GCC Technologies LaserPro Venus II User manual

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Dear Sir or Madam,
Thank you for choosing GCC LaserPro VENUS. 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 VENUS 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 VENUS, our most economical
laser engraver manufactured to date. This easy to operate machine has been
designed with quality, productivity, and safety in mind. With innovations like the
QSMTM, Drag-N-Engrave, SmartFILE file management, and reliable motion
system, the LaserPro VENUS is clearly on the cutting edge of all laser systems.
GCC understands that a creative technical background is the key to successful
growth in the ever-changing information economy. We have a strong team of
R&D experts who propel our company to new heights. From product
development to manufacturing, our engineers are dedicated to innovation and
quality.
Guiding our solid technical base is a world-class management team. At GCC,
our leaders bring together marketing, technical support, research development
and distribution experts to create an international network 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.

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Content
Chapter I - Safety............................................................................................................- 5 -
1.1 Principles of a CO2 Laser............................................................................- 5 -
1.2 Safety Ratings................................................................................................- 5 -
1.3 The Safety Interlock System........................................................................- 5 -
1.4 Safety Labels..................................................................................................- 5 -
1.5 Safety Measures............................................................................................- 9 -
1.6 Operating Environment...............................................................................- 10 -
1.7 EC-Declaration of conformity.....................................................................- 10 -
Chapter II - Mechanical Overview ...............................................................................- 11 -
2.1 Front View.....................................................................................................- 11 -
2.2 Rear View .....................................................................................................- 11 -
2.3 Internal View.................................................................................................- 12 -
2.4 Focal Lens and Manual Focus Gauge.....................................................- 12 -
Chapter III - Setup and Installation...............................................................................- 14 -
3.1 Machine Setup.............................................................................................- 14 -
3.1.1 Powering Up the Machine.......................................................................- 14 -
3.1.2 Adjusting the LCD Display Screen’s Contrast Setting........................- 14 -
3.1.3 Peripherals Setup.....................................................................................- 15 -
3.1.3 Connecting the Computer.......................................................................- 15 -
3.1.3.1 Networking Connectivity Setup ................................................- 16 -
3.1.3.2 Ethernet Connectivity Setup .....................................................- 19 -
3.2 Graphics Software Setup ...........................................................................- 28 -
3.2.1 Recommended Computer Configuration..............................................- 28 -
3.2.2 Installation of the LaserPro Print Driver................................................- 29 -
3.2.3 Parallels Desktops for MAC OS Users.................................................- 30 -
3.2.4 Using Adobe’s AP with GCC LaserPro machine ................................- 36 -
3.2.5 Using Autodesk Inventor with GCC LaserPro machine.....................- 40 -
3.2.6 Using eCut Plug-in with GCC Laser Machine......................................- 43 -
Chapter IV - Operating the LaserPro VENUS..............................................................- 44 -
4.1 Using the Hardware.....................................................................................- 44 -
4.1.1 Adjusting the LCD Display Screen’s Contrast Setting........................- 44 -
4.1.2 Graphic Control Panel Overview (Description)....................................- 44 -
4.1.3 Graphic Control Panel Navigation Chart ..............................................- 47 -
4.1.4 Graphic Control Panel Function Pages................................................- 48 -
4.2 The LaserPro VENUS Print Driver............................................................- 71 -
4.2.1 Page Setup and Orientation...................................................................- 71 -
4.2.2 Color Management...................................................................................- 72 -
4.2.3 Using the LaserPro VENUS Print Driver ..............................................- 74 -
4.2.3.1 LaserPro VENUS Print Driver >> Option Page................................- 75 -
4.2.3.2 VENUS Print Driver >> Pen Page......................................................- 83 -
4.2.3.3 VENUS Print Driver >> Paper Page..................................................- 93 -
4.2.3.4 VENUS Print Driver >> Language Page...........................................- 94 -
4.2.3.5 VENUS Print Driver >> Raster Page.................................................- 95 -
Chapter V - Cutting Techniques ...................................................................................- 99 -
5.1 Raster Cutting..............................................................................................- 99 -

