Omtech USB460j User manual

USB460j
Cabinet Laser Engraver
User Manual
Read Carefully Before Use
Keep for Future Reference
V20230511

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 Specifi cations ..................................................................................................................................3
1.5 Components.....................................................................................................................................................4
2. Safety Information ...............................................................................................................................................10
2.1 Disclaimer .....................................................................................................................................................10
2.2 General Safety ..............................................................................................................................................10
2.3 Laser Safety .................................................................................................................................................. 11
2.4 Electrical Safety ............................................................................................................................................12
2.5 Material Safety ..............................................................................................................................................12
3. Installation ...........................................................................................................................................................14
3.1 Overview .......................................................................................................................................................14
3.2 Location Selection ......................................................................................................................................... 14
3.3 Unpacking ..................................................................................................................................................... 14
3.4 Electrical Grounding .....................................................................................................................................15
3.5 Exhaust System ............................................................................................................................................. 16
3.6 Main Power ................................................................................................................................................... 16
3.7 Cooling System ............................................................................................................................................. 17
3.8 Air Assist ...................................................................................................................................................... 17
3.9 Control Computer .......................................................................................................................................... 17
3.10 Initial Testing ............................................................................................................................................... 17
3.11 Security ........................................................................................................................................................18
4. Operation .............................................................................................................................................................19
4.1 Overview .......................................................................................................................................................19
4.2 General Instructions .....................................................................................................................................19
4.3 Instructions for Specifi c Materials ................................................................................................................20
4.4 Control Console ............................................................................................................................................23
4.4.1 Overview ..............................................................................................................................................23
4.4.2 Laser Power ..........................................................................................................................................24
4.4.3 Laser Speed ..........................................................................................................................................24

4.4.4 Function Menu .....................................................................................................................................25
4.4.5 Z Axis ...................................................................................................................................................25
4.4.6 U Axis ..................................................................................................................................................25
4.4.7 Resetting the Axes................................................................................................................................25
4.4.8 Laser Movement Mode ........................................................................................................................26
4.4.9 Laser Pulse Mode .................................................................................................................................26
4.4.10 Setting the Origin ...............................................................................................................................27
4.4.11 Setting Default Parameters .................................................................................................................28
4.4.12 Restoring Default Parameters ............................................................................................................28
4.4.13 Interface Language .............................................................................................................................28
4.4.14 IP Address ..........................................................................................................................................29
4.4.15 Diagnostic Tools .................................................................................................................................29
4.4.16 Screen Reference ................................................................................................................................29
4.4.17 File Management ................................................................................................................................30
4.4.18 Reading USB Files ............................................................................................................................. 31
4.4.19 System Memory Management ............................................................................................................31
5. Maintenance .........................................................................................................................................................32
5.1 Overview .......................................................................................................................................................32
5.2 Cleaning ........................................................................................................................................................32
5.2.1 Cleaning the Cooling System ...............................................................................................................32
5.2.2 Cleaning the Main Bay and Engraver ..................................................................................................32
5.2.3 Cleaning the Focus Lens ......................................................................................................................33
5.2.4 Cleaning the Mirrors ............................................................................................................................34
5.3 Cooling System Maintenance .......................................................................................................................35
5.4 Laser Path Alignment ...................................................................................................................................35
5.4.1 Red Dot Locator ...................................................................................................................................36
5.4.2 First Mirror ...........................................................................................................................................37
5.4.3 Second Mirror ......................................................................................................................................38
5.4.4 Third Mirror .........................................................................................................................................38
5.5 Lubrication .....................................................................................................................................................38
5.6 Parts Replacement ..........................................................................................................................................39
5.7 Disposal ..........................................................................................................................................................39
6. Contact Information .............................................................................................................................................39

