Renishaw SLM 250 Owner's manual

1
Contents
Installation and operation manual
H-9942-9001-01-A
SLM 250 scanning laser module
For end users, installers,
integrators and engineers

© 2016 Renishaw plc.All rights reserved.
This document may not be copied or reproduced
in whole or in part, or transferred to any other
media or language, by any means, without the
prior written permission of Renishaw plc.
The publication of material within this document
does not imply freedom from the patent rights of
Renishaw plc.
Renishaw part no: H-9942-9001-01-A
Issued: 10.2016
Trade marks
RENISHAW and the probe symbol used in the
RENISHAW logo are registered trade marks of
Renishaw plc in the United Kingdom and other
countries. apply innovation and names and
designations of other Renishaw products and
technologies are trade marks of Renishaw plc or
its subsidiaries.
All other brand names and product names used
in this document are trade names, trade marks,
or registered trade marks of their respective
owners.
Care of equipment
Renishaw’s SLM 250 and associated accessory
products are precision products and must
therefore be treated with care.
Changes to Renishaw products
Renishaw plc reserves the right to
improve, change or modify its products and
documentation without incurring any obligation
to make changes to equipment previously sold
or distributed.
Disclaimer
RENISHAW HAS MADE CONSIDERABLE
EFFORTS TO ENSURE THE CONTENT OF
THIS DOCUMENT IS CORRECT AT THE
DATE OF PUBLICATION BUT MAKES NO
WARRANTIES OR REPRESENTATIONS
REGARDING THE CONTENT.RENISHAW
EXCLUDES LIABILITY, HOWSOEVER
ARISING, FOR ANY INACCURACIES IN THIS
DOCUMENT.
Safety
The SLM 250 is a high-performance distance
meter. It is essential that the unit and all
accessories are operated in accordance with the
instructions in this operation manual and it is the
responsibility of the user to ensure that, in the
event of a failure on any part of the Renishaw
system, the laser system remains safe.
In the case of laser systems with powers or
speeds capable of causing injury, it is essential
that appropriate safety protection measures
are included in the machine usage.Further
guidance can be found in the European
BS EN ISO 12100 : 2010 Safety of machinery –
General principles for design – Risk assessment
and risk reduction.
Information to the equipment
supplier/installer
It is the equipment supplier’s responsibility
to ensure that the user is made aware of any
hazards involved in any operations involving
the SLM 250, including those mentioned in
Renishaw product literature.

Warranty
Renishaw plc warrants its equipment provided
that it is operated exactly as defined in
associated Renishaw documentation.
Laser safety
DO NOT STARE DIRECTLY
INTOTHE BEAM
In accordance with BS EN 60825-1: 2007 and
US standards 21CFR 1040.10 and 1040.11,
except for deviations pursuant to Laser Notice
no. 50, dated June 24, 2007, the SLM 250 is
classified as a Class 1 invisible laser product.
Safety eyewear is not required for the SLM 250.
Do not stare into the beam or shine it into
the eyes of others.It is safe to view a diffuse-
reflected beam. Do not dismantle the unit in any
way; doing so may expose laser radiation in
excess of Class 1 limits.
CAUTION – LASER LIGHT IS BRIGHT AND
BLINDING – DO NOT SHINE AT AIRCRAFT
ORVEHICLES AT ANY DISTANCE
Safety information
The following symbol is used in this manual
wherever important safety information is
present.
Before proceeding with any
electrical connection or
operation of the laser system,
refer to the general safety
information listed throughout
this manual.
DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
The SLM 250 meets or exceeds the
requirements of the following British and
European Standards:
BS EN ISO 12100 : 2010 –
Safety of machinery – General principles for
design
BS EN 61326-1 : 2013 –
Electrical equipment for measurement, control
and laboratory use – EMC requirements
Part 1 – General requirements
The tests were carried out in compliance with:
Immunity to Table 2 – Industrial locations
Emissions to Class A – Industrial locations
BS EN 60825-1 : 2007 –
Safety of laser products – Part 1: Equipment
classification and requirements
The SLM 250 therefore complies with the
following European Directives:
2006/42/EC – Machinery
2004/108/EC – Electromagnetic compatibility
(EMC) of electrical equipment
2006/95/EC – Low voltage directive (LVD)
relating to electrical equipment designed for use
within certain voltage limits (codified version)
It is declared that the equipment named has
been designed to comply with the relevant
sections of the referenced specifications and
is in accordance with the requirements of the
Directives.

