GCC Technologies LaserPro C180 User manual

Dear Sir or Madam,
Thank you for choosing GCC and the LaserPro C180. You can be assured that this machine meets all of
the highest safety standards while using technological innovations shared by no other laser engraver. The
LaserPro C180 is backed by GCC, a truly international company that is dedicated to helping your business
grow.
We at GCC are proud to introduce the LaserPro C180, our most technologically advanced laser engraver to
date. This easy to operate machine has been designed with quality, productivity, and safety in mind. With
innovations like the QSMTM, stellar quality under high speed, SmartFILE file management, and the new
Linear Low Maintenance Motion System, the C180 clearly on the cutting edge of all laser systems.
GCC understands that a creative technical background is the key to successful growth in the ever-changing
information economy. We have a strong team of R&D experts who propel our company to new heights. From
product development to manufacturing, our engineers are dedicated to innovation and quality.
Guiding our solid technical base is a world-class management team. At GCC, our leaders bring together
marketing, technical support, research development and distribution experts to create an international
network able to meet your demands. Over the years, this network has been able to span the globe. Our
technical support staff is committed to provide you with impeccable service, and when your business is ready
to grow, our team will also be there!
Sincerely,
Leonard Shih
President of G.C.C.
LaserPro C180 User Manual i

Table of Contents
Chapter 1 - Safety..................................................................................................... - 1 -
1.1 Principles of a CO2Laser.................................................................................................... 2
1.2 Safety Ratings..................................................................................................................... 2
1.3 The Safety Interlock System............................................................................................... 2
1.4 Safety Labels...................................................................................................................... 2
1.5 Safety Measures............................................................................................................... 5
1.6 Operating Environment....................................................................................................... 6
Chapter 2 - Unpacking & Contents........................................................................ - 7 -
2.1 Unloading and Unpacking................................................................................................. 8
2.2 Contents and Accessories Checklist................................................................................. 10
Chapter 3 - Mechanical Overview......................................................................... -11 -
3.1 Front View........................................................................................................................... 12
3.2 Top View.............................................................................................................................. 12
3.3 Right (Prole) View.............................................................................................................. 13
3.4 Left (Prole) View................................................................................................................ 13
3.5 Rear View............................................................................................................................ 14
3.6 Difference between C180 and C180S View......................................................................... 14
Chapter 4 - Setup and Installation........................................................................ - 17 -
4.1 Machine Setup.................................................................................................................... 18
4.1.1 Powering Up the Machine....................................................................................... 18
4.1.2 Power Cable Connection........................................................................................ 18
4.1.3 Connecting the Computer........................................................................................ 18
4.2 Graphics Software Setup.................................................................................................... 19
4.2.1 Recommended Computer Conguration................................................................ 19
4.2.2 Installation of the LaserPro USB Driver.................................................................. 20
4.2.3 Installation of the LaserPro Print Driver.................................................................. 26
Chapter 5 - Operating the LaserPro C180 ............................................................ - 27 -
5.1 Using the Hardware............................................................................................................ 28
5.1.1 Adjusting the LCD Display Screen’s Contrast Setting............................................ 28
5.1.2 Graphic Control Panel Overview (Description)....................................................... 28
5.1.3 Graphic Control Panel Navigation Chart................................................................ 30
5.1.4 Graphic Control Panel Function Pages.................................................................. 31
5.2 The LaserPro C180 Print Driver.......................................................................................... 50
5.2.1 Page Setup and Orientation................................................................................... 50
5.2.2 Color Management................................................................................................. 52
5.2.3 Using the LaserPro C180 Print Driver..................................................................... 52
5.2.3.1 LaserPro C180 Print Driver >> Options Page......................................... 54
5.2.3.2 LaserPro C180 Print Driver >> Pen Page............................................... 59
5.2.3.3 LaserPro C180 Print Driver >> Advanced Page....................................... 61
5.2.3.4 LaserPro C180 Print Driver >> Paper Page............................................. 64
ii LaserPro C180 User Manual

