Full Spectrum Laser Muse User manual

Full Spectrum Laser Muse Core 2
Symbols and Definition 3
Section I. Safety 4
Setup Precautions 4
Safety During Operation 5
Fire Safety 6
Electrical Safety 7
Materials 8
Section II. Unboxing Your Muse 3D 10
Unboxing Steps 10
Checklist 11
Section III. Installation & Assembly 12
Assembly Stage 12
Locate & Remove Zip Ties 13
Connect the Exhaust System 14
Assemble the Water System 16
Connect the Air Compressor 18
Connecting Coolbox 19
Connect the Electrical Power 21
Section IV. Connectivity 22
Connect the Ethernet Cable 22
Connect to Software 23
Section V. Tests & Adjustments 24
Alignment Test 24
Mirror Alignment Procedure 26
Focus Procedure 32
Section VI. Touchscreen Interface 33
Touchscreen Interface 33
Safety Override: Lid & 35
Waterflow Failsafe
Lock/Unlock Screen Indicators 36
Table of Contents
Section VII. Operations 37
General Function 37
Project Workflow 38
Section VIII. RetinaEngrave v3.0 Software 41
Starting on RE3 41
Stopping Your Laser 43
Section IX. Hardware & Maintenance 44
Replacing the Laser Tube 44
Belt Installation 46
Focus Lens and Air Assist Cone 47
Replacement Instructions
Removable Floor 48
General Maintenance 49
Free Projects & Extra Help 50
Warranty 51
Customer Support 52
Ready to Upgrade 53
Join The Full Spectrum Laser Community 54
1

The Muse Core By Full Spectrum Laser
Thank you for purchasing your new Muse Core. Our high quality products will provide years
of service simply by following proper usage and upkeep. Once it is set up your machine will
be a key part in any design work.
This user manual will guide you through the safety guidelines and operation of your
machine. We recommend that you familiarize yourself with this manual before using your
laser engraver. Remember to be safe and have fun!
For more information and product selection, please visit www.fslaser.com
Compliance Statement: The Full Spectrum Laser Muse Core System is a Class 4 laser product, as defined in
International Standard IEC 608251. The Full Spectrum Muse Core complies with 21 CFR 1040.10 and 1040.11,
the Federal Performance Standards for Light Emitting Products, except for deviations pursuant to Laser Notice
No. 50, dated July 16, 2001. The Center for Devices and Radiological Health of the US FDA issued Laser
Notice No. 50 to permit manufacturers to classify and manufacture their products in accordance with the
International Standard. 21 CFR 1040 and IEC 608251 require that certification, identification, and warning
labels be placed on laser products.
2

Symbols and Definitions
Danger: Indicate[s] a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in
death or serious injury.
Warning: Indicate[s] a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result
in death or serious injury.
Caution: Indicate[s] a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result
in minor or moderate injury.
3

● Always inspect the laser cutter for damage or breakage before each use. Do not
operate machinery that is damaged or defective in any way.
● Always have a clean, level, and open work space to unbox and place your laser
cutter.
● The laser tube is filled with CO2 gas. While carbon dioxide is a class 2.2 gas
(nonflammable and nontoxic), the release of this gas from the laser tube will
render your laser inoperable.
● Never modify, disassemble, or in any way alter the construction of the laser and
never start up a system that has been modified or disassembled.
● Never leave the laser system unattended during operation.
●Keep your laser system clean. A buildup of cutting and engraving residue and
debris is dangerous and can create a fire hazard. Keep your laser system clean and
free of debris. Regularly remove the cutting grid to clean any small pieces that have
gotten stuck or fallen through.
● Do not disassemble the machine or remove any of its protective covers.
●Always have on hand a first-aid kit designed for the initial treatment of burns
and smoke inhalation. Be sure to store this kit in an area that is outside risk areas.
●Never operate the machine with any of the panels removed. Be aware that
removal of any portion of the cabinet will expose the laser system and greatly
increase the risk of injury and/or fire. Personal injury and fire risks are especially
pronounced if the machine is operated with the bottom panel removed. Remember
that the CO2 laser beam is invisible.
● Never place hands or fingers into moving parts such as cooling fans.
● The laser tube is made of glass and is therefore extremely fragile and can cause
severe lacerations if broken.
Setup Precautions
Follow all safety protocols and procedures before operating any machinery. It is the responsibility of
the operator to ensure all safety precautions are correctly followed, and that the machine is properly
assembled and in working order.
Section I. Safety
WARNING!
WARNING
!
4