FCC (USA only)
Information to the user (47CFR section
15.19)
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC
Rules.Operation is subject to the following two
conditions:
1. This device may not cause harmful
interference, and
2. This device must accept any interference
received, including interference that may
cause undesired operation.
Information to user (47CFR section 15.21)
The user is cautioned that any changes or
modifications not expressly approved by
Renishaw plc or authorised representative
could void the user’s authority to operate the
equipment.
Information to the user (47CFR section
15.105)
This equipment has been tested and found
to comply with the limits of a Class A digital
device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
These limits are designed to provide reasonable
protection against harmful interference when
the equipment is operated in a commercial
environment.The equipment generates, uses
and can radiate radio frequency energy and,
if not installed and used in accordance with
the SLM 250 manual, may cause harmful
interference to radio communications.
EC declaration of conformity
c
Renishaw plc declares that the Fanbeam 5
system and associated accessories comply with
the applicable standards and regulations.
Contact Renishaw plc or visit
www.renishaw.com/fanbeam for the full EC
declaration of conformity.
WEEE
The use of this symbol on Renishaw products
and/or accompanying documentation indicates
that the product should not be mixed with
general household waste upon disposal. It is
the responsibility of the end user to dispose
of this product at a designated collection point
for waste electrical and electronic equipment
(WEEE) to enable reuse or recycling.Correct
disposal of this product will help to save valuable
resources and prevent potential negative effects
on the environment.For more information,
please contact your local waste disposal service
or Renishaw distributor.
Renishaw part no: H-9933-8501-01-A
Issued: February 2015
EC declaration of conformity
Renishaw plc declares that the SLM 250
complies with the applicable standards and
regulations.
Renishaw plc hereby declares that the SLM 250
is in compliance with the essential requirements
and other relevant provisions of Directive
1999/5/EC.
Contact Renishaw plc or visit
www.renishaw.com for the full EC declaration of
conformity.
WEEE directive
The use of this symbol on Renishaw products
and/or accompanying documentation indicates
that the product should not be mixed with
general household waste upon disposal. It is
the responsibility of the end user to dispose
of this product at a designated collection point
for waste electrical and electronic equipment
(WEEE) to enable reuse or recycling.Correct
disposal of this product will help to save
valuable resources and prevent potential
negative effects on the environment. For more
information, please contact your local waste
disposal service or Renishaw distributor.

i
Contents
Contents
1 General safety ..........................................................1-1
1.1 Operation and maintenance .........................................1-1
1.2 Warnings........................................................1-1
2 Customer information ....................................................2-1
2.1 Dear Customer ...................................................2-1
2.2 Manual .........................................................2-1
2.3 Product warranty..................................................2-2
3 Introduction ............................................................3-1
3.1 Applications......................................................3-2
4 Equipment description....................................................4-1
4.1 Precautions .....................................................4-2
4.2 Cables .........................................................4-2
4.2.1 Umbilical cable.............................................4-2
4.2.2 Low-voltage power connectors ................................4-3
4.2.3 Ethernet ..................................................4-3
4.3 Electrical .......................................................4-3
5 Laser safety ............................................................5-1
5.1 SLM 250 ........................................................5-1
6 Operational guidelines....................................................6-1
6.1 System limitations ................................................6-1

ii
Contents
SLM 250 installation and operation manual
7 Maintenance and care of the SLM 250 .......................................7-1
7.1 General ........................................................7-1
7.2 Preventative maintenance ..........................................7-1
7.2.1 In use ....................................................7-1
7.2.2 In storage ................................................7-2
7.2.3 In transportation ...........................................7-2
7.2.4 General ..................................................7-2
8 Network set-up..........................................................8-1
9 SLM 250 software .......................................................9-1
9.1 Installing the SLM 250 software ......................................9-1
10 Command list..........................................................10-1
11 Rotation speed and resolution.............................................11-1
12 Output formats.........................................................12-1
12.1 ASCII data format ................................................12-1
12.2 Binary data format................................................12-3
13 Beam and tilt angles ....................................................13-1
14 Specifications..........................................................14-1
15 Appendix A – Mechanical drawings.........................................15-1
16 Appendix B – Electrical connections ........................................16-1

