Silca Idea User manual

D430478XA
vers. 6.0
Operating manual
(1

© 2004 SILCA S.p.A - Vittorio Veneto
This manual is written by SILCA S.p.A.
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or used in any form or by any means (photocopying,
microfilm or other) without the written permission of SILCA S.p.A.
Edition:
January 2009
Printed in Vittorio Veneto
by SILCA S.p.A.
via Podgora, 20 (Z.I.)
31029 VITTORIO VENETO (TV) - Italy
IMPORTANT NOTE: in compliance with current regulations relating to industrial property, we hereby state that the
trade-marks or trade names mentioned in our documentation are the exclusive property of authorized
manufacturers of locks and users.
Said trade-marks or trade names are nominated only for the purposes of information so that any lock for which our
keys are made can be rapidly identified.

INDEX
REFERENCE GUIDE ...................................................................................................................1
GENERAL ....................................................................................................................................5
1 MACHINE DESCRIPTION ........................................................................................................6
1.1 Main characteristics ............................................................................................................... 6
1.2 Safety ..................................................................................................................................... 7
1.3 Main working parts ................................................................................................................. 8
1.4 Technical data ....................................................................................................................... 9
1.5 Accessories provided ........................................................................................................... 10
2 TRANSPORT ..........................................................................................................................11
2.1 Packing ................................................................................................................................ 11
2.2 Unpacking ............................................................................................................................ 11
2.3 Machine handling ................................................................................................................. 12
3 MACHINE INSTALLATION AND PREPARATION .................................................................13
3.1 Checking for damage ........................................................................................................... 13
3.2 Environmental conditions ..................................................................................................... 13
3.3 Positioning and installation .................................................................................................. 13
3.4 Description of work station ................................................................................................... 13
3.5 Graphics .............................................................................................................................. 14
4 “SET UP” AND USE OF THE MACHINE ...............................................................................15
4.1 Keyboard and functions ....................................................................................................... 15
4.2 Use of the clamp .................................................................................................................. 16
4.3 Cutting by electric contact .................................................................................................... 17
4.4 Cutter ................................................................................................................................... 17
4.5 Changing the cutter ............................................................................................................. 17
5 USER’S GUIDE .......................................................................................................................18
5.1 Symbol and terminology ......................................................................................................18
5.2 Initial Operations .................................................................................................................. 18
5.3 [0] Copy from original........................................................................................................... 20
5.4 Copy from ORIGINAL for FRONT STOP - MALE ................................................................ 24
5.4.1 Reading keys with front stop (double bit, single bit - male) ........................................................24
5.4.2 Cutting keys with front stop (double bit, single bit - male) ..........................................................24
5.5 Copy from ORIGINAL for FRONT STOP - FEMALE ........................................................... 26
5.5.1 Reading keys with front stop (double bit, single bit - female) .....................................................26
5.5.2 Cutting front stop keys (double bit, single bit - female) ..............................................................27
5.6 Copy from ORIGINAL for CENTRE STOP .......................................................................... 28
5.6.1 Reading keys with centre stop (English type) ............................................................................28
5.6.2 Cutting keys with centre stop (English type) ..............................................................................29
5.7 FAS 309 Plastic Stem .......................................................................................................... 30
5.8 Adapter for cutting CHUBB keys with square section stems ............................................... 31
5.9 PUMP KEYS ........................................................................................................................ 32
5.10 MUEL PUMP KEYS .............................................................................................................35
5.11 FIAM KEYS .......................................................................................................................... 38
5.12 KEYS WITH REAR STOP (Male keys and Female keys) ................................................... 43
5.12.1 FRENCH REAR STOP KEYS.................................................................................................... 51
5.13 SMALL BIT / DOUBLE BIT KEYS ....................................................................................... 53
5.14 SPECIAL BIT FEMALE KEYS ............................................................................................. 57
5.15 POST-READING adjustments to make to the key after reading ......................................... 61
5.15.1 Front-rear bit conversion ............................................................................................................62
5.15.2 “X” Specular bit conversion ........................................................................................................ 62
5.15.3 Correcting bit depth ....................................................................................................................63
5.15.4 Bit construction ...........................................................................................................................64
5.16 Decode and copy ................................................................................................................. 66
5.17 Entering the cuts .................................................................................................................. 67
5.18 Use Of The Machine with a Personal Computer ................................................................. 70
5.19 Use of the Machine with OPTIKA via PC.............................................................................. 72

