if you have theoptional eView Camera Module installed.
●● Click Save.

2. Select the Camera tab, then select the system you
activated from the drop-down list if you have morethan one laser activated. Click Save to finish.

3. Your new laser has been activated in the Job
Manager and appears in the left panel. The Job
Manager is now ready to accept jobs from the print
driver.Use the Add or Delete keys to add additional
machines or to remove a laser. Below you can see
we have installed an additional Helix laser system to
the Job Manager.

Printing to the Epilog Job Manager
Setting Up the eView Camera
ModuleIf you have the eView Camera installed on your Fusion
laser system, associate your eView Camera with thecorrect laser. Follow the following steps:
1. Click on the Gear icon in the top left corner to open
the Program Settings.

Create a file in your graphic software and set your laserparameters in the print driver.
In the driver you’ll see a selection available under theCenter-Engraving area. You can choose to print to either
the printer (your laser system), the Job Manager, or both.
This allows you to send your job to the Job Manager
without sending it to the laser so you can then print thatjob directly from the Job Manager at a later time without
accessing your graphic software. This is an easy way to
set up an entire day’s jobs all in one place.

- 47 -

Section 4: The Epilog Job Manager
Using the Epilog Job Manager

Organizing Your Print Jobs

Type in the folder name and click the check mark tocreate your new folder.

Click the Jobs tab. All print jobs will be displayed in the
Uncategorized folder. Click on your job to highlight it. You
can now Print, Edit, Preview or Delete this job using theavailable icons.

Move an Uncategorized File to a Folder

Create and Delete Job Folders
Click the Add Job Folders icon to add folders. We added
folders for this customer’s three largest customers. You
can add as many folders as you’d like.

- 48 -

When you highlight a folder you will see From
Uncategorized on the right side of the folder. Click From
Uncategorized to move a job from the Uncategorizedfolder to this subfolder. Select the job you want to moveand click OK.

Section 4: The Epilog Job Manager
Using the Epilog Job Manager

Create Subfolders
First highlight the folder in the left panel where you wantto add a subfolder. Below we have highlighted theAnamosa High School folder. Click the Add Subfolder
icon. Type the subfolder name in the Add SubFolder
field, then click the check mark to create the subfolder.

Using the Material Setting
Configurations
The Material Settings tab stores all of the suggested laserparameters like speed, power, etc. These settings were
loaded based on the wattage you specified in the Laser
System tab (adding your laser was the very first thing
you did to start using the Job Manager).

Move a Job Between Folders
You can also move any job to another folder or subfolder
by double-clicking on the job. Select the Folder andSubfolder from the drop-down menus where you want tosave the job. You can save the job with the same name or
you can save as a new job. You can also modify yourlaser settings and save them with the job. Click Save tocontinue.

To use the material settings that are automatically loadedin your Job Manager, go to the Jobs tab and double-clickon the job you want to process.
Click the Import icon.

- 49 -

Section 4: The Epilog Job Manager
Using the Epilog Job Manager

Navigate to the material setting you need. We havehighlighted 1/8” Cherry/Alder/Walnut 300 DPI. Click OK.
Your new settings have been automatically applied toyour job file. You can now save this file, save the file as adifferent name or print from this window. Double clicking
on the artwork will take you to the full preview window,
which is explained in the next frame.

In the Preview mode you can preview just the rastercomponents of your job, or just the vector components.
We have selected vector to show only the vector
components of this job. The preview mode is very usefulin identifying unwanted vector components in a job.

Searching For a Job
The Job Manager has a powerful search function.
Type in part of a file name and press enter to find all files
related to that name.

Previewing Your Job
To view a preview of the job, click on the Preview tab.

You can organize files by standard, created, last printed,
or alphabetically to find a specific file.

- 50 -

Section 4: The Epilog Job Manager
Using the Epilog Job Manager

Notice that the jobs are displayed differently if youchange the search category to Alphabetical. Your jobs
are now displayed in alphabetical order. Once the searchis finished and the job is found, most users revert back to
the default selection of Standard.

Color Mapping
To access the Color Mapping settings used in a file,
double-click on the file to open the Job Information, thenclick the Colors tab.

You can modify the settings, save as a new job, save as
the same job, print, preview, etc from this window.

Finding Job History
Click the History tab to see a full print history of a job,
including settings you used in each print. You’ll see whatmachine it was printed to, when it was first printed (Initial
Print), all subsequent prints, and all laser parametersused. To access this, double-click on the job, then selectHistory.
You can modify, print or save from this window using thelisted settings or with new setting. The new setting will
be saved as the next print job complete with time stampand date.

- 51 -

Section 4: The Epilog Job Manager
Using the Epilog Job Manager

Vector Sorting

Changing Program Settings

You can determine the cutting order of vector lines directlyfrom the Epilog Job Manager.

You can access the Program Settings by clicking on thegear at the top right of the page.

You can choose from three different vector sorting options:

On this screen you can set several different systemsettings, including:

1. None: Vector line cutting order is determined by theorder they were created.
2. Optimized: The laser will process the vector lines
looking for the next closest node for quicker
vectoring.
3. Inside/Out: All internal vector paths in the file will
be process prior to the external vector paths. For
example, if cutting the letter O, the inner oval will be
cut before the outer oval.
Display Tab:
• Language: Choose from several languages.
• Default Length Units: Choose from inches,
millimeters, or centimeters.
Alerts Tab:
Choose when the program asks for confirmation when
you delete machines, folders, subfolder, jobs andmaterials, or pages.

- 52 -

Section 4: The Epilog Job Manager
Using the Epilog Job Manager

Database Tab:
• Backup Database: Save a backup of all files, material
settings, etc.
• Restore Database: Reload settings from a previous
backup.
• Clear Entire Database: Delete all settings, machines
and jobs from the database.
• Clear All Jobs: Delete all jobs in the database.
• Clear Uncategorized: Clear out all uncategorizedjobs in the database.
Camera Tab:
Set which system has an eView camera attached.
We will be adding new features to the software often, so
sign up for the Driver Update Notification list at www.
epiloglaser.com/tech-support/epilog-drivers.htm.

- 53 -

SECTION 5: USING THE LASER DASHBOARD™
Changing Laser Dashboard Defaults

The Epilog Dashboard is the print driver that sends your artwork and laser parameters from the computer to the laser.
The Dashboard is shown below and can be installed from the driver CD that came in your accessories kit. It can also be
downloaded from the Epilog website. If you are just getting started and are in a hurry to engrave a job, you can do so by
setting just a couple of parameters in the Dashboard without having a detailed understanding of what different choices
are available to you.
Note! When using the slider bars, there are several different ways to get the desired setting. These different
methods all follow standard Windows protocol, so they will work in other Windows software applications too.
• Change the settings by clicking on the slider bar tomove it, or type in exact numbers to the right of the slider.
•

Holding down the Alt key while clicking close to the slider will bringup a box outlining the slider and allow you to move in increments often.

The following sections provide detailed explanations of the different features in the Print Driver. Most engraving andcutting jobs can be accomplished by using only the General tab of the Print Driver. Advanced features for more complex
jobs can be found under the Advanced and Color Mapping tabs.

Changing Laser Dashboard Defaults
If you would like to permanently change any of the settings that we walk through on the next few pages, you can easily
set a new default for each of them.
1. Go to Control Panel | Devices and Printers
2. Right mouse click on the Epilog Engraver.
3. Click Printing Preferences.
4. Change any of the settings. These changes will become the default settings for each new print job.
5. Click OK and close out all open windows.

When would you want to do this?
Most users set their defaults to match the materials they use the most. They might set the speed default to 100% because
they only engrave acrylic. They might only vector cut so they set the default Job Type to vector, or they might set the page
size to match the size of the engraving table. By following these quick steps you can make sure that these are the settings
you see every time you open the print driver.

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Section 5: Using The Laser Dashboard™
General Tab

General Tab
The General Tab is where you will find 90% of the features you will utilize when sending jobs to the laser. Everything fromresolution to speed and power settings are all located on this one page.

5

9

1
6
2

7

3
4

1

10
8

Resolution

Set your print resolution from 75 to 1200 DPI. For the best engraving results, use a resolution equal to the resolution in
the raster images within your project setup. The resolution setting in the print driver will affect the engraving time (there
are twice as many engraved lines at 600 DPI as at 300 DPI) and the quality. For a detailed discussion on Resolution, visit“Resolution” on page 85.

2

Center Engraving

The Center Engraving Option allows you to define the center of your artwork as the primary reference point (Home
Position) of your engraving or cutting job. The Center Engraving Option has been designed to be used in conjunction with
the Jog feature on the Fusion Control Panel. Center engraving differs from standard printing where the upper left cornerof the page and the upper left corner of the laser table define your primary reference point. For more information, visit“Center Engraving” on page 112 in the manual.

3

Rotary Options

Use this check box if you are using the optional 3-Jaw Chuck Rotary Attachment. With this Rotary Attachment you willneed to enter the material’s diameter in this selection. See “3-Jaw Chuck Rotary Attachment” on page 131 for more
information.

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Section 5: Using The Laser Dashboard™
General Tab
4

Job Manager Features

You can choose to print to either the printer (your Fusion Laser), the Job Manager, or both. This allows you to send yourjob to the Job Manager without sending it to the laser so you can then print the job directly from the Job Manager at a latertime without accessing your graphic software. This is an easy way to set up an entire day’s jobs all at one time.
5

Laser TypeThe same Fusion driver is used to control either the CO2 or the fiber laser depending on your machine configuration. If afunction does not apply to the laser type installed in your machine, that function will be grayed out. You’ll also see a notereminding you that if you have the Optional Dual Source (CO2 and fiber) laser system, you will need to use Color Mapping
if both CO2 and fiber are used in the same project. For more information see “Setting Up a Dual Source Job” on page152.
6

Auto Focus

Check this box when you want to use machine’s Auto Focus capabilities. Measure the thickness of the material you areusing and input the number into the Thickness box. Before the job starts the table will automatically move up or down sothat the top of your material is the correct distance from the bottom of the focus lens. If the Auto Focus box is not selected,
the table will not move up or down when the job starts.
When the Vector Grid is installed and you want to use Auto Focus, click both the Auto Focus box and the Vector Grid box.
This tells the laser system that the Vector Grid is installed and it will automatically compensate for the combined thicknessof the grid and your material.

OffsetOffset allows you to focus at any point above or below the surface of your material. When engraving acrylic many users
like to focus above the surface to produce a “softer” finish to the engraving. Conversely, when cutting acrylic, many users
like to focus about half way into the acrylic. Offset allows you to do this automatically. A positive value will move the tableaway from the focus lens. A negative value, such as -.095, will move the table closer the focus lens.
The material thickness is still required when using the Vector Grid. If a thickness is not specified the system
will Auto Focus to the top of the Vector Grid, not to the top of your material. For a detailed discussion on Auto
Focus, visit “Auto Focus vs. Manual Focus” on page 99.

- 57 -

Section 5: Using The Laser Dashboard™
General Tab
7

Job Type

Choose between the three modes of operation.
• Raster Mode: Used for engraving or marking materials. Typical uses include engraving clipart, scanned images,
photos, text and graphic images. Vector lines that you want to engrave rather than cut should be set 0.006” (0.152mm) or greater line thickness.
• Vector Mode: Selected when you are running only cut lines or for use with the Red Dot Pointer for previewing thejob processing area. For vector mode, a line is recognized as a line to be cut based on the line width (or stroke).
These lines can also be affected by resolution. For more information, see “Setting a Vector Cutting Line” on page
84. To make things easy, set any cut lines to a line width of 0.001”, or hairline width in CorelDRAW.
• Combined Mode: Used when you engrave and cut in the same job. The laser will always engrave first, then follow
with the vector mode.
Note on Vectors: If you are in Vector or Combined mode, all thin lines will be vector cut! This can be
disconcerting because even if the lines are not visible in your artwork they will still cut. Usually, this happens
when incorporating a clipart image that has hidden lines that are not readily apparent. Please refer to “Settinga Vector Cutting Line” on page 84 for an illustrated explanation of how this can affect your work.

8

Piece SizeEnter the size of the page you used when creating your artwork. Some laser users prefer to design their piece with a page
size matching the page they are engraving, while others prefer to design with the page size set to the full engraving table.

9

Raster Settings

Speed: Determines the travel speed of the carriage in Raster mode and is adjustable in 1% increments from 1 to 100%.
The slower the speed, the deeper the engraving. Speed settings are heavily dependent on the hardness and the thicknessof the material being engraved with harder materials requiring slower speeds for deeper engraving. Slower speed settings
will produce greater depth of engraving. Please refer to “Appendix B: Material Settings” on page 197 in this manual.
Power: Determines the amount of laser energy that is delivered to the piece being cut and is adjustable in 1% incrementsfrom 1 to 100%. The higher the power, the deeper the engraving. Please refer to “Appendix B: Material Settings” on page
197 in the manual.
Engrave Direction: This feature applies to raster engraving only and allows you to engrave your project either from the
top-down or the bottom-up direction. In standard top-down engraving there can be a large amount of engraving debris
generated, especially on materials such as plastic, wood and rubber. As the debris moves toward the exhaust plenum,
some of it collects in the area that has just been engraved. Bottom-up engraving prevents the debris from collecting in the
freshly engraved spaces.

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Section 5: Using The Laser Dashboard™
General Tab

Dithering: This setting defines how the dot patterns will be engraved in raster images that contain grayscale images,
blends, or color. The Dashboard offers six different dithering patterns to enhance your engraving projects. The default
mode is Standard. This mode can be used for all images, including photographs, but some images improve when engravedwith other dithering patterns Dithering is used only for Raster engraving and has no effect on vector cut lines. For more
information, go to “Image Dithering” on page 102.

10Vector Settings

Speed: Determines the travel speed of the carriage in vector cutting mode and is adjustable in 1% increments from 1
to 100%. The slower the speed, the deeper the cut. Most cutting applications require relatively slow speed settings,
and the speed is heavily dependent on the hardness and the thickness of the material being cut. Slower speed settings
will also produce better edge quality. High speeds are provided for draft mode only and are not intended for production
applications. For more information, visit “Appendix B: Material Settings” on page 197.
Power: Determines the amount of laser energy that is delivered to the piece being cut and is adjustable in 1% incrementsfrom 0 to 100%. The higher the power, the deeper the cut. The amount of power necessary to cut completely through agiven material is also heavily dependent on the hardness and the thickness of the material. For more information, visit“Appendix B: Material Settings” on page 197.
Frequency: The number of laser pulses that the laser fires per inch of travel. The frequency is set in the dashboard andcan be adjusted from 1 to 100. A lower frequency number will have the effect of less heat because fewer pulses are being
used to cut the material. Lower frequency rates are helpful for products like wood, where charring is evident at higher
frequencies. High frequencies are useful on materials like acrylic where a large amount of heat is desirable to melt or flame
polish the edges.
Speed Comp: Reduces all speed settings by one half. For example, a speed setting of 10 without Speed Comp selected
will move twice as fast as a setting of 10 with Speed Comp selected. In essence, Speed Comp provides an alternative setof speed parameters that are one half the speed of the standard settings. Speed Comp mode will most often be used withspeed settings below 10 when very slow cutting is desired. Most users will rarely use Speed Comp mode, but it creates
additional functionality for unusual or demanding applications.
Power Comp: When checked Power Comp reduces the laser output when the laser carriage slows as it moves through acurve. Consider it a slow cutting option. Selecting Power Comp is especially useful for vector cutting jobs that incorporatea large number of curves.
Most users find that keeping Power Comp selected is the preferred setting.

- 59 -

Section 5: Using The Laser Dashboard™
Advanced Tab

Advanced Tab
The advanced tab contains advanced features including 3D, stamp mode and configurations.

1

2
4
3

1

Raster Type

Basic Mode: This is the mode you will use for most engraving projects. The laser will use a uniform engraving speed andpower for the graphic, providing a consistent engraving.
3D Mode: When selected, instead of looking at the dots and determining where to fire the laser based on the dot spacing,
we look at the dots and determine how much laser power (wattage) to apply to each dot, allowing us to create a 3D effectwhen deep engraving in materials like wood. For more information go to “3D Engraving” on page 165.
Stamp Mode
The stamp option automatically converts your artwork into to a format that will produce a laser engraved stamp. Thisfunction automatically inverts your artwork so that the background is engraved away while your text and graphic images
are left standing. It also puts a supporting shoulder around every component of the artwork.

2

Stamp Settings

The stamp option automatically converts your artwork into to a format that will produce a laser engraved stamp. Thisfunction automatically inverts your artwork so that the background is engraved away while your text and graphic images
are left standing. It also puts a supporting shoulder around every component of the artwork. Because of the unique natureof Stamp mode, we have devoted a sub-section on all aspects of stamp making and printing. Please see “Rubber Stamps”
on page 172 in this manual for detailed instructions on producing and printing- 60 -

Section 5: Using The Laser Dashboard™
Advanced Tab

Select Stamp to enable stamp
mode options.
Shoulders: Adjusts the angleof the sides of the stamp.
Widening: Adjusts theboldness of the character.
Mirror: Inverts the artwork.
Fence: Defines outer borders.

3

Update Firmware

When you are ready to update your Fusion firmware, click here and load the file. For more information, visit “Section :Upgrading the Operational Firmware” on page 161.

Configurations
The Configurations feature is a comprehensive data management tool that is used to save all of your Dashboard
settings for individual jobs. Saving the Dashboard settings as a database file allows you to retrieve the job parametersat a later time. This saves you the trouble of trying to remember what speed and power and other settings you used on ajob you did three months ago. All of your settings can all be stored as a permanent record.
4

For example, in this database we have settings for acrylic, coated steel, glass, and many more. After each configuration file
name, you can see if the saved settings are for a Raster, Vector or Combined job, the resolution, and the piece size withinthat file. To use any of these settings, click the Load key.
If you find a setting you would like to save into a new configuration file, simply create the settings within the three Laser
Dashboard tabs, then click Save.
The Driver Disc has a number of preset configuration files available. When you unzip your selected wattage’s configuration
files, they will save to c:/epilog/engraving setting. This is the default folder that the Laser Dashboard will look in to load
files available for your laser. After you have found the configuration files you want to use, click on the General tab to see
the settings that the loaded file brings up.

- 61 -

Section 5: Using The Laser Dashboard™
Color Mapping Tab

Color Mapping Tab
The Color Mapping feature is an advanced feature that must be checked to activate. Color Mapping is designed to be usedin either Raster mode or Vector mode, but not in Combined mode. While Color Mapping is a very powerful tool, mostoperators use it for a few main reasons:

1

2

3

•

Using color to define different levels of focus. Many objects need to be marked at different locations that are atdifferent relative heights. Using color mapping to change the focus in a single job setup is a convenient way to makemarking complex parts simple.

•

Using different colors allows users the ability to sequence the order that objects will be marked.

•

Setting different speeds and powers for vector mode. Many users, especially architects, want to score some parts of
their artwork and then cut all the way through other parts. Color Mapping allows them to set up unique speed andpower settings for each activity, all in a single job setup.

Color Mapping accomplishes these tasks by assigning laser attributes to the different colors in your artwork. The functions
that can be controlled by color are: Speed, Power, Frequency, Focus, Raster On/Off, Vector On/Off, Air Assist On/Off. Fora detailed look at the Fusion’s Color Mapping capabilities, visit “Color Mapping” on page 103.

1

Enable Color Mapping

When this check box is selected, the laser will use the settings assigned to each color. For any colors that are in yourartwork, but not in the color mapping settings, the General settings will be used.
2

Adjust Settings- 62 -

Section 5: Using The Laser Dashboard™
Additional CorelDRAW Laser Dashboard Features

Use the slider bars to create any RGB color and set the laser parameters. Adjusting the settings does not actually change
the values. Select the Right Arrow key to finalize the settings.
3

Color Map Summary

The Color Map Summary area is located on the right side of the window and offers a visual display of all of the color
mapped settings. You can quickly see each color and the speed, power, frequency, focus, mode and Air Assist settings foreach of the different colors within your file.

Additional CorelDRAW Laser Dashboard Features
Each program you use will provide different ways to manage these functions.
CorelDRAW offers a very straight forward way to access each of these features.

Multiple Passes
You can automatically engrave or cut a job multiple times by setting the Number ofCopies to the number of passes that you want to make. When each pass is finishedthe laser will automatically start another pass until all passes are complete.

Print Range
If you only want to print one aspect of your project (for example, just the text in the document), you can select that part of
the file, then click Selection and the laser will only engrave or cut that piece of your file.

Multiple Pages
When you want to engrave multiple pieces within one document, such as five different engraved glass mugs, each with adifferent name, you can use the Multiple Pages feature of CorelDRAW. Set up each of the mug files on a separate page inyour single CorelDRAW file, then when you print to the laser you can choose either Current document to print all of thepages or you can specify which pages you want to print by adjusting the settings in the Print range box. You can view thedifferent pages in the Print Preview screen.
When a multiple page job is printed to the laser, each of the pages will transfer to the Control Panel withthe first file coming across as Job:1. File Name, then Job:2. Page 2, Job: 3.Page 3. Remember, the last
page of the job will be the current file when you go to the Fusion’s control panel, so scroll back to Job 1:
File Name to run that one first.
If you start engraving the jobs and become uncertain about which pages are which, you can refer back to your print
preview screen and the Page number in the laser will correspond to the page number in the print preview.

- 63 -

SECTION 6: USING THE EPILOG MAC DRIVER
Mac Driver Settings

Mac Driver Settings
The Mac Driver is a powerful software tool that allows you to engrave and cut directly to your CO2 Fusion Laser from aMac. Here we demonstrate how to print from Adobe Illustrator, but there are other graphic software programs you canprint from to the laser as well.
1

Select Printer1

Select your Fusion Laser system as your the printer.

2

Options

Job Type: Choose between the three modes of operation.

2• Raster Mode: Used for engraving or marking
materials. Typical uses would be reproducing clipart,
scanned images, photos, text and graphic images.

3• Vector Mode: Selected when you are only running
cut lines or for use with the Red Dot Pointer forpreviewing the job processing area. For vector mode,a line is recognized as a line to be cut based on line
width (stroke).

4• Combined Mode: Used when you have bothengraving and cutting in the same job. The laser will
first engrave your artwork, then follow with the vector
mode.

5

Center-Center: The Center Engraving Option allows
you to define the center of your artwork as the primaryreference point (Home Position) of your engraving or cutting. The Center Engraving option has been designed to be usedin conjunction with the Jog feature on the Fusion Control Panel. Center engraving differs from standard printing where
the upper left corner of the page and the upper left corner of the laser table define your primary reference point. For more
information, visit “Center Engraving” on page 112 in the manual.
Auto Focus: Check this box when you want to use machine’s Auto Focus capabilities. Measure the thickness of the material
you are using and input the number into the thickness box. The table will automatically move up or down so that the topof your material is 2” (50.8 mm) from the bottom of the focus lens. If the Auto Focus box is not selected, Auto Focus will
be disabled and the table will not move up or down when the job starts.
When the Vector Cutting Table is installed and you want to use Auto Focus, click both the Auto Focus box and the
Vector Grid box. This tells the laser system that the Vector Cutting Table is installed and it will automatically calculate theappropriate focal distance based on this information.

- 65 -

Section 6: Using The Epilog Mac Driver
Mac Driver Settings

The material thickness is still required whenusing the Vector Cutting Table. If a thickness
is not specified the system will Auto Focus to
the top of the Vector Cutting Table, not to the top of yourmaterial. For a detailed discussion on focusing the laser,
visit “Auto Focus vs. Manual Focus” on page 99.
Direct Print: The direct print check box is for use only
when you want to send a job directly to the engraver
without first going through the Epilog Viewer.

3

Raster Settings

Speed: Determines the travel speed of the carriage in
Raster mode and is adjustable in 1% increments from 0
to 100%. The slower the speed, the deeper the engraving.
Speed settings are heavily dependent on the hardness
and the thickness of the material being engraved withharder materials requiring slower speeds for deeper
engraving. Slower speed settings will produce greater
depth of engraving. Please refer to “Appendix B: Material
Settings” on page 197 in this manual.
Power: Determines the amount of laser energy thatis delivered to the piece being cut and is adjustable in
1% increments from 1 to 100%. The higher the power,
the deeper the engraving. Please refer to “Appendix B:
Material Settings” on page 197 in the manual.

default mode is Standard. This mode can be used for all
images, including photographs, but some images improvewhen engraved with other dithering patterns Dithering isused only for Raster engraving and has no effect on vector
cut lines. For more information, go to “Image Dithering”
on page 102.

4

Vector Settings

Speed: Determines the travel speed of the carriage in
Vector cutting mode and is adjustable in 1% incrementsfrom 1 to 100%. The slower the speed, the deeper thecut. Most cutting applications require relatively slow
speed settings, and the speed is heavily dependent on
the hardness and the thickness of the material being
cut. Slower speed settings will also produce better edge
quality. High speeds are provided for draft mode only andare not intended for production applications. For more
information, visit “Appendix B: Material Settings” onpage 197.
Power: Determines the amount of laser energy thatis delivered to the piece being cut and is adjustable in
1% increments from 0 to 100%. The higher the power,
the deeper the cut. The amount of power necessary to
cut completely through a given material is also heavily
dependent on the hardness and the thickness of thematerial. For more information, visit “Appendix B:
Material Settings” on page 197.

Engraving Direction: This feature applies to rasterengraving only and allows you to engrave your project
either from the top-down or the bottom-up direction. In
standard top-down engraving there can be a large amountof engraving debris generated, especially on materials
such as plastic, wood and rubber. As the debris moves
towards the exhaust plenum, some of it collects in thearea that has just been engraved. Bottom-up engraving
prevents the debris from collecting in the freshly engraved
spaces.

Freq: The Frequency is the number of laser pulses thatthe laser fires per inch of travel. The frequency is set in
the dashboard and can be adjusted from 1 to 100. A lower
frequency number will have the effect of less heat because
fewer pulses are being used to cut the material. Lower
frequency rates are helpful for products like wood wherecharring is evident at higher frequencies. High frequencies
are useful on material like acrylic where a large amount ofheat is desirable to melt or flame polish the edges.

Dithering: This setting defines how the dot patterns will beengraved in raster images that contain grayscale images,
blends, or color. The Dashboard offers six different
dithering patterns to enhance your engraving projects. The

Speed Comp: Reduces all speed settings by ½. For
example, a speed setting of 10 without Speed Compselected will move twice as fast as a setting of 10 with
Speed Comp selected. In essence, Speed Comp provides- 66 -

Section 6: Using The Epilog Mac Driver
Mac Driver Settings

an alternative set of speed parameters that are ½ the speed of the standard settings. Speed Comp mode will most often be
used with speed settings below 10 when very slow cutting is desired. Most users will rarely use Speed Comp mode, but
it adds additional functionality for unusual or demanding applications.
Power Comp: When checked, power compensation reduces the laser output when the laser carriage slows as it moves
through a curve. Selecting Power Comp is especially useful for vector cutting jobs that incorporate a large number ofcurves. This has the effect of producing unparalleled edge quality when cutting curves. Most users find that keeping PowerComp selected is the preferred setting.

5

Resolution

Set your print resolution from 75 to 1200 DPI. For the best engraving results, use a resolution equal to the resolution in
the raster images within your project setup. The resolution setting in the print driver will affect the engraving time (there
are twice as many engraved lines at 600 DPI as at 300 DPI) and the quality. For a detailed discussion, visit “Resolution”
on page 85.

- 67 -

Section 6: Using The Epilog Mac Driver
Project Setup

Project Setup

4. Click on the Layout drop-down menu and selectEpilog Settings.

While the Mac Driver will work with many different graphic
software packages, we’ll be looking at Adobe Illustrator forthis example.
1. Click the Epilog icon to open the Epilog Viewer.

5. Set your laser Settings. We’ve set our Job Type to
Combined because we’ll be both engraving andcutting in this job. For Raster Settings, we’ve used
50% speed, 100% power. For Vector Settings,
we’ve used 30% speed, 70% power. Finally, ourresolution has been set to 600 DPI.

2. In this example, we’ll set up an Aztec Calendar
engraving and cutting project. We’ve set up ourgraphic on our page and are ready to select File/
Print.

When you have your settings how you’d like them,choose Print.

3. The standard Illustrator print window will come up,
which will be different depending on which versionof Mac OS you are using. Set your Printer to Epilog
Engraver and PPD to Default (Epilog PDE). Click
Setup to access the laser settings.

- 68 -

Section 6: Using The Epilog Mac Driver
Vector Cutting Lines

6. You will return to this print window, so click Print.

7. The driver will now transfer the job to the Epilog
Viewer. The Epilog Transfer icon will appear in theDock. The transfer will take several seconds.

8. Once the Epilog Transfer Icon disappears, the Epilog
Viewer Icon will bounce up and down and you canclick on the icon to access the Epilog Viewer.
It’s important that the Epilog Viewer is open
before printing. If it is not open, pause thetransfer in the processing window, open the
Epilog Viewer, and restart the transfer.

9. In the Epilog Viewer, click Edit Settings if you want
to change any print settings, or click Print if the job
is ready to send to the laser.

Vector Cutting Lines
1. Unlike Windows, the Mac Driver allows you to set
the line width that will be cut in the driver. For thisfile we have some lines that will be engraved andsome that will be cut. The cut lines we set to 0.23
pixels, while the engraved lines we set to 1 pixel
width.
2. At the bottom right corner of the screen type .3 inthe Vector Less Than box. This will cut any line thatis less than .3 pixels in width and engrave any
above that amount.

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Section 6: Using The Epilog Mac Driver
Vector Cutting Lines

3. To see which lines will be cut, click Preview Final.
In the Epilog Viewer, you can see which lines arevectors and ready to be cut. Click on Preview Final
and the vector lines less than 1 px will be shown inred.

- 70 -

SECTION 7: FUSION CONTROL PANEL
Display

Display
The display shows valuable information associated with the highlighted Functional Menu items. We will explain the different
information that will be displayed as we go through the description of each menu item.

International Symbolic Version:
Go

Job

Pause

Focus

Reset

Jog

Pointer

Speed

Laser On

Data

Power
Settings / Config

Go Button•

Press the Go key to start or resume a job.

Pause / Stop Button•

Pressing the Pause key will stop the lens carriage and the laser beam will be shut off. If the Pause key is pressed
during raster engraving mode the lens carriage will pause on either the far left or far right of the engraving line thatis in process. If the Pause key is pressed while in vector cutting mode, the lens carriage will stop at the end of a line
segment or at the next line node location.

•

Once the lens carriage has stopped, you can open the door to examine the engraving. By closing the door andpressing the Pause key, the engraving/cutting job will commence where it left off. If the item being engraved is not
moved the engraving/cutting registration will not be affected.