Safety During Operation
The output of the CO2 engraving laser is fully contained in a Class 1 enclosure during normal operation. The
laser cabinet has a safety interlock switch that deactivates the laser if the door is opened during operation, and
no special precautions are necessary to operate the high power laser safely. However, the output beam of the
Alignment Laser (visible red diode laser) is accessible to the operator during normal operation, giving the total
system an overall rating of Class 3R. Class 3R lasers have minimal safety concerns when used properly and
handled with care.
Follow these Safety Guidelines at all times:
●Never engrave or cut any material containing PVC or vinyl under any
circumstance. These materials (along with other chlorine/ chloride-containing
materials) produce a highly toxic, corrosive vapor that is lethal to humans and
will destroy your machine. Your warranty will be void if your machine is damaged by
corrosion from engraving or cutting PVC or vinyl.
●Never engrave or cut any unknown material. The vaporization/melting of many
materials, including but not limited to PVC and polycarbonates, can give off hazardous
fumes. Please refer to the MSDS sheet from the material manufacturer to determine
the response of any work material to extreme heat (burning/fire hazard).
●Never operate the machine without a properly operating ventilation system.
Most materials produce an irritating smoke when engraved. Some materials, including
but not limited to paint, varnish, composition board, and plastics possess toxic
compounds.
● Never look or stare into the beam of the Alignment Laser (visible red diode
laser).
●Never aim any laser towards an aircraft or vehicle that is in motion. It is a federal
crime as the bright light can flash, blind, cause glare or distract the pilot or driver.
●Always use the air assist, especially while vector cutting. Vector cutting
movements are relatively slow and apply an extremely large amount of heat to the
workplace. This buildup of heat can create a significant fire risk.
●Never run a laser with the lid open. Always be sure the lid is closed and never
tamper with the lid safety mechanism.
General Safety
WARNING!
CAUTION!
CAUTION!
5

Laser cutting and engraving systems can present a significant fire hazard due to the extremely high
temperatures generated by the laser beam. While the objective of most cutting and engraving operations is
to vaporize material without burning, most materials capable of being cut or engraved are inherently
combustible and can ignite. Usually this is a small flame of burning material issuing from the cut zone which
self-extinguishes due to the air assist or depowering of the beam. However, it is possible for the flame to
propagate and set fire to the machine and its surroundings.
Fire Safety
Woodshop Dust Fire Safety Considerations
*Guidelines from the U.S. Department of Labor
Before using materials, the user must verify whether harmful fumes will be generated and whether the filter equipment of
the exhaust system is suitable for the harmful materials. We emphasize that it is the responsibility of the user to consider
the national and regional threshold values for dust, fogs, and gases when selecting the filters and the exhaust
system.(Values for maximum workplace concentration must not be exceeded.)
Be mindful of large quantities of flammable materials in the form of wood, sawdust, paints, oil finishes, adhesives,
solvents, and liquid propane for internal combustion engines. Preventing the buildup of dust is one of the key means for
controlling fire and explosion hazards. The primary ways for controlling dust are proper ventilation and good
housekeeping.
Dust collection is best accomplished at the source, where the equipment is use. For many pieces of equipment,
well-designed ducts and vacuum hoods can collect most of the dust generated before it even reaches the operator. Fine
dust that manages to escape point-of-source collection can be captured from above by general exhaust points located
along the ceiling. These control procedures are effective for most equipment, except for machines that commonly
produce very finest dust or large quantities.
Always keep a properly maintained and inspected 5lbs. or larger fire extinguisher on hand.
Full Spectrum Laser recommends a Halogen or multipurpose dry chemical fire extinguisher. Halogen
extinguishers are more expensive than a dry chemical, but offer certain advantages should you ever
need to use an extinguisher. The Halogen extinguisher are expensive but easy clean, while the dry
chemical extinguisher discharges a sticky, corrosive powder that is very difficult to clean up.
Warning! Stacking materials can lead to increased risk of flame propagation or work piece
ignition. Always keep the area around the machine clean and free of clutter. Never store any
flammable materials in or near the device.
Never operate your machine unattended. There is a significant risk of fire if set improperly, or if a
mechanical or electrical failure occurs while operating.
Always use the air assist, especially while vector cutting. The process is relatively slow and
applies a large amount of heat to the workplace. Vector cutting with the laser has the most
potential to create an open flame
Never run a laser with the lid open.
WARNING!! Never cut PVC (polyvinyl chloride) under any circumstances!!
Never store any flammable materials in or near the device. Debris and left over produced
materials within the machine must be removed to prevent a fire.
CAUTION!
6