5.20 Gauging ............................................................................................................................... 73
5.21 Cutters ................................................................................................................................. 76
5.22 Adapters .............................................................................................................................. 77
6 MAIN MENU TEST FUNCTIONS ............................................................................................85
6.1 Test ...................................................................................................................................... 86
6.1.1 Machine zero points ................................................................................................................... 89
6.2 Options .............................................................................................................................. 106
6.2.1 Serial number ...........................................................................................................................106
6.2.2 Carriage approach speed .........................................................................................................106
6.2.3 Rotating speed .........................................................................................................................106
6.2.4 Preferences ..............................................................................................................................107
6.2.5 Language .................................................................................................................................107
6.2.6 Keyboard inversion ...................................................................................................................107
6.2.7 Limited access to Data (Protected Systems) ...........................................................................108
6.2.7.1 L IST OF ENABLED SYSTEMS ACTIVATED AND REMOVAL OF AN ACTIVATION .............................. 108
6.2.8 Bit height ..................................................................................................................................109
6.2.9 Reading Check .........................................................................................................................109
6.2.10 Machine Messages ..................................................................................................................111
6.2.10.1 ALARM MESSAGES ................................................................................................................. 111
6.2.10.2 ERROR M
ESSAGES ................................................................................................................ 114
6.2.10.3 SIGNAL M
ESSAGES ................................................................................................................ 118
7 MAINTENANCE ....................................................................................................................119
7.1 Trouble shooting ................................................................................................................ 119
7.2 Maintenance operations .................................................................................................... 121
7.3 Cutter replacement ............................................................................................................ 121
7.4 Replacing and tightening the belts ..................................................................................... 122
7.5 Checking and/or replacing fuses ....................................................................................... 123
7.6 Electronic circuit board replacement .................................................................................. 124
7.7 Keyboard/display replacement .......................................................................................... 125
7.8 Access to back compartment ............................................................................................. 126
7.9 Access to bottom compartment ......................................................................................... 126
7.10 Sensor replacement ........................................................................................................... 127
7.11 Replacing the photocell ..................................................................................................... 129
7.11.1 Machine zero setting after replacing the photocells .................................................................131
7.12 Brush replacement ............................................................................................................. 133
7.13 WIN-TRANSFER Program for loading/updating the internal
machine program ............................................................................................................... 133
7.14 DIAGNOSTIC FUNCTION – errors in: Copy from Original on IDEA ................................. 134
8DISPO6$/ ...................................................................................................136
9 ASSISTANCE ........................................................................................................................137
9.1 How to request service ......................................................................................................137
Appendix 1 - ELECTRIC DIAGRAMS................................................................................... I - VII
Appendix 2 -
DECLARATION COMPLIANCE

Copyright Silca 2004 1
Operating Manual - English IDEA
REFERENCE GUIDE
This manual has been produced to serve as a guide for users of the IDEA key-cutting machine: Read it
carefully; it is essential if you wish to operate your machine safely and efficiently.
CONSULTATION
The contents of the manual are divided into sections relating to:
• Machine description ........................................................................................... Chapter 1
• Transport and installation ................................................................................... Chapters 2-3
• Regulation and use ............................................................................................ Chapters 4-5-6
• Maintenance ....................................................................................................... Chapters 7-8-9
TECHNICAL TERMS
Common technical terms are used in this manual.
To assist those with little experience of keys and key-cutting, below is an illustration of the terms most
frequently used
.
1) Head
2) Stem
3) Bit
Fig. 1
head
stem
bit
*
WITH OPTIONAL ADAPTERS
***
** ***
*
* *
*