1-1
General safety
1 General safety
CAUTION: Before unpacking and installing the SLM 250, read the safety instructions below
carefully and ensure that they are followed at all times by all operators. Failure to do so could
adversely affect the performance of the SLM 250 and/or lead to personal injury. Operators must
be trained in the use and application of the SLM 250 and accompanying accessories before being
allowed to operate the equipment.
1.1 Operation and maintenance
Following the simple maintenance procedures below will prolong the operational life and continued
high performance of the system.The user should determine the frequency of inspection and
maintenance actions according to the conditions of use.
• The product should only be connected to using the approved connector type and wiring as
prescribed in section 4.2, “Cables”.
• Changing the SLM 250 port and IP addresses must be carried out using only the SLM 250
software application by appropriately trained personnel.
• Disconnect power before performing any maintenance operations.
• Maintenance is restricted to procedures described in section 7, “Maintenance and care of the
SLM 250”.
1.2 Warnings
• Beware of unexpected movement.The user(s) must remain outside the full working envelope of
the SLM 250 whilst in operation.
• It is the machine supplier’s responsibility to ensure that the user is made aware of any hazards
involved in operation, including those mentioned in Renishaw product documentation.
• The SLM 250 must be transported in Renishaw supplied packaging.
• This equipment is not suitable for use in a potentially explosive atmosphere.

SLM 250 installation and operation manual
1-2
General safety
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2-1
Customer information
2 Customer information
2.1 Dear Customer
We congratulate you on the purchase of an SLM 250.You are now the owner of a high quality laser
measurement device. However, we would ask you to take the time to work carefully through these
operating instructions before using the instrument and to keep the manual with the instrument at all
times.
If your system requires servicing or calibration, or if there are questions arising beyond the scope of
this manual, contact Renishaw’s Service and Support Centre. Contact details are on the back page
of this manual.
Alternatively, for information on your local Renishaw approved service centre, visit our website at
www.renishaw.com
For best service, please make a note of the serial number, which can be found on the instrument.
2.2 Manual
It is important that you read this manual carefully before using the instrument.
This manual gives a full description of the hardware components of the SLM 250.
Further information can be found in the Quick-start Guide which is part of the SLM 250 software
application (see section 9.1, “Installing the SLM 250 software”).
This manual has been compiled with care. However, should you discover any errors we would
be grateful if you could contact Renishaw directly. Reproduction in whole or in part, including
utilisation in machines capable of reproduction or retrieval, without the express written permission
of Renishaw plc, is prohibited. Reverse engineering is also prohibited.The information in this
document is subject to change without notice.

SLM 250 installation and operation manual
2-2
Customer information
2.3 Product warranty
Unless otherwise specified, Renishaw plc warrants the equipment for a period of twelve months
from the date of delivery.This warranty is given subject to the following conditions:
• Renishaw plc shall be under no liability in respect of any defects in the equipment arising from
any drawing, design or specification supplied or modification requested by the customer.
• Renishaw plc shall be under no liability in respect of defects arising from, wilful damage,
negligence, abnormal working conditions, failure to follow Renishaw’s instructions (whether oral
or in writing), misuse or alteration or repair of the equipment without Renishaw’s approval.
• Software is not covered by this warranty.
• Claims in respect of defective equipment must be intimated by notice in writing to Renishaw
plc and the equipment must be retained by the customer pending written instructions from
Renishaw.
• Following authorised return of the equipment, which must be made by the customer on freight
prepaid basis, Renishaw will examine the equipment and, if the claim is justified in Renishaw’s
opinion, will repair the defective equipment or will make replacement without charge. Renishaw
will have no further liability to the customer.