The power supply is capable of releasing a current up to 20mA. This power is sent to the discharge terminals
on the laser tube itself. In order to prevent access to bare wiring your laser shipped with silicone terminal
covers. Please notify Full Spectrum Laser support and immediately cease operations if the covers ever slip
and expose bare wire.
Note: When performing any replacement procedures, make sure the machine is off for at least an hour.
●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 power box, which is potentially
lethal.
● Never make or break any electrical connections to the system while the unit is
turned on.
● Never access any electrical areas with hands or tools unless the unit is
disconnected from the power for at least one hour.
●Never replace the installed 20 amp fuse with one of a higher rating. This will void
your warranty and the electronics will not be adequately protected from surges or short
circuits.
●POWER ON/OFF is controlled by the switch at the back of the machine. The
machine is on when the (-) side is pressed and off when the “o” side is.
● In case of a blown fuse always contact Technical Support before replacing
anything.
The standard for laser safety is the American Standard for the Safe Use of Lasers, Z136.12000. Developed
by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) it is the basis for many federal regulations and
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines for laser and laser system
manufacturers. It contains detailed information concerning the proper installation and use of laser systems.
While the ANSI standard is not a law, its recommendations, including warning signage, training, and the
designation of a laser safety officer, may be mandatory under local regulations. It is the operator's
responsibility to ensure that the installation and operation of the Full Spectrum Desktop Laser System are
performed following applicable laws. Copies of ANSI Standard Z136.12000 are available from:
LASER INSTITUTE OF AMERICA 12424 RESEARCH PARKWAY, SUITE 125 ORLANDO, FL 32826 (407)
3801553.
Electrical Safety
CAUTION!
7

Materials
Material DANGER! Issues
PVC (Poly Vinyl
Chloride)/Vinyl/Pleather/Most
Artificial Leather
Emits Chlorine gas fumes This material can ruin the optics as well as cause the metal of the machine to
corrode. The chlorine can also ruin the motor system.
Thick ( >1mm )
Polycarbonate/Lexan
Catches fire Often found as flat, sheet material and is even in the window of the laser cutter
because polycarbonate strongly absorbs infrared radiation! Polycarbonate
cannot be cut with the frequency used in laser engravers. Trying to will creates
clouds of soot that float up, ruin the optics and mess up the machine.
ABS plastic Melts, Emits Cyanide fumes ABS tends to melt rather than vaporize, which is what is needed for laser
cutting. This causes higher fire risks and melted deposits in the workspace. It
can also release lethal amounts of hydrogen cyanide.
HDPE/Milk Bottle Plastic Catches fire and melts HDPE can melt or catch fire rather than vaporize, leaving deposits and causing
risk of fire.
PolyStyrene Foam Catches fire This material can ignite quickly and spread flames rapidly.
PolyPropylene Foam Catches fire This material can ignite quickly and spread flames rapidly.
Epoxy Burn or Smoke Epoxy is a resin made out of carbon. Therefore, a CO2 laser can't cut it.
Attempting to do so will result in toxic fumes, such as cyanide.
Fiberglass Emits fumes It is made of glass and epoxy. Do not attempt.(Refer to epoxy)
Coated Carbon Fiber Emits noxious fumes Cannot be cut and will emit toxic fumes.(Refer epoxy)
Any food Toxicity Our machines are not designed to be used with food items as they possess no
safe food contact surfaces. There are also risks involved with debris in the
workspace polluting any foodstuffs placed in the interior. Do not put food in or
around the machine.
Material with Sticky Glue Backing Coats lens or cracks lens Items that can normally be cut become un-cuttable when the manufacturer
adds a layer of peel-off glue on the bottom to attach them to surfaces.The glue
will vaporize forming a coating on the lens that will coat, cloud, heat, and
potentially crack the lens. It can't be removed without damaging to the lens,
requiring a lens replacement.
Examples include cork tiles, thin wood laminate, acrylic tiles, and paper
stickers. DO NOT CUT MATERIALS THAT HAVE THIS BACKING!
HARMFUL MATERIALS:
WARNING!! TRYING TO CUT THESE ITEMS WILL VOID WARRANTY!!
CUT AT YOUR OWN RISK!
8