2 Copyright Silca 2004
IDEA Operating Manual - English
CHARACTERISTICS OF KEYS FOR READING AND DECODING
The IDEA electronic key-cutting machine is designed to take a number of different types of mortice and bit,
double bit, pump keys, etc. The following are the general key characteristics and conformations for which
the machine has been designed or for which special adapters can be fitted in order to develop specific cutting
systems.
In addition to the machine's general technical characteristics already described, keys with the following
parameters can be cut on the IDEA (fig. 2, fig. 3, fig. 4, fig. 5, fig. 6 and fig. 7).
STEM
- LENGTH: the machine is provided with a headstop and designed to take keys with lengths of up to 150
mm;
- DIAMETER: the self-centering jaws on the rotating clamp will take stems with diameters from Ø 3,6 - 7
mm.
- HOLLOW STEMS: female keys are gripped normally by the jaws and a special tailstock is provided for
self-centering grip on the hole at the tip with diameters from Ø 2 - 5 mm, by centring.
HEAD
- WIDTH: the grip for the head of a bit or double bit key is the means for visual alignment of the key.
BIT
- THICKNESS: maximum 7 mm for brass keys / max. 4 mm for steel keys.
MATERIAL
IDEA is provided with a single phase motor and single cutter speed.
These are the characteristics and variables common to all types of keys. It is now necessary to distinguish
clearly between at least 3 families of keys which condition a series of functions on the machine, such as:
a) tools to use
b) necessary controls.
In the following pages the families of keys are illustrated so that the dimensions of any key to be cut can be
compared and the reference elements found. These elements are:
1) BIT STOP keys(mortice and bit, double bit, round or square stem: mainly for Italian, German, Spanish
markets).
2) SHOULDER STOP keys (with stop on rim close to the bit: mainly for English and Swedish markets).
3) PUMP KEYS (with round and flat stems)
4) SMALL BIT/DOUBLE BIT KEYS
5) SPECIAL BIT FEMALE KEYS
6) KEYS WITH REAR STOP
BIT STOP KEYS ( FIG . 2)
The minimum and maximum dimensions of this type of key are shown in the diagram below.
This class of key includes:
- mortice and bit and double bit keys
- male and female keys
Fig. 2
max.7 mm
max.15 mm
max.7 mmmax.28 mm
Stop 0
max.15 mm

Copyright Silca 2004 3
Operating Manual - English IDEA
SHOULDER STOP KEYS (E NGLISH TYPE ) ( FIG . 3)
The minimum and maximum dimensions of this type of key are shown in the diagram below.
This class of key includes:
- single bit keys with rim close to the bit
- double bit keys with rim close to the bit
Fig. 3
PUMP KEYS ( FIG . 4)
The minimum and maximum dimensions of this type of key are shown in the diagram below. To cut this type
of key on the IDEA is necessary the optional adaptor D726180ZB.
This class of keys includes
:
- pump keys with round stems (ø max. 7 mm - min.4 mm)
- pump keys with flat stems (7 mm)
Fig. 4
max.26 mm
max.6 mm
max.20 mm
Stop
Stop 3
min.
12 mm
max.
19 mm
max. 22 mm
max. 55 mm

4 Copyright Silca 2004
IDEA Operating Manual - English
SMALL BIT/DOUBLE BIT KEYS ( FIG . 5)
The minimum and maximum dimensions of this type of key are shown in the diagram below. To cut this type
of key on the IDEA is necessary the optional adaptor D727711ZB (cap. 5.13 a pag. 53).
Fig. 5
SPECIAL BIT FEMALE KEYS ( FIG . 6)
The minimum and maximum dimensions of this type of key are shown in the diagram below. To cut this type
of key on the IDEA is necessary the optional adaptor D728717ZB (cap. 5.14 a pag. 57).
Fig. 6
KEYS WITH REAR STOP ( FIG . 7)
The maximum dimensions of this type of keys are described in the table below. To cut this type of key on the
IDEA is necessary the optional adaptor D727498ZB (cap. 5.12 a pag. 43).
Fig. 7
TYPE OF KEYS
Stem diameter min. 5 mm - max. 7 mm
Collar diameter max. 9 mm
Bit length in reading max. 40 mm
Bit height max. 17 mm / 19,5 mm
Distance from stop to bit min. 6 mm
Head width max. 30 mm
max 4 mm
max 18 mm
max 12 mm
max 12 mm
max 15 mm
max 31 mm
max 7 mm

