Omtech USB3020B User manual

USB3020B
Desktop Laser Engraver
User Manual
V20221212
Read Carefully Before Use
Keep for Future Reference

Thank you for choosing our laser equipment.
Your CO₂ laser engraving machine is intended for personal and professional use. When used in accordance with these
instructions, it comprises a Class 1 laser system but some components remain EXTREMELY dangerous. Never disable
the preinstalled safety devices and always use your laser safely and responsibly.
Read this manual carefully before operation. It covers the details of correct installation, adjustment, maintenance,
and—most importantly—safe operation of your new laser. It is intended to be used in conjunction with your engraving
software manual, as the software typically does not only provide image design but also serves as an alternative interface
for the laser settings and machine controls. You and any other users of this device should thoroughly understand BOTH
manuals before attempting to operate the laser.
Keep both manuals for future reference and provide them to ANYONE who will install, operate, maintain, or repair this
machine. Both manuals should be included if this device is given or sold to a third party.
If you have any questions after reading these manuals, please contact us and our support department will address your
concerns as soon as possible.
PREFACE

CONTENTS
1. Introduction ................................................................................................................................................1
1.1 General Information..............................................................................................................................1
1.2 Symbol Guide.......................................................................................................................................2
1.3 Designated Use.....................................................................................................................................2
1.4 Technical Specifications .......................................................................................................................3
1.5 Components..........................................................................................................................................4
2. Safety Information......................................................................................................................................8
2.1 Disclaimer.............................................................................................................................................8
2.2 General Safety......................................................................................................................................8
2.3 Laser Safety..........................................................................................................................................9
2.4 Electrical Safety..................................................................................................................................10
2.5 Material Safety ...................................................................................................................................10
3. Installation................................................................................................................................................12
3.1 Overview ............................................................................................................................................12
3.2 Location Selection ..............................................................................................................................12
3.3 Unpacking ..........................................................................................................................................12
3.4 Water Cooling System ........................................................................................................................13
3.5 Exhaust System...................................................................................................................................14
3.6 Electrical Grounding...........................................................................................................................14
3.7 Main Power Connection .....................................................................................................................15
3.8 Initial Testing......................................................................................................................................15
3.9 Control Computer Setup .....................................................................................................................16
4. Operation..................................................................................................................................................19
4.1 Overview ............................................................................................................................................19
4.2 General Instructions............................................................................................................................19
4.3 Instructions for Specific Materials ......................................................................................................23
5. Maintenance .............................................................................................................................................26
5.1 Overview ............................................................................................................................................26
5.2 Regular Maintenance.......................................................................................................................... 26
5.3 Laser Path Alignment..........................................................................................................................28
5.4 Parts Replacement .............................................................................................................................. 32
5.5 Troubleshooting.................................................................................................................................. 32
5.6 Disposal ..............................................................................................................................................33
6. Contact Information.................................................................................................................................. 33

1
1 Introduction
This manual is the designated user guide for installation, setup, safe operation, and maintenance of your desktop laser
engraver. It is divided into six chapters covering general information, safety instructions, installation steps, operation
instructions, maintenance procedures, and contact information.
ALL personnel involved in the installation, setup, operation, maintenance, and repair of this machine should read and
understand this manual, particularly its safety instructions. Some components are extremely high voltage and/or produce
powerful laser radiation. Substandard performance and longevity, property damage, and personal injury may result from
not knowing and following these instructions.
Your laser engraver works by emitting a powerful laser beam from a glass tube filled with insulating carbon dioxide
(CO₂). The laser beam reflects off three mirrors and passes through a focus lens, after which the focused light can etch
designs into certain substrates. The first mirror is fixed near the end of the laser tube, the second mirror travels along the
machine's Y axis, and the third mirror is attached to the laser head that travels along the X-axis. Because some dust from
the engraving process settles on the mirrors, they require frequent cleaning. They also require periodic readjustment
using their attached positioning screws to maintain proper laser path alignment. A water cooling system—typically a
pump or chiller—must be used with this engraver to dissipate the heat produced by the laser tube. Similarly, an exhaust
system—typically either an external vent or a dedicated air purifier—must be used to remove the dust and gases
produced by the engraving process.
With low intensity use, the provided laser tube has an average lifespan around 2000 working hours before requiring
replacement. The provided power supply should also last around 2000 hours under similar conditions. However,
constantly running your laser above 70% of its maximum rated power can significantly shorten their service lives.
It is recommended to use 10–70% of the full rated capacity to enjoy optimal performance and longevity.
Note that this is a high-voltage device and, as a safety precaution, it is recommended to only touch its components with
one hand at a time during use.
Note that the active laser is invisible to the human eye. Never operate this device while any cover is open to avoid
potentially permanent injury.
Note also that the water cooling system and exhaust system are both absolutely essential to the safe use of this device.
Never operate the engraver without both of these systems working correctly. Cooling water should always be kept clean
and around room temperature, and the exhaust system should always comply with all applicable laws and regulations for
the workplace and environmental air quality.
1.1 General Information