Material Max Thickness Caution
Many woods 1/4" Oily or resinous woods may cause fire
Plywood/Composite woods 1/4" Wood with glue on it may not cut as well.
MDF/Engineered woods 1/4" May experience a higher amount of charring when cut.
Paper, card stock thin Cuts very well and very quickly.
Cardboard, carton thicker Cuts well but may catch fire.
Cork 1/8" Thin cork can be cut, but quality will depend on the thickness and quality of the cork.
Engineered cork has a lot of glue in it, and may not cut as well.
Acrylic/Lucite/Plexiglas/PMMA 1/2" Cuts extremely well leaving a beautifully polished edge.
Thin Polycarbonate Sheeting
(<1mm)
<1mm Can be cut in very small pieces(0.5mm and less), but tends to discolor badly.
Delrin (POM) thin It has a number of shore strengths (hardness) and the higher hardness tends to work
better.
Kapton tape (Polyimide) 1/16" Only use in thin sheets and strips like tape.
Mylar 1/16" Thin pieces only, thicker mylar has a tendency to warp, bubble, and curl. Gold coated will
not cut.
Solid Styrene 1/16" Can be cut in thin pieces. Releases smoke.
Depron foam 1/4" Used a lot for hobbies, RC aircraft, architectural models, and toys. 1/4" cuts nicely, with a
smooth edge. Cutting requires constant monitoring.
Gator foam Foam core gets burned and eaten away compared to the top and bottom hard paper shell.
Cutting requires constant monitoring.
Cloth/felt/hemp/cotton Most cloth can be cut, though check what the material you're working with is made from.
Plastic coated or specialty cloth may be hazardous or unable to be cut.
Leather/Suede 1/8" Only real leather less than ⅛” can be cut. Imitations are made of PVC and can be
hazardous.
Magnetic Sheet Cuts beautifully
Rubber Fine for cutting as long as there is not chlorine in it.
WARNING! CHECK RUBBER TO MAKE SURE THERE IS NO CHLORINE!
Teflon (PTFE) thin Cuts OK in thin sheets.
Carbon fiber mats/weave
that has not had epoxy applied
Can only be cut at very slow speeds.
CANNOT BE COATED!
Coroplast ('corrugated plastic') 1/4" This material is difficult to cut because of the vertical strips.
Safe Materials:
Even materials considered safe to use with our machines can have risks. Provided below is a list of safe materials, any
cautions, and the maximum thickness the Muse Core can cut.
9

WARNING!!
The Muse Core is over 50lbs. At least two people are required to lift and unbox the machine.
DO NOT TRY TO LIFT ALONE!!
Unboxing Steps
Follow these instructions for best results:
1. Prepare Work Space: You will need an open, level work space to place your laser cutter. A sturdy
table with room for the machine(66” x 34” x 12”) is recommended. Be sure the table is free of clutter
and can support a minimum of 300lbs (the machine itself weighs 250 lbs).
2. Place Box: Due to weight set the box as close to the work area as possible. Open the box carefully by
removing the metal tabs on top. The sides of the box can be removed as well for easier access.
Remember to use tools only as specified by the manufacturer. Personal protective equipment is
recommended.
3. Remove Packaging: Remove the honeycombs. Then carefully remove the top foam pieces securing
the machine.
4. Removing Your Muse: WARNING!!DO NOT LIFT ALONE!
The machine weighs approximately 55 lbs. You and your lifting partner should standing on both ends
and carefully lift the machine out of the box, leaving the bottom foam layer inside.Place on the work
area you planned for use.
5. Inspect Your Muse Core: If you have any questions, contact your sales representative or technical
support. Refer to your Muse Core Quick Start Guide or download the Muse Core User Manual for
assembly instructions.
6. Accessory Box: A separate box should contain the following parts and accessories: a plastic bag with
cords and small accessories, a water chiller, an air compressor, and an exhaust fan. Inspect these
parts to ensure they are accounted for and intact.
Section II. Unboxing Your Muse Core
10

