Full Spectrum Hobby Series User manual

Hobby Series 20 x12 User Manual

Table of Contents
Section I. Safety First ............................................ 4
Safety First Icons. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
General Safety...................................................... 5
Laser Safety. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Fire Safety ......................................................... 8
Electrical Safety. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Section II. Unboxing Your Hobby Series ..........................11
Unboxing Steps. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Unpacking List .....................................................12
Additional Requirements..............................................13
Section III. Installation & Assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Locate & Remove Zip Tie .............................................15
Assemble the Water System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Assemble the Air Compressor .........................................20
Connect the Exhaust System ..........................................22
Connect Electrical Power .............................................24
Connect Ethernet Cable ..............................................25
Connect to RetinaEngrave 2.0 .........................................26
Section IV. Tests & Adjustments..................................27
Alignment Test......................................................28
Mirror Alignment Procedure ...........................................30
Focusing ..........................................................39
Section V. Touch Panel Interface .................................40
Touchscreen Interface ...............................................41
Button Functions ....................................................41
Modes ............................................................42
Jog Buttons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Section VI. Software .............................................44
Validating Control Card. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Using Retina Engrave . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Topline Menu. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Design View. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Toolbar ...........................................................50
Side Expansion Menu Tabs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Object Properties ...................................................52
Raster / Vector Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Section VII. Operations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
General Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Preparing For Job ...................................................56
Speed & Power .....................................................58
Positioning. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Laser 101..........................................................61
Section VIII. Hardware & Maintenance ............................65
Replacing Laser Tube. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Belt Installation .....................................................68
Appendix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

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Hobby Series Laser Cutter User Manual
Congratulations on your purchase of a Full Spectrum Laser Hobby Series Laser System. With proper
usage and upkeep, your laser cutter should provide years of productive output. This user manual will
guide you through the safety guidelines and operation of your machine. It is recommended that you
familiarize yourself with this manual before using your laser cutter.
For more information and product selection, please visit www.fslaser.com.
Compliance Statement The Full Spectrum Laser Hobby Series Laser System is a class 3R laser product, as dened in International Standard IEC 608251.
The Full Spectrum Laser Hobby Series 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 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 certication, identication and warning labels be placed on laser products. Reproductions of the labels found on the Full Spectrum Laser
Hobby Advanced Laser System follow, with locations specied:
Top View
Back View
Water Inlet
Water Outlet Power On/O
Air Inlet
40 Watt Laser Tube
X-Gantry
Focus Head
Honeycomb Tray
Panel Display
20”x12” Engraving Area
Emergency Stop
USB Port
Exhaust Flange
Water Outlet
Water Inlet
Ethernet Port
Air Inlet

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Attention Icon:
Calls attention to an
important point.
Shock Icon:
Warns of potential
electrical hazards.
Fragile Icon:
Warns of fragile parts or
materials, such as glass.
Temperature Icon:
Warns of potential temperature
issues with your machine.
Caution Icon:
Warns of important area
of caution not covered by
other icons.
CO2 Gas Icon:
Warns of potential gas leaks
and associated hazards.
Laceration Icon:
Warns of potential sharp
edges that could cause
cuts or injury.
Safe Disposal Icon:
Calls attention to proper
disposal of waste materials.
Pro Tips:
Watch for this icon to receive
valuable advice in getting the
most from your machine.
Fire Icon:
Warns of potential
re hazards.
Laser Icon:
Warns of potential dangers
associated with laser usage.
Level Icon:
Indicates the need
for a level surface.
Familiarize yourself with these icons. They indicate areas that require special attention.
SECTION I. SAFETY FIRST

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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.
ALWAYS be aware that the laser tube is made of glass and is therefore extremely
fragile and can cause severe lacerations if broken.
ALWAYS be aware that the laser tube is lled with CO2 gas. While carbon dioxide is a
class 2.2 gas (nonammable and nontoxic), 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 modied or disassembled.
NEVER leave the laser system unattended during operation.
KEEP YOUR LASER SYSTEM CLEAN – A build up of cutting and engraving
residue and debris is dangerous and can create a re 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.
NEVER place hands or ngers into moving parts such as cooling fans.
IN CASE OF EMERGENCY power can be instantly cut off by pushing the
Emergency Stop (the large red button) located on the top of the machine.
General Safety
Read and be familiar with 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 the machine is
properly assembled and in working order.