Copyright Silca 2004 5
Operating Manual - English IDEA
GENERAL
IDEA has been designed in compliance to the European Community normative (CE).
From the design stage, risks for the operator have been eliminated in all areas: transport, regulation, cutting
and maintenance.
Further risks have been eliminated by means of protective devices.
The materials used to manufacture this machine and all its components are not hazardous.
U SE
IDEA is designed for cutting keys of ferrous materials: brass, silver nickel, etc.
It must be installed and used according to the instructions indicated by the manufacturer.
If the key-cutting machine is used differently or for purposes different from those described in this manual,
the customer will forego any rights he may have over Silca S.p.A. Furthermore, unforeseen danger to the
operator or any third parties may arise from incorrect use of the machine.
I NCORRECT USE
Operator negligence resulting in improper use of this machine or failure of the operator to observe the
instructions written in this manual. The manufacturer may decline all guarantees and responsibilities.
It is therefore essential to carefully read this operating manual.
I MPROPER USE OF ELECTRIC CONTACT
• it is not permitted to cut anodized keys, plastic keys or any keys with materials that do not have
electrical conductivity by means of electric contact.
•
cuts cannot be repeated on the same side of the key when electric contact cutting is used.
I NSTRUCTIONS MANUAL
The instructions manual provided with the machine is essential to its proper use and to carry out the
necessary maintenance.
We therefore recommend protecting the manual from damage in a safe sheltered place, easily to hand for
quick consultation.
F URTHER RISKS
No further risks will arise when properly using the IDEA.
P ROTECTION AND SAFETY PRECAUTIONS FOR THE OPERATOR
IDEA is entirely built in compliance to the Machine Directives. The operations for which it has been designed
are easily carried out with no risk to the operator. The adoption of general safety precautions and observation
of the instructions provided by the manufacturer in this manual eliminate all human error, unless deliberate.
IDEA is designed with features which make it completely safe.
• Power supply
IDEA is supplied with electricity by means of a grounded plug and differential switch.
• Start-up
The machine is turned on by means of a master switch that is located on the Idea’s lower left back side.
• Maintenance
The operations to regulate, service, repair and clean the machine are structured in the simplest and safest
way possible. Parts that the operator can dismount cannot be incorrectly replaced therefore avoiding any
risks.
• Machine identification
The machine is provided with an identification label which includes the machine’s serial number (fig. 8).
Fig. 8
(*) see ch.8 "DISPOS$/", page 136.

6 Copyright Silca 2004
IDEA Operating Manual - English
1 MACHINE DESCRIPTION
IDEA is an electronic machine operating on 3 axes (X = spaces, Y = depths, B = radius and bit angles) with
controlled movement. Accurately studied, it adds a high degree of cutting precision to operating speed and
ease of use.
IDEA can be used in 4 different ways:
• entering the key code directly by means of the machine keyboard
• reading the key with a laser reader and reproducing it
• linking to a PC and Silca software
• decode and copy
Fig. 9
1.1 M AIN CHARACTERISTICS
• Movements
Movement of the two axes (X-Y) operates on ball screws activated by step motors, on rectified roller guides.
•Clamp
Motorized rotating clamp to control the revolving movement for the cutting radius, to turn over double bit keys
and control the third axis "B";
• Working tool
Consists of a cutter in hard metal carbide (optional High Speed Steel), that is easily replaced.
Suitable to the type of work and speed rotation needed. Optional hard metal carbide cutter.
•Display
Rear-illuminated and placed on the front of the machine.
Display with 4 rows of 20 characters each.
Its technical features and positioning make it highly practical in use.
• Laser reader
Designed to read cuts on keys to be reproduced.