Checklist
Your laser should come with the following included parts and accessories:
Parts & Accessories Checklist
● Never use unapproved ducting in the exhaust system as it is potentially
flammable.
●Never operate your laser without a working exhaust. Full Spectrum Laser
recommends exhaust systems capable of AT LEAST 500CFM. Keep in mind that
exhaust systems with high flow rates may require a particle filter for materials with
significant particulates such as wood.
CAUTION!
DANGER!
11
Additional Items
You will also need the following tools(not included in your purchase):
1 gallon of
distilled water
Small Scissors

This assembly is a simple process that should take less than half an hour to complete.
Note that step 3 & 4 are for the Hobby Kit option only.
Section III. Installation & Assembly
Assembly Stages
1. Locate & Remove Zip Ties
2. Connect the Exhaust System
3. Assemble the Water System(Hobby Kit)
4. Assemble the Air Compressor(Hobby Kit)
5. Coolbox Setup (Optional)
6. Connect Electrical Power
Fig. 1
12

Note: Zip Ties may vary in color. Refer to the provided pictures on which zip ties are cuttable.
WARNING!! Do not cut zip ties holding other wires unless instructed to do so by support. Do not cut
belts by accident.
1. Locating & Removing Zip Ties
Remove Zip Ties
The machine was secured during shipping with zip ties to hold the laser head assembly and the x-gantry.
Remove zip ties before operating your laser cutter for the first time.
Fig. 2
13

Connecting the Exhaust System
An exhaust fan is required to be connected and on whenever a job is run on your laser. A properly installed
exhaust fan removes smoke and fumes from the case and exhausts them to the outside of the building or a
fume extractor.
1. Install Exhaust Flange: Use the provided flange bolts to install the ducting collar on the rear of the
machine as shown in Fig. 3.
Fig. 3 Fig. 4
2. Position Ducting: Place your 4” ducting over the Exhaust Port located at the back of the machine and
hold. Secure with 4” ducting clamp. (See Fig. 4)
Fig. 5
3. Attach Exhaust Fan: Secure the free end of the ducting to the exhaust fan. Repeat the ducting and
clamping process in the other side of the exhaust fan and plug in the fan into the bottom power plug
marked “exhaust” on the back of your Muse Core machine. (see Fig. 5).
4. Ventilate Outside or to Fume Extractor: Set the open end outside of a window or to a fume
extractor. Check your system for leaks and be aware that the protective housing is not designed to be
airtight; the front grill is designed to allow an exhaust system to draw fresh air though the work area.
2. Connect the Exhaust System
FROM MUSE
TO OUTSIDE VENTILATION/
FUME EXTRACTOR
14

5. Connect to Power: Plug the power cord from the exhaust fan power into the plug marked “exhaust
fan” on the back of your Muse Core.
Note: Accessories plugged into the back of your 3D will only turn on when the laser is fired
(as intended).
6. Fume Extractor Upgrade (optional): Fume extractors are air purifiers that clean the air through use
of both the HEPA and Activated Charcoal Filters. Fume extractors do not require outside ventilation.
This is a great choice for workshops that do not have the option to ventilate outside.
Both extractors and the filters are available on the Full Spectrum Laser website at
http://fslaser.com/laser-accessories/
Ask a customer support representative which fume extractor is right for your needs.
The FSL Fume Extractors requires routine cleaning and filter replacement dependent on frequency of usage or
materials cut. Extraction quality will diminish over time without maintenance.
Note: Do not use a fume extractor without all filters in place.
Maintenance guidelines:
Pre-Filters: Clean often using a shop vacuum. Check weekly, especially if cutting a lot of wood. When about
70% of accumulated debris remains after cleaning, replace.
HEPA Filters: Clean immediately when suction seems reduced, using the shop vacuum. When cleaning does
not return optimal suction power, it is time to replace it.
Activated Carbon Filters: Clean when odors are detected or suction is reduced. Shake to remove excess
dust and debris before proceeding with the shop vacuum. When cleaning no longer eliminates detectable
odors, replace Activated Carbon Filters.
From information on how often one should clean or replace filters see the General Maintenance section.
FSL100 FSL300
Small Fume Extractor Large Fume Extractor
Fig. 6 Fig. 7
15