2
This machine is intended for use engraving signs and other consumer products on applicable substrates. This laser can
process a wide variety of materials, including wood and cork, paper and cardboard, most plastics, glass, cloth and
leather, and stone. It can also be used with some specially coated metals. Use of this system for non-designated
purposes or materials is not permitted.
The system must be operated, maintained, and repaired by personnel familiar with the field of use and the dangers of
the machine. The material being engraved must be deemed safe for laser exposure, including its reflectivity,
conductivity, and potential for creating harmful or combustible fumes, etc.
Laser beams are dangerous. The manufacturer and/or seller bear(s) no responsibility and assume(s) no liability for any
improper use of this device or any damage or injury arising from such use. The operator is obliged to use this desktop
laser engraver only in accordance with its designated use, the other instructions in its manuals, and all applicable local
and national laws and regulations.
1.3 Designated Use
The following symbols are used on this machine’s labeling or in this manual:
These items present a risk of serious property damage or personal injury.
These items address similarly serious concerns with regard to the laser beam.
These items address similarly serious concerns with regard to electrical components.
These items address similarly serious concerns with regard to fires.
Protective eyewear should be worn by anyone around this machine during operation.
This product is sold in conformity with applicable EU regulations.
This product contains electrical components that should not be disposed of with regular garbage.
1.2 Symbol Guide

33
1.4 Technical Specifications
Model USB3020B
Laser Tube
Diameter 1.96 in.
Length 27.56 in.
Focal Lens
Diameter 0.47 in.
Thickness 0.08 in.
Focal Length 2 in.
Mirror
Diameter 0.79 in.
Thickness 0.12 in.
Input Power 110–120 V~ 60 Hz
Power Consumption 350W
Rated Power 40W
Expected Service Life
at <40% / 40–70% / >70% Power 2000/1200/600 hr.
Laser Wavelength 10640 nm
Processing Area 8×12 in.
Max. Processing Speed 13.8 ips
Min. Engraving Depth 0.008 in.
Max. Engraving Depth 0.12 in.
Max. Resolution 1000 dpi
Min. Line Width 0.02 in.
Precision ±0.01 in.
50 mm
700 mm
12 mm
2 mm
50.8 mm
20 mm
3 mm
200×300 mm
350 mm/s
0.2 mm
3 mm
0.51 mm
±0.25 mm
Required Operating
Environment
Max. Humidity <70%
Temp. Range 40–95°F
Provided Operating Software LaserDRW, CorelLaser
Supported Operating Software K40 Whisperer, Inkscape
Supported Image Formats .ai, .bmp, .dxf, .emf, .gif, .hpgl, .jpeg, .pdf, .plt, .png, .rd,
Graphic Operating Modes Raster, Vector, Combined
CE, FDA
Net Weight 26 kg
5–35°C
57 lb.
.svg, .tiff, .tga, .wmf