- 71 -

Section 7: Fusion Control Panel
Display••

Note: Opening the door on the laser during engraving or cutting will stop the laser from firing; however,the lens carriage will continue to move. It is important to stop the job before you open the door to insure
the engraving/cutting is completed.
If you press the Pause key while in vector mode it may take some time for the system to actually stop. The systemneeds to get to the next node in a vector before it can stop.

Reset Button•

Pressing the Reset key will move the carriage back to its Home Position. Press the Reset key after you have pressed
the Pause key, or after you have moved the carriage when in the Jog position.

•

Reset does not erase the job from the laser systems memory; rather it will stop the engraving job in process andsend the carriage back to the Home Position.

Data Transferring
This light will illuminate when data is being passed to the laser. This is a handy tool when you are checking to see if yourlaser is connected to your computer.

Pointer
The Pointer key is a toggle switch that turns the laser system’s Red Dot Pointer on and off. When the Red Dot Pointer is on, theindicator light directly to the left of the pointer key will be illuminated. For more information visit “Red Dot Pointer” on page 110.

Laser OnUp

The Laser On key allows you to move the carriage and fire the laser without
having a job in the display. This is a very handy feature because it allows
you to do simple tasks without printing a job to the laser system.
To use the Laser On feature you must be in Jog mode, with the door closed.
When in Jog mode, press and hold the white Laser On key. Simultaneously
use the Joystick to move the carriage. When the carriage moves, the laser
will fire. As soon as the carriage stops moving the laser will stop firing.

Right

Left

Down

You can adjust the default laser power being used in Laser On mode from the Settings menu. Highlight Settings, then use
the Joystick to scroll down to Jog Laser PWR. Center click the Joystick and then tilt the Joystick Up or Down to change
the value. Press the Go key to activate the change. Go back to Jog mode to use Laser On.

- 72 -

Section 7: Fusion Control Panel
DisplayJob•

The Jobs selection allows you to use the Joystick to scroll through the jobs in your laser system. You will be able
to see the job in the first line of the display. The estimated job time and the print resolution will also show on thesecond line of the display.

•

The job name displayed is the same name as the file name that you printed to the laser.

•

When the job you want has been selected, press the Go key in the action keys to start the job.

•

After the job starts, the job timer in will be activated and will be shown on the second line of the display.

Focus
The Focus selection allows you to manually set the table to the correct height for engraving. With Focus highlighted, use
the Joystick to move the table up or down. The display will show a digital readout of the table position.
The image below also shows two visual indicators that provide addition functionality to the Focus function:•

The two arrows on the left side of the second line in the display indicate whether you are in “Course” or “Fine” focus
mode. In Course mode the table will move up or down in large increments. In Fine mode the table will move up or
down in small increments.

•

Tilt the Joystick left or right to toggle between fine and course movements.

Job: 1. Fusion_test.cdr
FOCUS -0.000♦♦

Two diamonds indicates that you will double
click the Joystick to access the sub-menu. One
diamond will display for a single click menu item.

Course or fine movement indicator.

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Section 7: Fusion Control Panel
Display

Focus Sub-Menu: New Z-Axis Home Position

MOVEOUTRESTORE

<--

<--

GO 0
<-- SET 0<--

The two diamonds on the bottom right of the display indicate that by double center clicking the Joystick you will bring up
a sub-menu that will allow you to set a new or temporary table z-axis Home Position. To set a new Home Position, firstmove the table up or down in the focus menu, then double click the Joystick at bring up the sub-menu:• Up (Go): Tilt the Joystick up to move the table to its default zero/zero Home Position.
• Down (Moveout): Tilt the Joystick down to move the lens carriage out from its upper, left corner position by about2” (50 mm).
• Left (Set): Tilt the Joystick to the left to set a new or temporary z-axis Home Position.
Note: The SET 0 function is only used to set or reset a new or temporary Home Position for your tableheight when using the Color Mapping function in the Dashboard driver. Auto Focus will not work
properly once a new 0 (zero) table Home Position has been established.
When you set a new 0 (Zero) position for your table, the Auto Focus function in the driver will no longer reference
the default table height. It will reference the new Table Home Position, rendering Auto Focus useless.
You must RESTORE Table Home to re-establish the default Table Home Position if you want to start using Auto
Focus again.
• Right (Restore): Tilt the Joystick to the right to restore the table height to its default Home Position. This is normallydone when you are finished with your new or temporary Table Home Position and want the table to move back to its
default Home Position so you can start using Auto Focus again.
Note: An alternative method of setting a new Table Home Position is to just center click once while in the
Focus Menu. There is no visual indicator on the display, but a single center click after you have focused yourtable eliminates double center clicking to access the sub-menu.

JOG
The Jog function allows you to move the laser head around the table with the use of the Joystick. To make it easier touse, turn on the Red Dot Pointer for a visual indicator of where the carriage is moving. The carriage can be moved in X,
Y or diagonally. The display will show a digital readout of the carriage position.

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Section 7: Fusion Control Panel
Display

Jog Sub-Menu: Setting a New X/Y Axis Home Position
The Jog function is most useful for setting a new or temporary Home Position when working on odd shaped items or if it’s
just more convenient to designate somewhere other than the upper left corner of the table as your starting point. To set a
new Home Position, use the following instructions:
1. Go to the Jog function on the Control Panel.
2. Use the Joystick to move the carriage to a new position. Use the Red Dot Pointer as a visual indicator of thecarriage location. The display will also show a digital readout of the X and Y position.
3. Double center click to access the sub-menu:• Up (Go): Tilt the Joystick up to move the carriage back to its zero/zero position. This function will move the lenscarriage back to a new or temporary Home Position.
• Down (Exit): Tilt the Joystick down to exit the sub-menu. Center clicking does the same thing.
• Left (Set): Tilt the Joystick left to set a temporary (new) XY Home Position.

EXIT
RESTORE

<--

<--

GO 0
<-- SET 0<--• Right (Restore): Tilt the Joystick to the right to reset the lens carriage back to its upper left corner position after you
are finished using a new or temporary Home Position.

Note: An alternative method of setting a new Home Position is to just center click once while in the Jog menu.
There is no visual indicator on the display, but a single center click eliminates the need to access a sub-menu.

SpeedWith Speed highlighted, the speed setting will be displayed. The display will show RS for Raster Speed and VS for Vector Speed.

PowerWith Power highlighted, the power setting will be displayed. The display will show RP for Raster Power and VP for Vector Power.

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Section 7: Fusion Control Panel
Display

Settings/Config
With Settings highlighted, use the Joystick to scroll through the available menu items.
Use the up/down arrows to change values. Press GO to save any changes.
There are two different modes of operation in the Settings menu:• Functions: Any menu item with a diamond (♦) in front of it is a function. Simply center click on the Joystick to
perform that function.
• Adjustment (Calibrations): These are menu items that can be changed. There is not a diamond in front of these
items, but center clicking is used to allow access to the function. After center clicking to gain access, use the
Joystick to increment, decrement or toggle the value that is shown. Press the Go key to make your change
permanent.
The items in the Settings menu are shown below along with a description of how they are used:
1. ♦ Restore XY Home: Center click to restore the lens carriage to its standard Home Position when you are finishedusing a temporary Home Position. You can Restore XY Home from here or you can double center click in Jog mode
to do the same thing.
2. ♦ Restore Table Home: Center click to send the table back to its default Home height. You can Restore Table Home
from here or you can double center click in Focus mode to do the same thing.
3. X Home: This is a calibration function that insures your artwork is properly located on the table in the X-axis. It is
set relative to the upper left corner of the table and the readout shows increments of .001” (.025 mm).
●● Center click to gain access, tilt the Joystick up or down to increment or decrement. Press the Go key to makeyour change permanent. These settings will not go into effect until you Restore Table Home (see above) or turnoff the system.
●● Increasing this number has the effect of moving your artwork to the right. If you increase the value from -123 to-121 will move the X Home to the right by .002” (.051 mm).
●● Decreasing this number has the effect of moving your artwork to the left.
4. Y Home: This is a calibration function that insures your artwork is properly located on the table in the Y-axis. It is
set relative to the upper left corner of the table and the readout shows increments of .001” (.025 mm).
●● Center click to gain access, tilt the Joystick up or down to increment or decrement. Press the Go key to makeyour change permanent. These settings will not go into effect until you Restore Table Home (see above) or turnoff the system.
●● Increasing this number has the effect of moving your artwork down.
●● Decreasing this number has the effect of moving your artwork up. If you decrease the value from 23 to 20 you
will move the Y Home up by .003” (.076 mm).
5. Table Home: This is a calibration function that insures your Auto Focus distance is set properly. It establishes thecorrect spacing between the focus lens and the top of the table. It insures that the table always moves the top ofyour work piece to a point that is exactly two inches below the focus lens (or, three inches for the Fiber lens) when
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Section 7: Fusion Control Panel
Display

Auto Focus is used. The readout shows increments of .001” (.025 mm).
●● Center click to gain access, tilt the Joystick up or down to increment or decrement. Press the Go key to makeyour change permanent.
●● Increasing this number has the effect of increasing the distance between the table and the lens carriage.
●● Decreasing this number has the effect of decreasing the distance between the table and the lens carriage.
6. Fiber Offset: This is a setting found on Fusion M2 systems that have both CO2 and fiber lasers installed. Thissetting is a factory installed setting.
7. Vector Grid Home: A calibration for adjusting the Z-Home Position of the Vector Grid when installed.
8. Jog Laser PWR: This function sets the laser power that will be used when using the Laser On feature. Increasing
this number increases the percentage of the laser power that will be used when Jogging the lens carriage andpressing the white Laser On key.
●● Center click to gain access, tilt the Joystick up or down to increment or decrement. Press the Go key to makeyour change permanent.
9. ♦ Quick Table Home: A center click will move the table down to find the nearest table height sensor. This function
is rarely used.
10. Serial #: This establishes a serial number for USB use. Center click to gain access, tilt the Joystick up or down toincrement or decrement. Press the Go key to make your change permanent. This function is rarely used.
11. IP Address: This sets the IP Address of the laser system. Center click to gain access, tilt the Joystick up or down
to increment or decrement. Tilt left or right to move to the different sets of three numbers. Press the Go key tomake your change permanent.
12. Subnet Mask: This sets the Subnet mask for the laser system. Center click to gain access, tilt the Joystick up or
down to increment or decrement. Tilt left or right to move to the different sets of three numbers. Press the Go key
to make your change permanent.
13. Gateway: This sets the Gateway for the laser system. Center click to gain access, tilt the Joystick up or down toincrement or decrement. Tilt left or right to move to the different sets of three numbers. Press the Go key to makeyour change permanent.
14. Laser Installed: This is a factory setting that is not user accessible and shows which type laser is installed in themachine - CO2, Fiber, or both. CO2 lasers are the most versatile and work with many different types of materials.
Fiber lasers are used for metal marking only.
15. Vector Grid In: This indicates if the Vector Cutting Table is installed. Center click to gain access, tilt the Joystick up
or down to toggle between Yes and No. Press the Go key to make your change permanent.
16. AirA Raster: This tells the machine to activate Air Assist during all Raster jobs. Center click to gain access, tilt the
Joystick up or down to toggle between Yes and No. Press the Go key to make your change permanent.
17. AirA Vector: This tells the machine to activate Air Assist during all Vector jobs. Center click to gain access, tilt the
Joystick up or down to toggle between Yes and No. Press the Go key to make your change permanent.
18. CO2 Laser Match: This sets the left-right raster line alignment for the CO2 laser. This setting is normally a factory
only setting and will not need to be adjusted by the user.
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Section 7: Fusion Control Panel
Display

19. Fiber Laser Match: This sets the left-right raster line alignment for the fiber laser. This setting is normally a factory
only setting and will not need to be adjusted by the user.
20. ♦ Set XY Home: This sets a new Home Position. Most users find it is easier to make this setting from the submenu in Jog mode.
21. ♦ Set Table Home: This sets a new Table Home Position. Most users find it is easier to make this setting from the
sub-menu in Focus mode.
22. ♦ Go XY Home: This restores the carriage lens to its default Home Position in the upper left corner of the machine.
Most users find it is easier to make this setting from the sub-menu in Jog mode.
23. Auto Delete: This setting allows you to have jobs automatically delete after running. You will typically want to havethis setting turned to No.
24. ♦ Go Table Home: This restores the table to its default Home Position.
25. X Scale Adjust: This setting calibrates the accuracy in the X-axis. This setting is normally a factory only setting andwill not need to be adjusted by the user.
26. Y Scale Adjust: This setting calibrates the accuracy in the Y-axis. This setting is normally a factory only setting andwill not need to be adjusted by the user.
27. Laser TI: This sets the Tickle of the laser tube. This setting is normally a factory only setting and will not need to be
adjusted by the user.
28. Pulse Stretch: This sets the Pulse Stretch of the laser tube. This setting is normally a factory only setting and will
not need to be adjusted by the user.
29. Table Speed Adj: This adjusts the speed of the table and is normally a factory only setting that should not be
adjusted by the user.
30. Bed Size: This indicates the bed size. This setting is normally a factory only setting and will not need to be adjusted
by the user.
31. System Unit: Sets the units of the machine to inches or millimeters.
32. Fiber Laser Power: This the wattage of the fiber laser source and should not be changed by the user.
33. ♦ Full Table Home: This setting resets all temporary Home Positions and reestablishes the default Home Position
that is found at boot up.
34. Raster Tune Adj: This fine tunes raster engraving mode and is normally a factory only setting that should not be
adjusted by the user.
35. Vector Tune Adj: This fine tunes the vector cutting mode and is normally a factory only setting that should not be
adjusted by the user.
36. Calibrate Joystick: This setting is normally a factory only setting. It reestablishes the feel of the Joystick.
37. Rotary Installed: This displays if a Rotary Attachment is currently installed.
38. Rotary Version: This displays the Rotary version that is installed.
39. Y Drive Version: This displays the Y Drive version that is installed.
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Section 7: Fusion Control Panel
Display

40. X Drive Version: This displays the X Drive version that is installed.
41. Passcode: The passcode feature on the Fusion laser allows you to create a passcode to lock the factory set
machine functions within the Settings menu so they cannot be changed accidentally.
To Establish a Passcode:•

Go to the Settings menu on the Fusion Keypad and tilt the Joystick up until you see Passcode 0000.

•

Center click the Joystick to gain access and show the cursor.

•

Tilt the Joystick up or down to increment or decrement the first number. Tilt the Joystick left or right toincrement or decrement the next number. Continue the process until you have set a four-digit Passcodenumber.

•Write down your Passcode and save it in a secure place!

•

Press the Go key to exit and display your Passcode.

•

To finalize the lock process, tilt the Joystick down while still in the Settings menu until you see the Lock
Config menu item.

•

Center click the Joystick.

•Press Go to lock the code or Pause to exit the menu.

•

After locking the Passcode, access to all machine factory settings from within the Settings menu will bevisible, but will be locked out so they cannot be changed accidentally.

•

Machine functions such as Restore XY Home, Quick Table Home, etc will not be locked out and can still be
used from the Settings menu.

Verify the Settings/Config Menu Has Been Locked•

To verify that your Passcode has been locked, tilt the Joystick Up until the menu reads Passcode XXXX.

Disable Your Passcode•

Go to the Settings Menu on the Fusion Keypad.

•

Tilt the Joystick Up to the Unlock Config menu item.

•

Center click the Joystick to gain access and display the cursor.

•

Tilt the Joystick Up, Down, Left and Right to enter your Passcode.

•

Press the Go key. Your Passcode will now to displayed, but it has been unlocked.

•

Your Fusion is unlocked any time you can read the four-digit Passcode.

•

Your Fusion is locked any time the Passcode reads XXXX.

42. ♦ Lock Config: Locks and unlocks the Settings/Config menu in conjunction with the Passcode (see above).
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Section 7: Fusion Control Panel
Joystick

43. System Version: This displays the Firmware version that is installed.

Joystick
The Joystick is used to control, move, or change all of the available features found in the Fusion Control Panel. After you
highlight a Function Menu item you will use the Joystick to control, move or change that function by tilting or depressing
the Joystick.
Changes made while using the Joystick will be shown on the two-line LCD display. The Joystick is an extremely versatile
tool that can be used in many different ways.
There are four primary functions to control the Joystick:• Tilting: Many actions will be performed by tilting the Joystick from side-to-side or up and down. The Joystickprovides 360 degrees of maneuverability. The Joystick is progressive in that a slight tilt will produce a small or slow
movement while a greater tilt will produce a faster or larger movement.
• Center Click: This is accomplished by simply pressing straight down on the center of the Joystick. A special ♦character is used in the display to indicate functions where a center click action is used. For example, use the cursor
keys on the Control Panel to scroll to the Settings function. The first setting will read ♦ Restore XY Home. The
diamond that is in front of Restore XY Home indicates that a center click will restore your lens carriage to the upper
left Home Position.
• Double Center Clicking: A double diamond ♦ ♦ in the lower right corner of the display indicates that a sub-menu
is available when a double center click is initiated. The Focus and Jog functions both provide a sub-menu when adouble center click is used.
• Flick: A single, quick “flick” will produce a single movement or very small adjustment.
The Joystick is progressive and touch sensitive and provides a continuously variable range of adjustments. It is sensitive
to the degree of tilt that is being applied. The more you tilt the Joystick, the bigger your impact on the function you areusing.

Now you try it!
1. Use the cursor keys on the Control Panel to highlight the Jog function. Jog mode moves the lens carriage. Now,
simply tilt the Joystick as far as you can to the right and down. The lens carriage will start moving, slowly at first,
then after a second it will start picking up speed. To slow the carriage, simply reduce the amount of tilt you apply to
the Joystick. Varying the amount of tilt changes how fast the carriage moves.
2. Now, let’s “flick” the Joystick. By flicking the Joystick, the carriage will move about .001” or .002”. You willprobably not be able to see the motion, but if you watch the display panel you will see that the digital readoutchanges.
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Section 7: Fusion Control Panel
Job Storage: Temporary Memory

3. Once you get a feel for it, you will be able to move the carriage at an absolute crawl or as fast as it will go just by
adjusting the amount of tilt.

Job Storage: Temporary Memory
While there is no key for this, the Fusion laser has the capability to store multiple jobs in temporary memory. The machine
will store any and all jobs sent until there is no free temporary memory left. For all practical purposes, there is no limit to
the number of jobs you can send to the laser.
Note: Temporary jobs stored in the laser systems will be erased when the laser system is turned off. For
permanent job saving, print the file to the Job Manager, where you can file the job for later retrieval along withall settings you used in the past.

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SECTION 8: QUICK START GUIDE
Artwork Setup

Artwork Setup
Create your job in the graphics software of your choice, such as CorelDraw or Adobe Illustrator. There are three different
modes of operation for the laser and the way you setup your artwork will determine if you raster engrave, vector cut, oruse combined mode.

Raster Engraving
Raster engraving can best be described as very highresolution dot matrix “printing” with a laser. Rasterengraving is used to create highly detailed graphic
images. The laser head scans back and forth, left to right,
engraving a series of dots one line at a time. As the laser
head moves down line by line, the dot pattern forms theimage that was printed from your computer. You can rasterengrave scanned images, text, clipart, photographs, or line
drawings.
This artwork is a good representation of a raster file. The
photograph of the tiger will raster engrave, as will the textthat has been placed on the page.

Vector Cutting
When you are vector cutting, the laser is following a continuous
path that follows the outline, or profile, of an image. Vector
cutting is normally used to cut completely through materials
such as wood, acrylic, paper, etc. It can also be used for quick
marking of characters and geometric patterns. You can vector
cut with the laser by setting objects and text to be unfilled anddrawn with a 0.001” (0.025 mm) outline. The thin outline willproduce a vector cut.
This graphic shows a vector image made up of lines. You cantell it is a vector image because you can individually select anyof the lines and manipulate that part of the graphic.
When vector cutting, we always suggest that you use the Vector Cutting Table or Pin Table to protect the back of yourmaterial as well as your table from laser marking.

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Section 8: Quick Start Guide
Setting a Vector Cutting Line

Note: If your raster artwork contains thin lines between .001” (.025 mm) and .007” (.177 mm) depending on
resolution, and you are using Vector or Combined mode, those thin lines will all vector cut. The most common
setup where this occurs is when you have a clipart image with hidden lines that you send to the laser using
Combined mode. The artwork shown below is a good example of a piece of clipart as it appears on the screen (top) andthe hidden lines (bottom) that will vector cut if you are in Combined or Vector mode. If you only want to raster engrave,
make sure you select Raster mode in the Epilog Dashboard.
In CorelDraw you can view just the lines (bottom view) by clicking on the View key in the menu bar and selecting Simple
Wire Frame. The upper image is a complex piece of clipart. The lower image shows all of the hidden lines that are in thispiece of clipart. If this clipart image were run in Combined mode, it would first raster engrave most of the car then vector
cut any of the thin lines below .007” (.177 mm). You can also use the Preview function of the Epilog Job Manager to view
only vector lines. See “Previewing Your Job” on page 39.

Clipart that looks like it is a raster
file is actually often made up ofsmall lines. If the lines are set too
thin, then it may cut as well asengrave if you send it to the laser in
combined mode.

Setting a Vector Cutting LineThe laser determines which lines to engrave or cut based on the width (stroke) of each line. If you’re using CorelDRAW,
any line set to hairline width will cut. But in other software what width should you set a line to? Different line weights willengrave and cut at different widths and resolutions.
The table below shows various line widths and which will cut at the different resolutions. To be safe, set all vector lines to.004” (.101 mm) or less to make sure they will always cut.
Line Width

150 DPI200 DPI300 DPI

400 DPI600 DPI

1200 DPI.001” (.025 mm)

Cut

Cut

Cut

Cut

Cut

Cut

.002 (.058 mm)

Cut

Cut

Cut

Cut

Cut

Cut

.003 (.076 mm)

Cut

Cut

Cut

Cut

Cut

Cut

.004 (.101 mm)

Cut

Cut

Cut

Cut

Cut

Cut

.005 (.127 mm)

Cut

Cut

Cut

Engrave

Engrave

Engrave.006 (.152 mm)

Cut

Cut

Cut

Engrave

Engrave

Engrave.007 (.177 mm)

Cut

Cut

Engrave

Engrave

Engrave

Engrave- 84 -

Section 8: Quick Start Guide
Resolution

Where do I set the Vector Line Width?
Different software packages set the line width indifferent places. In CorelDRAW, you can find theoutline width in the top menu bar when a vector line isselected. In Adobe Illustrator it is called the stroke
width and you can find this setting in the Stroke Panel.
If you can’t select a line to set the width,
it may be because it is part of a grouped
object. Try to ungroup the object, thenselect the line. You also can’t select anindividual line if that line is part of a raster image.

Resolution
Print quality is commonly referred to as Resolution and is one of the variables that determine image quality. Resolution isexpressed in dots per inch (DPI) and is determined by the number of lines or dots that are engraved for every inch of
movement. Each horizontal line is referred to as a raster line. The higher the resolution setting, the finer the detail that canbe achieved. Keep in mind that engraving resolution is only one factor in determining image quality. The quality of theartwork being sent to the laser can have a bigger influence on the look of the final product than the resolution. If low quality
artwork is being used, even the highest resolution will not improve it. Also keep in mind that image quality is subjective.
300 DPI may be just fine for some images and some customers, while 600 DPI is the absolute minimum for others.
This diagram shows the conceptof raster lines and dots-per-inch(DPI). The arrows show the change
in direction of the carriage between
raster lines. The difference in dot
density between 300 DPI and 600 DPI.

300 DPI600 DPI

Resolution Settings:
75 – 200 DPI
These resolution values are typically used for non-production purposes where you want to experiment with image location,or if you want to quickly produce a rough draft. Low resolution setting are also useful when engraving products that you
don’t want to remove too much material while engraving, such as fabric.
300 DPI300 DPI is useful when engraving materials such as glass, marble, plastic and other items that don’t benefit from theengraved dots being close together.

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Section 8: Quick Start Guide
Resolution

400 DPI
This resolution value is ideal for many applications. It combines very good image quality with fast engraving times. Many
users like 400 DPI for all of their work.
600 DPI
When really fine detail or overall excellent results are required, most users choose 600 DPI.
1200 DPI
This resolution is used for projects that require the best engraving quality possible, or if engraving extremely small fonts.
Although it’s seldom used because, under normal circumstances, most people cannot visually discern the difference
between 1200 and 600 DPI. There are some users that appreciate this high level of quality and are willing to take twice aslong to produce an image at 1200 DPI as it would take them at 600 DPI.

Helpful Hints•

There are four times as many dots engraved at 600 DPI as there are at 300 DPI. Twice as many horizontally andtwice as many vertically.

•

The gap between the dots is very small at 600 DPI. At 300 DPI the lesser overlap is responsible for the jagged edges
that are visible when engraving at lower resolutions.

•

It’s important to remember that while resolution plays a part in producing good image quality, the artwork that issent to be engraved is just as important. If the artwork that is sent to the laser is poor quality, trying to engrave it at
600 DPI will not improve the quality. It’s always best to start with high resolution images. Poor artwork will probably
always look poor at any resolution, while good artwork will look good at any resolution.

•

Twice as many dots and twice as many lines at 600 DPI produces a much deeper burn into materials like woodthan you would see engraving the same image at 300 DPI. This is important to understand because depth of burnis closely associated with engraving resolution – the higher the resolution, the greater the depth of burn for a given
speed. The relationship between resolution, depth of engraving and Speed and Power setting is something that mostpeople figure out with just a little experience. “Appendix B: Material Settings” on page 197 helps to make thiseasy to understand by providing different Speed and Power settings and suggested engraving resolutions for eachdifferent material listed.

The next photo shows a clipart image engraved at 300 DPI (top) and at 600 DPI (bottom). This clipart image is full ofdifferent shades of gray and you can see that the dot spacing is spread out more on the 300 DPI than it is on the 600 DPI.
Just changing the resolution to 600 DPI produces so much dot overlap that the fill patterns tend to blend together. It’s amatter of personal preference as to which resolution looks better, but these photos show the dramatic difference resolution
can make, especially when engraving with grayscale images.

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Section 8: Quick Start Guide
Resolution

Landscape or Portrait
You can engrave using either landscape or portrait modes. Depending on the artwork, you can increase yourefficiency and decrease the time it takes to engrave an image by changing the orientation of your file. Many
users set up their artwork in portrait mode and then rotate the artwork 90 degrees if they are going to print
from landscape mode.
300 DPI600 DPI

This project setup shows the same job in portrait mode (left) and landscape mode (right). The landscape mode willengrave quicker because there is less turnaround time as the laser makes longer passes across the engraving table. For
example, at 100% speed and 100% power in portrait mode this graphic will take 56 minutes, 56 seconds, while inlandscape mode it takes 38 minutes, 54 seconds, a 34% time savings.
Engraving Time: 56:56

Engraving Time: 38:54- 87 -

Section 8: Quick Start Guide
Resolution

The drawings below show a job that works in the opposite way - the horizontal mode will take longer than the portrait
mode. You’ll notice in the portrait mode there are a number of white space lines that the laser can skip through, saving
engraving time. In the landscape mode there is not white space for the laser to recognize as it moves down the page, taking
the engraving time from 10:12 to 17:14. Experiment with the artwork that you use. It will quickly become second nature
which mode works best for different types of artwork.
Engraving Time: 17:14

Engraving Time: 10:12

A third consideration for landscape or portrait art setup is material specific. Some materials, such as wood or plastics thathave a grain or brushed look, will look better when engraved if the grain of the material runs parallel with the X-stroke ofthe carriage. While the orientation of material without a grain pattern is usually not important, it is important to keep thisin mind with woods that have a stronger grain pattern.
Less Desirable

Preferred

Travel direction of carriage

Wood Grain
Wood Grain- 88 -

Section 8: Quick Start Guide
Piece and Page Size

Piece and Page Size
Many users like to create their artwork on a page size that matches the size of the piece that is to be lasered. Compensating
for beveled edges or placing an image in an exact location is easy when there is a one-for-one relationship between thematerial and the page size of the artwork. If this method works for you, remember that you must also set the Piece Sizedimensions in the Laser Dashboard to match the page size you have set in your graphics software.
On the other hand, many users do not want to change the Piece Size dimensions in the Dashboard every time they print
something new. They prefer to use a page size that matches the table size and place their artwork into the upper left cornerof the page. Both methods are effective and it is a matter of personal preference which method is used.
Place the material to be engraved on the engraving table in the upper left hand corner, pressing the material firmly against
the metal rulers along the top and left edges.
Most material does not need to be held or clamped in place. Simply setting it on the table and letting gravity hold it in placeis enough. If you are using a material that is likely to move during operation or is very thin, you can hold it in place using
the Epilog Integrated Vacuum Table. Simply place it on the table flush against the upper left hand rulers, then cover any
remaining holes in the metal table with scrap material or a jig. This will create a semi-suction and hold the piece of material
in place. The material can also be held with a variety of materials such as masking tape, clay, magnets, etc. Creating jigs
is also an excellent method of holding materials that are high volume, or high value. Engraving or cutting a jig to match an
unusual shape is very easy to do with the laser from scrap wood, acrylic or even cardboard.

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SECTION 9: CLEANING & MAINTENANCE
Reduce Fire Risk with a Clean Laser

Reduce Fire Risk with a Clean Laser
Cleaning the laser is an excellent way to prevent fire with the laser. A buildup of cutting and engraving residue
and debris is dangerous and can create a fire hazard in its own right. Keep your laser system clean and free ofdebris. Regularly remove the Vector Cutting Table to clean any small pieces that have fallen through the grid.
For more information on fire safety, see “Fire Warning” on page 5.

Cleaning the Optics
About once a week, or if you notice dust building up, you will need to clean the optics (mirrors and lenses) of your laser. If
smoke, resin, or other contaminants are allowed to accumulate they will reduce the available laser power and may cause
damage to the optics.
The two optical components most likely to require cleaning are the focus lens and the mirror directly above it. The lens andmirror are a single assembly, and can be removed from the machine for cleaning by unscrewing the three thumbscrews
on the front lens cover.
MirrorFocus Lens

To clean the optics, use a high-quality cotton swab moistened with the optics cleaner supplied in the accessory kit. Please
read the label on the bottle carefully.
If you run out of the cleaner supplied by Epilog, Reagent or laboratory grade Acetone can be substituted. Another option
is a 10 to 1 water to white vinegar mixture. This is very good at removing finger prints and other minerals which can beleft behind on the optics. Also, if “Golden Grain” or “Everclear” are available in your area these are also good substitutes
for the optical cleaning solution.
Never use Alcohol or Hardware grade Acetone, they contain impurities which can damage the optics in yourmachine.
Wet the swab thoroughly with the solvent, and then blot it against a piece of cotton so that it is no longer soaking-wet.
Then daub the optic gently, rotating the swab after each daub to expose clean cotton to the surface until the optic is freeof visible contamination. At that point, prepare a fresh swab and clean the surface with a gentle zigzag motion across it.
Avoid any hard “scrubbing” of the surface, especially while there are visible particles on it, and try not to use repetitive
circular motions. When you are done, be careful to remove any cotton threads that may have snagged on the mountings.
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Section 9: Cleaning & Maintenance
Cleaning the Optics

Allow the optics to dry before you operate your engraver.
When reinstalling the lens assembly, make sure that the Crash Bar is sitting on top of the locating pins on the side of thecarriage.