1
This manual is the designated user guide for the installation, setup, safe operation, and maintenance of your cabinet
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 fi lled with insulating carbon dioxide
(CO₂), refl ecting that beam off three mirrors and through a focus lens, and using this focused light to etch designs
into certain substrates. The fi rst mirror is fi xed 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. Because they move during
operation, they also require periodic readjustment using the red dot locator and their attached positioning screws to
maintain the proper laser path.
The integrated cooling system 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 purifi er—must be used to remove
the dust and gases produced by the engraving process and ensure compliance with laws and regulations for workplace
and environmental air quality. Never operate the engraver without both of these systems operating properly.
With low intensity use, the provided laser tube has an average lifespan around 2000 hours before requiring
replacement. However, constantly running your laser above 70% of its maximum rated power can signifi cantly
shorten its service life. It is recommended to use settings from 10–70% of the maximum rated power 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 also that the active laser is invisible to the human eye. The visible red dot is only the positioning light and is
harmless. This device should never be used while any cover is open to avoid potentially permanent injury.
1.1 General Information
1. Introduction

2
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.
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.
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 fi eld of use and the dangers
of the machine and the material being engraved including its refl ectivity, conductivity, 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 for any damage or injury arising from such use. The operator is obliged to use
this cabinet laser engraver only in accordance with its designated use, the other instructions in its manuals, and all
applicable local and national laws and regulations.
1.2 Symbol Guide
1.3 Designated Use

3
1.4 Technical Specifi cations
Model USB460j
Laser Tube
Diameter 3.15 in. 50 mm
Length 40 in. 1000 mm
Focus Lens
Diameter 0.71 in. 18 mm
Thickness 0.08 in. 2 mm
Focal Length 2 in. 50.8 mm
Mirror
Diameter 0.98 in. 25 mm
Thickness 0.12 in. 3 mm
Input Power 110–120 V~ 60 Hz
Power Consumption 700 W
Rated Power 60 W
Expected Service Life
at <40% / 40–70% / >70% Power 2000/1500/1000 hr.
Laser Wavelength 10640 nm
Processing Area 15.7×23.6 in. 400×600 mm
Front/Back Pass-Through Size 28¼×1⅞ in. 720×50 mm
Workbed Blades 16
Max. Processing Speed 23.6 ips 600 mm/s
Max. Acceleration
X-Axis 315 ips² 8000 mm/s²
Y-Axis 78.8 ips² 2000 mm/s²
Min. Engraving Depth 0.0004 in. 0.01 mm
Max. Engraving Depth 0.4 in. 10 mm
Min. Letter Size 0.04×0.04 in. 1×1 mm
Required Operating
Environment
Max. Humidity 70%
Temp. Range 40–95°F 5–35°C
Control Board Ruida RD6442G
Provided Operating Software RDWorks
Supported Operating Software CorelLaser, LightBurn
Supported Image Formats .ai, .bmp, .dxf, .gif, .hpgl, .jpeg, .pdf, .plt, .png, .rd, .svg, .tiff , .tga
Graphic Operating Modes Raster, Vector, Combined
Certifi cation CE, FDA
Net Weight 210 lb. 95 kg

4
1.5 Components
Main Parts
Front
A. Cover—The cover provides access to the main bay for placing and retrieving materials, as well as fi xing the
laser path alignment and other maintenance. Power to the laser is automatically cut when the cover is opened.
B. Viewing Window—The sepia-tinted polycarbonate window is shielded to protect you and others from the laser
and its refl ection, allowing monitoring of the engraving process. However, you should never stare continuously
at the laser during operation, even through the window.
C. Air Pressure Sensor—This sensor detects the difference between the system's compressed air and ambient
atmospheric pressure. It turns red and automatically cuts power to the laser when the value is less than 8 kPa (1.2 psi).
D. X-Axis Rail—The X-axis rail holds the 2nd mirror and LED lighting. It also supports the movement of the
laser head left and right across the workbed.
E. Workbed—The workbed can be adjusted in height to fit thinner and thicker materials, as well as adjusted
between the aluminum and honeycomb platforms. This is also where the accessories pack is located when the
engraver fi rst arrives.
F. Laser Head—The laser head holds the 3rd mirror, the focus lens, the red dot guidance, and the air assist outlet.
G. Y-Axis Rail—The Y-axis rail supports the movement of the X-axis rail up and down the workbed.
H. Cover Interlocks—These switches automatically pause work if the cover is opened.
I. Workbed Adjustment Knob—This knob allows manual raising and lowering of the workbed along the Z-axis.
J. Warnings—This notice supplements the Safety Information chapter of this manual. Read it carefully before
using the machine.
K. Laser Key—This key controls the power supply to your laser tube.
L. Emergency Stop—Pushing this button cuts all power to the laser tube immediately in the event of an
emergency. Release it during startup to turn on your engraver's control panel, exhaust fan, LED lighting,
cooling system, air assist, and red dot locator. Turn it on before the laser key and turn it off after.
M. Control Panel—The control panel offers hands-on control of the engraving process, including manual
movement of the laser head and fi ring of the laser.
N. Front Pass-Through Door—This door opens to allow larger pieces of material to be fed through the workbed.
Additional care must be taken to avoid seeing or suff ering exposure to the laser beam and its refl ection.
O. Front Access Door—This door provides access to the area below the workbed for easy cleanup.