Copyright Silca 2004 7
Operating Manual - English IDEA
1.2 S AFETY
• Protective shield
The transparent protective shield is designed to cover the working parts as completely as possible, ensuring
operator safety.
The shield (U) (fig. 10, page 8) must be raised in order to fit keys for cutting or carry out other operations.
Raising of the shield is controlled by a microswitch and disactivates the operating and movement functions,
including the cutter. A special message appears on the display to warn that the shield is not closed.
To re-start the work cycle, place the shield in its original position and press START on the machine’s
keyboard.
• Emergency stops
The red emergency button (N) (fig. 10, page 8) placed on the right-hand side of the machine is used to stop
it immediately in the event of faulty operation or danger for the operator.
When the cause of the emergency has been eliminated, turn the button 45° clockwise to disactivate it.
NOTE: the operator is responsible for keeping the area around the button clear so that it can be
reached as quickly as possible.
• “T” WRENCH HOLDER
The special holder for the “T” wrench (T4), on the front of the machine below keyboard (fig. 10) prevents
damage to the machine caused by inadvertently leaving the wrench on the rotating clamp or the tailstock.
It is therefore essential that the wrench (T4) is placed into its holder after use.
If the wrench (T4) is not in its holder the machine will not begin the cutting cycle and the display will show
the message “T WRENCH INTO HOLDER”.
• Laser warning
Regulations require that warning labels in the language to be used be attached to the laser reader, as shown
in fig. 15, page 14.
• Cutter motor protection
The cutter motor is protected against overheating by a cut-out switch (located inside the motor) that will
automatically stop the motor if it reaches a certain temperature. Should the switch activate:
1) turn the machine off and disconnect the power supply cable.
2) contact Silca’s Technical Assistance Dept.

8 Copyright Silca 2004
IDEA Operating Manual - English
1.3 M AIN WORKING PARTS
Fig. 10
A - Master switch
B - Keyboard
C - Display
D - Connector for revolving clamp
H-Cutter
I - Cutter shield
L - Optical reader
N - Emergency button
O - 3rd axis
P - IN/OUT port
Q - Serial port
R - Y axis connector
S - X axis carriage
S1 - Rotating clamp
T - Y axis carriage
T1 - Rotating clamp locking handle
T2 - Rotating clamp removal screw
T4 - ’T’ wrench
U - Protective shield
U1 - Fixed clamp (clamp A)
U2 - Mobile clamp (clamp B)
V - Metal chippings tray
Fig. 11
H
S1
I
V
T
C
T4
U1
O
Q
D
P
T1
L
U
N
U2
R
B
S
T2
A

Copyright Silca 2004 9
Operating Manual - English IDEA
1.4 T ECHNICAL DATA
Electricity supply:
230V-50Hz
Maximum absorbed power:
230V: 2 Amp. 250 Watt
Cutter motor:
single phase and speed
Cutter:
hard metal carbide Ø 100 mm x 1,25 mm
Tool speed:
50Hz: 1150 rpm (+/- 10%)
Movement:
on 2 axes with ball screws activated by step motors, on rectified roller guides.
Possibility to add a 3rd axis to activate the optional tilting and rotating clamps.
Clamp:
revolving
Runs:
X axis: 37 mm Y axis: 32 mm
Dimensions and types of keys:
The machine is designed for cutting keys with the minimum/maximum dimensions described on page 2,
page 3 and page 4.
Dimensions:
width: 500 mm depth: 500 mm height: 420 mm (with raised shield 650 mm)
Mass:
45 kg
Noise level:
sound pressure Lp(A) = 81,5 dB(A) - steel keys / 75,5 dB(A) - brass keys

10 Copyright Silca 2004
IDEA Operating Manual - English
1.5 A CCESSORIES PROVIDED
IDEA comes with a set of accessories for its operation and maintenance (tools, hex wrenches, fuses)
supplied in a special tool kit comprising:
tool kit 1,5 mm allen key
D302434ZZ
Z13 template
(regulating disk)
D416657BA
Cutter release rod
D400754BA
2 mm allen key
D300221ZZ
Laser reading
template caliper
(Z14)
2 Amp fuse - delayed
D312423ZZ
2,5 mm allen key
D300222ZZ
Z12 template (regulating block)
D426037BA
4 Amp fuse - delayed
D308726ZZ
3 mm allen key
D300223ZZ
Z4 serial test connector
D416661ZZ
6,3 Amp fuse - delayed
D310652ZZ
4 mm allen key
D300224ZZ
Slanted
brush
D306935ZZ
10 Amp fuse - delayed
D316568ZZ
5 mm allen key
D300225ZZ
Belt tension plate
D416552BA
D202443ZZ
4 Amp fuse - rapid
D301185ZZ
6 mm allen key
D300226ZZ
laser
warning
labels
D416816XA
D416817XA
10 mm spanner
D300308ZZ
13 mm spanner
D302788ZZ
adapter E2
(centering pin for
female keys)
centering pin
for female keys:
Ø 4,5 mm Ø 5,5 mm Ø 6,5 mm
for key stem
4mm : 5mm
for key stem
5mm : 6mm
for key stem
6mm : 7mm