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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 guideline at all times:
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
re. Personal injury and re risks are especially pronounced if the machine is operated with the
bottom panel removed. Remember that the CO2 laser beam is invisible!
NEVER engrave or cut any material containing PVC or vinyl. These materials (along with other
chlorine / chloride containing materials) produce a corrosive vapor that is extremely harmful 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/re hazard).
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 signicant re risk.
NEVER run laser with lid open. Always be sure the lid is closed and never tamper with lid
safety mechanism.
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, produce compounds that can be harmful if concentrated.
NEVER look into the beam of the Alignment Laser (visible red diode laser).
NEVER aim any laser towards an aircraft or vehicle that is in motion. The bright light can
ashblind,cause glare, or distract the pilot or driver.
Laser Safety

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The standard reference for laser safety is the American Standard for the Safe Use of Lasers,
Z136.12000, developed by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). This reference is
the basis for many of the federal regulations for laser 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 ofcer, 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 Full Spectrum Laser Hobby Laser System is performed in accordance with all
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.
Laser Safety (Cont.)

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Laser cutting and engraving systems can present a signicant re 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 ame 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 ame to propagate and set re to the machine and its surroundings.
ALWAYS keep a properly maintained and inspected 5lb or larger re extinguisher on hand.
Full Spectrum Laser recommends a Halogen re extinguisher or a multipurpose dry chemical re
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 discharges a
clean, easily removable substance that is not harmful to the mechanics or wiring of the laser system.
The dry chemical extinguisher discharges a sticky, corrosive powder that is very difcult to clean up.
BE AWARE that stacking materials (especially organic materials such as paper) can lead to
increased risk of ame propagation or work piece ignition.
NEVER operate your machine unattended. There is a signicant risk of re if the machine is set
improperly, or if the machine should experience a mechanical or electrical failure while operating.
ALWAYS keep the area around the machine clean and free of clutter, combustible materials,
explosives, or volatile solvents such as acetone, alcohol, or gasoline.
ALWAYS use air assist when vector cutting.
BE CAREFUL when vector cutting. Many materials have the potential to burst suddenly into
ames – even materials that may be very familiar to the user. Always monitor the machine when
it is operating.
Fire Safety
Pro Tip! Experience shows that vector cutting with the laser
has the most potential to create an open ame. Acrylic in all
its different forms has been shown to be especially ammable
when vector cutting with a laser.

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Woodshop Dust Fire Safety Considerations*
Before processing materials the user must verify whether harmful materials can be generated
and whether the lter 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 lters and the exhaust system.
(The values for the maximum workplace concentration must not be exceeded.)
Be mindful of large quantities of fuel in the form of wood and wood products, sawdust, and
ammable materials such as paints, oil nishes, adhesives, solvents, and liquid propane for
internal combustion engines.
Preventing the buildup of dust is one of the key means for controlling re and explosion hazards.
The principal engineering control technology for control of dust is exhaust ventilation. The primary
work practice control is good housekeeping.
Dust collection is best accomplished at the source-at the point of operation of the equipment, if
feasible. For many pieces of equipment, well-designed ducts and vacuum hoods can collect most
of the dust generated before it even reaches the operator.
Very ne dust that manages to escape point-of-source collection can be captured from above by
general exhaust points located along the ceiling. These control technologies are effective for most
equipment, excepting machines that commonly produce the very nest dust or large quantities of dust.
*These guidelines come from the U.S. Department of Labor
NEVER CUT PVC (polyvinyl chloride) under any circumstances as fumes are highly toxic
and potentially lethal.
NEVER store any ammable materials in the inside of the device or in the immediate vicinity of
the device. Debris and leftover produced materials within the machine must to be removed to prevent
re hazard.
ALWAYS have on hand a rst-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.
Fire Safety (Cont.)