5
Left
A. Left Access Door—This door provides access to the air compressor, as
well as the main bay for work on the mirrors and Y-axis rail. Its interlock
automatically pauses work if the door is opened.
B. Exhaust Fan—This fan pulls out gases and airborne debris from the
worktable, sending it through your vent to a window or air purifi er.
C. Feet—These feet can be rotated down to help anchor the machine in place.
D. Caster Wheels—The front wheels include locks to hold the engraver in
place.
Right
A. Connection Inputs—This panel includes the machine's ports for its USB,
computer, and internet connections.
B. Right Access Door—This door provides access to the mainboard, motor
drivers, and power supplies.
C. Vents—These vents keep components from overheating during prolonged
use and should not be obstructed.
D. Power Ports—These ports connect to your main power supply and ground
the machine.
Rear
A. Upper Rear Access Door—This door opens to the laser bay, holding the laser tube, its connections, and the
red dot locator.
B. Laser Bay Interlock—This switch automatically pauses work if this access door is opened.
C. Laser Tube—This long glass tube is filled with helium, nitrogen, and CO₂ gas and water cooled to safely
produce your engraving laser. Its connection to the laser power supply is extremely high voltage and extremely
dangerous.
D. Rear Pass-Through Door—This door is the rear equivalent of the front pass-through door and requires similar
care during use.
E. Lower Left Rear Access Door—This door provides access to the same area as the right access door.
F. Coolant Gauge—This gauge shows the current level of coolant in your engraver's reservoir tank. Try to keep
your level towards the top of the green zone marked NORMAL. Never use your engraver while it is in or near
the red zone marked ALARM.
G. Cooling Fans—These fans lower the temperature of your coolant. Ensure they are at least 8 inches (20 cm) from
any wall or other obstruction and periodically clear any dust or debris that may accumulate.
H. Lower Rear Access Door—This door holds your engraver's coolant gauge and provides access to the coolant
tank, pump, tubes, and cooling fans.
I. Air Intake—This port connects to your air assist to provide its pressurized air.

6
Laser Path
A. Laser Tube—This CO₂-fi lled 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 fi xed
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. 3rd Mirror—This adjustable-angle mirror moves
with the laser head to allow the laser beam to travel
along the X axis.
E. Focus Lens—This lens directs and focuses the
laser to the material.
F. Workbed—The bare workbed can be adjusted in
height or fi tted with aluminum or honeycomb tables
for diff erent projects.
Laser Head
A. X-Axis Rail—This rail moves along the Y axis, with its
movement controlled by limit switches.
B. 3rd Mirror—This adjustable-angle mirror transfers the
laser from the 2nd mirror to the focus lens.
C. Focus Lens—This 18 mm lens directs and focuses the laser
beam to its point of contact with the engraving material.
D. Laser—The engraving laser itself is invisible but highly
dangerous. Avoid any direct exposure to your skin or eyes.
E. Air Assist—This device blows pressurized air to kill sparks
and blow away gas and debris as you engrave.
F. Workbed—Use the provided acrylic tool to get the perfect
focus for any thickness of material.