Never Fire the Laser without a correctly connected and powered water
chiller. Firing the laser without turning the pump on or with no water in the
system will severely degrade or destroy your laser tube and void your
warranty.
Water System Assembly
Muse Core uses a water-cooled continuous beam CO2 laser tube. The tube requires a flow of room
temperature water to help regulate the temperature of the laser tube. Your purchase includes a water chiller for
cooling the laser tube.
2. Attach Water Pump Fitting: Remove the water pump from its packaging. Attach the plastic fitting to
the water pump and screw on.
3. Setup the Water System (Hobby Kit)
1. Remove Water Cap: Remove the short silicone tubing, capping the water inlet and outlet on the back
of the machine.
Fig. 9
16
CAUTION!
The Muse Core comes with an optional Hobby Kit that contains both the Air Compressor and
Water Pump. If the Coolbox option was selected instead, then skip to Step 5.
Fig. 8
Fig. 10

NOTIC ● We recommend that you attach the laser and water pump to a power strip
and use that to control the main power to the unit, ensuring that the water
pump is always on when the laser is powered.
●Make sure that there are no air bubbles inside of the water jacket of
the laser tube as it can reduce the lifetime of your tube. If present,
water bubbles typically migrate to the electrodes on either end of the tube.
Visually inspect the laser tube to make sure that bubbles are not present. If
bubbles persists completely drain the tube of water then turn the chiller
back on and check once more.
NOTICE!
17
3. Prepare the Water Bucket: Fill a 5 gallon bucket(not included) by about 2/3rd using distilled water.
Note: We recommend a bucket with a lid be used to prevent debris from falling in. Make holes for
tubing if needed.
4. Attaching the Water Outlet Tubing: Connect one end of a water tube to the Water Out tube on the
back of your machine. Place the other end of the tubing into the bucket of water.
5. Attaching the Water Inlet Tubing: Connect the second tube to the Water In tube and place the other
end on the plastic filling on the pump.
6. Place the water pump into the bucket and plug in for use.
If setting up the machine in colder climates where it can reach freezing temperatures-
you may want to add an antifreeze solution called Dowfrost. Please refer to the MSDS
for your chosen antifreeze for proper mixture ratio for your temperature range.
Fig. 12
Fig. 11

Connect the Air Compressor
Air is used as a pressurized gas to assist in cutting and engraving operations. This pressurized air is critical to
safe and efficient cutting operations as it not only helps cut through material more quickly, but also helps
prevent the formation of flames.
3. Connect to Power: Plug the air compressor power cord into the marked “Air Assist” on the back of your 3D.
1. Tubeing: Remove the air compressor from its packaging and attach the silicone tube on the air
compressor.
2. Attach Air Hose to Laser Cutter: Insert the other end of the hose into the “air inlet” nozzle in the back
of the laser cutter through the barbed air connect.
4. Assemble the Air Compressor (Hobby Kit)
Fig. 13
Fig. 14
18

Never Fire the Laser without a correctly connected and powered water
chiller. Firing the laser without turning the pump on or with no water in the
system will severely degrade or destroy your laser tube and void your warranty.
Coolbox Assembly
The Muse Coolbox acts as both a water and air system.
2. Attach Water Tubes: Remove the coolbox from its packaging. Push one of the two (2) silicone tubes
onto the water in and the other into the water out of the coolbox. Connect the two (2) silicone tube from
the Coolbox to the contrasting INLET and OUTLET of the Muse Core.
(Remember: In to Out, Out to In). Your laser will not fire if this is installed backwards thanks to the
water flow sensor.
5. Setup the Coolbox
1. Remove Water Cap: Remove the short silicone tubing, capping the water inlet and outlet on the back
of the machine.
19
CAUTION!
Fig. 15