Table of Contents
5.2.3.5 LaserPro C180 Print Driver >> Language Page................................................. 67
5.2.3.6 LaserPro C180 Print Driver >> Raster Page..................................................... 67
5.2.3.7 LaserPro C180 Print Driver >> Stamp Page...................................................... 70
Chapter 6 - Engraving and Cutting Techniques....................................................- 73 -
6.1 Raster Engraving............................................................................................................. 74
6.2 Vector Cutting.................................................................................................................. 74
6.3 Vector and Raster............................................................................................................. 75
6.4 3D Tips............................................................................................................................. 76
6.5 Modify Image Settings of a Picture for Better Engraving Quality...................................... 76
Chapter 71 - Optional Items..................................................................................... - 81 -
7.1 Air Extraction System Option........................................................................................... 82
7.2 Air Compressor Option.................................................................................................... 83
7.3 Honeycomb Table Option............................................................................................... 84
7.4 SmartAIR Nozzle (Fine/Ultra) Option............................................................................. 84
7.5 SmartGUARD Fire Alarm Option...................................................................................... 85
7.6 SmartMEMORY Module Option....................................................................................... 86
7.7 Rotary Attachment Option ................................................................................................ 88
Chapter 8 - Basic Maintenance...............................................................................- 93 -
8.1 Suggested Cleaning and Maintenance Supplies.............................................................. 94
8.2 Maintaining the Worktable and Motion System.................................................................94
8.2.1 Cleaning the Worktable and Motion System......................................................... 95
8.2.2 Lubrication of the Y Rails......................................................................................95
8.3 Cleaning the Optics System............................................................................................. 96
8.3.1 Removing the Mirrors........................................................................................... 96
8.3.2 Cleaning the Mirrors............................................................................................. 98
8.3.3 Removing and Cleaning the Focal Lens............................................................... 98
Chapter 9 - Basic Troubleshooting.........................................................................- 101-
Chapter 10 - Appendix.............................................................................................- 103-
10.1 Glossary............................................................................................................................ 104
10.2 LaserPro C180 Series Specication Sheet....................................................................... 105
LaserPro C180 User Manual iii

1
Chapter 1
Safety
Principles of CO2Laser
Safety Ratings
The Safety Interlock System
Safety Labels
Safety Measures
Operating Environment
LaserPro C180 User Manual 1

2LaserPro C180 User Manual
1.1 Principles of a CO2Laser
LASER is the acronym for Light Amplication by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. A CO2laser works by
electrically stimulating the molecules within a carbon dioxide gas mixture. When focused through a lens, this
highly-intense, invisible beam will vaporize many materials. Depending on the speed and intensity of the
projected beam, a CO2laser may be used to engrave or cut through a wide variety of materials.
1.2 Safety Ratings
The LaserPro C180 is equipped with a sealed carbon-dioxide laser that emits intense and invisible laser
radiation with a wavelength of 10.6 microns in the infrared spectrum. Although the laser tube itself is
classied as a Class IV laser product. The laser system is designated as a Class I laser device, meaning that
the system is equipped with key safety features and an enclosed laser head to completely contain the laser
under normal use. One of the key safety features found on the LaserPro C180 is a Class 3R red dot safety
guidance pointer (similar to a laser-pointer presentation pen) allowing the operator to see the exact location
where the laser beam will re. Even though the LaserPro C180 is equipped with our most powerful laser to
date, proper usage and hardware safeguards make it an extremely safe machine.
1.3 The Safety Interlock System
The laser system is equipped with a safety interlock system utilizing magnetic sensors on the top and
side access doors, laser-activation and door LED lights on the control panel. The magnetic sensors will
deactivate the laser when either door is opened. At this time, the "door" LED light found on the control panel
will illuminate, indicating an open or improperly closed door. When the laser is in operation, the "laser" LED
will illuminate to inform the operator that the laser is activated. If at any time, any of the access doors are
open and the "laser" LED is illuminated, IMMEDIATELY unplugs the laser system and contact GCC technical
support for service instructions.
* Internal LED Lighting is available on full version only.
WARNING
・DO NOT operate the laser system if any component of the safety system is malfunctioning.
・DO NOT attempt to remove or modify any component of the safety interlock system.
1.4 Safety Labels
According to CDRH standards, all xed or removable covers that allow access to a laser beam must have
the appropriate laser warning labels attached to them. These warning labels must be clearly visible to the
operator prior to removing the cover. Additional labels must be applied inside of the machine and be visible in
the event the covers are removed. A label clearly displaying the manufacturer’s name, date of manufacture,
description of product, model number, serial number, and compliance statement must be attached to the
outside of the machine.