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5.2 Vector Cutting...............................................................................................- 99 -
5.3 Raster and Vector......................................................................................- 100 -
5.4 Modify Image Settings of a Picture for Better Engraving Qulaity.......- 101 -
Chapter VI - Optional Items .......................................................................................- 105 -
6.1 Fume Extraction System..........................................................................- 105 -
6.2 Air Compressor..........................................................................................- 106 -
Chapter VII Basic Maintenance..................................................................................- 109 -
7.1 Suggested Cleaning and Maintenance Supplies..................................- 109 -
7.2 Maintaining the Worktable and Motion System....................................- 110 -
7.2.1 Accessing the Worktable and Motion System...................................- 110 -
7.2.2 Cleaning the Worktable and Motion System......................................- 110 -
7.2.2.1 Cleaning the Worktable and Motion System..........................- 110 -
7.2.2.2 Lubrication of the X / Y Rails.....................................................- 111 -
7.3 Cleaning the Optics System.....................................................................- 111 -
7.3.1 Removing the Mirrors............................................................................- 111 -
7.3.2 Cleaning the Mirrors...............................................................................- 114 -
7.3.3 Removing and Cleaning the Focal Lens.............................................- 114 -
Chapter VIII - Basic Troubleshooting ........................................................................- 116 -
Chapter IX- Appendix.................................................................................................- 117 -
9.1 Glossary......................................................................................................- 117 -
9.2 LaserPro VENUS Specification Sheet ...................................................- 118 -

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Chapter I - Safety
1.1 Principles of a CO2 Laser
LASER is the acronym for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. A CO2
laser 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 VENUS 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. 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 VENUS is a Class 2 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 fire. Even though the LaserPro
VENUS is equipped with our most powerful laser to date, proper usage and hardware
safeguards make it an extremely safe machine. When the front door and back door are
open, machine becomes a Class 4 equipment and users must wear goggles to operate the
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.
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 fixed 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.

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In compliance with CDRH standards, the required warning labels are affixed at the time of
manufacture to the LaserPro VENUS in the appropriate locations. These labels are not to be
modified in any way or removed for any reason. Please familiarize yourself with the specific
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.

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CE Label
This label identifies the classification of the Model in accordance with IEC 60825-1. It is
located on the rear of the machine’s cabinet.
Laser Path Warning Label
LaserPro machines are very safe under normal function. However, in case of any accident,
Laser Path Warning Label will be stick on the possible laser path. When operators close to
these paths should be careful of the possible injury while machine working.
Laser Path Danger label
This label indicates the laser path. Normally you can find this label inside of machine. Please
be very careful of this area when you do the maintenance.
Aperture warning stickers (mirror):
This label indicates the laser path. Normally you can find this label inside of machine or
laser exit. Please take extra caution of this area when you conduct maintenance or
operate machine.

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Warning Label
Warning Label is written all the necessary information to be aware of in every operation.
Door open warning labels
Protection Window Label
This label indicates the protection wavelength. You can find this label in the lower right corner
of window.

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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 process. The laser may
ignite combustible materials. A well-maintained fire extinguisher and operational smoke
or fire detector should be kept in the vicinity of the machine
Resulting debris from laser cutting are very dangerous and may cause fire hazard.
Caution—Use of controls or adjustments or performance of procedures other
than those specified herein may result in hazardous radiation exposure.
DO NOT leave debris and scraps inside laser machine after job finished. Always
keep machine clean after job finished.
keep machine clean after job finished.
Always wear safety goggles when the laser system is in operation. Reflective materials
such as mirrors, enameled brass and anodized aluminum may partially-reflect some of
the invisible laser radiation. Severe eye damage may occur if appropriate safety goggles
are not worn.
Connect the machine to a properly grounded power outlet. Ensure the voltage of the
power source is identical to the voltage of the machine.
Do not open the laser access panel when the machine is plugged in.
Do not attempt to modify or disassemble the laser module.
Do not attempt to remove or modify any component of the machine’s laser interlock
safety system.
Ensure the immediate work area of the machine is well-ventilated. Odors, vapors, and
dust are byproducts generated during the laser 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 Teflon.
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.
NOTE
SmartGUARD™ is an optional fire detection alarm system developed by GCC.
Contact your local GCC authorized distributor for more details for having this
safety option installed onto your system.
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: 9000-11000nm OD5+
Visible Light Transmission: 92.9%

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1.6 Operating Environment
Please follow the guidelines when considering a suitable location to set the LaserPro VENUS.
Improper work environments may lead to operational malfunction and/or unsafe working
conditions. The LaserPro VENUS should be placed and operated in a standard office-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 laser system, 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 there is a short, direct path to the fume exhaust system.
Set the LaserPro VENUS on a floor surface that is completely even.
Make sure your smoke or fire detection system in the immediate area is
functioning.
1.7 EC-Declaration of conformity

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Chapter II - Mechanical Overview
Please take some time to familiarize yourself with this section regarding the mechanical overview
of the LaserPro VENUS.
2.1 Front View
2.2 Rear View
Power Switch
Control Panel
Top Door
Laser Access Panel
Exhaust Port
Air Assist
Valve
Power Inlet
USB Port
Ethernet Port