MirrorFocus Lens

In addition to the focus lens and the mirror directly above it, there is a mirror located on the left side of the X-beam. This
mirror is very well protected and should not need regular cleaning. It can be accessed with a cotton swab if it does needcleaning.

The photos below shows how to clean the focus lens. Remove the lens carriage from the machine to clean both the top
and bottom of this lens.

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Section 9: Cleaning & Maintenance
Cleaning and Lubricating the Bearing Rails

Cleaning and Lubricating the Bearing Rails
While the bearing rail on the Fusion M2 lasers are self lubricating, we still suggest a periodic lubrication to keep the laser
running at top performance.

Clean the X-axis Bearing RailUse a soft cloth or cotton swab with some alcoholor similar mild solvent to clean each of the bearing
tracks which the optics (mirror and lens) run along.
A cotton swab is perfect for cleaning out the inside of
the grooved tracks of the X-axis rail.
Use a soft cotton cloth or cotton swab to clean theentire length of the X-axis rail.
This photo shows a cotton swab cleaning out the top
groove of the X-axis rail. There is another groove on
the bottom side of the rail. You will need to move the X-axis belt out of the way to access the rail. There is enough flex in
the belt to move it out of the way, but do not pull on it so hard that it becomes stretched or stressed.

Lubricate the X-axis Bearing Rail
After cleaning the rail, place about an inchlong bead of Epilog supplied grease into the
top and bottom grooves of the X-axis rail. The
following photo shows where to grease thebottom groove of the rail.
After applying the grease to both grooves, run
the X-carriage over the grease to work it into
the bearing block and rail.
Turn the machine off to easily move the
X-carriage back and forth over the grease.

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Section 9: Cleaning & Maintenance
Cleaning the Exhaust Plenum

Clean the Right Side Y-Axis Rail
Clean the length of the right side Y-axis rail using a soft cotton cloth.
Lubrication is not required.

Clean the right side Y-axis
rail with a soft cloth.

Clean the Left Side Y-Axis Rail
Clean the length of the left side Y-axis rail using a soft cotton cloth.
Lubrication is not required.
After cleaning the rails and bearings, clean off the table and the rest of
the inside of the machine. Spending just a few minutes a week will pay
off in the long run with better quality and performance.
The left side Y-axis rail (the silver cylinder) should
also be wiped with a soft cloth.

Cleaning the Exhaust Plenum
Make sure the exhaust blower you are using receives proper maintenance. Periodically clean the exhaust blower and ductsystem to remove built-up debris. If you detect odor while engraving, or if the smoke in the cabinet is visible in the areaof the lens carriage, inspect the exhaust system. Check for loose or broken pipe/hose connections, or obstructions. The
following photos show where to clean the duct work of your machine. You should also occasionally check your exhaust
blower and the connected duct work.

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Section 9: Cleaning & Maintenance
Cleaning the Exhaust Plenum

Cleaning the Vents
Clean the vents from the inside of the machine. It is best to use
a flexible or wire brush that can access the inside of the vent.
Clean the vents with a flexible
or wire brush.

Cleaning the Down Draft Ports
In addition to the top vents, also clean the down draft ports.
These are the air ports that the exhaust system pulls from whenusing your Vector Cutting Table.

The down-draft ports
are located in the black
circles at the back of themachine.

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Section 9: Cleaning & Maintenance
Cleaning the Exhaust Plenum

Cleaning the Exhaust Plenum
In addition to cleaning the inside of the machine you should occasionally clean the exhaust plenum. The exhaust plenum
can be completely removed from the Fusion. Remove the six screws that hold the exhaust plenum in place.

The photos below the plenum partially removed and the back of the machine with the plenum fully removed.

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Section 9: Cleaning & MaintenanceLaser Tube

Laser Tube
The laser tube used in your system does have a maximum service life, and there is very little maintenance that is required.
At some point in the life of the laser you will need to replace it for gas recharge, electrical repair or mechanical repair.
Replacing laser tubes is common practice and Epilog has made the process of changing tubes extremely easy for users to
perform with a minimum amount of effort. The laser tubes can be refurbished and are available on an exchange basis bycontacting Epilog technical support.
Ensure that all of the laser cooling fans are properly working at all times. The fans keep the laser tube cool and prevent itfrom overheating. An overheated laser tube will produce erratic output and may fail completely.
If the laser system is in a dirty or dusty environment, make sure that the cooling fins on the laser tube are kept free of dust
buildup. Use compressed air to blow the dust and debris off of the laser tube fins. Be sure that the system is unplugged
before performing any maintenance on the machine!

Laser Tube Air Filter
To help protect your laser tube from dust, dirt and debris, we have included a filter on the back of the Fusion Laser. Every
three months, check the filter to see if it needs replacement. The filter is a standard 12” x 30” x 1” (304.8 x 762 x 25.4 mm)
furnace filter and can be found at any home store. Changing this filter is much more likely in a dustier shop environment.

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SECTION 10: SYSTEM FEATURES
Air Assist

Air Assist
The Air Assist feature on the Fusion Laser is used to keep
combustible gases away from the cutting surface and to
reduce flare-ups of more flammable materials as you cut
through it, such as wood and acrylic.
The Air Assist directs a constant stream of compressed
air across the material surface at the point of burnremoving the heat and combustible gases from the work
surface. The constant air stream helps reduce charringand scorching associated with materials, such as wood,rubber, and acrylic.

Air Assist Tube

The Fusion M2 systems have been pre-plumbed for Air Assist so that all you need to
do is to attach a small compressor pump to the back of the machine. The pump caneither be purchased through your Epilog representative or you can connect your existing
compressed air supply to the .25 inch (6 mm) receptacle at the back of the machine (30PSI max).
Air assist should always be activated during vector cutting operations to reduce therisk of fire! For more information, see “Fire Warning” on page 1.

Auto Focus vs. Manual Focus
In order to engrave or cut a crisp, clean image, your material must be the correct distance from the bottom of the focus
lens. Setting the distance from the bottom of the focus lens to the top of your material is the process of focusing, and isaccomplished by placing your material on the table and moving the table up or down. There are two different methods offocusing: Manual or Auto Focus.

Manual Focus
The photo below shows the “V” shaped manual focus gauge that is used to determine the correct distance from the focus
lens to the top of your material. This gauge is included in your Accessories Kit that comes with your system. If you havea dual source Fusion M2 system, there will be two separate focus gauges for the CO2 and fiber laser sources.
Place the manual focus gauge on the carriage andplace the object to be cut or engraved in the upper
left corner of the machine. Use the arrow keys on
the control panel to highlight the light next to theword Focus. You can now move the Joystick up
or down to move the table appropriately until yourmaterial just touches the bottom of the gauge.
The speed at which the table rises or lowers can- 99 -

Section 10: System Features
Auto Focus vs. Manual Focus

be controlled by applying varying pressure upwards or downwards on the Joystick. Once the focus position has been
established, remove the gauge. Press the Reset key.
If your material has a taper or curve, pick an intermediate point between the highest and lowest points being engraved andfocus on that point. In general, the area of the material being engraved needs to be relatively flat. If the area being engraved
differs in height by more than about an .125” (3 mm), the image will begin to look “fuzzy” or out of focus.
Manually Focus Anywhere on the Table: If you wish to focus at a point on the table other than in the upper left corner,
you can do so by activating the Jog feature of the machine. Press the Arrow keys on the Control Panel until the light next
to Jog is illuminated. This now activates the Joystick to allow you to move the lens carriage of the laser to the desired
position on the table. Again, varying the pressure applied to the Joystick will vary the speed at which the lens carriage
moves to the desired position on the table. Once the lens carriage is located over the desired portion of the table, use theprocedure above for raising and lowering the table until the focus gauge touches the top of the material. After you havefocused, press the Reset key to send the carriage back to its Park position.
Dual Source Manual Focus Gauges
If you purchased a system with the Dual Source option, you will
receive two separate focus gauges with your laser system, a 3”
focus gauge for the CO2 (blue) and 3” gauge for the fiber source(silver). The optimal focal point for each of the laser sources is a bit
different, so two separate gauges are required based on the material
you are working with in each job. When you are using Auto Focus,
the machine will automatically compensate based on which source
you have selected. For more information on focusing the Dual
Source, see “Focusing a Dual Source Job” on page 153.

Auto Focus
Activating the Auto Focus can be done on your computer by checking the Auto Focus box in the dashboard.
If there is not a check in this box, Auto Focus will be disabled and the table will not move up or down when
the job starts.
When a job is started, and Auto Focus has been enabled, the table will automatically raise or lower to the appropriate
height before the lens carriage moves to the first point of engraving/cutting.
You must also indicate if you are using a Vector Cutting Table. When the Vector Cutting Table is installed and you want to
use Auto Focus, click the box next to Vector Grid. This tells the laser system that the Vector Cutting Table is installed andit will automatically calculate the appropriate focal distance based off this information.
Please note: The material thickness is still required when using the Vector Cutting Table. If a thickness is not specified thesystem will Auto Focus to the top of the grid, not to the top of your material.

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Section 10: System Features
Crash BarTo enter the material thickness of the object you will be engraving/marking/cutting use a pair of calipers for an accurate
measurement and enter this value in the“Thickness” box in the driver.

Crash BarWARNING: If you are using Auto
Focus and you know there is notenough clearance between the lenscarriage and your material, you will need to lower
the table before you insert your material and start
the job. To lower the table, use the Arrow keys on
the Control Panel to illuminate the light next to theword “Focus”. Then use the Joystick to lower thetable enough to accommodate your part.

Please be careful when Auto Focusing on irregularly shaped items. The crash bar and Air Assist tube mustclear all edges of the work piece in this situation also. The Crash Bar is a safety feature that prevents the tablefrom moving up too far into the lens carriage and X-beam.

Crash Bar
The Crash Bar is mounted to the lens assembly and prevents the table from “crashing” into the X-beam when the table ismoving to its focus position. If the table moves up into the crash bar the system will come to a complete stop and the table
will automatically lower two inches.
If the crash bar is activated, press the Reset key on the front Control Panel to restore functionality.
The crash bar is removed as part of the lens assembly. When reinstalling the lens assembly, please make sure that the
Crash Bar is sitting on top of the locating pins on the side of the carriage.

Crash Bar and
Locating Pins

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Section 10: System Features
Image Dithering

Image Dithering
Dithering defines how the dot patterns will be engraved in raster images that contain grayscale graphics, blends, or color
images. The Dashboard offers six different dithering patterns to enhance your engraving projects. The default mode isStandard. This mode can be used for all images including photographs. Dithering is used only for raster engraving andhas no effect on vector cut lines.
Laser engraved photographs on wood usually require a third party software package to produce a good image
that is suitable for the laser. Epilog recommends PhotoLaser Plus for this application. Users find it an invaluablepiece of software that is easy to use and will produce much better looking images when working with wood.
Please contact your Epilog representative to learn more about this software package.

What is Dithering?
The best way to show dithering is to look at the exact same photo engraved in Standard mode and Stucki mode. Bothphotos were engraved at 300 DPI. With the two different dithering patterns you achieve a very different result, with a morestructured pattern for the Standard mode, while the Stucki mode results in a more random pattern that looks more naturaland pleasing to the eye.

300 DPI Stucki Mode

300 DPI Standard Mode

Dithering is a great way to enhance your engraved products, but it is very material dependent. A dithering pattern thatlooks good on marble, might look very different when engraved on plastic. Give yourself some time to experiment withthe different dithering patterns. It’s easy to do and once you have a feel for it, you will be able to use it with confidence
The drop-down list of dithering patterns is easier to think about if you separate the six options into two categories that wewill refer to as Clipart and Photograph:

Clipart Modes• Standard: This mode is the default mode and will be used for most engraving jobs that include text and clipart at
600 DPI.
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Section 10: System Features
Color Mapping• Brighten: This lightens the clipart, and some users also find this mode good for engraving photographs onto woodor marble at 600 DPI.
• Low Res: Adds an artistic half-tone type look to the engraving which sometimes helps when engraving lowresolution photos.

Photograph Modes:•

Floyd-Steinberg: Produces an almost wave-like pattern to an image. This works well for some photos containing
a great deal of detail. Photos with more monotone swatches of color may not be as pleasing as Jarvis or Stucki
modes.

•

Jarvis: Many users find this mode good for engraving photographs at 300 DPI. This mode produces a very nicelooking pattern on almost all photos.

•

Stucki: This mode produces results that are only marginally different than the Jarvis dithering pattern. It is also very
good for engraving photographs at 300 DPI. The differences between Jarvis and Stucki are very subtle.

Experiment with the different dithering patterns to determine which effect is most pleasing. It is not mandatory that you
use the clipart modes with only clipart images or photograph modes with all photographs. Many users prefer one of thephotograph modes for many clipart images, and one of the clipart modes for photographs. The choice is entirely up to you
and will take some experimentation.
We have included some sample photographs on the Epilog driver disc for you to experiment with. Use these photographs
to engrave on different materials using the different dithering options so you can get a feel for how each dithering patternaffects the image and the material.

Color Mapping
The Color Mapping feature is an advanced feature that allows you to set different engraving and cutting settings to different
colors within your artwork, and can be used in both raster and vector modes. The functions that can be controlled by color
are: Speed, Power, Frequency, Focus, Raster On/Off, Vector On/Off and Air Assist On/Off. While Color Mapping is a very
powerful tool, most users use it for four main reasons:
1. Using different colors to engrave at different speeds and powers within one document.
2. Using color to define different levels of focus. Many objects need to be marked at different locations that are atdifferent relative heights. Using color mapping to change the focus in a single job setup is a convenient way tomake marking complex parts simple.
3. Using different colors to allow users the ability to sequence the order that objects will be marked.
4. Using colors to define the registration marks in the Epilog Job Manager when using the eViewTM Camera System.
For more information, see “eView Camera Module” on page 141.
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Section 10: System Features
Color Mapping

5. When using the Dual Source option for the Fusion M2 to define CO2 and Fiber portions of the engraving job. For
more information, see “Setting Up a Dual Source Job” on page 152.

1

2

3

Using Color Mapping
1

Enable Color Mapping

When this check box is selected, the laser will use the settings assigned to each color. For any colors that are in yourartwork, but not in the color mapping settings, the General settings will be used.
2

Adjust Settings

Use the slider bars to set any RGB color and create the laser parameters. Adjusting the settings does not actually change
the values. Select the Right Arrow key to finalize the settings.
3

Color Map Summary

The Color Map Summary area is located on the right side of the window and offers a visual display of all of the color
mapped settings.
1. To use Color Mapping, start by enabling the Color Mapping section by clicking the check box in the upper, left
corner of the screen.
2. Select a color in the Summary area. We selected the color Red.
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Section 10: System Features
Color Mapping

3. Adjust the laser settings in the Settings area.
4. Once the laser values have been adjusted, press the Modify key in the Settings area. The available keys are:Add a Color

Modify a Color

Delete a Color Move Color Up in List

Move Color Down in List

5. You’ll see that in the Summary area, the new settings assigned to the color red are now displayed.

Color Mapping Functions
Speed: Applies a speed setting for all objects of the same color.
Power: Applies a power setting for all objects of the same color.
Freq: Applies a frequency setting for all objects of the same color.
Focus: Sets the focus distance for a color. This setting uses increments of 10 and each increment of ten will change thetable height by 0.001” (0.0254 mm). Change the slider in increments of ten by clicking directly on the plus or minus icons.
•

Any time the focus setting is a positive number it means the table is being moved
away from the focus lens. In other words, a positive number indicates that the gap
between the table and the focus lens is getting greater (increasing).

•

Any time the focus setting is a negative number it means the table is being moved
closer to the focus lens. In other words, a negative number indicates that the gap
between the table and the focus lens is getting smaller (decreasing).

•

The Focus slider has a range of -500 to +3000. This range allows the user to move the table closer to the lens by asmuch as 0.50” (a setting of -500), or move the table away from the lens by as much as 3” (a setting of 3000).

Raster: With this box checked, all raster objects set to that color will be processed at the color mapped settings; however,this function will still not allow a vector line set to a Vector stroke width to engrave.
Vector: With this box checked, all vector objects set to that color will be processed at the color mapped settings; however,this function will still not allow a raster object to be processed as a vector.
Air Assist: With this box checked, all objects will be processed with Air Assist turned on.

Using Color Mapping for Multiple Speed and Power Settings
A fairly typical use for vector color mapping is in the architectural industry and making models. Users want to lightly markone part of the work piece and cut out another part of the same piece.
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Section 10: System Features
Color Mapping

Usually, when using Color Mapping in Vector mode, users want to produce a different look on two separate areas of asingle piece of material in a single job setup. To achieve a different look for each mark the marking processes requiredifferent speeds and powers so this is a perfect job for Color Mapping.
Note: While you could set the vector line you want to just mark to an engraving width, it takes much longer
to engrave a box than to use vector settings to quickly follow the line and mark it.
The graphic shows a simple architectural drawing. The drawing is set up so that when we use Color Mapping, we willassign one speed and power setting to first lightly engrave the window frames and a different speed and power setting tothen cut out the individual window panes.
The outside frame of the house will not be Color Mapped since it is not a colorthat has been assigned in the Color Mapping Summary area. That line and anyother lines that are not a color mapped color will be processed at the speed
and power settings that are set in the General Tab of the Dashboard.
We have assigned the window frame vector line to the RGB green color, and thewindow panes to RGB red. You MUST use an RGB color scheme in your artworkwith the Color Mapping feature. CMYK values will not translate.
It’s best to use one of the six basic colors (red, green, blue, cyan,
yellow, magenta) when color mapping, because the values in Color Mapping must match exactly the colors
that are used in your graphics package. The RGB color scheme uses numbers to define all colors and the six
basic colors have the following numerical definitions:
Color

Red Color Value

Green Color ValueBlue Color Value

Red

255

0

0

Green

0

255

0

Blue

0

0

255

Cyan

0

255

255

Yellow

255

255

0

Magenta

255

0

255

A CMYK palette will not work! The six basic colors are easiest to use because they only use combinations of
255 and 0 (255 is the highest number value and 0 is the lowest in the RGB color scheme). Because allgraphics packages use the six basic colors, this is easy to do. The Laser Dashboard loads the six primarycolors as presets for your convenience. Any color can be added or deleted to meet your needs.

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Section 10: System Features
Color Mapping

1. Once your vector outlines are set up in your artwork, Select File/Print and go to the Color Mapping tab in the Laser
Dashboard.
2. Make sure Color Mapping is checked so we can set up our color mapping settings.

3. In our example we want to mark the green window frames first, so green must be the first color at the
top of the list. Normally the color green is the second color down in the list. In order to move it we justselect it and press the Up key to move it up one position. We now have green at the top and red is thesecond color down. This is the order that the colors will be processed.

4. With the green color selected in the summary, we set a higher speed and lower power (50% speed,
10% power) to just mark the top of the piece. When you have your settings as you’d like them, click the
Modify key.
5. Repeat by selecting the Red color in the summary area, then adjusting the speed to 20% and power to
100%, then clicking the Modify key.

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Section 10: System Features
Color Mapping

Using Color Mapping to Adjust Focus
To engrave at multiple focal points on an object with several levels, the Color Mapping feature is very useful. In thefollowing example we want to mark on both Surface 1 and Surface 2 on the following part where Surface 1 is .5” (12.7mm) high and Surface 2 is .3” (7.62 mm) high.

Surface 1.3”

Surface 2.5”

We will set up our artwork so that we engrave the Model Number on Surface 1 in red and the Serial Number on Surface 2
in blue. For this job, the only change we will make is to the Focus distance, everything else will be the same. In the Color
Mapping tab you can see that we’ve set the red to a thickness of .5” (12.7 mm) and the blue color mapped layer to a
thickness of .3” (7.62 mm).

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Section 10: System Features
Color Mapping

Using Color Mapping to Adjust Object Order
Another popular use for color mapping is to adjust the order a series of objects engraved or cut. In the example below,
there are three columns of names we are engraving. If we engrave the left file in the image below, the laser carriage will
have to travel all the way across the table, covering a lot of empty space, to engrave the image.
If we adjust the colors in each bar, we can setup the color mapping to engrave first the red bar, then the green
bars in the center, and finally engrave the blue bar on the right side of the page. The engraving time drops from
39:09 to just 22:14 by using Color Mapping in the file setup.
Engraving Time: 22:14

Engraving Time: 39:09

Additional Color Mapping Notes•

When color mapping is used, it always starts from the top color in the Map List and then descends through theremaining colors.

•

There’s one important distinction to recognize about how colors are raster engraved in standard engraving modevs. Color Mapping mode. In standard engraving mode different colors are interpreted as different shades of graythat will produce different fill patterns when engraved. In Raster Color Mapping mode all of the different colors areengraved as if they have a black fill. There is no way for a color to produce both a fill pattern and be color mapped at
the same time.

Non-Mapped Colors
Non-mapped colors will be processed last and will be processed using the Speed and Power settings from the Generaltab. An example would be artwork that has black lines as well as the red and green we are mapping. The black lines will beprocessed last at the speeds and powers that are set in the General tab.

Color Mapping in Combined Mode
Color Mapping in combined mode requires a little more planning than Raster only or Vector only modes.
1. Any object that is color mapped will be raster engraved first in the order the colors appear in the Summary sectionof the tab. Any other raster objects that are not color mapped will then be raster engraved using the raster settings
found in the General Tab.
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Section 10: System Features
Reset Home Position

2. After all of the raster objects have all been engraved, the vector objects will be vectored in the order they appear in
the Summary section of the tab. Any other vector objects that are not color mapped will then be vectored using thevector settings found in the General Tab.
For most jobs, Color Mapping is a powerful and easy tool to use and understand. Please keep in mind that
because you can control seven different variables and 17 different colors doesn’t mean that you should. Withso many different settings available in a single setup it has the potential to get overly complicated. Sometimes
it’s easier to scale back on how many colors a job should use.

Reset Home Position
To reset your Home Position, on the Control Panel select the Jog Function. Double center click the Joystick to access the
sub-menu, then tilt the Joystick to the right to reset the Home Position.

Red Dot Pointer
The Red Dot Pointer is a visible laser beam that runs in the same line as the invisible CO2 laser beam. The Red Dot Pointerserves several purposes on the laser, and will become one of your favorite features of the Fusion Laser.

Set a New Home Position
Use the Red Dot Pointer to set a new Home Position by moving the laser head the Control Panel’s Jog function. Move thelaser to the new Home Position and set a new Home Position by center clicking the Joystick.

Position Your Artwork
This is a popular use for the Red Dot Pointer and is one of the easiest ways to make sure each project you run
is going to engrave or cut in the correct position. Learn this easy task and use it!
1. For a visual representation of the engraving area on a project, create a box around your engraving area with a stroke
width of .001” (.025 mm).
2. On the General Tab set a vector setting of 0% power. With the door of the Fusion raised so the laser won’t fire,run the job. The Red Dot Pointer will outline the area where the job will run, so you can make sure that you havethe correct positioning before running any job. (Setting the power to 0% will also protect you in case you forget toleave the door open).
3. Now you can reposition the artwork, or the piece you area engraving, so you have a perfectly located engraving
project.

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Section 10: System Features
Movable Home Position

Movable Home Position
When engraving irregularly-shaped objects, Epilog’s movable Home Position feature will quickly become one of yourfavorites. You can quickly set a new Home Position using the Joystick at the control panel and set a new Home Position
in seconds.
Setting a new Home Position has never been quicker or easier. Let’s say you’re engraving on a custom acrylic award that
won’t quite fit in the upper left corner of the work area. By moving the award out into the center of the table and setting a
new Home Position at the upper left corner of the award, you can rest assured that your engraving will be placed accurately
on your engraving piece every time in a few easy steps.
1. Start by turning on the Red Dot Pointer at the Control Panel, then move to Jog in the Function area of the Control
Panel.
2.

Use the Joystick to move the laser carriage to your new Home Position.

3. Center click the Joystick to set your new Home Position.
4. The new Home Position that you set is the new 0,0 point for the top, left corner of your engraving area.
5. When you are done and want to reset your Home Position, go to the Jog function, then double center click the
Joystick to access the sub-menu. Tilt the Joystick to the right to reset the Home Position.

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Section 10: System Features
Center Engraving

Center Engraving
The Center Engraving feature allows you to define the center of your artwork as the primary reference point (Home
Position) of your engraving or cutting. The Center Engraving feature has been designed to be used in conjunction with the
Jog feature on the Fusion Control Panel. Center engraving differs from standard printing where the upper left corner of thepage and the upper left corner of the laser table define your primary reference point.
•

You can identify a Center Engraving job at the laser when you see an asterisk at the end of the job name.

•

If you get a Position Error reading on the display screen, your artwork is going to go outside of your available work
space.

•

There are four choices for Center Engraving: Center-Center, Left-Center, Top-Center and Page-Center.

Center-Center
When using Center-Center, the overall size of your work piece and the upper-left corner reference point are not important.
With Center-Center engraving the important starting points are the size of your artwork and the available space for it on
your work piece. With Center-Center you’re interested in positioning the center of your artwork to a specific point on yourwork piece, no matter where your work piece is on the laser table. When using Center-Center you can place your artworkon almost any size of page and almost anywhere on that page.
The detailed examples on the next few pages show how easy it is to think differently about Center-Center jobs.
Example: A customer brings you a small electronic item to engrave, such as an iPhone. To
quickly engrave the item without extensive measuring, follow these quick steps:
1. Measure the area you have available for engraving. For the iPhone we have about 2” x
1.5” (51 x 38 mm) of engraving area.
2. In your graphic software, create a new page. Page size is not important, so set the page
size to larger than the area you want to engrave. We have created a page 4” x 4” (101 x
101 mm). Place your image anywhere on the page and size it to fit in the 2” x 1.5” (51 x
38 mm) engraving area.

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Section 10: System Features
Center Engraving

3. To insure the graphic is correctly positioned, draw avector box around your artwork with a vector cutting
stroke width (.001” or .025 mm). Print the box tothe laser.
4. Click the check box next to Center Engraving in the
General Tab of the driver.
5. In the drop-down box, select Center-Center.
6. Set the page size to match the page size in the Laser
Dashboard (4” x 4” or 101 x 101 mm).
7. Select Vector as your job type.
8. Set a Vector Power Setting of 0% and print the job
to the laser.
9. Run the job with the laser door open (so the laser won’t fire). If the engraving area is lined up, delete the outline
you created and print the engraving job to the laser.
10. After the job is complete, you can reset the Home Position by going to Jog mode, then double center clicking toaccess the sub-menu. Tilt the Joystick to the right to Restore Home.
While Center-Center is the most common use for the Center Engraving features you can also use Center-Left and set a
Home Position that is the left portion of your engraving area. Center-Top is at the middle, top area of the area you want toengrave. Depending on the object you are engraving, this may be easier to find than the center point of the engraving area.

Center-Center

Center-Left

Center-Top

The red circle signifies the Home Position for each Center Engraving choice.

Page-Center
When you are engraving an unbalanced image (not equal left to right or top to bottom), you will want to use the PageCenter feature. For this example, if we engrave the image with Center-Center settings, the graphic will not look centeredon the object because the actual center point is to the right of the point we want to center in the logo. To get around this,we’ll use Page-Center.
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Section 10: System Features
Emergency Stop Button

1. Set the page size to the area you want to engrave. Unlike
when we used Center-Center, page size is important whenusing Page-Center.
2. Center your graphic on the page with the center point you
want to use (the image on the right).
3. In the Laser Dashboard, check the box next to Center
Engraving in the General Tab, then select Page-Centerfrom the drop-down box. Set the piece size to the size ofthe page you created.
4. Set the Home Position as the center of the object you areengraving using the steps in the previous example.
5. Run the job and you’ll have a properly centered image.

Emergency Stop Button
On the front of the laser you will see a large, red Emergency Stop key. If there is an
emergency, such as a fire, immediately press the Emergency Stop key. The laser
carriage will immediately stop and the system will shut down.
To reset the system, you must turn off the system using the regular power switch,then twist the Emergency Stop key clockwise to release the system, then turn on
the laser.
If your laser ever stops running and you can’t turn it on, check to see if
the Emergency Stop key has been pressed by accident.
Emergency Stop Button
Power Switch- 114 -

Section 10: System Features
Front Access Door

Front Access Door
The front access door is usually used for easy loading and unloading of palletized materials. The door is interlocked andthe laser will not fire if the door is open.
The front access door is supported by struts. The struts can be disconnected if you wish to open the door more than thestandard 90 degree opening. Remove the left and right thumb screws to allow the door to open the full 180 degrees.

Task Plate/Vacuum Hold-Down Table
Task Plate
On the Fusion, the task plate is used as the standard engraving table for jobs that do not include vector cutting. The task
plate is stainless steel and allows you to use magnets to hold oddly shaped items in place.

Vacuum Hold-Down Table
The holes in the task plate provide vacuum hold-down capability that keeps thin materials flat while engraving. The exhaustsystem is designed so that it evacuates from both the top and the bottom of the task plate when the task plate is at its
highest position. The exhaust pulls air through the holes and forms enough of a vacuum that it will flatten slightly warped
paper, wood, aluminum sheet stock and other materials. As long as the exhaust is operating and the task plate is no morethan an inch (25.4 mm) below its highest point, the vacuum table will work.
If you have a piece of sheet stock that does not flatten out because it is not covering enough of the vacuum
holes, you can use any material (including paper) to cover some of the exposed holes. Simply blocking mostof the vacuum holes will be enough to flatten most sheet stock as long as it is not too severely warped, bent
or too rigid. Magnets can be used to hold oddly shaped items in place if needed.