LaserPro C180 User Manual 3
In compliance with CDRH standards, the required warning labels are afxed at the time of manufacture to the
LaserPro C180 in the appropriate locations. These labels are not to be modied in any way or removed for
any reason. Please familiarize yourself with the specic labels and their locations on the machine. Below is a
list of all the safety labels and their locations on the machine.
Product Label
This label is located at the right-back side of machine. All the product information such as Serial Number,
Model Numbers, Laser Power and Electric power can be found here. Before requiring any tech support,
always provide service person the information on this label.
CDRH Label
This label indicates the class level of CDRH.

4LaserPro C180 User Manual
Warning Label
The warning label reminds operators to take precaution against possible mishaps during machine operation.
Laser Path Warning Label
LaserPro machines are very safe under normal use. Furthermore, Laser Path Warning Labels are displayed
at the proximities of possible laser paths as a reminder. Operators should exercise caution when working
close to these laser paths to avoid possible injury while machine is turned on.
CAUTION
AVOID PLACING YOUR EYES IN
THE RED BEAM PATH
Laser Path Danger label
This label indicates the laser path. Normally you can nd this label inside of machine. Please be very careful
of this area when you do the maintenance.
INVISIBLE LASER RADIATION WHEN OPEN.
AVOID EYE OR SKIN EXPOSURE TO
DIRECT OR SCATTERED RADIATION
DANGER

LaserPro C180 User Manual 5
1.5 Safety Measures
• LASER RADIATION WARNING: Exposure to laser radiation may result in physical burns and
severe eye damage. Proper use and regular maintenance of this machine is important to the
safety of all people in the immediate area.
• Prior to operation, carefully read and familiarize yourself with the warning labels located on
both your laser system and in this manual.
• Never leave the machine unattended during the laser cutting and engraving process. The laser
may ignite combustible materials. A well-maintained re extinguisher and operational smoke or
re detector should be kept in the vicinity of the machine.
NOTE
SmartGUARD™ is an optional re detection alarm system developed by GCC. Contact
your local GCC authorized distributor for more details for having this safety option installed
onto your system.
•
Enable the SmartAIR™ nozzle when engraving or cutting materials that may easily ignite,
such as acrylic, wood, or paper.
•Always wear safety goggles when the laser system is in operation. Reective materials such as
mirrors, enameled brass and anodized aluminum may partially-reect some of the invisible laser
radiation. Severe eye damage may occur if appropriate safety goggles are not worn.
NOTE
Each LaserPro laser machine is shipped with a single pair of safety goggles. If additional
safety goggles are required, please contact GCC directly or an authorized GCC distributor.
If you wish to purchase one on your own, please make sure the safety goggles meet
these requirements:
10,600 nm OD5+
Visible Light Transmission: 92.9%
•Connect the machine to a properly grounded power outlet. Ensure the voltage of the power
source is identical to the voltage of the machine.
• Do not open the laser access panel when the machine is plugged in.
•Do not attempt to modify or disassemble the laser module.
•Do not attempt to remove or modify any component of the machine’s laser interlock safety
system.
•Ensure the immediate work area of the machine is well-ventilated. Odors, vapors, and dust
are by products generated during the laser engraving and cutting process. An exhaust system,
vacuum cutting box, and honeycomb table are recommended. Please contact GCC or your
local GCC distributor for more information.
• Do not laser heat-sensitive surfaces or materials that may generate toxic fumes, such as PVC
and Teon.