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The power supply is capable of outputting DC 20,000V at up to 20mA. This power is also provided to
the discharge terminals on the laser tube itself. Your laser shipped with silicone terminal covers that
prevent access to bare wiring—notify Full Spectrum Laser support and immediately cease operations
if these covers ever slip and expose bare wire.
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. The AC input power is potentially lethal and is
located on the far right within the cabinet.
NEVER make or break any electrical connections to the system while the unit is turned on.
NEVER access the electronics area with hands or tools unless the unit is disconnected from power
for at least one hour.
NEVER replace the installed 10 amp fuse with a fuse 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. To power the machine on,
press the (-) side down. To turn power off, press the “o” side down.
IN CASE OF A BLOWN FUSE always contact Technical Support before replacing any fuses.
Electrical Safety

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When your Hobby Series arrives, it will require careful unboxing and examination of parts. Follow
these instructions for best results.
SECTION II. UNBOXING YOUR HOBBY SERIES
1. Create a Work Space: You will need an open, level work space to place your laser cutter. A
solid table with adequate room (the machine’s dimensions are 32” x 20” x 8.75”) for the machine is
recommended. Be sure the workspace is free of re hazards and is well ventilated. Always have a
re extinguisher handy in case of emergency.
2. Carefully Open the Top of the Box: Set the box on a at space near where you will place
the machine. Open the box carefully from the top. If you use a cutting tool to open the box, be careful
not to allow the cutting edge to touch the machine or any packed accessories. Always use all tools
with caution and only as specied by the manufacturer.
3. Remove “Honeycomb” Cutting Table: Remove the honeycomb plate from the box and
then remove the bubble wrap surrounding it. Set the honeycomb plate aside for now. Once we have
removed the packed accessories we will insert it into the base of the machine.
4. Remove the Machine from the Box: Remove any packaging on top of the machine, then
gently lift the machine out of the box, leaving the bottom foam still inside the box. Place on a clean at
surface such as the table you plan on keeping it. Be aware that the machine is heavy. Find someone
to help you lift it, if needed. The machine should now be at on your work surface.
5. Remove Accessories: Nestled in packing foam, inside the interior of the machine, are the
following parts and accessories: a plastic bag with cords and small accessories, the water pump
and the air compressor (if purchased). Inspect these parts to insure they are accounted for and intact.
6. Insert the Honeycomb: Place the honeycomb into the laser cutter machine body and lay at.
Be careful not to hit other machine components during this procedure.
7. Inspect the Machine: Examine your Hobby Series for defects and breakage. If you nd any
defects or breakage, contact your sales representative immediately. Have pictures of the damage
ready to share. Your machine is now unboxed.
Unboxing Steps
FRAGILE PARTS! Be gentle in removing the foam packaging
and accessories. Never pull or force the packaging loose from
the laser cutter. Be particularly aware that the water inlet and
outlet nodes protrude from the tube and are extremely fragile
when unboxing your laser tube.

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Your laser shipped with the following included parts and accessories:
4. Water Pump
3. Honey Comb1. Plastic Fitting
7. Water Tubes
6.Calibration Spacer
5. 2.5mm Hex Key
10. Thermal Paper
13. Air Compressor
9. Power Cable
12. 4” Ducting
8. Ethernet Cable
Not Included but Required
11. Exhaust Fan
Hose Clamp
Ducting
Exhaust Fan
Air Hose
Air Compressor
Hose Clamp
Ducting
Exhaust Fan
Air Hose
Air Compressor
Hose Clamp
Ducting
Exhaust Fan
Air Hose
Air Compressor
Hose Clamp
Ducting
Exhaust Fan
Air Hose
Air Compressor
Unpacking List

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In addition, you will need the following tools and accessories
(not included with your machine purchase):
• 3-5 gallons of distilled water
•  Avegallonbucket
• Small Scissors
CAUTION! You should never operate your laser without a working
exhaust. Full Spectrum Laser recommends exhaust systems
capable of 232 CFM. Keep in mind that exhaust systems with high
ow rates may require xtures for thin materials.
FIRE WARNING! It is important that either rigid or exible metal
ducting be used in the exhaust system. Any type of “soft” ducting
is potentially ammable and should not be used under
any circumstance.
Water BucketDistilled Water Small Scissors
Additional Requirements