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Section 10: System Features
Exhaust Plenum

Exhaust Plenum
The Fusion incorporates an exhaust plenum and an integrated Vacuum hold-down table. Both the exhaust plenum and thehold-down table use the airflow from the exhaust fan for two distinct functions.
1. Exhaust Plenum: The exhaust fan moves air from the front towards the rear of your machine and out the exhaust
plenum. This air removes combustible gases and smoke through the exhaust plenum.
2. Vacuum Hold-Down Table: The Vacuum Table and the Vector Cutting Table each mate to the manifold with springloaded ports that are located at the back of the table and grid. Air from the exhaust fan pulls air through the tableand grid to provide suction that pulls slightly warped material flat as well as moving smoke and fumes towards theexhaust plenum from under your material when you are using the Vector Cutting Table.
The large black manifold at each exhaust port can be rotated to different
positions depending on the table you are using. Simply loosen each screw
on the left edge of the manifold to the desired option. The photo aboveshows the four black manifolds. To rotate the manifold, loosen thePhillips-head screw holding it in place. The photo to the right shows the
manifold halfway between the 2” lens and the Downdraft Table options.
Fusion M2 32 three manifold options:
1. Blocked: Rotate the manifold to this position if you want toblock all airflow through the table. This option only blocks
air from moving through the table. It does not block air frommoving through the exhaust plenum.
2. Downdraft Table: Rotate the manifold to this position when you
are not using a Vector Cutting Table.
3. Vector Grid: Rotate the manifold to this position when you areusing the standard lens with the Vector Cutting Table installed.
Fusion M2 40 four manifold options:
1. 2” Lens (with vector grid): Rotate the manifold to this position when using the standard 2” lens with Vector Grid
installed.
2. Downdraft Table (Task Plate): Rotate the manifold to this position when you are not using the Vector Grid.
3. 4” Lens (with vector grid): Rotate the manifold to this position when you are using the optional 4” lens with Vector
Grid installed.
4. Blocked: Rotate the manifold to this position if you want to block all airflow through the table. This option only
blocks air from moving through the table. It does not block air from moving through the exhaust plenum.
In addition to the three manifold options, the exhaust plenum is divided into four (Fusion M2 32) or five (Fusion M2 40)
sections. Each section uses two thumbscrews to vary the amount of air flowing over your material towards the back of the- 116 -

Section 10: System Features
Safety Interlock / Laser Status Indicators

machine and through the exhaust plenum.
When working with smaller items that do not fill up the entire laser bed, it may be advantageous to block the plenum
sections that are not directly in the path of the area being engraved.

Two thumb screws to adjust air
flow for each section.

Safety Interlock / Laser Status Indicators
The Fusion M2 status indicators are located on top of the machine, tothe right of the top cabinet door. Their markings, colors and functions
are as follows:L

Left-hand interlock status indicator (green LED). If the indicator is on (illuminated), the left-hand safety interlock switch is closed.

R

Right-hand interlock status indicator (green LED). If the indicator is on (illuminated), the right-hand safety interlock switch is closed.

1

Fiber Laser Control signal indicator (yellow LED). This indicator represents the modulation ON and OFF applied to the fiber laser
when executing a job.

2

Fiber Laser Enable signal indicator (yellow LED). This indicator shows the Enable signal which must be present (along with Control
and M_OSC) for the fiber laser to operate. This signal is derived from the right-hand interlock status.

3

Fiber Laser M_OSC signal indicator (yellow LED). This indicator shows the Master Oscillator signal which must be present (alongwith Control and Enable) for the fiber laser to operate. This signal is derived from an internal fiber laser select signal and the lefthand interlock.

4

CO2 Laser Control signal indicator (green LED). This indicator shows the modulation ON and OFF applied to the CO2 laser. It is gatedby an internal CO2 laser select signal and by the right-hand interlock.

5

CO2 Laser Enable signal indicator (green LED). This indicator shows the Enable signal which must be present (along with the Control signal) for the CO2 laser to operate. It is derived from the left-hand interlock.

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Section 10: System Features
RulersRulers
The rulers have both English and Metric units printed
on them. Simply unscrew the rulers and flip them over
if you want to change which units are displayed.

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SECTION 11: OPTIONAL FEATURES
Vector Cutting Table/Vacuum Hold-Down Table

Vector Cutting Table/Vacuum Hold-Down Table
Vector Cutting Table
The optional Vector Cutting Table/Vacuum Hold-Down Table isprimarily used for vector cutting jobs where the laser penetrates all
the way though the material being cut. The Vector Cutting Table lifts
your work material off of the flat task plate and allows the laser beam
to penetrate all the way through the material without reflecting backup onto the backside of your work.

Vacuum Hold-Down TableThe exhaust system is designed so that it evacuates from both the top and the bottom of the Vector Cutting Table. The
exhaust pulls air through the grid and forms enough of a vacuum that it will flatten slightly warped sheet stock, paper,
wood, aluminum sheet stock and other materials. As long as the exhaust is operating, and the Vector Cutting Table is no
more than an inch (25.4 mm) below its highest point, the vacuum table will work. If you have a piece of sheet stock that
does not flatten out because it is not covering enough of the grid holes, you can use any material (including paper) to cover
the exposed grid. Simply blocking most of the grid holes will be enough to flatten most sheet stock as long as it is not too
severely warped, bent or too rigid.

Installation of the Vector Cutting Table
The rulers on the task plate have slots that align andhold the pins mounted to the bottom of the Vector
Cutting Table. The photo shows the slots in the rulers
between the 2” and 3” marks. There are four slots on
the X-axis and 3 slots on the Y-axis. Simply align thepins in the bottom of the Vector Cutting Table to theseslots and press the Vector Cutting Table firmly into theslots. You should feel a tactile “click” when the table isproperly seated.

Whenever you are vector cutting there is the potential for small pieces to fall through the grid and collect in
the bottom of the Vector Cutting Table. These small pieces present a very dangerous fire hazard. Remove anddispose of the debris in the Vector Cutting Table on a regular basis.

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Section 11: Optional Features
Pin Table

Pin Table
The Pin Table option offers a method for users to keep all back reflections of the laser beam from marking the sides or backof the material being cut. The Pin Table lifts the cutting material completely off the table and provides a means to eliminate
the tick marks that can be created when the laser beam comes into contact with the grid material.

Parts LifterPin (30 each)Fence (4 each)Thumbscrew (4 each)

Pin Table Assembly

The Pin Table is a 12” x 12” (305 x 305 mm) anodized aluminum table that holds movable support pins that can be placed
anywhere on the table’s one inch (25.4 mm) grid pattern. The movable support pins allow the user to place the pins
anywhere on the grid in such a way that they support the material being cut while avoiding the cutting path of the laser.
This method of supporting the material produces cut edges that do not have any marks from laser reflections. By setting
up a grid pattern in your graphics package to match the grid pattern of the Pin Table, you can easily ensure that yourcutting path will not contact the support pins.

Assembly Instructions
After unpacking the Pin Table, remove the four thumbscrews from the Pin Table assembly.
1. Install the four fences along the two sides using the thumbscrews you just removed.
2. At this point the Pin Table is almost ready to use. The next step involves placing the pins anywhere on the grid sothat they support the piece you are going to be cutting, and are out of the laser beam cutting path.
User’s Guide
1. Install as many pins as necessary to support your work piece and waste pieces.

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Section 11: Optional Features
Pin Table●● The pins are held in place with plastic supports and need to be pressed firmly into place to be fully seated. You
may need to use a wooden block to press them in fully.
●● If all pins are not fully seated, the top of the pins will not be level and your work piece will wobble.
●● The grid design allows you to strategically place the pins where they will support your work piece and stay out of
the lasers path at the same time.
2. Once the pins are located, place the pin table into the upper left corner of your laser system with the fences resting
against the left and top edge guides (rulers). If the pin table is resting properly against the edge guides you will
maintain your 0,0 (zero/zero) Home Position in the upper left corner.
3. Once the pin table is in your laser system, place your work piece onto the pin table so that the left and top edges ofyour material rest against the fences.
4. Send your job to the laser. If the pins are properly located, your job will cut all edges cleanly without the laser
contacting any of the pins.
5. When cutting is complete, use the handy Parts Lifter to lift your parts from the pin table.
6. When you’re ready for your next vector cutting job, you can remove the pins and place them into a new position.
The pins are designed to be held snugly in place by the plastic supports. It may be necessary to remove them withthe use of pliers.
7. Additional pins can be purchased from Epilog. Ask for P/N LF231.
8. The Pin Table is designed so that multiple Pin Tables can be set next to each other and maintain the 1” (24.4 mm)
grid pattern.
Using the Pin Table:
In CorelDRAW, set up a 12” x 12” (305 x 305 mm) page. Select View,
scroll down and click on Grid and Ruler Setup.

and

Set the Frequency to 1.0 per inch (both Horizontal and Vertical), and put
check mark in the Show grid box. Click OK. Your Corel page now shows
grid pattern that matches the grid of the Pin Table.

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Section 11: Optional Features
Pin Table

Set up your artwork on the grid so that the vector lines do not cross thepath of any of the pins. The small black circles within the letter “B” show
the location of the pins. Notice that you do not need to place pins in every
available space, they just need to be placed where they will support thework piece. For this piece we have also supported the middle of the “B” toshow how to support the waste pieces if you do not want them to fall out
after cutting. The circles outside of the “B” are to support the long piece ofwood that we are going to use for cutting.

The next photo shows the Pin Table in the machine with the letter “B” cutout and resting on the pins. 		

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Section 11: Optional Features
Fusion Rim-Drive Rotary Attachment

Fusion Rim-Drive Rotary Attachment
The optional Fusion Rim-Drive Rotary Attachment allows you to mark and engrave on cylindrical objects.

Rotary Attachment Installation
Lower the engraving table far enough so the Rotary Attachment will not interfere with the lens carriage.
An important note: Turn off the power to the engraver. It’s important that the laser system is turned off before
installing (or removing) the Rotary Attachment.

Place the Rotary Attachment in the upper left corner of the table so that the baseplate is positioned against the sides of theleft and top rulers. The rotary rests on the table against the rulers
and does not need to be locked in place.
With the Fusion powered off, mate both cable connectors to theconnectors located at the right side of the cabinet as shown in thephoto.

Once the Rotary Attachment cables are connected you can power on the laser system. The Fusion senses that the Rotaryhas been installed. During machine initialization the lens carriage
will find its new Home Position over the center of the Rotary
Attachment, as shown to the right.

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Section 11: Optional Features
Fusion Rim-Drive Rotary Attachment

Initial Setup (Setting Home: First time use only)
New installations may need to establish the Rotary Home Position.
Install the rotary and power up the system. The X-beam will go through its standard power up sequence and will come torest over the rotary. Turn on the Red Dot Pointer from the Control Panel (you may need to raise the table to focus the Red
Dot Pointer). The red dot will show you the location of your Home Position. For proper operation, the Home Position
should be at the front edge of the black bumper as shown below. If your red dot is not at this location, you will need toadjust the X and Y axis settings to establish the correct rotary Home Position.

To establish the Rotary Home setting at the front of the black bumper we will use the Red Dot Pointer to show us where
our Home Position is and then how far we need to adjust our settings. Once you have set and saved the X and Y RotaryHome Position you should not have to set it again.
Home Position in the Wrong Position
Move the Red Dot
Pointer down and to
the right.

- <-- X Rotary HomeThe Red Dot Pointer has
been moved to the frontedge of the bumper.

+ <--+ <-- <-- Y Rotary Home

Home Position in the Correct Position

1. Turn on the Red Dot Pointer from the Fusion Control Panel.
2. Go to Jog on the Fusion Control Panel.
3. Use the Joystick to move the carriage so that the Red Dot Pointer is at the front edge of the black bumper.
4. The LCD on the Control Panel shows a digital readout of the location of the Red Dot Pointer. The number displayedon the left is the X-axis, the number on the right is the Y-axis. Write down these two numbers including the plus
or minus sign associated with each.
5. Go to Settings on the Fusion Control Panel.
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Section 11: Optional Features
Fusion Rim-Drive Rotary Attachment

6. Tilt the Joystick down to scroll to the X Rotary Home menu. New installations will show a value of 0.000.
7. Center click the Joystick. A flashing cursor will appear below the number displayed. Tilt the Joystick up or down
to increment or decrement the number so that it matches the number you recorded above for the Red Dot PointerX-axis value.
8. Press the Go key.
9. Use the Joystick to scroll down to the Y Rotary Home menu. New installations will show a value of 0.000.
10. Center click the Joystick. A flashing cursor will appear below the number displayed. Tilt the Joystick to increment
or decrement the number so that it matches the number you recorded above for the Red Dot Pointer Y-axis value.
11. Press the Go key.
12. Use the Joystick to scroll back up to the Restore XY Home menu item.
13. Center click to save the new X and Y values. The carriage will now move back and to the left to establish a new
Home Position. Your Red Dot Pointer should now be located at the front center of the black bumper.

Rim-Drive Rotary Setup
The wheels on the left are the drive wheels which spin the cylinder. The wheels on the right are for support. The right side
wheels are mounted on a scissor jack so they can be raised or lowered to level the top surface of your cylinder with the
X-beam. The scissor jack can be moved left and right to accommodate cylinders of different lengths.

Squeeze the tabs to move thescissor jack left and right.
Rotate the knob to lift orlower the scissor jack.

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Section 11: Optional Features
Fusion Rim-Drive Rotary Attachment

In most cases you will want to load your cylinder with the larger diameter on the left (drive wheel side). The scissor jackis used to elevate the right side of your cylinder so that the top surface is horizontal. Load your cylinder onto the Rotary
Attachment so that it is just touching the black bumper. Using the clamp to hold the glass in place is optional. Some odd
shaped glasses rotate better if they are clamped to the drive wheels, but most glasses and other cylindrical objects do not
require clamping.

This photo shows the clamp holding a
glass against the drive wheels. Use thethumbscrews to adjust the clamp in and out.

Many glasses, like this one, do not require the useof the clamp. The clamp is used mostly for hard torotate cylinders or very lightweight objects that needmore than just gravity to hold them in place.

Use the scissor jack to raise the right side of the cylinder so that the engraving/cutting surface is horizontal. The photos
below show the same flashlight at a severe angle to horizontal. If your cylinder is not horizontal to the X-beam the laser
will lose focus as the carriage head moves across the flashlight. This causes the engraving quality on the right hand side
to suffer dramatically.

Incorrect Setup: The flashlight is not horizontal. Raise theright side of the flashlight by turning the jack screw.

Correct Setup: The flashlight is horizontal to the X-beam- 126 -

Section 11: Optional Features
Fusion Rim-Drive Rotary Attachment

Setting Focus with the Rotary Attachment

MOVEOUTRESTORE

<--

<--

GO 0
<-- SET 0<--

With your cylinder in place on the Rotary Attachment, place the focus gauge on the lens carriage and then scroll to Focus
mode on the Fusion Control Panel. Double center click the Joystick to bring up the Focus submenu.

The sub-menu shows that a down tilt of the Joystick will “Moveout”
the X-beam. The Moveout command will move the lens carriage backfrom Home so that the focus gauge is centered over the cylinder.
In addition to moving the lens carriage back the Moveout commandalso disables the X-motor. This allows you to move the carriage byhand in the X-axis (left to right). The Moveout function allows you toeasily focus along the entire length of your cylinder. By moving thelens carriage back and forth and adjusting the scissor jack you are able
to focus along the entire length of your cylinder. The following photoshows a typical setup for focusing on a mug with a handle. Notice that
we used the scissor jack to raise the right end of the glass.
When you are finished focusing press the Reset key on the Control Panel. Pressing Reset will send the lens carriage backto its standard Home Position at the front of the black bumper. You are now ready to start the job.

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Section 11: Optional Features
Fusion Rim-Drive Rotary Attachment

Removing the Drive Wheel
The drive wheels are each two-piece assemblies when fully assembled. Removing the front part of the drive wheel enables
the user to accommodate a wide variety of mugs with handles. Not all mugs with handles require the front drive wheels tobe removed, but for certain types of mugs removing the front wheels adds flexibility to the Rotary Attachment.

There are two small thumbscrews that attach each front
drive wheel to the back drive wheel. Loosen the two
small thumbscrews on each wheel to remove the front
wheel.

This photo shows a mug with a handle positioned on
the Rotary Attachment with the removable portion of
the drive wheel shown in the foreground.

Artwork Layout
Because the Rotary Attachment automatically compensates for the diameter of the glass, artwork setup is relatively easy.
The most important thing to remember when working with the rotary is that your artwork needs to be rotated 90 degrees
to the way it would normally be setup for flat work. There are several visual tools later in this procedure that will help makeartwork setup easy.
1. Set the width of your page (in the X direction) to the length of
the glass you are engraving. For this glass the width of the pageis 6” (152 mm).

2. Set the height of your page (in the Y direction) to thecircumference of the glass you are engraving. Use a flexible
tape measurer to find the circumference of the glass at its largest
diameter. For this glass, the height of the page is 11” (279 mm).

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Section 11: Optional Features
Fusion Rim-Drive Rotary Attachment

3. Place your artwork close to the top edge of the page. When the job starts, the first part of the process is for thecylinder to rotate through any white space that is between the top of your page and the top of your artwork. Once it
has rotated through the white space it will begin to laser your artwork.
The edge of the black bumper on your Rotary Attachment corresponds to the left edge of your page in CorelDraw.
Set your cylinder on the Rotary Attachment so that it just touches the black bumper. The “top” of a cylinder can beat either end of the Rotary Attachment. It is useful to visualize the orientation of the cylinder when it is being
engraved.

In this example, the bottom of the logo will engrave 4”(100 mm) up from the bottom of the bottle.

Stretching or Shrinking Your Artwork for Objects with Multiple
Circumferences
The instructions below show you how to shrink or expand your artwork to accommodate acylinder where the area being engraved is a different circumference than the circumferenceat the drive wheels. The Rotary Attachment works with the assumption that the cylinder
is the same circumference from end to end and that your artwork doesn’t need to be
stretched. But some cylinders have a big difference in circumference from the middle tothe end that affects how the engraved image looks. It is sometimes necessary to stretch or
shrink your artwork so it looks proportional on odd shaped items. The photo below showsa glass that fits this category.
This glass has a circumference of 4” (100 mm) at the ends and a circumference of 3.2”
(81 mm) in the middle where we want to engrave. Most artwork will look acceptable on
this glass without stretching or shrinking, but because the middle of the glass is a smaller
diameter than the ends, some artwork will look compressed (more as an oval than a- 129 -

Section 11: Optional Features
Fusion Rim-Drive Rotary Attachment

circle), so we’ll want to adjust the artwork before engraving. To determine how much to adjust your artwork, we’ll needto do a simple calculation that tells us the percentage of stretch or shrinkage we need to perform. You can use either the
diameter or the circumference to make the calculation; just don’t mix the two.
Determining whether you use diameter or circumference is a matter of which one is easier tomeasure. If you want to measure circumference, use a flexible ruler and wrap it around theglass. To calculate circumference, measure the diameter and multiply by Pi (3.1416):

Middle Section
Diameter = 4.2” (106.7mm)
Drive Wheel Side
Diameter = 3” (76.2 mm)

Circumference = Diameter x 3.1416.
For objects with a larger middle section:
Shrink the artwork by dividing the drive wheel side diameter by the middle diameter andmultiply by 100 to calculate the percentage of adjustment. For our example the calculation is:3”
4.2”= .715 x 100 = 71.5%

Because our calculation percentage is less than 100, we need to shrink the artwork to 71.5%
of its original size. Adjust the size of your artwork in one axis only.
For objects with a smaller middle section:
Expand the artwork by dividing the drive wheel side diameter by the middle diameter and multiply by 100 to calculate thepercentage of adjustment. For our example the calculation is:
Drive Wheel Side
3.5”
2.7”

Diameter = 3.5” (89 mm)= 1.296 x 100 = 129.6%

Middle Section
2.7” (68.6 mm)

Because our calculation percentage is greater than 100, we need to expand the artwork to 129.6%
of its original size. Adjust the size of your artwork in one axis only.
Other considerations:
In these two examples you’ll notice that the “middle” varies depending on where you measure.
Because of this, you’ll never be able to get every piece of artwork perfectly sized. Depending on
how much room the artwork takes up, you may want to experiment with the expansion or shrinkageof your artwork to fit your particular glass shape.

Rotary Removal
1. Turn off the power before removing the Rotary Attachment.
2. Unplug and remove the Rotary Attachment.
3. Turn on the machine and the Home Position will return to the 0,0 point.

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Section 11: Optional Features
3-Jaw Chuck Rotary Attachment

3-Jaw Chuck Rotary Attachment
The 3-Jaw Chuck style rotary is an extremely versatile tool for marking and engraving cylindrical objects. It comes with avariety of interchangeable components that make it easy to hold different sized and shaped cylinders. There are two basic
setups:
1. 3-Jaw Chuck
2. Fixture platesThis photo shows the basic setup with the 3-Jaw Chuck on the left
and the centering fixture on the right.

This photo shows the 3-Jaw Chuck style Rotary Attachment with thelarge fixture plates installed.

Fixture Plates and Additional Components
The following fixture plates and additional components are included with all 3-Jaw Chuck Rotary Attachments
1. Small fixture plates (2 each)2

2. Large fixture plates (2 each)
3. Idle-side centering fixture (1 each)

7

1

3

4. Plate spindle (1 each)
5. Plate fixture thumb screws (2 each)
6. 3-Jaw tightening pins (2 each)
7. 3” Lens for CO2 Fusion only. Always install4
this 3” lens whenever using the 3-Jaw
Chuck style rotary in the CO2 Fusion. Use
the standard 2” lens for all non-3-Jaw Chuck Rotary jobs.

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6
5

Section 11: Optional Features
3-Jaw Chuck Rotary Attachment

Firmware Preparation
Make sure your Fusion firmware is version 1.0.0.9 orhigher to operate the Rotary Attachment. The firmware
version is one of the menu items under the Settings
menu items on the Fusion Control Panel. To upgrade
your firmware follow the instructions at “Section :Upgrading the Operational Firmware” on page 161.

3-Jaw Chuck Rotary Attachment
Installation

1. Remove the standard 2” lens. Notice that the 2”lens incorporates the crash bar and the Air Assist
tube.

2. Install the 3” lens. Notice that the 3” lens does notinclude the Crash Bar or Air Assist tube.

1. Install the 3” lens.

Lower Table and Turn Off Power

2. Lower the engraving table to its lowest point.

1. Lower the engraving table to its lowest point.

3. Turn off power to the Fusion.

2. Turn off power to the Fusion.

These are explained in detail in the following section.

Important! It is important that you power down themachine before inserting the rotary connector at thetable. The Fusion laser system will not recognize theImportant! It is important that you power down themachine before inserting the rotary connector at thetable. The Fusion laser system will not recognize theRotary Attachment until the system is rebooted and you
could damage the electronics if the rotary is installed
while the laser system is powered on.

3” Lens Installation
When installing the 3-Jaw Chuck, install the 3” lens
included with the additional components. The CO2
Fusion 3-Jaw Rotary Attachment requires the use a 3”
lens. The crash bar on the standard 2” lens on the CO2
Fusion interferes with the Rotary Attachment and cannot
be used.
If you have the dual-source CO2 and Fiberlaser, the system comes with a 3” lensalready installed. There is no need to change
lenses.

- 132 -

Rotary Attachment until the system is rebooted and you
could damage the electronics if the rotary is installed
while the laser system is powered on.
3. With the Fusion powered off, place the Rotary
Attachment so that the baseplate butts up tightagainst the left-side and upper rulers.

Section 11: Optional Features
3-Jaw Chuck Rotary Attachment

4. Insert both connectors into the receptacles on theright side of the machine.

operation most users set the Home Position at the edgeof either the clamp or the jaws. However, depending on
your specific application it can be set anywhere you
want. Our experience shows that most users prefer theedge of the jaws.

Edge of Jaw
Edge of Chuck

5. Once the Rotary Attachment is plugged in you canpower on the Fusion.
6. When the Fusion powers on with the Rotary
Attachment installed, the carriage moves to the
Rotary Home Position, which is directly above the3-Jaw Chuck.

Initial Setup (Setting Home - FirstTime Use Only)
New installations may need to establish the RotaryHome Position. The following instructions show how to
set a Home Position for the 3-Jaw Rotary Attachment.
For most users this is not necessary because they set a
new Home Position for every rotary job they run using
the Center-Center engraving feature in the driver. CenterCenter engraving is explained later in these instructions.
The concept of why Center-Center is used is hard to
explain, but rest assured that it will become obvious on
your very first 3-Jaw Chuck Rotary job.
Install the rotary and power on the system. The system
will go through its standard power up sequence. The
carriage will come to rest directly over the rotary insteadof in the upper left corner and the table will move to its
lowest position.
Turn on the Red Dot Pointer (you will need to raise thetable to focus the Red Dot Pointer). The red dot willshow you the location of your Home Position. For properYour X-Home Position defines the left edge of your pagein your graphics software.
To establish the Rotary Home setting at the edge of thejaws we will use the Red Dot Pointer to show us where
our Home Position is and then how much we need toadjust our settings.
1. Turn on the Red Dot Pointer from the Fusion
Control Panel.
2. Go to Jog on the Control Panel.
3. Use the Joystick to move the carriage so that the
Red Dot Pointer is at the front edge of the jaws or
the clamp. Make sure the red dot is also centered
front to back. This exercise is easier to perform if
you have a cylinder in place.
4. The LCD on the Control Panel shows a digital
readout of the location of the Red Dot Pointer.
The number displayed on the left is the X-axis,
the number on the right is the Y-axis. Write downthese two numbers including the plus or minus
sign associated with each.
5. Go to Settings on the Fusion Control Panel.
6. Tilt the Joystick down to scroll to the X R Home
menu. New installations will show a value of
0.000.
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Section 11: Optional Features
3-Jaw Chuck Rotary Attachment

7. Center click the Joystick. A flashing cursor willappear below the number displayed. Tilt the Joystickup or down to increment or decrement the number
so that it matches the number you recorded above
for the Red Dot Pointer X-axis value.

along your cylinder that defines the center point of
your mark.
5. Center click to set that point as your Home Position.

8. Press the Go key to Save the setting.

6. Use the Center-Center feature in the driver when you
are ready to print.

9. Now, tilt the Joystick down to scroll to the Y R
Home menu. New installations will show a value of
0.000.

For more information on the Center-Center feature pleaserefer to “Center Engraving” on page 112 in this owner’s
manual.

10. Center click the Joystick. A flashing cursor willappear below the number displayed. Tilt the Joystick
to increment or decrement the number so that itmatches the number you recorded above for the Red
Dot Pointer Y-axis value.

3-Jaw Chuck Rotary Attachment
Setup
1.

Measure your Cylinder: the cylinder diameter will
be used in the print driver.

2.

Adjust the Rotary for Cylinder Length: depress
the blue anodized idle-side handle to move thesupport mechanism left or right to accommodate
different length cylinders. There are photos later inthis section that show the different configurations
available for the Y-Axis idle side support.

11. Press the Go key to Save the setting.
12. Tilt the Joystick up to scroll back to the Restore XY
Home menu item.
13. Center click to save the new X and Y values.
The carriage will now move back and to the left
to establish a new Home Position. Your Red Dot
Pointer should now be located at its new location.
Once you have set and saved the X and Y Rotary Home
Position you should not have to set it again, but you canalways use the procedure above to adjust your Home
Position.
Note: Many users do not worry about a fixed Home
Position on the clamping style rotary. Instead users findthat each new rotary job requires an entirely different
clamping method than the last and setting a fixed Home
Position just isn’t important. Instead, they use the CenterCenter feature in the driver and establish a new Home
Position for each job. This is easy to do.
1. Clamp your cylinder into the Rotary Attachment.
2. Focus on your cylinder.
3. Turn on the Red Dot Pointer.
4. Use the Jog feature to move the red dot to a point- 134 -

Section 11: Optional Features
3-Jaw Chuck Rotary Attachment

3. Clamp your Cylinder: insert your cylinder into the 3-Jaw Chuck and tighten
the chuck so the cylinder is held firmly in place.
You will need to use the two tightening pins that are provided with the chuckin order to clamp the cylinder tightly into place.

Cylinders can be held from the outside diameter or the inside diameter.

The chuck jaws can be flipped from Standard mode to Wide mode (180 degrees) to accommodate larger radius cylinders.
Notice that there is a stamped number on each side of each jaw and next to each slot. For wide-radius turning, simply
remove jaws 1 and 3, flip them, and then insert jaw 1 into slot 3 and jaw 3 into slot 1. Remove jaw 2, flip it and return it
to slot 2. The jaws do not need to be inserted all the way just yet. You will need to rotate the cam to capture the jaws inascending order (1,2,3). Rotate the cam so that it catches jaw 1 first, then jaw 2, then jaw 3.
Pay particular attention to aligning the numbers as shown on the diagram when flipping the jaws! Failure to align thecorrect jaw in the correct slot will result in uneven spacing of the jaws when they are tightened.
Slot

Jaw

Cam
Standard

Wide- 135 -

Section 11: Optional Features
3-Jaw Chuck Rotary Attachment

3-Jaw Chuck Diameter Capacities
The 3-Jaw Chuck allows four different ways to hold your object based on cylinder diameter and whether you are holding
it from the inside or outside diameter.
Jaws in Standard Mode

Jaws in Wide Mode

Piece Held From Inside Diameter

0.875” to 3” (22.2 to 76.2 mm)

2.125 to 3.125” (54 to 79.4 mm)

Piece Held From Outside Diameter

0.040” to 1.25” (2.54 to 31.7 mm)

1” to 3” (25.4 to 76.2 mm)

Vector Speed Limitations based on Cylinder Diameter
Important! There are speed limitations in Vector mode based on cylinder diameter. The driver will display the maximum
speed setting that can be used for a given diameter. Your power setting will need to be adjusted according to the speed.
The 3-Jaw Chuck Rotary was designed to rotate cylinders that range in size from 0.040” (12.7 mm) to approximately 3”(76.2 mm) in diameter. However, from a practical point-of-view, it is difficult to produce a legible mark on cylinders thatare smaller than .080” (2 mm).

Set the Cylinder Diameter in the DriverWith the rotary installed, the diameter measured, and the cylinder held tightly in place, you are ready to print.
1. Select the 3-Jaw Chuck option in the Laser Dashboard’s General Tab.
2. Notice that for small diameter cylinders the driver limits the Vector speed in Vector mode only. Larger diameter
cylinders do not have speed limitations.

3-Jaw Chuck Focus
With your cylinder in place on the Rotary Attachment,
place the focus gage on the lens carriage and then scroll
to Focus mode on the Fusion Control Panel. The carriage
will move back after one second so that the focus gage iscentered over your cylinder.
When you are finished focusing press the Reset key on theControl Panel. The lens carriage will go back to its standard
Rotary Home Position. You are now ready to start the job.

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Section 11: Optional Features
3-Jaw Chuck Rotary Attachment

Additional notes about focusing with the rotary.
The 3-Jaw Chuck Rotary was designed to use manual focusing only. While Auto Focus can be used, it is impracticalfor everyday use.

•

When you are in Focus mode, the entire X-beam and carriage can be moved by hand. Normally, users will move
only the carriage to a point along the long axis to focus. It is uncommon, but occasionally users will move the entire
X-beam back and forth by hand. Use caution when moving the X-beam!