3-1
Introduction
3 Introduction
The SLM 250 is a ruggedised field instrument designed to produce fast, efficient 2D laser scans of
the surrounding vicinity.
It is designed to be used as a multi-purpose scanning distance meter that is integrated into other
equipment for a variety of applications.
The module employs the “time of flight” measurement technique to calculate the distance to the
target. Up to 36,000 such measurements can be made every second up to a range of 250 metres
(standard Renishaw test conditions).
The SLM 250 is just one of many laser systems that have been designed by Renishaw. Other
products – such as the Quarryman, Boretrak, C-ALS (Cavity Auto-scanning Laser System), Void
Scanner and Dynascan – have all been proved over many years of demanding use around the
world.These products complement the SLM portfolio and provide a wide range of advanced
measurement solutions to industries including mapping, mining and quarrying, traffic, offshore and
manufacturing.
Figure 1: SLM 250

SLM 250 installation and operation manual
3-2
Introduction
3.1 Applications
This unique instrument is suitable for a large number of surveying and measuring functions, such
as:
• security
• quarrying and mining
• coastal mapping
• topographical surveys
• highway infrastructure surveys
• vehicle/vessel positioning.

Figure 2: SLM 250 component parts
Laser module with
transmitting and
receiving optics
Aluminium housing
Rotation point
Power and data
interface
4-1
Equipment description
4 Equipment description
The SLM 250 incorporates an embedded infrared laser module, a motor to spin the laser, encoders
to measure the rotation angle, the connector to provide power and data communications with the
unit, and the electronic circuitry that allows measurements to be taken at ranges up to 250 metres
from the instrument.
The two windows on the laser module protect the transmitting and receiving optics. It is through
these windows that the infrared measuring laser is fired and then received back into the instrument.
It can fire at up to 36,000 times per second.
The laser can range up to 250 metres.The actual range in any given project will depend on a
number of factors, such as atmospheric and environmental conditions, and the reflectivity of the
surface being targeted.
The laser is housed in an aluminium casing.This ensures that the SLM 250 is highly ruggedised
and may be used in demanding environments.
The flange at the bottom of the SLM 250 allows it to be mounted onto a stable surface (see section
15, “Appendix A – Mechanical drawings”).Its construction means it can be mounted vertically or
horizontally, with no loss of performance.

SLM 250 installation and operation manual
4-2
Equipment description
4.1 Precautions
• Avoid directing the laser apertures towards the sun or other high-powered, infrared light
sources.
• Avoid mechanical shock.
The laser is driven by a motor.When the unit is stationary the laser can be rotated by hand without
causing damage to the motor. If the laser is prevented from rotating by an obstruction, the motor
power will initially be increased to try to maintain the rotation speed but will then detect a stall
condition and the drive will be removed, preventing damage to the motor.
Caution: If the obstruction is removed before a stall is detected the rotation speed may
momentarily be in excess of what it should be.
It is advised to minimise any manual movement of the laser and to keep the instrument away from
potential obstructions so the motor may turn freely.
WARNING: Users should not manually or otherwise obstruct the operation of the
motor or allow clothing to come into contact with the device, to avoid entrapment
in the unit.
4.2 Cables
4.2.1 Umbilical cable
Figure 3: Umbilical cable
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P2
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P2
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1000 mm
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Wire Schedule
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8
8
1

4-3
Equipment description
The umbilical cable is 2 m in length and provides connection for power and Ethernet.Connection
to the SLM is by means of a Mil-Spec MIL-DTL-26482 Series 1 Plug (Renishaw recommends the
use of Weald LMH06T10.07SN.101). For further details of this cable see section 16, “Appendix B –
Electrical connections”.
4.2.2 Low-voltage power connectors
The 4 mm connector plugs are for connection to a low-voltage dc power supply of voltage range
11 Vdc to 16 Vdc.
For cable pin-outs, see section 16, “Appendix B – Electrical connections”.
4.2.3 Ethernet
The Ethernet connector (standard RJ45) allows for connection to a PC/laptop so that
communication to the SLM 250 can be established.
4.3 Electrical
WARNINGS:
• The SLM 250 has no user-serviceable parts.In the event of a problem, please
contact Renishaw’s Service and Support Centre.
• Do not attempt to open the instrument.
• Always isolate the low-voltage dc source before the instrument is removed
(uninstalled) and/or replaced (installed).
• Appropriate visual inspection and electrical safety testing is to be performed
after instrument installation or replacement.
It is recommended that the SLM 250 is powered from an external 14 Vdc source with a minimum
power capability of 100 W.
Note: The SLM motor start-up peak current will be higher than its steady running current,
especially when at the low end of its operating temperature range.