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2.3 Internal View
2.4 Focal Lens and Manual Focus Gauge
There are four options of focal lens size, the smaller one will get smaller spot size, thus detailed
engraving result, while the bigger lens with bigger spot size is good for cutting application.
Focal Lens
Focal Lens
Plate Color
Manual Focus
Gauge Color
1.5”
Optional
Purple
Blue
2.0”
Standard
Blue
Blue
2.5”
Optional
Gold
Gold
4.0”
Optional
Red
Red
Laser
Carriage
Stamp Jig Slot

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Lens Carriage Assembly:
Manual Focus
Gauge Holder
Insert to the hole
of the holder for
manual focusing
Mirror
Lens 2.0, 2.5 or 4.0
Slot position for
Lens 1.5 only
Auto Focus
Manual Focus Gauge

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Chapter III - Setup and Installation
3.1 Machine Setup
3.1.1 Powering Up the Machine
CAUTION
Make sure both the LaserPro VENUS and computer are turned off before connecting
either to a power source.
1) Connect the USB cable in the accessory box to the rear side of VENUS.
2) Connect the male end of the power cord to a quality surge protector and then connect the
surge protector into a properly grounded outlet.
3) Do the same for the computer system.
4) Connect the female end of the power cord into the machine’s power cable inlet located
on the right side of machine.
3.1.2 Adjusting the LCD Display Screen’s Contrast Setting
Depending on the lighting of your immediate work area, you may need to adjust the contrast
of LCD display screen. You may increase or decrease the contrast via the contrast
adjustment wheel found on the inside of the right shoulder. You can access this area by
opening the front door and looking inside to the right shoulder (as shown in the picture below).
T
i p
Please adjust the LCD Display Screen’s Contrast before plugging in the electrical
cord of your laser. LCD adjustment wheel is located underneath the control panel.
LCD Display
Screen’s Contrast
Adjustment Wheel

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3.1.3 Peripherals Setup
Connect the fume ventilation system and air compressor to the laser system before
starting laser processing. Follow the detailed instructions in section 6.1 and 6.2.
3.1.3 Connecting the Computer
The LaserPro VENUS can communicate with a computer through a USB Port or LAN Port
connection interface. Regardless of the connectivity method chosen, you will need to connect the
respective connection cable from the LaserPro VENUS to your computer.
USB Connectivity: Connect the included USB Cable to the USB Port on the rear side of the
LaserPro VENUS.
Ethernet Connectivity:Connect the Ethernet Cable in accessory to the Ethernet Port on
the rear of the laser system. Follow below instruction for Ethernet connectivity setup.
Seal
Clamp
2” or 4” diameter
Flexible hose
Fume Ventilation System
NOTE
1. Never leave laser system unattended during laser cutting, engraving, and marking
process, even with Ethernet or Wi-Fi connection setup, this requirement cannot be
avoided. Exposure to the laser beam may cause ignition flame to combustible
materials.
2. DO NOT connect USB cable when using Ethernet function for data transmission.
3. If you have purchased additional Optional Accessories for the LaserPro VENUS,
please refer to chapter VII for instructions on how to properly setup your optional
accessories. These should be setup prior to working with your LaserPro VENUS.

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3.1.3.1 Networking Connectivity Setup
GCC laser engraver is built-in with LAN port to enable multiple laser engravers to be
operated by one PC and multiple PCs to share a single unit of laser engraver. Follow
the setup instructions below. Here use LaserPro Spirit GLS laser system as illustration.
Step 1. Connect LAN cable to the LAN port of GCC laser engravers and turn on
machine
Step 2. Navigate the control panel through <F4> Function<Machine Setting>
<LAN Setup Wizard>IP Address.
Step 3. Go to Windows <Control Panel><Hardware and Sound><Printer>, and
right click on VENUS printer to check printer properties.
Step 4. Go to <Ports> tab of VENUS printer properties, and select <Add Port>, and
follow the instruction to enter the TCP/IP information received from laser machine
control panel in step 2.

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3.1.3.2 Ethernet Connectivity Setup
GCC laser engraver is built-in with LAN port to transmit data from PC to laser engraver
with ease and higher speed instead of USB port option.
Step 1. Connect LAN cable to the LAN port of GCC laser engravers and turn on
machine
Step 2. Navigate the control panel through <F4> Function<Machine Setting><LAN
Setup Wizard>DHCP: OFF.
Step 3. Navigate the control panel through <F4> Function<Machine Setting><LAN
Setup Wizard>IPAddress.
Step 4. Enter 192,168,3.X (X refers to 1~255 value which can’t be the same value with
IP address setting in PC or Notebook) for IP, and 255.255.255.0 for MASK with UP/
DOWN keys.

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Step 5. Go to <Control PanelNetwork and InternetNetwork Connections> of
computer, right click mouse on the connected internet device, and choose
<Properties>
Step 6. Choose the <Internet Protocol Version 4(TCP/IPv4)> and click <Properties> to
open up the setting window.