•

After you have finished focusing, pressing any key on the Control Panel will reset the carriage back to its standard
Rotary Home Position.

•

The standard sub-menu items are available in Rotary Focus mode:

MOVEOUTRESTORE

<--

<--

GO 0
<-- SET 0<--•

Artwork Layout
Set up a custom page size in your engraving software that will accommodate the length and circumference of yourcylinder. To set up your page in Corel, measure the length of the cylinder you are engraving. Use this as the minimum sizeof the horizontal dimension of your page. Measure the diameter of the cylinder and multiply this number by Pi (3.1416)
to determine the circumference of the cylinder. Use the circumference as the minimum size of the vertical dimension ofyour page.
The actual size of the page is not overly important. If you have a cylinder
that’s 5.23” (133.8 mm) long with a circumference of 2.3” (56.7 mm),use a page that’s slightly larger, say, 6” x 3” (152 x 76 mm).
This image shows a page size of 6” x 3” (152 x 76 mm). The gray innerrectangle represents the cylinder that is 5.23” x 2.3” (133.8 x 56.7 mm).
Insure your artwork fits within the cylinder size.

It’s important that you set
up your artwork so the top of the artwork is as close to the top of the page
as you can comfortably place it.
Any white space between the top of the page and your artwork is consideredpart of the print job and your cylinder will rotate that amount until it reaches
the first point of engraving.

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Section 11: Optional Features
3-Jaw Chuck Rotary Attachment

Rotary Removal

The fixture plate will look like the photo when the spindle
is assembled.

1. Turn off power to the laser.
2. Open the door.
3. Depress the release tabs on the connectors andunplug the connectors.
4. Remove the Rotary Attachment.
Slide the spindle into the chuck. Make sure the spindle
is fully inserted into the chuck, then secure it using thechuck tightening pins.

Using the Fixture plates andadditional rotary components
The 3-Jaw Chuck Rotary comes with additional
attachments that make it easy to hold different sized
and shaped cylinders. The photos below show different
configurations that can be used to hold a wide variety ofcylinders. The components can be mixed and matched.
There is no single, correct method of holding a cylinder.

Be sure to check that your Home Position is where youneed it once the fixture plate has been installed.

Attaching the Fixture Plate to the
Chuck
Secure a large or small fixture plate to the spindle using
one of the plate thumb screws.

Attaching the Idle-Side Centering
FixtureThe idle-side centering fixture is used to hold small
diameter cylinders in place. It can be removed if the
fixture plates are required for larger diameter cylinders.
Remove or install it using the supplied hex wrench.

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Section 11: Optional Features
3-Jaw Chuck Rotary Attachment

Attaching the Idle-Side Fixture
PlatesDifferent Configurations for
Fixturing Cylinders

The fixture plates can be used on both the chuck side of
the rotary as well as the idle-side. Attach the plate byplacing it on the idle-side spindle and securing with athumb screw.

This photo shows a typical example of a part that might
be used with the 3-Jaw Chuck on the left side and thesmall idle-side plate fixture on the right.
This configuration is used when the cylinder diameteron the right side is too large for the centering fixture.

The splines on all the fixture plates can be reversed toaccommodate parts using the inside diameter (ID) or
outside diameter (OD). To reverse the spline orientation,pull the spring-loaded splines away from the plate androtate them 180 degrees.

This photo shows a typical example of a larger part that
requires a fixture plate on both the left and the rightsides. Notice that the left side fixture plate is held inplace with the 3-Jaw Chuck.

This photo shows the small idle-side plate fixture. The
small plate fixture can accommodate sizes up to 1” indiameter.
This photo shows the standard 3-Jaw Chuck on the left
side and the idle-side centering fixture on the right. The
idle-side centering fixture can accommodate sizes up to
1” in diameter.

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Section 11: Optional Features
eView Camera Module

The centering fixture is used to support small diameterparts that sag when held in place using only the 3-Jaw
Chuck.

••••One second after pressing the Focus key the
carriage will move back and to the right whichplaces the manual focus gage directly over yourcylinder.
Use the Joystick to move the table up anddown to focus on your cylinder.
You can move the carriage by hand to focus
anywhere along the length of your cylinder.
You can also move the entire X-beam front andback by hand when the rotary is installed. Usecaution when moving the beam by hand.
Press any menu key to exit Focus. The carriage
and beam will move back to their Home
Position.

9. Set Home
Some parts do not need the idle-side centering fixture forsupport and can be held using only the 3-Jaw Chuck.

3-Jaw Chuck Quick Start Guide•

1. Lower the table far enough to accommodate theRotary Attachment.

•

2. Turn off the machine.
3. Install the 3” lens.
4. Plug in the Rotary Attachment and position it in theupper left corner of the table.
5. Power up your laser.
6. Set up your artwork.
7. Print, and go to the Preferences window to set yourlaser parameters• Select Center-Center engraving mode.
• Deselect Auto Focus.
• Select the 3-Jaw Chuck option.
• Input your cylinder diameter.
• Set your Speed, Power, and other laserparameters.
• Send the job to the laser.
8. Focus - Most users prefer to manually focus whenusing the 3-Jaw style rotary.
•

•
•
•

Press the Focus key on the Control Panel.

- 140 -

Press the Jog function on the Control Panel.
Turn on the Red Dot Pointer.
Use the Joystick to move the pointer to thepoint on your cylinder where you want yourHome Position to be located.
Center click the Joystick to set a Home
Position.
If desired, double center click to bring up thestandard Jog sub-menu.

10. Close the top access door.
11. Press the Go key to start your job.

Section 11: Optional Features
eView Camera ModuleeView Camera Module
The eView Camera Module is an option available only on the Fusion M2. By printing registration marks on your project,
the camera system will align your artwork with the cutting and engraving in your project file for the most precise cuttingalignment available.

Attaching the eView Camera System to Your Computer
The eView Camera Module Accessories Kit includes:•••

Preprogrammed Router
Three Ethernet Cables
One USB Cable

The camera module uses both USB and Ethernet communication that is optimized with an included, preprogrammed
Gigabit router to handle the largest amounts of video data at the fastest speeds. Follow the four steps below to connect
the laser, the router and the computer. All four cables must be connected to use the camera system.
1

Attach an Ethernet cable from a LAN port on the router to the Ethernet port on your computer. If you do not havean Ethernet port available, you can use a USB to Ethernet connector.

2

Attach an Ethernet cable from a LAN port on the router to the Ethernet port above Camera Out (on the 		back of the Fusion).
Preprogrammed
RouterFusion M2 with
Camera Option

eth3

Ethernet Cable
To Fusion’s Camera Out

eth2

CAMERA OUT

3OPTIONUSB Cable
To Fusion’s USB Connection

4

eth1

Do Not Use
eth0

USB

Ethernet Cable
To Fusion’s Network Connection

CONSOLENETWORKDo Not Use- 141 -

Ethernet CableTo Computer’s Ethernet Port

eth4

2

1

Section 11: Optional Features
eView Camera Module3

Attach an Ethernet cable from a LAN port on the router to the Network connection on the back of the 		
Fusion.

4

Attach the USB cable from the USB connection on the back of the Fusion to a USB connection on your 		
computer.

Setting Up the Print File
Start by printing your artwork on acrylic, paper, cardstock, fabric,
etc. On the printed artwork, include two registration marks that willallow the camera system to detect where on the laser bed your pieceis located.
1. Each registration mark should be a 1/4” (6.35 mm) black, filled
circle. Larger circles can be used, but .25” is the default.
2. The registration marks are vital to your printed artwork andprovide a common point of reference between your graphic file,
your printed material and the location of your printed material
on your laser bed.
3. There are no hard and fast rules governing where theregistration marks should be placed. It is preferable if they areplaced on opposite sides of the graphic image.
4. When creating your artwork for printing you should overprint
the outside edges of your artwork by approximately .060” (1.5mm). The overprint area provides extra space to accommodate
the cutting width of the laser beam.

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Section 11: Optional Features
eView Camera Module

Setting Up the File for Vector Cutting
Once we have our print file we need to add outlines to the registration
marks and add vector cutting lines over the print file.
1. Select the Registration Marks (Fiducials): First, select each of theregistration marks and give them a RGB outline color that will matchone of the six basic colors available in the Color Mapping section of
the driver (red, green, blue, cyan, yellow, magenta). In this example weused the color green. For more information on the colors available, see“Color Mapping” on page 103.
Make sure you do not print these cutting lines on yourprinted item. These lines are only used with the laser!
2. Create your vector lines and give them a separate color to be color
mapped. In this example we used red for our cut lines and blue for ourscore lines. If you have different lines you would like to cut withdifferent speeds and/or powers, give each of the lines a different RGB
color.
All vector cut lines and registration mark outlines must use
RGB values.
3. By placing your vector lines and printed items on different layers, you can quickly turn off the printed layer in the
Object Manager so you can more easily print only the vector lines to the laser.

4. When you have your vector file prepared, choose File > Print. Go to Preferences and set your laser parameters,
making sure that Send to Manager is checked.
5. For eView Camera jobs you must use Color Mapping. In the Color Mapping Tab, set your laser parameters for yourcut lines. For instructions on setting Color Mapping settings, see “Color Mapping” on page 103 in your manual.
6. You do not need to change the settings for the color you have assigned to the registration marks (green in thisexample) because they will not be processed as vectors. They are used only to identify which circles are registration
marks.

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Section 11: Optional Features
eView Camera Module

7. Click OK to close the Preferences window and OK
again to send the job to the Job Manager.

3. Designate the Registration Mark Color: Click the
Colors Tab. Find the color that represents theregistration marks (green in this case). In the field at
the far right (with a registration mark icon) click on
the word OFF to toggle it to ON.

Setting Up the Job in the Epilog Job
Manager
1. Place your item to be cut on the laser’s table. Make
sure to leave the door to the laser open. This
allows the door cameras to show the table preview.

2. Open the Epilog Job Manager. In the Jobs Tab,double click on the job you just printed to open the
Job Information window.

As soon as you click the Registration mark to ON the
carriage will move as far back and to the left as it
can go. This indicates that the Fusion is ready for the
next step.
4. Set Registration Mark Size: After selecting theregistration mark color, a field will appear allowing
you to set the registration mark size. The default is.25” (6 mm), like we used in the file setup.
If you used a different size circle in your artwork
setup you can designate that size here.

Make sure that when you set up your laser
in the Job Manager that you checked thebox to activate the eView Camera. For
more information, see “Activate a Laser”
on page 36.

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Section 11: Optional Features
eView Camera Module

5. Click the eView tab.

7. Designate Registration Mark 1: In the upper rightcorner of the eView window you will see the Preview
Window showing a line representation of the file.
One of the registration marks is highlighted in pink.
Move your mouse to the corresponding registration
mark in the video feed and click on the blue diamondicon that is on top of the registration mark in yourartwork. Clicking the blue icon designates it as our
first registration mark.

6. The eView screen shows the video feed of theartwork on the laser bed.
The blue diamonds on the video feed have been
identified as registration marks by the system.
You can adjust the brightness of the display to bettersee the table and registration marks by clicking on
the Refresh key or sliding the Brightness Bar left or
right.

8. After clicking on the blue icon in the video feed it willturn pink. Click the Proceed key (double arrow
shape) in the lower right corner.
The registration icons in the Preview Window andthe corresponding video feed will turn green. Thismeans the system has successfully identified thefirst registration mark.

9. Designate Registration Mark 2: After clicking on
Proceed, the other icon in the line representation willturn pink.
Move your mouse to the second corresponding
registration mark on the video feed and click on the- 145 -

Section 11: Optional Features
eView Camera Module

blue icon. It will turn pink. Click the Proceed key
again in the lower right corner.

11. Hunting Routine: The laser carriage will startmoving to find the first registration mark andprecisely locate its exact location on the laser bed.
The same process is followed to precisely locate thesecond mark.

10. After clicking the second registration mark the video
feed will show an overlay of vector lines to be cut.
Insure the lines are in the correct location andorientation. If they are, you are ready to print to the
Fusion.
Confirm and Print using the Proceed key in the lower
right corner. The job will now print to the Fusion.

After locating the second mark, the carriage will stopmoving while it is directly over the second mark. At
this point, the vector files is transferred to the
Fusion and the Fusion is ready to start cutting.
12. Close the lid of the laser. Click the Go key on the
keypad to start the job. The laser will then moveaway from where it stopped over the second
registration mark and start the job.

Quick Print a Job
When you are cutting duplicate prints, you can quickly
move from one piece to the next by using the Quick Print
feature.
1. Quick print is determined by page size, so if you
have set your page to the size of the material, place
your item to be cut as close to the top left corner of
the table as possible.
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Section 11: Optional Features
eView Camera Module

2. After you have run your first laser cutting, open thedoor to the laser and place your next item to cut inthe same direction and vicinity as the last so theregistration marks are within 1.5” (38 mm) of thelast position.

All three calibration routines should be run in the correct
order to correctly calibrate the cameras.

3. With the door to the laser closed, click on the Quick
Print icon in the Job Manager. The camera system
will move out to do a quick hunt for the registration
marks then start the cutting process.

Checking Camera Calibration
To check the overhead camera calibration, you must have
set up your laser system in the Epilog Job Manager. For
more details, see “Activate a Laser” on page 36.
1. To check the overhead camera calibration, open the
top door. Open the Job Manager and find one of theeView Camera jobs you have sent to the laser. If you
still need to setup a file, see “Setting Up the Print
File” on page 142.

Camera Calibration Routines
There are three camera calibration routines available toalign the two overhead and one lens carriage camera.
If you see severely blurry or double images from theoverhead cameras, you will need to calibrate the system.
Since the overhead cameras are used to approximate thelocation and orientation of the printed artwork, slight
imperfections in the video feed will not impact the
precision of the vector cut paths.

2. Click on the eView tab, and the screen will show thevideo feed from the overhead cameras. When thedoor cameras are properly calibrated, the image iscrisp, clear and covers the entire table.
3. If there is a severe double image, then the cameras
will need to be calibrated. You will need to follow
all three calibration steps that follow.

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Section 11: Optional Features
eView Camera Module

If you see a double image, first make surethe table is in focus. An out of focus image
will cause distortions in the image.
Remember, the two overhead cameras in thedoor show the approximate location andorientation of your printed artwork on thelaser bed. Slight imperfections in the video feed of theoverhead camera will not impact the precision of thevector cut paths. If you see slight blurriness of thedisplay, there is no need to run the calibration settings.

3. Select your laser from the drop-down menu, thenclick the Proceed key. The calibration routine will
start immediately. The lens carriage will move acrossthe bed left and right, from top to bottom, in orderto map the entire Fusion table.

1) Overhead Camera Calibration
1. Click on the settings icon in the upper right corner ofthe Epilog Job Manager.

This will take approximately ten minutes but
can take longer under low light conditions.
4. As the carriage moves across the table, the overheadcameras precisely map and record the exact locationof the Lens Registration mark that is on top of thecarriage. It then uses a complex calculation toprecisely pinpoint where the carriage is located at
any point above the laser bed.

2. Click on the Camera tab, then Calibrate Overhead
Cameras.

5. When finished, the calibration video feed will
disappear and the Calibration Complete window willappear. Press OK.

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Section 11: Optional Features
eView Camera Module

After running the Calibrate Overhead Cameras
routine, you must run the Calibrate Lens
Routine and the Calibrate Stitching Routine.
Move on to the Lens Camera Calibration.

5. Select your machine and click the Proceed key.

2) Lens Camera Calibration
The second step requires the calibration of the camera
located at the lens carriage. The lens carriage camera
takes the images from the overhead camera and uses
them to precisely define the location and orientation ofyour artwork on the laser bed.

6. Clicking the Proceed key sends a job titled“LensCamCalib” to your laser. Close the top door
and press the Go key on the Fusion keypad to run
the job.

1. In the Job Manager, click the Settings icon.

2. Click the Camera tab then, Calibrate Lens Camera.

7. The job engraves five specially designed registration
marks on the anodized aluminum piece.
Once the engraving is complete, open thedoor, but do not touch or move theengraving until all of the steps below havebeen completed. Press the Proceed key.

3. This process engraves five location points onto apiece of anodized aluminum. You will need a 6” x
6” (152.4 x 152.4 mm) or larger piece of anodized
aluminum or other very high contrast material (suchas black and white plastic) to complete this process.
4. Place the aluminum into the upper left corner of thelaser bed.

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Section 11: Optional Features
eView Camera Module

8. The system will now analyze the exact position of
the registration marks by moving the carriage overthe engraved piece. The system will annotate theimages with cross-hairs as it calculates the precise
location of the lens camera relative to the engraving.

1. Click the Settings icon.

2. Select the Camera tab, then Calibrate Stitching
Offset.

9. Once the Lens Camera Calibration routine has
finished, the lens camera will be fully calibrated.
Press the OK key and move on to the third step calibrating the stitching offset.

3. You will need to print out the alignment form before
you can proceed with this routine. Download theform at www.epiloglaser.com/calibration.

3) Calibrate Stitching Offset
After calibrating the overhead and lens cameras, you willneed to run this routine. The calibration routine stitches thetwo overhead camera views together where they overlap in
the middle of the table.

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Section 11: Optional Features
Dual Source Option

4. Place the arrow on the calibration printout up
against the top ruler at the middle of the table. Thisroutine identifies the size and location of the circles
on the printed paper to perform the stitchingcalibration. You do not need to remove the vector
grid to perform this routine.

6. The carriage will automatically move back and thetable will move to its focus position before thecalibration routine begins. This routine only takes a
few seconds.

7. When the stitching calibration is complete, theFinished window will pop up. Click OK and thecalibration routine is complete. Press the Reset key
on the Fusion keypad to return the carriage to its
standard Home Position.

5. After properly placing the calibration form, click theProceed key.

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Section 11: Optional Features
Dual Source Option

Dual Source Option
If you have chosen the dual source option on the
Fusion M2, you get the benefit of a CO2 and fiber laser
source both in one system. The operation of this system isfundamentally the same as running either the CO2 or fiber
laser separately. In a typical job when you are using only
the CO2 or only the fiber laser, you will set your laser
source in the Default Settings section of the Epilog
Dashboard Print Driver.

1. When your file is ready, print it to the laser. In theLaser Dashboard, set your engraving settings for theCO2 laser on the General Tab.

2. Set the Resolution, set the Piece Size, and choose
Raster as the Job Type.
3. Under Default Settings, your settings will be forthe non color mapped images. In this case, it is thehandle image, which will be engraved in wood.
4. Set the default color laser source (CO2 in this case).

Setting Up a Dual Source Job

5. Turn on Auto Focus and set the thickness of thewood handle (.530” in this case).

If you are doing a project that requires both CO2 and Fiberlaser sources in the same job, you will use Color Mapping
to determine which parts of the job should be just CO2 andwhich should use the fiber laser source.

6. Click on the Color Mapping tab and click the check
mark next to Color Mapping.

In this example we are engraving a bottle opener with awood handle and metal opener. We’ve set up the file to use
the default black settings for the CO2 wood engraving, andcolor mapped the red for the fiber metal etching.

8. Next set the mode to Raster for engraving or Vector
for cutting and which laser source you’re using(CO2 or Fiber). For more information on using Color
Mapping, see “Color Mapping” on page 103.
Press the right arrow to apply your settings.

- 152 -

7. Click on the Red color and set the speed, power,
frequency, thickness and offset for the fiber graphic.

Section 11: Optional Features
PhotoLaser Plus

Color Mapping Order of Operation
When printing a dual source job with Color Mapping, it’s
important to understand the order that the laser will follow
for engraving and cutting.
1. First it will engrave any color mapped raster jobs inorder from top to bottom of the color map list.
2. Next, any black raster engraving.
3. Next, color mapped vector jobs in order from top tobottom of the color map list.
4. Finally the black vector lines.
In the color map list, you can move between CO2 and fiber
etching or CO2 and vector cutting and back again.

Focusing a Dual Source Job
1. Start by restoring the zero position of the table bymoving to the Focus function on the Keypad. Double
Center-click the joystick then tilt the Joystick to theright to restore the table to the zero position.
2. In the Laser Dashboard, turn on Auto Focus on the
General tab and set your piece thickness for theblack and grayscale parts of your image.
3. In Color Mapping, set the thickness for each material
you have color mapped.
4. If you are annealing a part or need to adjust the
focal point into the object (such as if you are cutting
acrylic), you can also set an offset for both theblack portion of the job as well as any color mapped
sections.

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Section 11: Optional Features
PhotoLaser Plus

PhotoLaser Plus

Printer Properties.

The PhotoLaser Plus software package (PLP) is an optional
addition to your Epilog Laser System created by CadLink

3. In the General tab, change the name of the printer inthe first field to include the word Epilog.
4. Insert the CD that came with the software into thedisk drive and follow the prompts for a Full Install.
5. After the install is complete, you will need to activate
PLP. Open the software and click the OK key on the
pop-up screen.

that provides an easy method of transforming photographs
for your laser engraver, as well as incorporating variablebadge making features. This software is not intended
to replace your other graphic layout software, such as
CorelDRAW or Illustrator; however it is a great complement
to your other software.
Epilog only supports PhotoLaser Plus and badge layout
functions in the software. The full EngraveLab software isa powerful standalone graphics package. Support for thefull EngraveLab is available through CadLink.

Setting Up the PLP Software
Epilog has teamed up with CadLink to bring you a special
custom version of PhotoLaser Plus designed to only be
used with an Epilog Laser system. Primary functions
such as printing, Copy, Paste, etc are unavailable unlessan Epilog print driver has been established as the default
printer within PLP.
1. Go to Devices and Printers on your computer andcheck your print driver’s name to be sure the word
Epilog is included. If it is, you are ready to install thesoftware.
2. If the word Epilog is not included in the laser’s
name, right click on the icon for the laser and select- 154 -

6. Place any graphic on the page. This can be an
object, text, or an imported image. Print it by going
to File then Print.

Section 11: Optional Features
PhotoLaser Plus

7. Select your laser in the driver list. Make sure thishas the name Epilog in the driver, or move back tostep one. Next close the print window by clicking the
red X.

Import your photo to be transformed. Select Filethen Import.

If the file looks bitmapped after the import, selectView then Show Reduced Bitmaps to see the higher
resolution version of the image.
8. Close PLP, then reopen the software and you areready to start using the software.

PhotoLaser Plus PhotographTransformation
When you first open PLP, your first step is to set yourplate size, which is your page size. You can set this tomatch the material you are engraving, or the size ofthe engraving table.
9. Crop the Photo: If you do not want to engrave theentire photo, double click on the photo to open thebitmap tools at the top of the page. Select the
Rectangle or Ellipse tool to frame the area you wantto crop. With the proper area framed, press the Crop
key to finalize the crop.

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Section 11: Optional Features
PhotoLaser Plus

10. Resize the Photo: You must now resize the photo to
the size you want to engrave. With the photoselected, type in the X and Y dimensions of thephoto.

11. Set the Resolution: This number must match theresolution at which you will be engraving the photo.
Select Image then Image Size from the menu. Typein the resolution and select Apply.

13. Select the yellow folder to open the materials folder.

14. Choose the material you are going to engrave. If you
don’t see the Epilog settings, they can be
downloaded from epiloglaser.com/photolaserplus_
instructions.htm.

Make sure you have selected Apply or the
new resolution will not be saved with theimage.
12. Transform the Photo: With the photo resized and theresolution set, we are ready to transform thephotograph. From the menu select Transform thenPhoto Laser. Choose Interactive to select thematerial you want to use. Choosing Automatic will
apply the material settings you used on your last
project.

- 156 -

15. If you want to replace the photograph with the new
1-bit photograph, uncheck Keep Original, otherwise
it will place the transformed image next to youroriginal on the page. Press the OK key to finish.

Section 11: Optional Features
PhotoLaser Plus

16. You can now print the file to the laser.
Make sure you print the image at the same
resolution as you set in step 6, or the image
will not engrave correctly!

2. Crop the Photograph: Select the photograph, thenselect from the menu bar Effects, PowerClip, andPlace Inside Container. Click the outline of thephoto placeholder to place the photo inside the box.

Using CorelDRAW in Conjunction
with PLP
This section takes you through the steps to prepare a filein CorelDRAW and use PLP to transform the image. This
allows you to use the powerful layout features of Corel orother design software along with the photo transformation
capabilities of PLP.
1. Start by setting up
your file in CorelDRAW.
We’ve designed an 8” x
10” plaque, added thetext and placed a box
as a placeholder for thephotograph.

3. To resize or move the photograph in the powerclip
box, right click the photo and select Edit Powerclip.
When you are finished adjusting the image, rightclick and select Finish Editing this Level.
4. Convert to Bitmap: With the photo selected click
Bitmaps, then Convert to Bitmap.

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Section 11: Optional Features
PhotoLaser Plus

Creating Badges with Variable
Names

5. Set the resolution to match your engraving
resolution. This is usually 300 or 600 DPi. Set thecolor mode to either RGB, CMYK, or Grayscale (itdoesn’t matter which one).

Another feature of PhotoLaser Plus is it’s flexible badge
layout function. We’ll show you how to setup multiple
items, such as badges, on one page with different names
on each badge.
1. Start by opening a new file and setting the platesize to the equivalent of one badge. 3” x 1” in thisexample.
2. Setup the badge by importing any images.

6. Copy the photo in Corel by selecting Edit, then Copy.
7. Open PLP and paste the image anywhere on thepage by selecting Edit, then Paste.
8. Transform the photo by following steps 6 through 9in the previous section.
9. After the transformed image is prepared, select Filethen Export Image. Export the file as a .bmp. Makenote of where you saved the transformed file.
10. In CorelDRAW select File then Import and selectyour transformed file. Place the photo in thedesignated space without resizing the image.

11. Print the file from CorelDRAW as you normally
would, using the same resolution that you selectedin step 5.
- 158 -

3. For the variable name, go to the Text tool and selectthe second option, the Text Compose tool (this tool
allows you to auto condense long names).

Section 11: Optional Features
PhotoLaser Plus

4. Click and drag a box within the badge. Size it toapproximately accommodate your longest text
string. Make sure it fits in the badge area.

7. Select the Badges icon in the tool bar.

8. Set the Badge Setup parameters as shown below:
1

Be sure to click and drag after selecting
the tool. Just clicking in the badge will
invoke a different use for the tool andyou will not be able to auto-condense
your names.

Number of Copies: the number of badges you
want to create.

Score Lines: Optional setting that you can
use to vector cut badges if you’re usingmaterial like plastic.
2

5. Type your variable in the text box. Here we used theword Name. Move it to its proper location on thebadge.

Use Plate: It’s important that this be checkedso that the graphic corresponds with theactual plate size you’re using.
3

Custom Size: The custom plate size
corresponds to the size of your material
you’re using to engrave the badges. We’re going tolaser a 12” x 12” piece of plastic, so we’ve set thisparameter to 12” x 12”.
4Compress text equally over copies: You do
not need to check this box. Long names willautomatically be compressed.
5

6. We’re now ready to create the badges. First, selecteverything on the badge. If you don’t selecteverything, the unselected objects will not be
repeated on the badges.

6

Replaceable Items/text: Select the variable
text you typed in earlier, in this case.

Replacement Data File: If this box ischecked you can browse for a data file thathas the names already entered, such as a tab
delimited text file. If you do not check this box, a box
will open allowing you to type in the data.
7- 159 -

Section 11: Optional Features
PhotoLaser Plus

Troubleshooting Badge Layout

1
3

2

Problem: The logo doesn’t appear on the badges.
6

Solution: In step 6, you didn’t select everything on thebadges before clicking the Badge tool.

4

Problem: The word Name is repeated on all of thebadges.
Solution: In the badge setup parameters you didn’t
highlight Name as the field to replace.

57

9. After clicking OK, the text substitution box will open
allowing you to enter or adjust the names for yourbadges.
10. After clicking OK, you will be taken back to yourdrawing page and badges will be properly laid out
and populated. You can see that we have ten badges.
One was left blank intentionally because we had ten
badges and only nine names. You’re ready to print
your badges to the laser!

- 160 -

SECTION 12: UPGRADING THE OPERATIONAL FIRMWARE
How to Upgrade Your Firmware

How to Upgrade Your
FirmwareYour laser system is capable of having its operationalfirmware upgraded. The firmware is the command
software in your laser system that controls how yourlaser system operates. A firmware upgrade reprograms
your laser system to take advantage of new capabilities
or enhancements to the system. To accomplish thereprogramming, you just print a special file to your laser
system. The process is explained below.
Upgrading your laser is a two-step process:1. Download the new firmware to your computer andunzip it.

When you download the firmware it comes as a compressed
file in the following format: 1.0.X.X.zip. The X’s designate
the actual version of the firmware. Once downloaded,unzip the file by double-clicking the file. It will open yourunzip program.

Find the Upzip To or Extract To selection, and unzip thefile to your computer. You will need to pay attention to thefolder it is extracted:

2. Transfer the new firmware from your computer toyour laser.

Installing New Firmware onto Your
ComputerStart by checking your current firmware version by
powering on the laser. The current version is displayed on
the LCD panel, and will read Version 1_0_X_X.

Important! Keep track of the folder where you
saved the extracted .hex file. You will need toaccess this file again in the next step.

Transferring New Firmware from Your
Computer to Your Laser
Create a simple drawing in your graphics package. For thisexample, we’ve typed in the text Firmware Upgrade.

Downloading: From the Epilog web site download the newfirmware under Support + Service > Driver and Firmware
Downloads and save the zip file.
You can also join our Driver Notification
mailing list on the download page to be
automatically notified when new versions offirmware or the driver become available.

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Section 12: Upgrading the Operational Firmware
How to Upgrade Your Firmware

The next step is to Print, select your laser in the printerdrop-down box and click Preferences (or Properties).

The .hex will show in the Update Firmware File box. ClickOK.

Go to the Advanced tab, check the Update Firmware box
and then click on the Load key.
Click Print.

Go to the folder that contains the extracted file, select the.hex file and click on Open:At this point, the .hex file will begin transferring to yourlaser. The laser knows that it is being upgraded and thegraphic that you created will not print, nor will it show up
as a Job. Instead, the cursor keys will light up. When the
upgrade is complete, the display will read Reboot!
The programing process takes a few minutes
to complete. Do not disturb the laser during
the upgrade process!
After you have rebooted your laser, the process is complete
and you will see the new version number of firmware on
your LCD as the laser powers up.
Depending on the type of upgrade you may be requested
to reboot more than once. Close your design page and you
are ready for your next job!

- 162 -

SECTION 13: PRINTING FROM AUTOCAD
How to Print from AutoCAD to the Laser

How to Print from AutoCAD to
the Laser
AutoCAD is a very powerful software tool that is often usedin conjunction with the laser for cutting applications. Like
any tool, understanding how it works and its limitations
are helpful in getting the most out of it. Below are general
instructions for printing from AutoCAD. AutoCAD versions
14 to the present are mostly compatible with Epilog
systems. Each version of AutoCAD uses slightly different
printing conventions that may or may not affect the way
you print from AutoCAD and each different version may
produce different output from the laser.