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With your laser cutter unboxed and placed in its permanent work space we can now prepare
it for use. This is a simple process that should take less than half an hour to complete.
Assembly Stages:
SECTION III. INSTALLATION & ASSEMBLY
Figure 3.1
1. Locate & Remove Zip Tie
2. Assemble the Water System
3. Assemble the Air Compressor
4. Connect the Exhaust System
5. Connect Electrical Power
6. Connect the Ethernet Cable
7. Connect to RetinaEngrave Software
Water In
Water Out
Air Tubing
Power Cords
Water Tubing
Ducting
Software Connection
Window/ Exhaust Port
Cooling System
Computer
Options
Power Strip
Wall Outlet 110 V
Air
Compressor
Exhaust
System

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Assembly Stage 1: Locate & Remove Zip Ties
To secure the machine during shipping, a yellow zip tie used to hold the laser head assembly and the
x-gantry. This zip tie must be removed before operating your laser cutter for the rst time
1. Locate Yellow Zip Tie: A yellow zip tie secures the laser head and x-gantry during shipping. It is
found in the upper left corner of the interior of the machine. .
2. Cut and Remove Yellow Zip Tie: Using a small pair of scissors (nail cutters work remarkably
well), carefully cut and remove the yellow zip tie. DO NOT cut any other cord or wire. Be aware that the
glass laser tube is extremely fragile. Be careful NOT to damage any part of the machine during this process.

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Assembly Stage 2: Assemble the Water System
Hobby Series uses a water-cooled continuous beam CO2 laser tube. The tube requires a ow of room
temperature water to regulate the temperature of the laser tube. Your purchase includes
a water pump for cooling the laser tube.
Never Fire the Laser: Without a correctly connected and
powered water pump. Firing the laser without turning the pump
on or, worse, with no water in the system,will severely degrade
or destroy your laser tube and void your warranty.
1. Remove Capping On Water Inlet /Outlet: Remove the short silicone tubing, capping
the water inlet and outlet on the back of the machine.
Tubing Capping
Figure 3.2

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2. Attach Water Pump Fitting: Remove the water pump from its packaging. Attach the
plastic tting to the water pump by gently screwing it on.
3. Prep Water Bucket: Fill a clean 5 gallon bucket (not included) with 3 - 4 gallons of distilled
water (not included). ALWAYS use only distilled water and replace often. It is recommended that you
choose a bucket with a lid and cut holes to allow the tubes to t. This will prevent debris falling into
your water bucket.
Water Line
Figure 3.3
Figure 3.4

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4. Attach Inlet Water Tubing: Push one end of one of the two (2) silicone water tubes onto the
water pump tting. Now attach the other end of that tubing to the “water inlet” located at the back of
machine. Completely submerge the assembled water pump in the bucket of distilled water.
Water Line
Water In
Water Out
Figure 3.5
Figure 3.6

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5. Attach Outlet Water Tubing: Push one end of the other silicone water tubing onto the
“water outlet”. Place the other end of the water tubing into bucket of distilled water.
W
a
t
e
r
I
n
W
a
t
e
r
o
u
t
Water In
Water Out
Figure 3.7
Figure 3.8

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Assembly Stage 3: Assemble 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 efcient cutting operations as it not only helps cut through material more quickly,
but also helps prevent the formation of ames.
1. Attach Push Fitting: Remove the air compressor from its packaging. Gently attach the air
hose push tting to air compressor.
2. Attach Air Hose to Air Compressor: Push one end of the black air inlet hose into the air
compressor push tting until it is snug.
PRO TIP! 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 - this ensures that the water pump is always on when
the laser is powered.
CAUTION! Make sure that there are no air bubbles inside
of the water jacket of the laser tube. Air bubbles can create
local hot spots in the lasing chamber and reduce the lifetime
of your tube. If present, water bubbles typically migrate
to the electrodes on either end of the tube. You should
visually inspect the laser tube to make sure that bubbles are
not present; slightly tilting the laser while powering on the
circulation pump is usually sufcient to remove bubbles.
Figure 3.9