6LaserPro C180 User Manual
Regularly clean and maintain your machine according to our cleaning and maintenance instructions. Doing
so will ensure a machine that will operate effectively and safely over a long period of time.
1.6 Operating Environment
Please follow the guidelines when considering a suitable location to set the LaserPro C180. Improper work
environments may lead to operational malfunction and/or unsafe working conditions. The LaserPro C180
should be placed and operated in a standard ofce-type environment.
• Avoid environments where the machine is exposed to high levels of dust, temperature
(temperatures exceeding 30°C or 85°F) or humidity (humidity exceeding 70% or where the
ambient temperature is near the dew point).
• Avoid small, enclosed areas with poor ventilation.
• Avoid areas with high levels of noise and electrical noise.
• Select a location that is large enough to accommodate the LaserPro C180, an exhaust system,
a computer and a work or storage table.
• Select a location in which the ambient temperature remains between 15°C and 30°C
(60°F to 85°F).
• Select a location in which the relative humidity remains between 30% - 40%.
• Select a location in which there is a short, direct path to the fume exhaust system.
• Set the LaserPro C180 on a oor surface that is completely even.
• Make sure your smoke or re detection system in the immediate area is functioning.
• Setup the machine to be at least 60 cm (2 feet) away from the wall.
NOTE
SmartGUARD™ is an optional re detection alarm system developed by GCC. Contact
your local GCC authorized distributor for more details for having this safety option installed
onto your system.

LaserPro C180 User Manual 7
2
Chapter 2
Unpacking
& Contents
Unloading and Unpacking
Contents and Accessories Checklist

8LaserPro C180 User Manual
2.1 Unloading and Unpacking
The LaserPro C180 & C180S is shipped in one crate that contains the machine, the software, and all of the
necessary accessories. The following section contains detailed step-by-step instructions for unpacking and
assembly of the machine.
WARNING
To prevent personal injury or damage to the machine, please obtain assistance when loading
and unloading the shipping crate.
NOTE
Please save the original shipping crate. If the machine must be returned for product
servicing, it will need to be packed in its original shipping crate.
Unpack via the following steps:
1) Move the shipping crate near the designated work area.
2) Remove the packing tapes.

LaserPro C180 User Manual 9
3) Open the carton box.
4) Carefully lift the machine out of the box with the help of another person.

10 LaserPro C180 User Manual
2.2 Contents and Accessories Checklist
Please check to make sure that all of the following items are included within the shipping crate. If any of the
following items are missing, immediately contact your local GCC distributor
ITEM QUANTITY
Cleaning Kit Cotton 1
Lens Cleaner Solution 1
Lens Tissue 1
Main Power Cord 1
Printer Port Cable 1
USB Port Cable 1
Focusing Tool 1
CO2# 900 Goggles 1
2 inch to 4 inch Hose Adaptor 1
2 inch tubing 1
Installation CD ( LaserPro C180 user manual, driver, and rmware ) 1
Pencil Sample 2
Buttery Sample Card 1
Promise Card 1

LaserPro C180 User Manual 11
3
Chapter 3
Mechanical Overview
Front View
Top View
Right ( Prole ) View
Left ( Prole ) View
Rear View
Difference between C180 and C180S View

12 LaserPro C180 User Manual
Please take some time to familiarize yourself with this section regarding the mechanical overview of the
LaserPro C180 / C180S. References will be made back to the different parts of the LaserPro C180 / C180S
in later sections.
3.1 Front View
3.2 Top View
Lower Front Door
Control Panel

LaserPro C180 User Manual 13
3.3 Right (Prole) View
3.4 Left (Prole) View
Power Switch
Power Cable Inlet

14 LaserPro C180 User Manual
3.5 Rear View
3.6 Difference between C180 and C180S View
˙C180
LED lighting
Openings for jigs
and air suction
Built-in SmartBOX
Internal side covers
*Note: Working platform can be removed from SmartBOX for extra 2" engraving depth allowing work
done on 6" thick material.
Exhaust Port
Laser Access
Panel
Air Valve
USB Port
Parallel Port