Color Mapping works, refer to “Color Mapping” on page
103.

Model Space, Paper Space, andPrecise Location
AutoCAD was designed to print to paper plotters and someof the assumptions (especially Scaling and Margins) that
AutoCAD makes when printing can cause frustration for
laser users that are used to being able to send a job to
the laser and have its precise location be very predictable.
Printing from either Paper Space or Model Space will
work. Be aware that the scaling and margin assumptions
made by AutoCAD can affect both the size and location of
the work.

Printing/Plotting
Sending jobs from AutoCAD is heavily dependent on theprint settings in the AutoCAD Print/Plot window. Since
there are so many different settings that AutoCAD requires,
it is important that you double-check all of the settings
that are critical to success. Previewing your image before
sending it to the laser is very helpful in preventing print
problems.
AutoCAD is capable of producing extremely complicateddrawings with many layers, colors, etc. Since there is nolimit to the level of complexity that an AutoCAD drawing
can achieve, users should keep in mind that the laser
is a 2D cutting machine that usually cuts a single pieceof material in any given job. While your laser system iscapable of handling complex drawings, users may find thateliminating extraneous detail before “Printing/Plotting”
may make their laser equipment more productive.

Helpful Hints
When printing from AutoCAD you need to set up your
AutoCAD page so that it is square. This prevents theobjects from rotating 90 degrees when you print them.
The page in the example below is set to 24” x 24” (610 x
610 mm).
Place all of your objects in the upper portion of the
AutoCAD page (see illustration below). If you are printing
to a bed size of 24” x 12” (610 x 305 mm) and you havea 24” x 24” (610 x 610) page, the objects in the lower 12”(305 mm) will not be processed.

Color Mapping
Creating objects of different colors in AutoCAD allows
the user to take advantage of the Vector Color Mapping
capabilities of the Epilog Dashboard print driver. Color
mapping assigns different Speed and Power settings toan object based on its color allowing you to both cut andmark in a single setup. For a detailed description of how- 163 -

Section 13: Printing From AutoCAD
How to Print from AutoCAD to the Laser

Set the Piece Size to match your AutoCAD
page size. Setting your AutoCAD page andthe Dashboard print driver settings to asquare configuration (36” x 36”, for instance)is necessary to overcome AutoCAD’s tendency to rotate
your artwork 90 degrees.

In the AutoCAD print window, set the pen colors that you
are using to .001” (.0254 mm).
The AutoCAD default for all pens is .010 and a line weight
this large disables vector cutting. If the line weight is notchanged to .001 inch, vector cutting will not be possible.
When the laser receives a job where the line weights are

too large, the laser system will just beep when you attempt- 164 -

to run the job.
Other useful settings in the AutoCAD print window are:•Set the page orientation to Portrait.

•

Set Plot area to Limits.

•

Scale set to 1:1.

•

Pen Sizes .001 inch (0.0254 mm).

SECTION 14: MATERIAL ENGRAVING TECHNIQUES
CO2 Laser Materials/Techniques

CO2 Laser Materials/TechniquesYour Epilog Laser system is very versatile. It can mark and cut many different materials. Following is information regardingsome of the materials the laser will mark and cut. Check the Epilog website (www.epiloglaser.com) periodically for newlaser applications, tips and techniques to use with your laser. For specific information regarding materials not mentioned
below, please contact your local Epilog representative.

3D Engraving
Earlier in the manual we discussed dot patterns and how those patterns are used to create raster images. 3D mode looks
at the dots and the dot patterns in a very different way than basic raster engraving mode, especially when using grayscale
images.
In 3D mode, instead of looking at the dots and determining where to fire the laser based on the dot spacing, we look at
the dots and determine how much laser power (wattage) to apply to each dot. In basic raster engraving mode, every dot
is fired at the same laser output. In 3D mode we have the ability to adjust the laser output for every dot.
An additional aspect of 3D mode is that, unlike basic mode, the laser fires continuously between most dots – even if it isengraving from a 10% fill pattern to a 30% fill pattern. This is by design so there is a gradual change in the depth ofengraving when the artwork transitions from one shade of gray to another. The only time that this is not true is when the
artwork changes from 100% black to 100% white (or visa versa). Because we adjust the way the laser fires in 3D mode
we also have to adjust the artwork that is used to create good 3D images, and this is where 3D engraving can get difficult.
Since we’re going to vary the laser power output for every dot, we want artwork that will produce
more than one level of gray. We want artwork that gradually blends from one shade of gray toanother. You need an object that looks something like this circle to create a 3D image.
Engraving this circle in 3D mode will create a dome with center being the high point (because it’s alight shade of gray) and the outside edge being deep (because it’s a darker shade of gray).
This explanation describes the most basic functions of 3D engraving and some of the theory behind

In this sample, the black background would be engraved
away. Using this technique, the leaf stands up away from thebackground, with the edges of the leaf being the highest points
and the stems being engraved the deepest.

This image would engrave deepest around the edges of theleaf and less deep in the body.

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Section 14: Material Engraving Techniques
CO2 Laser Materials/Techniques

it. What it doesn’t describe is the difficulty that most users will have in creating acceptable 3D artwork. Creating a 3D
image that will look good after engraving can be very difficult to achieve because most software packages do not provide
the necessary tools to take complex objects and blend them in more than one direction from dark to light (or, visa versa).
There are some 3D graphics software packages available that will create 3D images, but they generally cost between$3,500 and $10,000 USD. Ask your Epilog representative if you would like more information on these software packages.

Acrylic
Fire Warning: Your laser system uses a high-intensity beam of light that can generate extremely hightemperatures when it comes into contact with the material being engraved, marked or cut. Some materials
are extremely flammable and can easily ignite and burst into open flame setting the machine afire. This
open flame is very dangerous and has the potential to destroy not only the machine, but the building inwhich it is housed.
Experience shows that vector cutting with the laser has the most potential to create an open flame. Many materials are
susceptible to igniting, but acrylic -in all its different forms - has been shown to be especially flammable when cut withthe laser.
For more information on fire hazards associated with lasers, please read the full “Fire Warning” on page 1 of themanual.

Choosing the Right Type of Acrylic
There are two types of acrylics and each is suitable for different applications. Cast acrylic sheets and objects are madefrom a liquid acrylic that is poured into molds that can be set into various shapes and sizes. This is the type of acrylic
used for the awards you see on the market. Cast acrylic is ideal for engraving because it turns a frosty white color whenengraved. While it can be cut with a laser, it will not give you flame-polished edges.
The second type of acrylic that you will use with your laser is formed into sheets by a machine and is called extruded
acrylic. It is formed through a higher-volume manufacturing technique, so it is typically less expensive than cast, and it
reacts very differently with the laser. Extruded acrylic will cut cleanly and smoothly and will have a flame-polished edge
when laser cut. But when it is engraved, instead of a frosted look you will have a clear engraving.

Acrylic Engraving Techniques•

Most acrylic is engraved on the backside to produce a look-through effect from the front surface.

•Remove the protective adhesive paper from the back of the acrylic before engraving. Leave the front protective coverlayer on to prevent scratching while handling the acrylic. Since you are engraving the backside of the acrylic, youwill need to reverse or mirror your artwork before sending the job to the laser.

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Section 14: Material Engraving Techniques
CO2 Laser Materials/Techniques•

Engrave the acrylic at a high speed and low power. A small amount of power is all it takes to mark acrylic and highpower levels tend to distort the acrylic when engraving.

•

There are a large number of acrylic products that are painted on one side to add color. You can engrave directly
through the paint into the acrylic for a very nice presentation effect. Leave the speed the same as if you areengraving clear acrylic, and increase the power about 10% to get completely through the paint. Applying too much
power to the paint will melt it and cause distortion.

Acrylic Cutting Techniques
Acrylic is one of the most popular cutting materials available. It comes in a variety of colors and thickness. Laser cutting
produces very nice edge quality without the need for polishing or secondary clean up.
•

Use the Vector Cutting Table or Pin Table to elevate the acrylic before cutting. Air Assist will greatly reduce flamingwhen cutting acrylic and should always be used for this material. Information on accessing the Vector Cutting Tableis included in “Vector Cutting Table/Vacuum Hold-Down Table” on page 119.

•To find the perfect settings for cutting acrylic, you will need to experiment. Test different speed and power settingsby cutting a small shape from a scrap piece of acrylic you will not be using.

•Cutting acrylic is usually best achieved with relatively slow speed and high power. This combination allows the laser
beam to melt the edges of the acrylic and produce an almost flame-polished edge.

•

Acrylics generally require only a single pass to cut, but thicker acrylics may need two passes. Some users find thatspritzing the protective adhesive paper with water produces a better edge when laser cut.

•

Setting the focus distance at the center of your acrylic sheet will produce better edge quality than focusing on top of
the acrylic sheet.

•

Warning! Never leave your laser unattended when vector cutting any material! Acrylic is very
flammable. Read the full “Fire Warning” on page 1 of the manual.

Anodized Aluminum
Anodized aluminum is a coated aluminum that comes in a variety of colors and can usually be easily engraved with a CO2
laser.
•

Black anodized aluminum is great to work with because it turns white when engraved and provides the best contrastof all of the colors of anodized aluminum.

- 167 -

Section 14: Material Engraving Techniques﻿•Some colors of anodized – red for instance – will not turn completely white when laser engraved. Red anodized willproduce a light pink color. Performing a second pass can result in some improvement, but usually a slight shadowof color will remain.

•

Engrave anodized aluminum at high speeds and low powers for crisp, clean results. Too much power applied to theanodized coating will distort the engraving and tends to over-burn the image.

•Warning! Metals are reflective. Using full power with them can potentially cause damage to themachine.

Brass - Painted
Since the frequency of the CO2 laser is not compatible with bare metals, uncoated brass cannot be laser engraved. For
bare-metal marking you will want to use an Epilog FiberMark system. In order to engrave brass with a CO2 laser you need
to use brass that has some sort of coating – typically paint. The laser removes the paint and exposes the brass substrate.
There are two basic types of engraveable brass available, but they are not all compatible with the laser.
•

By far, the most popular laser brass is actually brass-coated steel. First, a steel substrate is coated with a thin layerof brass. Next, the brass is polished to a reflective finish and a coat of lacquer is applied to the brass – Victory’s
LaserBrite™ product has a lacquer finish. Finally, a paint coating is applied on top of the lacquer for the finishedproduct. When laser engraving brass-coated steel, you are removing only the paint and exposing the polished brasscoating that is protected by the lacquer. The lacquer prevents the brass from oxidizing and the bright reflective
surface will stay bright for years.

•

Some manufacturers also sell painted brass that is solid brass, not brass-coated steel. If the brass is polished
before the paint is applied you will have a bright, reflective engraved surface. If the brass is not polished, the result
will be a dull, tarnished brass that will require a secondary polishing process after laser engraving. This is time
consuming and most engravers do not want to spend the time and effort necessary to turn this into an acceptableproduct.

• Note: Always ask before lasering painted brass if you don’t know the substrate! If you are unsure if your piece isbrass-coated steel or genuine brass, you can test the material with a magnet. A magnet will stick readily to brasscoated steel, but since solid brass is not magnetic, a magnet will not adhere to solid brass.

Painted Brass Engraving Techniques•

Engrave painted brass with a high speed and low power setting. It takes very little power to remove the paint coating
and too much power will melt the paint and distort the image. If your mark on brass is turning out “fat” or has aballoon appearance to it, you are probably using too much power. Reducing the power will bring back the nice sharp
images that are normally produced with painted brass.

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Section 14: Material Engraving Techniques﻿• Note: Use caution when trying to engrave brass coated pens. Many pens have a very hard epoxy paint that iscompletely unacceptable for CO2 laser engraving. You should only use pens that you have experimented with or thatare specifically designed for CO2 laser engraving. Be aware that there are many pens that can be laser engraved witha fiber laser but these pens are usually not compatible with the CO2 laser that you are using.
•Some paints are “almost” CO2 laser engraveable. If you engrave through the paint and there is a slight shadow
remaining, try to clean the engraved area with alcohol or lacquer thinner. Depending on the paint, there is a goodchance that the shadow will disappear and an excellent engraving result achieved.

•

Use caution when trying to engrave blue painted brass. Blue paints contain very aggressive pigments that penetrate
the metal surface and it can be extremely difficult to remove all of the blue color, but again, try alcohol or lacquer
thinner to remove the shadow.

Glass
When a laser strikes glass it fractures the surface but it will not engrave deeply or remove material. The fracturing of theglass surface will produce a frosted appearance but can cause roughness and chipping depending on the type of glass
being engraved. While the frosted appearance is desired, the roughness and chipping are not. Below we explain how toeliminate the roughness and produce a very smooth frosted finish.
The composition and quality of glass varies widely and you cannot always predict the effect that you will achieve. It isalways best to experiment with an unfamiliar glass source. Generally speaking, flat glass tends to have a very consistent
hardness throughout, and the engraved areas do not tend to have lighter and darker areas. Bottles on the other hand, tend
to have soft and hard spots that will cause the engraved area to appear lightly frosted in one area and heavily frosted inanother. Engraving at medium speed and high power will somewhat compensate for this, as will two or more engraving
passes.
While the laser beam itself is very hot, the heat does not build up easily and it should not prevent you from engraving
onto full bottles of wine, champagne or other filled glass bottles. Laser engraving filled bottles is a very popular method ofcreating custom presentations for special occasions. The laser will not damage the liquid inside the bottle, and as long as
you are not completely engraving away a large section of bottle you have very little chance of breaking the bottle.

Glass Engraving Techniques
To produce a smooth frosted finish, here are some tips:• 300 DPI: Using a lower resolution, around 300 DPI, produces a better result on glass as you separate the dots you
are engraving.
• 80% Grayscale: Change the black in your graphic to 80% black to improve the engraving quality.
•

Jarvis Dithering: Running with a Jarvis dithering pattern in the driver (you’ll find this under the raster speed andpower settings) will also help provide a smoother finish.

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Masking: Some people find that applying a thin, wet sheet of newspaper or paper towel a little larger than theengraving area also helps with heat dissipation and improves the engraving. Just be sure that there are no wrinkles
in the paper after it is applied.

•

Dish Soap: Using your finger or a paper towel, apply a thin coat of liquid dish soap – any kind will do – over the area
to be engraved. This will dissipate the heat when engraving.

•

Polish: If there area small shards of glass, you can polish the area with a ScotchBrite pad or something similar.

Note: You need to be especially careful when laser engraving leaded crystal. The lead in the crystal expands at a different
rate than the crystal does and this can cause cracking and breakage of the crystal. Using a lower power setting can help
this problem, but we always recommend having a spare in case of breakage.

Combining Laser Engraving with Sandblasting
Combining the best of both processes, you can use your laser to engrave the artwork then use sandblasting to provide adeep etch into glass. Using the laser to create the artwork mask is an ideal process for one-of-a-kind custom pieces as wellas large production runs. This eliminates the photo process usually associated with sandblast mask.
1. Apply an adhesive-backed mask material to the glass that you are going to engrave.
2. Laser completely through the mask and into the glass.
3. Remove the glass from the engraver and sandblast to the desired depth.
4. You now have a sandblasted glass presentation with the detail of laser engraving!

Notary Seals: Delrin
Notary seals can be easily manufactured using 1/16-inch (1.5 mm) thick delrin plastic. A seal consists of two pieces - amale die and a female die, both shown below. The male die consists of white lettering on a black background and thefemale die is an inverted and mirrored image of the male. Inverting and mirroring are easily accomplished in most graphics
software packages. Simply duplicate the male die, invert the black and white colors, and then mirror the image.

Female Artwork

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The male image should be produced without the use of outlines around the text or graphics. Add a .007 to .010 inch
(0.178 mm to 0.254 mm) outline to the text and graphics of the female die. This outline creates a large enough void
between the male and female dies to emboss paper without tearing.
Apply a .001 outline around the seal to define the outside edge of the seal. Use the Combined Mode to first rasterengrave the seal and then vector cut out the seal.

Plastic Engraving/Cutting
There are two types of available engraving plastics: rotary plastics and laserable plastics. Rotary plastics are designed
for rotary engraving systems that use a mechanical spinning bit to remove material. Therefore, the depth of the top
layer or “cap sheet” was designed to make it easy to rotary engrave. Cap sheet thickness was approximately .010
inches (0.254 mm) thick and laser engraving was nearly impossible because by the time you applied enough power
to get through the cap sheet the laser melted and deformed the plastic.
Laserable plastics have been developed with a thinner cap sheet that is .002” to .003” (0.051 mm to 0.076 mm)
thick, providing much better engraving and cutting characteristics. These plastics are commonly referred to as micro
laminates; micro-surfaced, or simply laser engraveable plastics. These plastics are generally very easy to engrave witha laser since they all have similar characteristics.
Because there is such a broad range of plastics it is necessary to experiment to determine if a particular type ofplastic is laser compatible. Different color plastics, even if they are from the same manufacturer, will have unique
speed and power settings. Use the guidelines in this manual as a starting point when determining the correct speed
and power settings. If you do not get acceptable initial results with the recommended speed and power settings, startexperimenting by first changing only the power setting. If adjusting the power setting does not work, start over andadjust only the speed setting. Once you have acceptable results, record those settings for that particular plastic so thatyou do not have to repeat the experimentation process.

Plastic Engraving Techniques•

Always remove the clear protective cover layer before engraving.

•

Once you have the correct speed and power settings you can improve your engraving results even more bytaking the focus lens out of focus (lower the table) by about 1/16 (1.5 mm) of an inch. This technique enlarges
the focus beam a little bit and provides more beam overlap on each pass of the laser. The greater overlap
produces a smoother engraved surface on the plastic and eliminates the grooves that you sometimes see whenengraving plastic.

•

With some plastics it is best to engrave using two passes. The first pass cuts through the cap layer and thesecond pass cleans away the residue that some plastics leave behind.

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Another technique that can be useful is to mask the plastic before engraving with transfer or masking tape. This will
prevent a buildup of residue on the plastic surface. Misting the transfer tape with water will reduce heat buildup andmelting on sensitive plastics.

Plastic Vector Cutting Techniques•

Use a Vector Cutting Table to elevate the plastic before cutting. Air Assist will greatly reduce flaming when cutting
plastic.

•

Vectoring plastics is similar to vectoring other materials. First, experiment to determine if the plastic can be cut withthe laser. Plastics that are up to 1/16 inch thick can usually be cut in a single pass. Thicker plastics may need twopasses.

•As with engraving, it is sometimes necessary to mask and dampen the plastic before cutting. Even masking andwetting both front and backsides of the plastic is desirable on sensitive plastics that have very low melting points.

•

WARNING! Never leave your laser unattended when vector cutting plastics! Plastic can be very
flammable. Read the full “Fire Warning” on page 1 of the manual.

•

WARNING! Do not engrave PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride). PVC will destroy the optics and mechanics of your
Epilog system. Cutting or engraving PVC will void your warranty. The only way to find out if there is PVC
in your plastic is to the check the manufacturer’s Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS).

Rubber Stamps
The Dashboard includes settings for producing rubber stamps. Unique stamp attributes are controlled from the driver
including, Speed and Power settings, Shoulders, Widening, and more.

Creating Your Layout for Stamps
Set up your artwork in Corel so that your computer image looks like the image that you want to stamp. Areas to be
stamped (the raised areas on the stamp) should be black, with the area to be removed white. You can either invert (mirror)
your graphic in the graphic software you are using or select “Mirror” in the print driver.
The artwork for a stamp file needs to be set up so that the background of the image will be engraved away and the words
and letters remain standing. The two ways of setting up a stamp file are determined by the method you use to define thearea that is to be engraved away.

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Fence Method: This technique uses a closed outline to define the area
to be engraved away. This image shows the stair-step outline of a Fence
enclosing the logo to be stamped. The laser will engrave away only the
background area outlined by the Fence, leaving the logo standing.
This method is useful because it allows you to be very precise about
how much background you are going to engrave away, saving time andmaterial. The fence must be .001” (.025 mm) thick and can be any
closed polygon or ellipse. You can even place several stamps within
one fence.
Page Size Method: Some software programs do not recognize closed
outlines. For these programs (Illustrator and some third party custom
stamp packages) you need to use the page size to define the area thatwill be engraved away. Set the page size to the size of the stamp. The
laser will engrave away the entire background of the page, leaving thelogo standing.
Cutting Out the Stamp: If you are using the Fence Method, any line
within the area with a line weight of .001” to .007” (.025 - .175 mm)
will be vector cut when sent to the laser.
Creating a Perforated Cut: To create a perforated cut around the stamp that will allow the stamp to be pulled away fromthe rubber, in the print driver set the vector frequency below 5. This keeps the stamp attached to the rubber sheet andmakes cleaning easy while allowing the user to easily remove the stamp from the sheet.

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Examples of stamp layouts using Fence Method:
Example 1: Single stamp (will not be cut out):

Example 2: Single circular stamp to be cut out:
Fence Line
0.001” (.025mm)

Fence Line
0.001” (.025mm)
Cut Line
0.001” (.025mm)
Example 3: Multiple stamps to be cut:
Cut Line 0.001” (.025mm)
Cut Line
0.001” (.025mm)

One fence tosurround all stamps.
Example 4: Incorrect! The file contains multiple fence lines. If creating multiple stamps
in one file, use one fence around the entire layout.

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Sending a Stamp File to the Laser

Select Stamp as yourRaster Type.
With Stamp mode selected,
you can change theshoulder and widening
settings (explained below).
The mirror function mirrors everything
except the lines to be cut. Only use if not
cutting out the stamps with the laser. Mirror
your artwork when setting up your file.

Check the Fence box if using the Fence Method.

Once you have successfully setup your stamp artwork, you are ready to print your design. In the Laser Dashboard go to
the Advanced tab.
If the Stamp Mode is not able to be selected, check on the General Tab that the Job Type selected is either Rasteror Combined mode.

Shoulder Settings
The Shoulder setting in the Dashboard adjusts the angle of the shoulders of your characters. A higher shoulder number
provides a wider angle and more support for the characters. The following drawing shows a side view of a character withthe shoulders set to 6, 25 and 50. Many users feel the default setting of 25 is ideal.

Widening Settings
The Widening setting in the Dashboard adjusts the width of the character at its top. A higher Widening number provides abolder character. The following drawing shows a side view of the difference in characters when their widening set to 1 or
6. (Note that the Shoulder doesn’t change). Many users feel the default setting of 1 is ideal.

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Stamp Match
The last setting that you may need to make is made from the laser’s control panel. The Stamp Match setting is defaulted
to 0 which is ideal for most stamp applications. If you notice that there is a little jaggedness at the edges of your stamp
letters, adjust the Stamp Match by one or two digits (either up to 1 or 2, or down to -1 or -2 etc). This feature fine tunes
the left to right alignment of each raster line and should straighten out any rough edges that may appear. This is a settingthat once set should never need to be changed again. To change the Stamp Match setting, refer to the Engraving Machine
Calibration / Maintenance section in this manual.

Wood
Solid Wood
Wood is by far the most laser friendly material available because it can be engraved or cut very easily. When engraved,
lighter colored woods like Cherry or Maple produce very nice contrast where the laser burns away the wood. This highvisual contrast is what makes lighter woods so popular when combined with a laser. There are many types of other wood
products that are designed for use with the laser and many more that are waiting to be discovered by you.
Every type of wood has its own characteristics. Some wood is denser than other wood, with the denser, harder woods
requiring more laser power to cut or engrave. Epilog recommends that when working with wood other than the ones
listed in this section that you investigate the engraving and cutting characteristics before committing to use. There arewoodworking shops in nearly every large city that will have a wealth of information on nearly all woods. If you have accessto the Internet, search on wood to see what you find.
•

The most common woods used with the laser are Cherry, Walnut, Maple, Alder, & Oak. These woods are consideredhard woods, and have grains that work well with lasers.

•

Grain can very greatly in density. Cherry, Alder, Walnut & Maple all have fairly little veins of grain in them, while
Oak has medium to large veins in it. For example: If a large box was engraved into a piece of Cherry and a piece ofOak, the box engraved into the Cherry would have a very uniform appearance, the area engraved or the backgroundwould be smooth with little variation in height. The Oak on the other hand would vary greatly in height and have avery non-uniformed appearance.

•

Cherry and alder are the most popular woods for engraving. The light, red color of these two woods provides an
excellent contrast when engraved.

• Engraving bare wood: When engraving bare wood, the smoke and debris produced while engraving can become
embedded into the grain of the wood. To reduce this effect, always engrave with the Bottom-Top setting in the driver.
• Engraving stained wood: A stained wood is preferable for engraving because excess smoke and debris can be
wiped off the surface of the wood after engraving with water.

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Manufactured Wood Products
When choosing a manufactured wood product for engraving and cutting, we have found MDF to be vastly superior to
plywood when working with a CO2 laser. Since plywood is constructed of layers of wood glued together and the grain of
the wood chips in the plywood run in different directions, it is difficult to obtain a consistent depth when engraving. Air
bubbles within the plywood cause problems because they severely disrupt the laser beam when cutting. Because of theglue, air bubbles and other factors it is virtually impossible to cut cleanly through plywood.
MDF is an engineered wood product with glued together wood fibers. Since there are not layers of wood glued together,like in the plywood, the engraving and cutting is much better. You will produce some charring on the edge of MDF whencut, so you may need to sand the edges after cutting.

Wood Engraving Techniques•

To create a quality image on wood, contrast and depth are usually desired. The higher the power levels, the higher
the contrast and depth will be.

•

Speed and Power Settings: Wood is a great material to laser engrave because it discolors when engraved and thedepth of engraving is greater than most materials. The downside is that it takes a lot of power to deeply engrave
wood at high speeds. Most wood can be engraved using full power no matter whether you are using a 30-watt laser
or a 120-watt laser. Depending on the wattage of your laser, the best approach is to set the laser power at 100% andadjust the speed to obtain the desired depth.

• Resolution Settings: Wood is a very easy material to work with and you can produce very nice detail with as little as300 DPI engraving. 600 DPI engraving into wood produces fabulous results, especially on photos.
•

Gray Scales: Gray scales look wonderful when engraved into wood. The reason for this is that the wood will react
much differently to each level of gray scale, providing amazing contrast. Experiment! Take a piece of clipart andungroup it and change the colors so that they range from a dark color like red, to a light color like yellow, thenengrave it. This will create a shading effect that is almost 3-D in its appearance.

Wood Vector Cutting Techniques
Epilog Laser Systems are ideal for cutting through solid wood material. The thickness of the wood that you can cut varies
with the wattage of the laser and the hardness of the wood, but in general you can cut approximately ¼ inch (6.35 mm)
wood with a 30-watt laser and up to ½ inch (12.7 mm) wood with a 120 watt laser.
•

When cutting wood of any thickness, Epilog recommends the use of the Vector Cutting Table and Air Assist options.
The Vector Cutting Table raises the wood off of the solid metal engraving table and supports the wood on analuminum grid. The grid greatly reduces backside burning of the wood and also provides ventilation that allows thefumes and smoke to be exhausted to the rear of the engraving cabinet. Information regarding accessing the Vector
Cutting Table is located in “Vector Cutting Table/Vacuum Hold-Down Table” on page 119.
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Air assist greatly reduces flaming that may occur if too much laser power is applied to the wood piece being cut.

•

Depending on the type of wood being vector cut, it is sometimes advantageous to apply a cover of masking ortransfer tape to the surface before cutting. The masking tape will reduce residue buildup on the top surface of thewood surrounding the cut line.

•

Reduce the frequency settings in the driver to around 20 for a better laser cut edge. The laser will pulse lessfrequency, reducing the charring and burning on the side of the wood.

•

If you are cutting through thicker materials, focus the table up so that the new 2” focal distance will be to the centerof the wood.
Warning: Wood is a combustible material. Never leave your laser unattended while vector cutting any material.
Air assist greatly reduces flaming that may occur if too much laser power is applied to the wood piece being
cut. Read the full “Fire Warning” on page 1 of the manual.

Wood Cleaning Techniques
When laser engraving or cutting wood, resin in the wood comes to the surface, mixes with the smoke and is deposited
as a residue. If the wood has a coating of polyurethane or lacquer the coating protects the surface of the wood from theresin/smoke damage. You can remove the resin from coated materials with a wet chamois or a sponge with a web cover.
Some people like to use 409, Windex or other mild cleaning product, but water works well and is usually the most readily
available wetting agent. The chamois that Epilog recommends has a sponge in the middle of it, and is available in theautomotive car wash section of many Target stores or many automotive supply shops.
•

If the wood is not coated with polyurethane, the resin and smoke will stain the surface and you will need to sand thesurface to remove the resin.

•

Never use a paper towel to clean the wood surface. The paper towel will shred and it is impossible to get theshredded fibers out of the engraved recesses of the wood. Most wood products that are designed for laser
engraving will have a polyurethane coating so that they are very easy to clean.

Wood Color Filling Techniques
Color filling engraved areas of wood adds either greater contrast or a splash of color to your wood presentation. Normally,color filling is not required for lighter colored wood materials such as maple or cherry, but walnut can often benefit fromadding a black color fill to provide more contrast. You will need to take some precautions when color filling wood, because
if you are not careful, the liquid color fill material will absorb into the grain of the wood on the surface of the plaque where
it is not wanted.
The best way to add a black color fill is shown below:
1. Apply a thin coat of Johnson’s Paste Wax to the surface of the wood before you engrave it.

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Fiber Laser Materials/Techniques

2. Engrave through the paste wax into the wood. Do not wipe off excess paste or residue after engraving.
3. Fill the engraved voids with Turtlewax “Color Core” black liquid car polish. The car polish will absorb into theengraved wood grain, but will not absorb into the wood grain that is covered with paste wax.
4. Wrap a paper towel around a block of material that has a flat surface. Rub the flat surfaced paper towel over thesurface of the wood to clean off the excess car polish and paste wax. The flat surface prevents the paper towel fromgetting into the engraved recesses.

Fiber Laser Materials/Techniques
The fiber laser can etch and mark a wide variety of metals and plastics. Below are a few techniques for creating different
marks including annealing, polishing and etching into metals, as well as information on plastic marking with the fiber laser.