DD
CC
CC
CC
AA
A
BB
B
EE
E
C
FF
F
4
1.5 Components
C
CC
A
B
E
F
II
JJ
PP
NN OO
KK
QQ
LL MM
RR
GG
GG
HH

5
Main Parts
A. Cover—The cover provides access to the main bay for placing and retrieving materials, as well as fixing the laser
path alignment and other maintenance. Power to the laser is automatically cut when the cover is opened.
B. Viewing Window—This acrylic window allows you to monitor the engraving process but only partially absorbs
the high infrared laser and is NOT otherwise protected against it. Always use protective eyewear when observing
the active laser and never stare at it for extended periods.
C. Warnings—These notices supplement the Safety Information chapter of this manual. Read them carefully before
using the machine and contact our customer service or tech support teams if you have any questions or concerns.
D. Temperature Gauges—These monitor the temperature of your laser power source and the tube’s cooling water in
degrees Celsius (±3°C). Do not allow either reading to exceed 38°C. If the temperatures approach this value, stop
work and allow your device to cool before further use.
E. Ammeter—This shows the amount of current being used by the laser tube.
F. Emergency Stop—This button immediately cuts all power to the laser tube in the event of an emergency.
G. Control Panel—The control panel offers hands-on control of your laser’s intensity and includes a manual trigger
for testing and troubleshooting.
H. Caster Wheels—The front wheels include locks to hold the engraver in place.
I. USB Port—This connects to your control computer and its engraving software.
J. Vent—This vent helps keep your engraver’s electrical components from overheating. Do not block it with any
objects and remove any dust that might accumulate.
K. Rear Access Door—This door opens to the laser bay, holding the laser tube and its connections.
L. Laser Tube—This CO₂-filled glass tube is mounted on brackets and immobile. Its connection to the laser power
supply is extremely high voltage and extremely dangerous.
M. Water Sensor—This device provides the reading for the control panel’s water temperature gauge.
N. Power Socket—This socket connects to your main power supply. Be sure that the supply is stable and matches the
voltage on the label above the socket.
O. Ground Connection—This socket must be connected to a safe electrical ground (see §3.6) if your location does
not have a well-grounded 3-prong outlet.
P. Connection Sockets—These sockets connect to your water pump if needed and air assist if a different laser head
with an air assist outlet is installed. It is recommended, however, to use a separate plug on a different fuse for these
devices.
Q. Exhaust Fan—This fan pulls out gases and airborne debris from the worktable, sending it through your vent to a
window or air purifier.
R. Water Tubes—The blue line brings cooling water from your pump or chiller to keep your laser tube cool and stable
and the other line returns it.

Laser Path
A. Laser Tube—This CO₂-filled glass tube is mounted on brackets and immobile. Its connection to the laser power
supply is extremely high voltage and extremely dangerous.
B. 1st Mirror—This adjustable-angle mirror is fixed in place to transfer the engraving laser from the tube to the 2nd
mirror.
C. 2nd Mirror—This adjustable-angle mirror moves with the X-axis rail to allow the laser beam to travel along the
Y axis.
D. Y-Axis Rail—The Y-axis rail supports the movement of the X-axis rail up and down the workbed.
E. X-Axis Rail—The X-axis rail holds the 2nd mirror and supports the movement of the laser head left and right
across the workbed.
F. Laser Head—The laser head holds the 3rd mirror, the focus lens, and the red dot guidance.
G. 3rd Mirror—This adjustable-angle mirror moves with the laser head to allow the laser beam to travel along the
X axis.
H. Focus Lens—This lens directs and focuses the laser to the material.
I. Workbed—The removable workbed is equipped with a holding clamp to hold irregular-shaped objects in place
and a vented level board for regular-shaped products. For removal instructions, see §4.2.
6
A
B
C
D
I
E
F
GA
B
C
D
I
E
F
G
HH
Laser Tube
Focus Lens (4)
Mirror
1
Mirror
2
Mirror
3

Control Panel
A. Temperature Gauges—These show the temperature of
the laser’s power supply and cooling water system in
degrees Celsius (±3°C). Do not allow either reading to
exceed 38°C.
B. Ammeter—This shows the amount of current being used
by the laser tube.
C. Emergency Stop—This button immediately cuts all
power to the laser in the event of an emergency.
D. Laser Power Display—This displays the current power
of the laser as a percentage of its maximum intensity.
Adjust this setting accordingly to process various materi-
als. For most materials, an intensity between 20% and
60% is optimal. When aligning the laser beam, you
should use a setting around 11% for safety reasons.
E. 10/1/0.1—These buttons are used to adjust the laser’s
power in increments of 10%, 1%, and 0.1% respectively.
As expected, + increases the power by the matching
increment and − decreases the power by the matching
decrement. Again, running your laser tube above 70%
power can significantly shorten its service life.
F. Laser ON/OFF—This switch controls the power to the
laser tube. Turn it on after and turn it off before the main
power switch.
G. Laser Test Button—This button fires the laser manually.
H. Indicator—This light shines when the laser is active.
I. ON/OFF—This is the main power switch. When
switched to ON, the laser head should move to the top left
corner of the main bay.
Internal Wiring
A. Temperature Sensor—This sensor provides the reading
for your control panel’s “Power” temperature display.
B. Laser Power Supply—This device transforms standard
electricity into the extremely high voltage charge necessary
for the laser tube.
C. Terminals—These terminal blocks hold your wiring in
place for easier part replacement when needed.
D. Motherboard—This circult board controls the engraving
process, responding to commands from your engraving
software or the machine’s control panel.
7
CC
D FF
HH
GG
I
E
A
BB
CC
AAA
D FF
HH
GG
I
E
A
BB
BBBB
CCCC
DDDD