SLM 250 installation and operation manual
4-4
Equipment description
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5-1
Laser safety
5 Laser safety
The SLM 250 is supplied with one embedded laser module.See below for eye safety classification
and recommendations.
Laser safety
DO NOT STARE DIRECTLY INTOTHE BEAM
In accordance with BS EN 60825-1 : 2007 and US standards 21CFR 1040.10 and 1040.11, except
for deviations pursuant to Laser Notice no.50, dated June 24, 2007, the SLM 250 is classified as a
Class 1 invisible laser product. Safety eyewear is not required for the SLM 250.Do not stare into the
beam or shine it into the eyes of others.It is safe to view a diffuse-reflected beam. Do not dismantle
the unit in any way; doing so may expose laser radiation in excess of Class 1 limits.
5.1 SLM 250
The SLM 250 is classified as a Class 1 laser product with reference to the international standard
BS EN 60825-1 : 2007 Safety of Laser Products. As a Class 1 product, such devices require no
engineering controls beyond requiring the use of tools to open the housing.No laser labelling is
required to be located upon the external structure of these devices. However, the following label is
located upon the external body of the product. It is clearly visible and readable to the user whether
the device is in operation or not.
WARNINGS:
• Invisible laser radiation. Do not stare into the radiated emitted beam.
• Use of controls or adjustments or performance of procedures other than those specified herein
may result in hazardous radiation exposures.

SLM 250 installation and operation manual
5-2
Laser safety
WARNING: Opening the protective housing may result in exposure to Class 3B radiation.
This caution label is positioned inside the outer housing on the cover of the laser module emitter
mount. It is therefore only visible by qualified maintenance engineers prior to, and after, access to
the laser emitter.
Only qualified and trained persons should be assigned to operate the SLM 250.
When not in use, the device should be stored in a location where unauthorised personnel cannot
gain access.
CAUTION – LASER LIGHT IS BRIGHT AND BLINDING – DO NOT SHINE AT AIRCRAFT OR
VEHICLES AT ANY DISTANCE
Aligning the SLM 250 with the lenses of CCD-cameras or infrared night vision devices may result in
damage to such devices and is therefore not permitted.
The SLM 250 is intended for use in a locale where the emitted radiation is unlikely to be viewed
with optical instruments.
The SLM 250 is both naked eye safe and eye safe with the use of optical instruments such as
telescopes or binoculars.Nevertheless, Renishaw plc recommends that the SLM 250 is not directly
pointed at persons’eyes, nor viewed with optical instruments.
CAUTION – DO NOT UNNECESSARILY LOOK INTOTHE WINDOWS OFTHE SLM 250

6-1
Operational guidelines
6 Operational guidelines
Only qualified and trained persons should be assigned to operate the SLM 250.
The SLM 250 is for range measurements to passive targets.The use of highly reflective targets,
such as survey prisms or cube-corners, must be avoided.
The range information is transmitted via Ethernet using UDP messages.
6.1 System limitations
The SLM 250 is designed to meet IP66 and should not be used in situations that require a higher
level of ingress protection.
The SLM 250 is capable of measuring ranges up to 250 metres to 90% reflective material (e.g.,
Kodak white card). However, the maximum achievable range will depend on a number of factors. In
some circumstances these may prevent any readings from being taken:
• dark, light-absorbent surfaces such as coal
• atmospheric conditions such as dust, fog, heavy rain and snow
• wet, slick, shiny or very smooth surfaces
• an acute angle between the laser and the surface.
The minimum, calibrated range of the laser is 10 m. At shorter distances, readings may still be
recorded, but their accuracy may be diminished.
Where possible, avoid pointing the laser directly into the sun.This could lead to spurious points
being collected.

SLM 250 installation and operation manual
6-2
Operational guidelines
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