Metal Annealing
Annealing can be done on most metals that contain high levels of carbon and metal oxides. These are generally, but
not limited to, steel alloys, iron, titanium, cobalt, molybdenum, and chrome-plated iron/steel. To anneal, you mustuse a slow rate of speed to heat and change the surface color of the material, but a higher wattage Fiber laser will
help reduce the cycle times.
To change the surface color without penetrating the metal, the laser beam’s focal point is crucial in achieving a dark mark.
An annealed mark is accomplished with the focal point up (closer to) .070” to .110” (1.778 to 2.794 mm) or down (furtheraway) -.060” to -.090” (-1.524 to -2.286 mm) from zero. Adjusting the speed, focus and frequency setting will vary thecontrast of mark generally resulting in shades of blue, purple and black.
The frequency is the amount of laser power per pulse. The lower the frequency, the more burst of power is being applied.
Because we’re intentionally applying a broader beam of laser light to achieve an annealed mark, frequency is almost always
set in the lower 1-5% range.
For best results, print at 600 DPI. 1200 DPI should be considered for metals that are more difficult to anneal, if there isinconsistent color change at the recommended settings, or when cycle times aren’t a concern. The extra overlapping of
pixels offered at 1200 DPI will assure a deeper, darker mark.

Metal Etching
Deep metal engraving is a common application for the fiber laser. Using a slow speed setting doesn’t necessarily equate
to depth. Longer laser dwell time typically results in more eruption of metal, leaving a raised mark instead of deep
penetration.

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Fiber Laser Materials/Techniques

We find for the best deep metal etching, moderate speed settings (20-30%) and more passes slowly chip away at themetal for a better mark. Deep metal engraving requires maximum wattage. For these applications, a 30 or 50-watt fiber
laser is recommended.
Frequency is generally set between the 1-5% range. A lower frequency range provides more bursts of laser power per
pulse and is crucial to ablating the metal. We’ve found that focusing “into” the metal by .010” to .030” (.254 to .762mm) helps in the removal of metal. No technical data is available on whether refocusing after each pass is helpful ornot. To better assist in removing metal cleanly, higher resolution (1200 DPI) with more overlap of laser pulses tends toprovide a cleaner, more defined etch.
Deep engraving will require multiple passes, which can be easily accomplished by changing the number of copies in theprint dialogue box for CorelDRAW. As with all materials including metals, the hardness or grade will ultimately determine
what settings and how many passes are needed to achieve a certain depth. Use the guidelines above as starting points
and experiment for best results.

Metal Polishing
Polishing of metals is accomplished by quickly heating up the metal’s surface, changing its color, resulting in a
mirror-like finish. Polishing can be done on just about any metal including, but not limited to, raw alloys, heattreated metals, plated metals and precious metals.
For a high-contrast mark, polishing is best done on darker, matte finish metals. Cleaning the surface prior to processing
is recommended as oils, grease and other chemicals can affect the consistency and finish of the final marks. Dialing in thesettings for a polished mark is the most difficult of the three most popular metal marking techniques. Speed, power andfrequency play the biggest role.
•

Speed is generally set on the high side, 50-100%, depending on wattage.

•

The power is set in the 30-60% range, depending on wattage.

•

Frequency is also set on the higher side, typically around the 50-100% range. A higher frequency setting equates
to less power per laser pulse. Too strong of a laser pulse and the laser beam starts penetrating the metal instead ofpolishing, resulting in a dull or browning effect.

Focus should be set at zero. Printing resolution is in the range of 300 to 600 DPI but is mostly done at 400 or 600.
Start by determining your base speed, frequency and resolution setting. From there, select a power setting and start finetuning by adjusting the power in 1% increments or decrements.

Plastic Marking
The term “plastics” is commonly used to describe various grades and types of polymers. To keep things simple,
we’ll refer to all polymers as plastic. There are many plastics that are compatible with the fiber laser’s 1062 nm
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Section 14: Material Engraving Techniques
Fiber Laser Materials/Techniques

at some point during the manufacturing life cycle. These plastics are doped with an additive that results in acontrasting mark when the 1062nm wavelength of light is applied.
There are many other plastics that work just as well as the engineered ones. It’s amazing how many different plastics
we receive for applications testing, most of the time their trade name and chemical composition aren’t disclosed or are
unknown. The guidelines below will help in your quest to provide the best possible mark.
Most plastics that tend to work on the FiberMark are those that are mold-injected and are physically hard. Industries where
injection molded parts are common include automotive, aerospace, medical device and general manufacturing, to namea few.
Some of the more common compatible plastics include PET, ABS, polycarbonate and colored delrin. Some that are moredifficult to mark using this wavelength of light include polyethylene, polypropylene and nylon.
Settings for processing plastics:•

Moderate to fast speed, typically in the 50-80% range.

•

Moderate power, generally around the 30-60% range, depending on wattage.

•

Medium to high frequency (50-100%) is helpful for processing plastics as it provides a steadier stream of laser
power per pulse. Using a low frequency would result in inconsistent contrast and possibly cause foaming of thesurface.

•

Focus is generally left at zero. Adjusting the focus up or down in .010” (0.254 mm) increments can provide slightly
better contrast but instead, consider adjusting the speed / power / frequency for the same effect.

Most plastics are processed at 600 DPI for high contrast and detail. Cycle times are generally fast, so dropping theresolution would only affect print quality. Increasing resolution may prove helpful only on those plastics that are difficult
to mark. The majority of compatible plastics will provide a high-contrasting mark using the above settings. Darker plastics
will turn white or varying shades of gray. Lighter plastics will turn dark gray to black. Fine tune the mark by increasing/decreasing power or frequency. Speed and focus can be left alone.
Incompatible plastics will either be transparent to the 1062 nm wavelength of light or will require the use of metal marking
settings (low to medium speed, high power, and low frequency). The final mark for these plastics isn’t as appealing,
consistent or contrasting as their compatible counterparts.
Pigmentation of plastic can also dictate what settings are needed to produce a nice mark. The core polymer may becompatible, but due to chemicals used to add color, some colors may mark better than others. Having to adjust theprinting parameters for different colors of the same compatible plastic is not uncommon.

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SECTION 15: SPECIFICATIONS
Fusion Laser Technical Specifications

Fusion Laser Technical Specifications
Fusion M2 32 (CO2)Maximum
Engraving Area
Max Material
Thickness

Fusion M2 32 (Fiber)

32” x 20” (812 x 508 mm)
13.5 (342 mm) (2” lens)Fusion M2 40 (CO2)Fusion M2 40 (Fiber)

40” x 28” (1016 x 711 mm)
10.5” (266 mm) (3” lens)

13.25” (336 mm) (2” lens)

10.25” (260 mm) (3” lens)Dual Source 12.5” (317.5 mm) (3” lens)Dual Source 12.25” (311 mm) (3” lens)Laser Source
Wattages30, 40, 50, 60, 75 or 120
watt, CO2, air-cooled,
all-metal tube, 10.6
micrometers.

30, 40, 50, 60, 75 or 120
watt, CO2, air-cooled,
all-metal tube, 10.6
micrometers.

Standard Features

Radiance High Definition Optics (CO2), Air Assist, Red Dot Pointer, relocatable Home Position, LED lighting, integrated floor
stand, brushless servo motors, Super-Silent Cooling Fans, Joystick controls, removable exhaust plenum.

20, 30 or 50 watt, Fiber
Laser. Air cooled, includes
collimator. 1064 nm. Beamquality: M2 < 1.1.

20, 30 or 50 watt, Fiber
Laser. Air cooled, includes
collimator. 1064 nm. Beamquality: M2 < 1.1.

Dual Source Fusion M2: Available with combination of 50, 60 or 75 watt CO2 and 20, 30 or 50 watt Fiber.
Intelligent Memory
BufferStore unlimited files up to 128 MB. Rolling buffer allows files of any size.

Operating Modes

Optimized raster, vector and combined modes.

Motion Control
SystemHigh-speed, continuous-loop, brushless DC servomotors using rotary encoding technology for precise positioning.

X-axis Bearings

Ground and polished, stainless steel, Teflon coated, self-lubricating bearings.

Belts

Advanced B-style Kevlar belts (X-axis) and steel cord (y-axis).

Resolution

User controlled from 75 to 1200 DPI.

Speed and Power
Control (engraving
depth)

Computer controlled speed and power in 1% increments to 100%. Color mapping links speed, power, frequency, focus, andraster/vector mode settings to any RGB color.

Print Interface

10Base-T Ethernet or USB connection. Compatible with Windows XP/Vista/7/8/10 and Mac OS X 10.7 and up.

Size (W x D x H)

52.5” x 35.5” x 40.75”(1334 x 851 x 1035 mm)
34.25” (870 mm) deep with Exhaust Plenum

60.5” x 41.25” x 42.25”(1537 x 1048 x 1073 mm)
43” (1092 mm) deep with Exhaust Plenum

Weight500 lbs (227 kg)

643 lbs. (292 kg)

500 lbs (227 kg)

Dual Source: 536 lbs (243 kg)

643 lbs. (292 kg)Dual Source: 679 lbs (307 kg)

Electrical
Requirements

Auto-switching 110 to 240 volts, 50 or 60 Hz, single phase, 15 amp AC.

Ventilation Systems

650 CFM (1104 m3/hr) external exhaust to the outside or internal filtration unit is required. There are two output ports, 4”(102 mm) in diameter.

Laser System
Classification

Class 2 Laser Product - 1 mW CW MAXIMUM 600-700 nm.

Technical specifications and product configurations subject to change without notice.

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Section 15: Specifications
Compatibility

CompatibilityYour Epilog Laser has been designed as an “open architecture” product that can be run from almost any Windows based
software. Epilog provides both Windows 32-bit and 64-bit print drivers, as well as a Beta version of a Mac driver for OS
X 10.7 and higher.

Recommended PC
For Optimum Computer Performance
Investing in a new computer is a great way to make sure you’re getting the most out of your new laser equipment. Why?
Because today’s software (CorelDraw for instance) requires a lot of computer processing speed and memory to function
properly. A good computer won’t make a big difference in how your laser runs, but when compared to a slow computer
it will save untold amounts of time and frustration setting up the artwork that you “print” to the laser. Many users do notpurchase new computers for use with their new laser because their current computers are perfectly adequate. There’s nomagical cut-off that makes a computer too slow. If you’re comfortable with the performance and speed of your current
computer, there’s probably no reason to purchase another one. The following recommendations are just advice to consider
if a new computer is necessary.
A new computer doesn’t have to be expensive to work great. Even many of today’s lower cost computers work great for
laser applications. Read these recommendations and consider spending just a few dollars more for those components thatwill save you time and frustration.
Operating System
While the laser is compatible with Windows 32-bit or 64-bit XP, 2000, Vista, Windows 7 and newer operating systems, aswell as OS X 10.7 and higher, the Epilog Job Manager will work with Windows 7 and newer.
RAM – Random Access Memory
4 GB is the minimum that is recommended. RAM is like short-term memory. It’s fast and readily available for the computer
to access and makes time consuming tasks go much quicker if you have lots of it. Having more than 2 GB of RAM is nice
if you demand a lot from your computer.
Processor Speed
A faster processor will allow you to do more tasks in less time. While it’s not necessary to purchase the fastest processor
available, you’ll want adequate speed to operate your graphics program. Processor speeds are always improving, but
processor speeds of about 2.0 GHz or faster are a good place to start.
Graphics CardYour computer’s graphics card will need to support OpenGL 2.1 or higher to operate the Epilog Job Manager. If you areusing the eView Camera Module, the graphics card should have a minimum speed of 1 GB.
10/100 Network Interface Card (NIC)
All new computers have a 10/100 network connection as standard equipment. As well as allowing multiple computers to
be linked together in a network, this technology also allows direct printing from the computer to the laser. Epilog supplies
a network Crossover cable with each laser system that allows one computer to print to a single Epilog Laser system.
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Section 15: Specifications
About The CO2 Laser Source

Hard Drive
This is the permanent memory in your computer. Many users feel that you can never have a large enough hard drive.
Luckily, most computer manufacturers put high capacity drives in new computers these days. When in doubt, buy bigger
than you think you might need. It’s so in-expensive that it’s worth the peace of mind to have it available.
Software
Many users use Corel as their graphics software. Many other Windows software applications can also be used, although
all software is different and may not be predictable, user friendly or functional. Additionally, the technical support staff at
Epilog may be less familiar with software other than Corel and less able to help with questions. Consult with your Epilog
distributor on software compatibility issues. Epilog does not guarantee compatibility with any software.
PhotoLaser Plus is a third party software for converting photos to laser compatible format. This is an indispensable option
for engraving photos. For more information see “PhotoLaser Plus” on page 154.
Heavy Duty Surge Protector
The need for a surge protector varies greatly throughout the world. If the laser is operated anywhere that the electrical
power is subject to spikes, outages, lighting, fluctuations, etc, a surge protector should be used on both the laser and thecomputer. A surge protector is a very cheap insurance policy against catastrophic electrical damage. A surge protector
is designed to be an inexpensive device that absorbs any electrical problems before they can damage the expensive
equipment (computer and laser) they are protecting.

About The CO2 Laser SourceYour Epilog CO2 laser system uses the latest in laser technology to provide a powerful tool that is simple and safe to setup
and operate. The Epilog Laser can mark, engrave, and cut a variety of non-metallic materials.
The CO2 laser beam itself is invisible and operates at a wavelength of 10.6 microns. The beam is about half the diameterof a #2 pencil. Unfocused, it will just make an ugly burn, leaving lots of charred material behind. The focus lens gives
the beam an hourglass shape. At the center point the energy density is concentrated, allowing the very precise and cleanmaterial removal that is characteristic of laser engraving. The center of the hourglass is the focal point.
The laser beam path is completely enclosed within the cabinet. Please do not disassemble or modify any of the covers
or windows on the machine. If at any time you notice that the laser operates with a door or window open, please contact
Epilog technical support immediately.
The laser has two basic operating methods. For cutting (vector), the laser is driven along a path and the laser is left on all
the time. The path could be the outline of a letter or a geometric shape like a circle. The laser will cut entirely through thematerial, separating the part from the background. For marking (engraving), the laser is swept across the work from left
to right, and the laser is turned on and off at the correct points to produce the first line of the image. Then the carriage
advances one line and the process is repeated, eventually assembling a full image.

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Section 15: Specifications
About the Fiber Laser Source

About the Fiber Laser Source
The fiber laser source generates a laser beam by pumping intense diode light into the end of fiber optic cables that havebeen doped with ytterbium. The energy from the diode light is absorbed by the ytterbium in the fiber optic cables. The
ytterbium then releases the energy in the form of photons that travel down the optic cables. The photons that leave theoptic cables create the laser beam. The wavelength of light generated from a fiber laser is 1062 nm.
The fiber laser source generates laser light by pumping intense diode light into fiber optics cables that are doped withthe rare-earth element, ytterbium (Yb3+), which is referred to as the medium or gain medium. As this diode light energy
travels into the fiber optic cable, it energizes the electrons in the ytterbium and the ytterbium electrons go from a groundor stable state, to an excited state.
Essentially, all that is happening in this first step is that the electrons in the medium are absorbing and storing the energy
that’s coming from the external energy source (diodes). For reference, the CO2 medium is the CO2 gas in the tube, and theexternal energy source is RF electrical current. In the fiber laser (and also most YAG lasers these days and YVO lasers) theexternal energy source is a laser diode.
The electrons in the medium don’t really want to store the external energy they’ve absorbed, so they emit the extra energy
by releasing a photon (a quantum packet of light). Once a photon has been emitted by one electron in the medium it
stimulates other excited electrons to also emit photons, creating a chain reaction where the absorption and emission ofenergy is at a constant rate. The photons travel through the optic fibers and some are released through the end of thefibers as the laser beam.
By continually pumping energy into a medium, that medium tries to shed the excess energy by emitting photons. The
type of medium is important because different mediums absorb different types of energy (for instance, a CO2 gas
medium is not going to absorb the energy from a diode in a way that will make the CO2 gas lase). Different mediums
also emit different wavelengths of photons, and hence, the different properties of different wavelength lasers.

Federal Communications Commission (FCC) NoticeThis equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant toPart 15 of the FCC rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference
when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and canradiate radio frequency energy; and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause
harmful interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmfulinterference, in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at his/her own expense.

- 186 -

SECTION 16: TECHNICAL SUPPORTContacting Technical Support

Contacting Technical Support
The technical support department at Epilog is available to assist with solving problems you may encounter using your
Epilog. Please review first the common problems and solutions as noted below, then if you are still in need of assistanceyou may contact Epilog’s technical support department at the number or website listed below. Technical support is available
in Golden, Colorado USA during the hours of 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. Mountain Time.
Technical Support Direct Line: 1 (303) 215-9171
Email: tech@epiloglaser.com
Technical Support Online: support.epiloglaser.com

What to do prior to contacting Epilog Technical Support:
1. Have the machine serial number available.
2. Have time to work on machine. Many issues will require troubleshooting.
3. Clean your machine (especially the optics), this will solve many issues.
		The machine serial number can be found on the Certification/Identification Label. This engraved plate is located on theback of the machine’s cabinet. The ID label shown is for the Model 13000 75-watt product.

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Section 16: Technical Support
Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions
Engraver Will Not Vector
1. Verify that the print driver is set to Vector or Combined mode.
2. Verify that the lines that you want to vector are set to .001” (0.025 mm).
3. Make sure the images are vector lines. Scanned and raster images will not vector.
4. Filled or solid images will not vector (outlines only).

Vector Cutting Is Erratic out of CorelDRAW
You have not set the “Send beziers and paths to driver in CorelDRAW. For more information, see “Setting Up
CorelDRAW Beziers Setting” on page 33. If this does not work, contact Technical Support at +1 (303) 215-9171.

Engraving Appears Lighter Than Usual
1. All mirrors and lenses need to be cleaned and inspected for damage. See “Cleaning the Optics” on page 91 forcleaning instructions.
2. Verify that the lens is in correct focus.
3. Verify correct Speed, Power and Frequency settings for the type of material that you are engraving.

The Exhaust Is Not Pulling Enough Air
1. Move the blower closer to the machine. The closer the two are, the better exhaust you will receive.
2. Clean your exhaust system on a regular basis, including the engraver and blower. Use a bottle-brush and a vacuumon the areas where the exhaust buildup accumulates.

The Engraving Quality is Poor/Blurry/Double Image
1. If you feel you are not getting quality you once were, this is probably a maintenance issue. See “Cleaning &Maintenance” on page 91.
2. Clean the lenses of the system. See “Cleaning the Optics” on page 91 for cleaning instructions.
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Section 16: Technical Support
Frequently Asked Questions

3. If you are experiencing a double image problem or other quality issue, it is best to run a sample and send a photo
to: tech@epiloglaser.com.

The Laser Won’t Turn On
Make sure the Emergency Stop key the front of the machine is not pressed in.

When I Use the Joystick to Focus the Table, the Table is Moving Slowly
You are in “Fine” focus mode where the table moves up in small increments. Tilt the Joystick to the left or right to toggle
between fine and course movement. For more information, see “Job” on page 73.

The Laser isn’t Communicating with My Computer
1. Is the computer’s TCP/IP address set to a different number than the IP address of the laser? See “Set Up TCP/
IP Address in the Computer” on page 26. (If you have the eView Camera Module enabled, this should be set toObtain an IP Address automatically.)
2. Is the computer’s ethernet connection enabled? Go to the Network and Sharing Center, select Change Adapter
Settings. If the Local Area Connection says Disabled, right click and choose Enable.

The e-View Camera Module is Showing a Blurry/Double Image?
The camera needs to be realigned. For the latest instructions on Aligning the Cameras, see “Checking Camera
Calibration” on page 147.

The eView Camera isn’t Showing an ImageThe Dust Shutter is closed on the camera. Slide the gray metal piece next to the camera out and away from the camera
to open.

How Can I Increase the Life of my Laser System?
• Clean your system: Debris in the laser and on the mechanics of the system can reduce the life of parts in yoursystem. Wipe down your system on a regular schedule to keep the mechanics clean and long lasting.
• Clean the lenses: Lens life is greatly increased by keeping them clean and free of debris. Get in the habit of wipingthem off on a regular schedule to keep them clean and well maintained.
- 189 -

Section 16: Technical Support
Frequently Asked Questions• Reduce speed when running very small items: When you run at 100% speed on a graphic with a very short stroke,
the lens assembly comes up to speed and slows down extremely quickly, which can place wear on the mechanics ofthe laser. Slow down to 80 - 90% speed and increase the lifetime of your laser system.

How to Shorten Your Engraving/Cutting Time
• Lower the Resolution: How important is the highest resolution image? Processing jobs at 400 DPI vs. 600 DPI can
reduce cycle times by up to 30%, and processing at 300 DPI could mean half the cycle time.
• Reduce White Space: Orientate the parts to minimize engraving dead space (area where head travels, but has
nothing to engrave).
• Horizontal Layout: If an option, horizontal text will engrave faster than vertical or curved (fit text to curve) text.
• Color Mapping: Use the Color Mapping feature to save time by adjusting the order in which the objects engrave/mark.
• Run Multiples: If you need to engrave multiples of the same image. You’ll find you have a time savings per piece.

If these do not correct your issue or your issue is not listed, please contact the Technical Support Team at +1 303‑2159171 or tech@epiloglaser.com.

- 190 -

SECTION 17: MATERIAL SUPPLIERS
Industry Material Supplier List

Industry Material Supplier List
The following list contains supplier information for materials typically used with your Epilog Laser. Additional
suppliers and links can be found on our website at http://www.epiloglaser.com/industry_links.htm.
Acrylic

Color Fill Materials

Acrylic Idea Factory
Norcross, GA
800-543-9253
www.acrylicidea.com

JDS
Sioux Falls, SD
800-843-8853
www.jdsindustries.com

E&T Plastics
Blaine, MN
763-780-3700
www.e-tplastics.com

Smoke-Wood
Elgin, OR
800-248-2352
www.smoke-wood.com

Inventables
Chicago, IL
312-775-7009
www.inventables.com

Corian and Fountainhead

JDS
Sioux Falls, SD
800-843-8853
www.jdsindustries.com
Polycrylic
Norton, VT
800-809-4217
www.polycrylic.com
RB Fabrication
Orange, CA
714-998-2700
www.rbfabrication.com
U.S. Plastic Corp
Chicago, IL
312-775-7009
www.usplastic.com

Johnson Plastics Plus
Minneapolis, MN
800-869-7800
www.johnsonplastics.com
Cork
Jelinek Cork Group
Savannah, GA
800-959-0995
www.corkstore.com

Gantry Company (3D Graphics)
Chippewa Falls, WI
715-288-6100
www.gantryco.com
Laser Pattern Werx
Nehamlem, OR
503-368-3194
www.etsy.com/shop/laserpatternwerx
Educational Materials
CorelDRAW Help
Albany, OR
www.coreldrawhelp.com
FabricSEF Americas - LaserFlex
Jacksonville, FL
844-720-9600
www.seftextile.com

Custom Artwork and Graphics

Twill USA
Aurora, IN
866-806-9120
www.twillusa.com

Cascade Metal Designs
Burlington, WA
360-420-5962
www.freedxf.com

Webster Fabrics
Chesterfield, MO
800-845-4323
www.websterfabric.com

Digital Art Solutions
Tempe, AZ 85281
800-959-7627
www.digitalartsolutions.com

Glass- 191 -

DiscountMugs.com
Medley, FL
800-569-1980
www.discountmugs.com

Section 17: Material Suppliers
Industry Material Supplier List

JDS
Sioux Falls, SD
800-843-8853
www.jdsindustries.com

Marble Max
www.max.com
Medals (Engraveable)

R.S. Owens & Company
Chicago, IL
800-282-6200
www.rsowens.com

Max Gift International
Beaverton, OR
503-579-9804
www.max-gift.com

Catania
Avon Lake, OH
800-633-2586
www.cataniainc.com

Victory
Chicago, IL
800-327-5578
www.buyvictory.com

Laser Engraveable Products

JDS
Sioux Falls, SD
800-843-8853
www.jdsindustries.com

Metal Marking Compounds

Johnson Plastics Plus
Minneapolis, MN
800-869-7800
www.johnsonplastics.com

Metal (Engraveable)

CerMark Sales
Multiple Shipping Locations
866-241-9881
cermarksales.com

LaserGifts
Prescott, AZ
888-674-6612
www.lasergifts.com

AlumaMark
Cleveland, OH
800-482-7758
www.alumamark.com

EnduraMark
Austin, TX
512-236-6424
enduramark.com

Leather (and Laserable Faux)

Identification Plates, Inc.
Mesquite, TX
800-395-2570
www.idplates.com

Ferro ($500 minimum order)
Mayfield Heights, OH
800-245-4951
www.ferro.com

Inland Products
Riverside, CA
800-481-5500
www.inlandproducts.com

JDS
Sioux Falls, SD
800-843-8853
www.jdsindustries.com

JDS
Sioux Falls, SD
800-843-8853
www.jdsindustries.com

Johnson Plastics Plus
Minneapolis, MN
800-869-7800
www.johnsonplastics.com

NapTags
Grand Rapids, MI
800-451-3330
www.NapTags.com

LaserBond
Los Angeles, CA
844-577-7772
www.laserbondingtech.com

JDS
Sioux Falls, SD
800-843-8853
www.jdsindustries.com
Tandy Leather Factory
Forth Worth, TX
877-532-8437
www.tandyleather.com
MarbleJon-KoSan Diego, CA
800-537-9092
www.jon-ko.com
LaserSketch
Romeoville, IL
630-243-6360
www.lasersketch.com- 192 -

Section 17: Material Suppliers
Industry Material Supplier List

Mother of Pearl
Duke of Pearl
Lusby, MD
410-231-2641
www.dukeofpearl.com
Aqua Blue Maui, LLC
Kula, HI808-876-0217
www.aquabluemaui.com
Pen and Pencil Sets
IMARK Pen Co.
Arlington, TX
817-385-0306
www.IMARK-Pen.com
JDS
Sioux Falls, SD
800-843-8853
www.jdsindustries.com
Plastics (Engraveable)
Colorado Plastic Products
Lakewood, CO
303-443-9271
www.coloradoplastics.com
Innovative Plastics
Algonquin, IL
815-477-0778
www.inoplas.com
JDS
Sioux Falls, SD
800-843-8853
www.jdsindustries.com
Johnson Plastics Plus
Minneapolis, MN
800-869-7800
www.johnsonplastics.com

Rowmark
Findlay, OH
800-243-3339
www.rowmark.com

JDS
Sioux Falls, SD
800-843-8853
www.jdsindustries.com

Southeast Plastics
866-491-9044
www.southeastplastics.com

Polyonics
Westmoreland, NH
603-352-1415
www.polyonics.com

Plaques & Trophies
Taskboard
JDS
Sioux Falls, SD
800-843-8853
www.jdsindustries.com
Marble Trophies of SD
South Dakota
619-422-8298
www.marbletrophiesofsd.com/
Slate
Laser Slate
866-491-9044
www.laserslate.com
Sports Materials
JDS
Sioux Falls, SD
800-843-8853
www.jdsindustries.com
MiniSticks
Buffalo, NY
866-646-4784
www.ministicks.com

Taskboard
Miami, FL
561-983-6289
www.taskboard.com
Wood: Plaques and Specialty
Products
Colorado Heirloom
Loveland, CO
970-667-4222
www.coloradoheirloom.com
Infinity Woods
Clarion, PA
814-226-4361
www.infinitywoods.com
JDS
Sioux Falls, SD
800-843-8853
www.jdsindustries.com
Lasers & Woodworking
Cumberland, MD
301-777-0250
www.lasersandwoodworking.com

Tapes and Foils
Innotech of Wisconsin
Racine, WI
800-776-7194
www.innotape.com- 193 -

Lazer Depot
Mason, IL
217-663-2708
www.thelazerdepot.com

Section 17: Material Suppliers
Industry Material Supplier List

Lee’s Wood Products
Rocky Mount, VA
800-552-5337
www.leeswoodproducts.com
Stanton Mfg. Co. Inc.
Lake Ozark, MO
573-365-2441
www.stantonmfg.com/
Totally Bamboo
San Marcos, CA
760-471-6600
www.totallybamboo.com
WDI Custom Wood Products
Forest Lake, MN
800-899-4265
www.wdicustomwood.com- 194 -

APPENDIX A: WARRANTY STATEMENT
Warranty Statement for the Fusion Laser

Warranty Statement for the Fusion Laser
Epilog Corporation warrants to the original purchaser of Epilog Fusion Models 13000/14000 that the product will be freefrom defects in material or workmanship when purchased, and under proper, normal use within two (2) years from theoriginal date of purchase, with the exception of the motors which are warranted for three (3) years from the original dateof purchase.
Epilog will replace or, at its option, repair the defective part(s). Normally, Epilog will supply a replacement part for thecustomer to replace. Once the replacement has been performed, the replaced part must be returned to Epilog. In the casewhere repair is required, Epilog requires that the defective part, or machine, be returned to the Epilog factory or other
Epilog designated facility. Epilog will be responsible solely for the cost of repairs, including parts and labor, which are
made at an authorized Epilog facility. All other costs for replacement or repair, including, but not limited to, packaging
and shipping both to and from Epilog, shall be paid by the owner. A “Core” charge may be required by Epilog to insure
the return of replacement and repair parts. This warranty excludes any damage from abuse (including, without limitation,
incorrect voltages, power surges, fires, improper or insufficient ventilation “acts of God” or other situations out of thecontrol of Epilog), failure to operate in accordance with instructions provided in the Owner’s Manuals for the Epilog
models 13000, including specific safety and operational warnings contained therein, cosmetic damage sustained in use,and damage caused by unauthorized modifications of any equipment. All warranties to original purchasers are nontransferable. The registered owner must initiate warranty claims within the warranty period.
THE ABOVE AND FOREGOING IS THE ONLY WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED; INCLUDING BUT
NOT LIMITED TO ANY WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, THAT ARE
MADE BY EPILOG ON MODEL 13000. ANY WARRANTIES IMPLIED BY LAW ARE HEREBY EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMED.
No oral or written information or advice given by Epilog, its dealers, its distributors, agents, officers, or employees
shall create a warranty or in any way increase the scope of this warranty. Neither Epilog nor anyone else who has been
involved in the creation, production, or delivery of the Epilog Fusion Models 13000/14000 shall be liable for any direct,
indirect, consequential, or incidental damages, including but not limited to damages for loss of business profits, businessinterruption, loss of business information, adverse health impacts, fire, and the like, arising out of the use or inability to
use these products.
Epilog Corporation provides no warranties whatsoever on any software used in connection with Epilog Fusion Models
13000/14000.

- 195 -

APPENDIX B: MATERIAL SETTINGS
Fusion Series Suggested Material Settings (CO2)Fusion Series Suggested Material Settings (CO2)Material

DPI/Freq.