Copyright Silca 2004 11
Operating Manual - English IDEA
2 TRANSPORT
ATTENTION: the key-cutting machine is easily transported and is not dangerous to handle. The packed machine
should be carried by at least two people.
2.1 P ACKING
The packing for IDEA is designed to ensure safe transportation and to protect the machine and all its parts.
It comprises a pallet base (b) to which the machine is attached, and a cardboard box as a cover (a).
The machine is fixed to the base of the pallet with screwed down brackets that hold it firm into place. This
prevents the machine and its protective shield from any damage.
The closed packing is held in place by two straps which hold the cardboard box firmly on the pallet.
Symbols are printed on the outside of the cardboard box to give instructions and warnings for transportation.
Fig. 12
To prevent any damage to the machine it is advisable to save and use the brackets provided for future
transportation.
2.2 U NPACKING
To remove the machine from the packing box:
1) cut the straps with scissors and remove
2) raise the top part of the cardboard box
3) loosen the screws, both on the front and back brackets that hold the machine to the pallet.
4) use the special spanner (provided in the tool kit), to loosen the nuts on the machine’s feet.
5) remove the metal brackets and re-tighten the nuts on the feet.
6) check the contents in the box, that should comprise with the following:
- 1IDEA key-cutting machine
- 1set of documents, including: an operating manual, a spare parts list and a guarantee
- 1power supply cable
- 1tool kit
NOTE: we strongly recommend you keep the packing intact for future transportation.
a
b
Keep dry This side up
Handle with care Use no hooks

12 Copyright Silca 2004
IDEA Operating Manual - English
2.3 M ACHINE HANDLING
When the IDEA has been unpacked, place it directly on its workbench; this operation should be carried out
by at least two people.
Take care to lift the machine firmly holding the base, and no other part.
ATTENTION: never lift the machine by holding the keyboard stand (fig. 13).
Fig. 13

Copyright Silca 2004 13
Operating Manual - English IDEA
3 MACHINE INSTALLATION AND PREPARATION
The key-cutting machine can be installed by the purchaser and does not require any special skills.
It is supplied ready for use and does not need any special set up. However, the operator may have to control
a few things before operating the machine.
3.1 C HECKING FOR DAMAGE
IDEA is solid and compact and will not normally damage if transport, unpacking and installation have all been
carried out according to the instructions in this manual. However, it is always advisable to check that the
machine has not suffered any damage.
3.2 E NVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS
To ensure that the best use is made of the key-cutting machine, it is important to place it in a well-aired area
which is not too damp.
The ideal conditions for the machine are:
temperature between 10°C and 40°C; relative humidity: approx. 60%.
3.3 P OSITIONING AND INSTALLATION
1) Place the machine on a horizontal surface, solid enough to support the weight of 40 Kg.
- to work with ease, we suggest that the workbench be approximately the height of the operator’s hip.
- it is important to leave clearance of at least 30 cm behind the machine and on each side to ensure
proper ventilation.
2) Ensure that the machines voltage is the same as that of the mains power supply, which must be properly
earthed and provided with a differential switch.
3) Connect the power supply cable to the power supply socket.
Fig. 14
3.4 D ESCRIPTION OF WORK STATION
The machine needs only one operator, who has the following controls at his/her disposal (fig. 10, page 8):
• master switch placed on the back of the machine
• key-positioning clamp
• keyboard
•display
• emergency button
30 cm
30 cm
30 cm
100 cm

14 Copyright Silca 2004
IDEA Operating Manual - English
3.5 G RAPHICS
• The Plexiglass protective shield carries an adhesive warning label (fig. 15). This label must never be
removed.
• Two laser warning labels must be attached to the optical reader (fig. 15).
Fig. 15
Do not use compressed air
for cleaning Laser warning labels