30 watt

40 watt

50 watt

60 watt

75 watt

120 watt

300 DPI90s 60p

90s 55p

90s 50p

90s 45p

90s 40p

90s 30p

Acrylic
Photo Engraving
Text/Clipart Engraving

300 DPI90s 80p

90s 75p

90s 70p

90s 65p

90s 60p

90s 55p

Text/Clipart Engraving

600 DPI90s 75p

90s 70p

90s 65p

90s 60p

90s 55p

90s 50p

Cutting 1/8” (3 mm)

100 f

5s 100p

6s 100p

7s 100p

8s 100p

10s 100p

12s 100p

Cutting 1/4” (6 mm)

100 f

2s* 100p

3s* 100p

1s 100p

2s 100p

3s 100p

7s 100p

Cutting 3/8” (9.5 mm)

100 f

2s* 100p

3s* 100p

1s 100p

3s 100p

Cutting 1/2” (13 mm)

100 f

1s 100p

Cutting Note: Adjusting the standard focus distance so it is closer to the lens by about .080” (2 mm) will produce better edge quality when cutting 1/4” (6mm)acrylic and thicker. Two passes can be used for cutting thicker materials. There are two types of acrylic: cast is better for engraving (it creates a frosted lookwhen engraved) and extruded acrylic produces a much better flame polished edge.
* The Fusion has two sets of Speed control for vector cutting applications. Checking the Speed Comp selection box in the print driver will reduce the speed
setting you have selected by one half. Speed Comp is most useful for speeds of 1 to 10. Example: Cut a square at 5% speed. Then repeat the job at 5% speed
and also select Speed Comp. The second square will take twice as long to cut as the first square. Speed Comp gives you more slower speed setting to workwith. Always use Air Assist when cutting.

AlumamarkEngraving

300 DPI90s 55p

90s 45p

90s 35p

90s 25p

90s 20p

90s 15p

Engraving

600 DPI90s 45p

90s 35p

90s 25p

90s 15p

90s 10p

90s 5pAnodized Aluminum
Photos/Clipart

400 DPI90s 55p

90s 50p

90s 45p

90s 40p

90s 35p

90s 30p

Photos/Clipart

600 DPI90s 50p

90s 45p

90s 40p

90s 35p

90s 30p

90s 25p

Text

600 DPI90s 60p

90s 55p

90s 50p

90s 45p

90s 40p

90s 35p

We find when engraving anodized aluminum, text appears best at 600 DPI, but photos and clipart can be engraved with great detail down to 400 DPI.

Cork
Engraving

300 DPI90s 50p

90s 45p

90s 40p

90s 35p

90s 30p

90s 25p

150 DPI90s 35p

90s 30p

90s 25p

90s 20p

90s 15p

90s 10p

FleeceEngraving

When engraving fabric, try changing the graphic to 80% gray and use the Jarvis dithering pattern for the best results. Every fabric you are cutting will need tohave adjusted setting - find a small swatch of the fabric you can test first.

Glass
Engraving

300 DPI

15s 100p

20s 100p

25s 100p

30s 100p

35s 100p

40s 100p

When etching glass, try changing the graphic to 80% gray before engraving and using the Jarvis dithering pattern. You can also diffuse heat by covering theglass with a thin sheet of dish soap.

Leather
Photo Engraving

300 DPI90s 40p

90s 35p

90s 30p

90s 25p

90s 20p

90s 15p

Text/Clipart Engraving

600 DPI90s 45p

90s 40p

90s 35p

90s 30p

90s 25p

90s 20p

Cutting 1/8” (3 mm)

50 f

50s 100p

45s 100p

40s 100p

35s 100p

30s 100p

25s 100p

50 f

20s 60p

20s 50p

25s 40p

25s 30p30s 40p30s 30p

Mat Board
Cutting- 197 -

Appendix B: Material Settings
Fusion Series Suggested Material Settings (CO2)Fusion Series Suggested Material Settings (CO2)Material

DPI/Freq.

30 watt

40 watt

50 watt

60 watt

75 watt

120 watt

Photo Engraving

300 DPI90s 55p

90s 50p

90s 45p

90s 40p

90s 35p

90s 25p

Text Engraving

600 DPI90s 65p

90s 60p

90s 55p

90s 50p

90s 45p

90s 35p

MarbleEvery marble is very different for settings. Start low and increase the power with a second run if you haven’t used that marble before.

Painted BrassEngraving

300 DPI90s 45p

90s 40p

90s 35p

90s 30p

90s 25p

90s 15p

Engraving

600 DPI90s 40p

90s 35p

90s 30p

90s 25p

90s 15p

90s 10p

300 DPI90s 40p

90s 35p

90s 30p

90s 25p

90s 20p

90s 15p

Plastics
Engraving

These settings work well with many plastics, including plastic phones and covers. Even one color plastics can achieve a great look when engraved.

Plastic (2 Layer Laser Engraveable)
Engraving

300 DPI90s 80p

90s 75p

90s 70p

90s 65p

90s 40p

90s 35p

Engraving

600 DPI90s 75p

90s 65p

90s 50p

90s 35p

90s 25p

90s 20p

Cutting 1/16” (1.5 mm)

100 f

10s 85p

10s 75p

10s 65p

10s 55p

10s 40p

20s 40p

Engraving

600 DPI

15s 100p

20s 100p

30s 100p

40s 100p

60s 100p

80s 100p

Cutting

100 f

5s 100p

10s 100p

15s 100p

20s 100p

25s 100p

30s 100p

600 DPI

20s 100p

25s 100p

30s 100p

35s 100p

45s 100p

55s 100p

25 f

50s 40p

50s 35p

70s 100p

90s 100p

90s 80p

90s 60p

Photo Engraving

600 DPI30s 100p

40s 100p

50s 100p

60s 100p

70s 100p

100s 100p

Clipart/Text Engraving

300 DPI

20s 100p

30s 100p

40s 100p

50s 100p

60s 100p

90s 100p

Clipart/Text Engraving

600 DPI

25s 100p

35s 100p

45s 100p

55s 100p

65s 100p

85s 100p

Deep Engraving

600 DPI

5s 100p

10s 100p

20s 100p

25s 100p

30s 100p

60s 100p

Rubber Stamps

Stainless Steel w/Cermark
Engraving
Twill
Cutting
Wood

Thin Veneer (Cutting)

10 f

30s 100p

30s 80p

40s 100p

40s 90p50s 80p50s 60p

Cutting 1/8” (3 mm)

10 f

3s 100p

6s 100p

8s 100p

10s 100p

20s 100p

40s 100p

Cutting 1/4” (6 mm)

10 f

3s* 100p

1s 100p

2s 100p

3s 100p

5s 100p

12s 100p

Cutting 3/8” (9.5 mm)

10 f

2s* 100p

3s* 100p

1s 100p

8s 100p

Cutting 1/2” (12 mm)

10 f

3s 100p

When cutting wood, multiple passes may allow cutting of thicker materials. Using Color Mapping you can adjust the focus point between passes down to thecenter point of the cut for the best results.
* The Fusion has two sets of Speed control for vector cutting applications. Checking the Speed Comp selection box in the print driver will reduce the speed
setting you have selected by one half. Speed Comp is most useful for speeds of 1 to 10. Example: Cut a square at 5% speed. Then repeat the job at 5% speed
and also select Speed Comp. The second square will take twice as long to cut as the first square. Speed Comp gives you more slower speed setting to workwith. Always use Air Assist when cutting.

- 198 -

Appendix B: Material Settings
Fusion Series Suggested Material Settings (CO2)•

These are only suggestions: Every type of material will react differently with the laser, even from one plastic to the next. Use these settings as
your starting point then adjust one variable at a time until you achieve the result you desire. Settings for any material are a matter of personal
preference. Not every material that can be run at high speed should be run at high speed. A better mark can often be achieved by slowing yourlaser and giving the laser longer to react to your material.

•

Test your material: If you have a small area of the material you won’t be using, or an extra item, take advantage of this area to test out yoursettings by engraving a small square or cutting a small circle. You can fine tune your settings in these areas.

•

Similar materials use similar settings: When you are working with a material you aren’t familiar with, think about a similar material and what
settings you would use with that product. Most anodized aluminums will react well with similar settings, as will most plastics.

•

When in doubt, start low: Remember, you can always re-run your job as long as you don’t move it in the machine. Let’s say you’re running aphotograph in a one-of-a-kind wood plaque. Start with a lower power setting, look at the engraving, then run the project a second time at highspeed and lower power a second time to add a little more depth if needed.

•

Run only one part of the file: If running a job on a new material, you can always just select one piece of the engraving, like a piece of text, andrun that part first to make sure your settings are perfect before running the whole file.
To print a copy of these settings to keep next to your laser, go to www.epiloglaser.com/material-settings.htm.

- 199 -

Appendix B: Material Settings
Fusion Series Suggested Material Settings (Fiber)

Fusion Series Suggested Material Settings (Fiber)
Material

DPI/Freq.

20 watt

30 watt

50 watt

600 DPI

Speed: 30 - 40%
Power: 100%
Frequency: 1%
Focus: +.06 to +07

Speed: 40 - 50%
Power: 100%
Frequency: 1%
Focus: +.06 to +07

Speed: 50 - 60%
Power: 100%
Frequency: 1%
Focus: +.06 to +07

Aluminum (Anodized)
Etching/Marking

The contrast / brightness of marks achievable on the fiber laser are excellent and can often be much brighter than marks from a C02 laser. Taking the fiber
laser out of focus by +.06” - .09” broadens the beam and produces a very bright mark on anodized coating. Lower frequency and higher power settings help
offset the change in focal point. Different grades of anodized & core aluminum alloy will affect how the final marks look.

Aluminum (Bare)
Etching/Marking

600 DPI

Speed: 20 - 30%
Power: 100%
Frequency: 50 - 60%
Focus: -.01 to +.01

Speed: 30 - 40%
Power: 100%
Frequency: 50 - 60%
Focus: -.01 to +.01

Speed: 40 - 50%
Power: 100%
Frequency: 50 - 60%
Focus: -.01 to +.01

Engraving aluminum will result in various shades of gray, not black. Fine tuning the settings can provide a bit more contrast but the range of applicable marks
is very narrow. If the application calls for a black etch, consider using an oxidizer after engraving. Oxidizers are used most commonly if the aluminum has aprotective coating (urethane, clear coat, clear anodized) covering the area that is not engraved. Deep metal engraving on aluminum can be done using multiple
passes. Consider deep engraving and using a black epoxy/color fill. Although the marks on aluminum are not black like they are on steel, we have no difficulty
getting 2D, UID barcodes to scan and verify

BrassEtching/Marking

600 DPI

Speed: 20 - 30%
Power: 100%
Frequency: 5 - 20%
Focus: 0

Speed: 30 - 40%
Power: 100%
Frequency: 5 - 20%
Focus: 0

Speed: 40 - 50%
Power: 100%
Frequency: 5 - 20%
Focus: 0

600 DPI

Speed: 40 - 50%
Power: 60-70%
Frequency: 50%
Focus: 0

Speed: 50 - 60%
Power: 60-70%
Frequency: 50%
Focus: 0

Speed: 60 - 70%
Power: 60-70%
Frequency: 50%
Focus: 0

Annealing

600 DPI

Speed: 5-10%
Power: 100%
Frequency: 1%
Focus: +.08 to +.110

Speed: 7-12%
Power: 100%
Frequency: 1%
Focus: +.08 to +.110

Speed: 10 -15%
Power: 100%
Frequency: 1%
Focus: +.08 to +.110

Etching/Marking

600 DPI

Speed: 20 - 30%
Power: 100%
Frequency: 1-5%Focus: -.01 to +.01

Speed: 30 - 40%
Power: 100%
Frequency: 1-5%Focus: -.01 to +.01

Speed: 40 - 50%
Power: 100%
Frequency: 1-5%Focus: -.01 to +.01

Polishing

600 DPI

Speed: 50 - 60%
Power: 35 - 40%
Frequency: 50 - 60%
Focus: 0

Speed: 60 - 70%
Power: 35-40%
Frequency: 50 - 60%
Focus: 0

Speed: 70 - 80%
Power: 35 - 40%
Frequency: 50 - 60%
Focus: 0

Laserable Plastic
Etching/Marking

Stainless Steel- 200 -

Appendix B: Material Settings
Fusion Series Suggested Material Settings (Fiber)

Fusion Series Suggested Material Settings (Fiber)
Material

DPI/Freq.

20 watt

30 watt

50 watt

Etching: Like our C02 counterparts, the slower the speed setting, the deeper the etching. However, many metal applications can be processed at higher speed
settings in the range of 50-100%. Again, consider the marking requirements. If the only stipulation is permanency, you’ll find the FiberMark can engrave abroad range of metals at higher speeds, regardless of laser wattage. Don’t be afraid to turn up the juice!
Annealing: To achieve an annealed mark, the focal point should be significantly away from zero. The unfocused, broader beam provides the heat to change thesurface color without actually penetrating the metal. The focal point can be either closer to or away from zero. Focusing away from the material should be in
the range of -.060” to- .090”. Focusing closer to the material is generally in the range of +.070” to +.110”.
Both focusing methods will result in a dark black annealing of the metal. Focusing up typically results in a slight indentation of the metal.
Multiple passes can darken the mark even more (no data to confirm whether multiple passes offer more permanency).
Polishing: Some steel alloys are easier to polish than others. For best results, clean off the surface with alcohol prior to processing. Any leftover grease, oils
or residue can affect how well the polished mark turns out. Polishing the metal where the final marks result in a bright white engraving requires finer tuning ofsettings, more so than the etched or annealed marks. Determine a base speed and frequency setting and adjust the power in small increments/decrements. If
you are unable to get a white bright mark, increase the frequency setting and try again by adjusting only the power.

Titanium
Annealing

600 DPI

Speed: 5-10%
Power: 100%
Frequency: 1%
Focus: +.08 to +.110

Speed: 7-12%
Power: 100%
Frequency: 1%
Focus: +.08 to +.110

Speed: 11-15%
Power: 100%
Frequency: 1%
Focus: +.08 to +.110

Etching/Marking

600 DPI

Speed: 20 - 30%
Power: 100%
Frequency: 1-5%Focus: -.01 to +.01

Speed: 30 - 40%
Power: 100%
Frequency: 1-5%Focus: -.01 to +.01”

Speed: 40 - 50%
Power: 100%
Frequency: 1-5%Focus: -.01 to +.01

Titanium and Ti alloys are highly amenable to marking at this wavelength. Similar to aluminum, a black mark from the etching process is difficult to achieve.
Various shades of gray can be made, from very dark gray to light gray. Annealed marks can also be made on titanium materials using the same processing
parameter described for stainless steel. Depending on the Ti alloy, marks of various colors can be achieved by changing the frequency values for 1% up to
100%. It is common to see red, blue, green, orange, yellows and purple marks, depending on the frequency selected.

Plated Metals
Etching/Marking

600 - 1200 DPI

Speed: 10-20%
Power: 100%
Frequency: 1-5%Focus: -.09 to -.100”+.09 to .100”

Speed: 20-30%
Power: 100%
Frequency: 1-5%Focus: -.09 to -.100”+.09 to .100”

Speed: 30-40%
Power: 100%
Frequency: 1 - 5%
Focus: -.09 to -.100”+.09 to .100”

Metals are often plated to assist with conductivity, to provide a protective coating against rust and elements and for aesthetic purposes. Plating thickness will
depend on application and purpose. Most of the plated metals processed through the applications lab are electronic components (to enhance conductivity)and various fittings (protection against environment & rust). The typical plating thickness varies from .001” up to .005”. Our recommended settings forgeneral metal engraving works well for ablating through the plating; exposing the base metal. Ablating the plating will also provide high contrast. Using an
oxidizer will enhance the look.
Our recommended settings for polishing of metals are a good starting point where ablating through the plating isn’t an option. This is likely the most common
plated metal application as exposing the raw metal underneath will break continuity and / or expose the bare metal to rust and other elements. Note that thecontrast of polishing of plated metals won’t be as consistent or contrasting as a direct ablation. Multiple passes will help and end results will vary based on themetal used for plating, thickness of plating & size of mark. Our recommended settings for annealing will often work for plated metals where the plating has athicker wall and material used has high levels of carbon or metal oxides.

- 201 -

Appendix B: Material Settings
Fusion Series Suggested Material Settings (Fiber)

Fusion Series Suggested Material Settings (Fiber)
Material

DPI/Freq.

20 watt

30 watt

50 watt

600 DPI

Speed: 30 - 40%
Power: 100%
Frequency: 100%
Focus: +.05 to .07”

Speed: 40 - 50%
Power: 100%
Frequency: 100%
Focus: +.05 to .07”

Speed: 50 - 60%
Power: 100%
Frequency: 100%
Focus: +.05 to .07”

Powder Coating
Etching/Marking

Two to three passes are suggested (one pass to ablate the powder coating, 2nd or 3rd pass to polish up the metal underneath). A little less power, higher
frequency and less focus adjustment will be required for the 2nd or 3rd pass, depending on the base metal. The idea is to ablate then polish. An alternative torunning two or more passes is to run one pass and then use a common cleaner such as Simple Green or a citric-based cleaner with short, stiff bristle brush to
scrub out the residual material remaining in the mark area. If using this technique, it may be necessary to raise or lower the marking table from around 0.07”
to 0.10”.

•

These are only guidelines: Brightness or darkness of a mark is a matter of personal preference and can be very dependent of the type ofmaterial being marked. As such, there is no “correct” setting. Working with the four different fiber settings becomes fairly intuitive in a very
short period of time for most users. If you have a material that is not listed, try to compare it to similar materials listed and use those settings
as your starting point.

•

Speed Settings: The speed setting scale of 1% to 100% is not linear – i.e. 100% speed will not be twice as fast as 50% speed. This non-linear
scale is very useful in compensating for the different factors that affect engraving time.

•Power Settings: The power settings are linear – i.e. 50% power is half as much as 100% power.

•

General Metal Engraving / Base Settings: In the world of metals the grade, type, hardness and chemical composition are endless. Metal
alloys are engineered for specific applications and have their own strengths and weaknesses. With such an unlimited selection, we’ve yet
to come across a metal which proved to be incompatible with the FiberMark. Metals can be engraved at just about any settings. Of course,
there are many variables to consider for metal engraving. The lasers wattage, hardness of metal, desired mark (etch, polish, anneal) and therequired time/contrast/depth will have to be considered when deciding on the final settings.

•

General Annealing Settings: Producing an annealed mark is very dependent on the material being out of focus. Run the laser at slow speed
and full power then adjust the focus while the machine is running until you achieve the annealed mark you need.

•

Test your material: If you do not achieve the results you are looking for with the recommended settings, try resending the job and start bychanging only one variable at a time. Changing only one variable at a time will help to determine the correct setting for your material.

•

Laser settings can sometimes be confusing because many materials can be marked over such a broad range of settings. If you have difficultyin finding the correct setting you can send a sample to the Epilog Laser Applications lab. We will determine if the material can be marked andprovide appropriate setting for your laser.
To print a copy of these settings to keep next to your laser, go to www.epiloglaser.com/material-settings.

- 202 -

INDEX﻿

Index
Symbols
3D Engraving 60, 165
3-Jaw Chuck. See Rotary Attachment
10/100 Network Interface Card 184
21 CFR 1040 6
21 CFR 1040.10 3
21 CFR 1040.11 3
32-bit Operating System 184
64-bit Operating System 184
110 Volt 15
220 volt 15
240 Volt 15A
Acrylic 166–167
Cast Acrylic 166
Cutting 167
Engraving 166
Extruded Acrylic 166
Suppliers 191
Type of Acrylic 166
Activate a Laser 46
Advanced Tab 60
AirA Raster 77
Air Assist 99
Acrylic Cutting 167
Color Mapping 62
Fire Warning 1
Plastic Cutting 172
Wood Cutting 177
AirA Vector 77
Air-Cooled 12, 183
Air Filter. See Exhaust Fan
Laser Tube 12, 97
Air Temperature 12
Alder 176
Alumamark 197
Aluminum (Bare) 200
Anodized Aluminum 197, 200
Black 167
Red 168ANSI 4
Artwork Layout 128, 137
AutoCAD 163–164
Auto Delete 78
Auto Focus 100
Mac Driver Setting 65

New Z-Axis Home 74
Table Home 76

B
Bearing Rail 93
Lubrication 93
Bearings 94, 183
X-Axis Rail 93
Y-Axis Rail 94
Bed Size 78
Belts 183
Beziers 33
Blower. See Exhaust Fan
Brass 200
Brass-Coated Steel 168
Painted 168–179
Solid 168

C
Calibrate Joystick 78
Camera System. See eView Camera Module
Center Engraving 56, 112–114
Center-Center 112
Center-Left 113
Center-Top 113
Mac Driver Setting 65
Page-Center 113
Cermark 198
Cherry 176
Class A 186
Cleaning and Maintenance 91–97
Air Filter 97
Bearing Rails 93
Exhaust Plenum 94
Laser Tube 97
Optics 91
CO2 Laser Match 77
CO2 Laser Source 185
Color Fill 178
Color Mapping
Adjust Focus 108
Autocad 163
By Height 108
Combined Mode 109
Functions 105
Non-Mapped Colors 109
Object Order 109
Speed and Power 105
Color Mapping Tab 62
Computer Recommendation 184
Config Key 76- 203 -

Index﻿
Ethernet Installation 19, 26
eView Camera Calibration
Overhead Camera Calibration 148
eView Camera Module 140
Aligning the Camera 146
Associate with a Laser 47
Calibrate Stitching Offset 150
Camera Calibration Routines 147
Checking Camera Calibration 147
Fiducials 143
Hunting Routine 146
Lens Camera Calibration 149
Quick Print 146
Registration Marks 143
Setting Up the Job in the Epilog Job Manager 144
Exhaust Fan 13, 116
Connection 13
Exhaust Plenum 94
Cleaning 94
Fusion 40 115

Configurations 61
Control Panel
Display 71
Cooling Requirements 12
CorelDRAW Help 191
CorelDraw Settings
Beziers 33
Corian Supplier 191
Cork
Settings 197
Suppliers 191
Crash Bar 101
Create a Cut Line 84

D
Data Light 72
Delrin 170
Dish Soap 170
Dithering 59, 66, 102, 169
Floyd-Steinberg 103
Jarvis 103
Photograph Modes 103
Stucki 103
Door Interlocks 3Interlock Safety 6
Down-Draft Ports 95
Drive Wheel 128
Dual Source Option 146
Focusing 153
Order of Operation 153
Setting Up a Dual Source Job 152

F
FCC 186
Federal Communications Commission 186
Fiber Laser Match 78
Fiber Laser Source 186
Fiducials 143
Finding Job History 51
Fire Extinguisher
Halotron 1
Fire Warning 1, 5, 7, 166, 167, 172, 178
Firmware 61, 132, 161
Upgrading 161–162
Focus. See Auto Focus
Key 73Focusing a Dual Source Job 153
Focusing Manually 99
Focus Sub-Menu 73
Frequency 59
Color Mapping 62
Mac Driver Setting 66
Front Access Door 114
Full Table Home 78

E
Electrical Requirements 15, 183
Electrical Safety 4Emergency Stop 114
Engraving Direction
Bottom-Top 58, 66
Engraving Techniques 165–181
Epilog Job Manager
Activate a Laser 46
Installation 43
Instructions 43
Job Preview 50
Material Setting Configurations 49
Organizing Your Print Jobs 48
Program Settings 52
Setting up eView Camera Module 47
Troubleshooting Installation 45
Vector Sorting 51
Ethernet 11, 15, 26, 183

G
Gateway 77
General Tab 56
Glass 169–179, 197
Engraving 169
Suppliers 191
Go Table Home 78- 204 -

Index﻿
Go XY Home 78
Graphics Card 184
Grayscale 169, 177

H
Hard Drive 185
Home Position
Restore XY Home 76
Restore Z-Axis Home 78
Setting X-Y Home 75
Setting Z-Axis Home 74
Set XY Home 78

I
IEC 60825-1 6
Inside Diameter 136
Installing Firmware 161. See Firmware
Interlock Safety 6
Status Lights 117
IP Address 16, 77

J
Jarvis 169
Job Manager. See also Epilog Job Manager
Defaults 55
Job Manager Features 57
Jobs Key 73
Job Storage 81
Job Type 57
Jog Key 74
Jog Laser PWR 77
Jog Sub-Menu 75
Joystick 71
Calibration 78

K
Keypad. See Control Panel

L
Landscape vs Portrait 87
Laserable Plastics
Engraving Techniques 171
Suppliers 200
LaserBrite™ 168
Laser Dashboard
Advanced Tab 60
Color Mapping Tab 62
Defaults 55
General Tab 56

Settings and Use 55–64
USB/Ethernet Connection 15
Laser Installed 77
Laser Match 77
Laser On Button 72
Laser Safety 3
Laser Status Indicators 117
Laser System Classification 183
Laser TI 78
Laser Tube 97
Air Filter 97
Laser Type 57
Leather 192, 197
Lens. See Optics
Lock Config 79

M
Mac Driver 65–70
Epilog Viewer 69
Installation 34
Project Setup 68
Raster Settings 66
Sierra OS Installation 35
Vector Cutting Lines 69
Vector Settings 66
Maintenance 91. See Cleaning and Maintenance
Manifold Options 116
Manual Focus 99
Manufactured Wood Products 177
Maple 176
Marble 198
Marble Suppliers 192
Masking 170, 172, 178
Material Settings 197, 200
Material Supplier List 191
Maximum Engraving Area 183
Max Material Thickness 183
MDF 177
Medals (Engraveable) Suppliers 191
Memory Buffer 183
Metal Etching 179
Metal Etching Techniques 179
Mirror 61
Mirrors. See Optics
Motion Control System 183
Movable Home Position 111
Multiple Pages 63
Multiple Passes 63, 171

N
Notary Seals 170- 205 -

Index﻿OPower 163, 177, 183
Connection 15
Control Panel 75
Laser Dashboard 58
Mac Driver Settings 66
Power Comp 59, 67
Power Connection 15
Power Key 75
Power Label 7
Previewing Your Job 50
Print Driver. See Laser Dashboard
Mac Driver 34–42
Print Interface 183
Print Range 63
Processor Speed 184
Pulse Stretch 78
PVC 10, 172

Oak 176
Object Order 109
Open Architecture 184
Operating Modes 183
Operating System 184
Operating Temperature 12
Optics3” Lens 132
Cleaning 91–92
Options 119–160
Organizing Your Print Jobs 48
OSHA 4P
Page-Center 113
Painted Brass 168, 169, 198
Paper/Pressboard Suppliers 193
Passcode
Disable Your Passcode 79
Establishing a Passcode 79
Verify Config Locked 79
Pause Button 71
Pen and Pencil Set Suppliers 193
Photo Engraving 83, 102, 198
Photograph Modes 103
PhotoLaser Plus 153
Badge Creation 158
Material Selection 156
Photograph Transformation 155
Setting Resolution 156
Setting Up 154
Using with CorelDRAW 157
Piece Size 58
Pin Table 120–122, 167
Plastic 171–179, 198
Cutting 172
Engraveable 198
Engraving 171
Plastic (Engraveable) Suppliers 193
Plastic Marking 180
Plated Metals 201
Plotting 163
Plug Type 15
Plywood 177
Pointer Button 72
Polish 170
Polishing Stainless Steel 200
Polyvinyl Chloride. See PVC
Portrait vs Landscape 87
Powder Coating 202

Q
Quick Table Home 77

R
RAM 184
Raster Settings 58
Raster Type 60
Red Dot Pointer 3, 6, 110
Button 72
Reducing Engraving Time 87
Registration Marks 143
Regulatory Compliance 6–8
Reset Button 72
Reset Home Position 110
Resolution 183
Difference Between Different 85
Restore Home Position 110
Restore Table Home 76
Restore XY Home 76
Rotary Attachment
3-Jaw Chuck 56, 132–140
Firmware Preparation 132
Fixture Plates 131, 139
Installation 132
Outside Diameter 136
Setting Home 133
Vector Speed Limitations 136
Adjusting Your Artwork 129
Standard Rim-Drive Rotary Attachment 123–130
Artwork Layout 128
Drive Wheel 128
Installation 123
Removal 130
Setting Home 124- 206 -

Index﻿
Rotary Installed 78
Rotary Options 56, 58
Rotary Version 78
Rubber Stamps 198
Rulers 117

S
Safety Enclosure 6
Safety Features 6–8
Safety Interlock Indicators 117
Safety Labels. See Warning Labels
Sandblasting 170
Selecting Registration Marks 143
Serial Number 187
Set Table Home 78
Set the Fusion’s IP Address 16
Setting a Vector Cutting Line 84
Settings Key 76
Set XY Home 78
Shoulders 61
Sierra OS 35
Slate Suppliers 193
Software 185
Speed and Power Control 183
Speed Key 75
Sports Material Suppliers 193
Stainless Steel 198, 200
Annealing 200
Etching/Marking 200
Polishing 200
Stamp Mode 60
Stamp Settings 60
Standard Features 183
Status, Laser Indicators 117
Stop / Pause Button 71
Stretching Artwork 129
Subnet Mask 77
Supplier List 191
Surge Protector 185
System Version 79
Sys Unit 78

T
Task Plate 115
TCP/IP Address Setup in the Computer 26
Technical Specifications 183
Technical Support 187
Temperature 12
Temporary Memory 81
Test your material 199, 202
Thin Veneer 198

Thumbscrews
Exhaust Plenum 116
Titanium 201

U
Unpacking the Laser 11
Upgrading Firmware. See Firmware
USB
Connecting the Laser 15
Setting Serial Number 77
Windows 7 Installation 23
Windows 8 Installation 30

V
Vacuum Hold-Down Table 115, 116, 119
Vector Cutting Table
Acrylic 167
Auto Focus 57, 100
Auto Focus (Mac Driver) 65
Control Panel Setting 77
Fire Warning 91
Installation 119
Plastics 172
Wood 177
Vector Grid Box 57, 65
Vector Grid In 77
Vector Line Creation 84
Vector Settings 59
Vector Sorting 51
Inside/Out 52
Optimized 52
Vector Speed Limitations 136
Vent Cleaning 95
Ventilation 183
Vinyl 10W
Walnut 176
Warning Labels 6
Warranty 195
Wattages 183
Wavelength
CO2 Laser Source 185
Fiber Laser Source 186
Weight 183
Widening 61
Windows 7
Ethernet Installation 19
USB Installation 22
Windows 8- 207 -

Index﻿
Ethernet Installation 26
USB Installation 30
Windows 10
Ethernet Installation 26
USB Installation 30
Windows 32 184
Wood 176–179, 198
Bare Wood 176
Cleaning 178
Cutting 177
Engraving 177
Grain 176
Solid 176, 177
Specialty Product Suppliers 193
Stained 176

X
X Drive Version: 79
X Home 76
X Scale Adjust 78
X/Y Axis Home Position 75

Y
Y-Axis Rail 94
Y Drive Version 78
Y Home 76
Y Scale Adjust 78

Z
Z-Axis Home Position 74- 208 -