Copyright Silca 2004 15
Operating Manual - English IDEA
4 “SET UP” AND USE OF THE MACHINE
4.1 K EYBOARD AND FUNCTIONS
The machine’s keyboard has 19 alphanumeric and 6 function keys.
The alphanumeric keys are used for entering the data card number and the cutting data (numbers and/or
letters) according to the code on the card in use.
Each of the 19 alphanumeric keys contains two characters: the main character (white) which is directly
active, and an alternate character (red), which can be activated by simultaneously pressing the SHIFT key.
E.g.: pressed directly produces:
1
Pressed simultaneously produce: H
Fig. 16
F UNCTION KEYS
Stop button, particularly when the machine is in motion.
Stops the function in progress at any time in the operation.
Starts the machines operations (only with the shield in its closed position).
Activation of various functions in the menu.
CLEAR: deletes numerical characters.
Combination of SHIFT & CLEAR/COPY enables you to automatically switch to the (0)
“Copy from original” function from any menu in the Idea internal program.
Pressed in combination with all the keys of the same colour to enter the number or letter available.
REGULATING THE DISPLAY
It is possible to modify the angle of vision on the machine’s display by following the instructions below:
• to incline the angle of the display towards the bottom you must press the key and then press the
key, simultaneously keeping them both pressed up until you reach the desired visualization.
• to incline the visualization of the display towards the top you must press the key and then press the
key, simultaneously keeping them both pressed up until you reach the desired angle.
+
SHIFT
CLEAR
COPY
START
HI JKL
MNOPQ
RSTUV
WX YZ
STOP
ENTER
SHIFT
67890
12345
ABC D
E
F G
?
function keys alphanumeric keys
display
STOP
START
ENTER
CLEAR
COPY
+
SHIFT
CLEAR
COPY
SHIFT

16 Copyright Silca 2004
IDEA Operating Manual - English
4.2 U SE OF THE CLAMP
The rotating clamp (S1) (fig. 17) is the fundamental tool of IDEA. It has various functions and constitutes the
third working axis (rotation) controlled by the machine. The rotating clamp is housed in a mobile support
which runs along the X axis (spaces) and is anchored to the carriage below it by means of a dovetail guide;
this allows the operator to position the clamp at any point along the key stem, ensuring the best grip on the
stem.
L OCKING
The rotating clamp is locked in position by means of the handle (T1) (fig. 17); the position along the X axis
starts from the resting point for the jaws on the tailstock up to a rear mechanical stop which prevents the
mobile support from coming off dovetail support.
R EMOVAL
Turn off the machine and pull out the plug. If it is necessary to remove the rotating clamp from the guide (for
cleaning, etc.) turn the knob (T1) to release the underlying mechanical stop. Loosen the screw (T2) (fig. 10,
page 8) and pull out the rotating clamp.
After replacing the rotating clamp into the guide, turn the knob (T1) to activate the stop. Tighten the screw
(T2). Before removing the clamp, remember to disconnect the coupling for the rotating clamp connector
extension (B1) from the “Y axis carriage”, then to connect it again when the clamp has been replaced.
G RIPPERS
The grippers (G1) are opened and closed by means of the countersunk hexagonal screw (V1), activated by
the “T” wrench (T4) housed on the machine.
The grippers (G1) ensure that the key stem is centred on its axis within the set dimensions (min.3.6 mm,
max.7 mm); the mobile jaws adapt to the diameter of both straight and conical stems. The universal tailstock
support (K1) is designed and set to align the rotating clamp along the axis of the key stem parallel to the
movement of the carriage X (spaces), so that it remains flat under the cutter; this ensures perfect
concentricity between the axis and the key stem with any radial position.
F UNCTIONS
The rotating clamp provides rotation for the keyblank; this serves two main purposes:
1) to provide the cutting radius concentrical to the axis of the key stem during the cutting operation, with a
tolerance of +/- 30°.
2) to turn double bit keys 180°. By means of a PC function, it also provides interpolation of the movements
between the Y axis (depth) and the rotation axis B, enabling “radial cuts with set measurements”.
I NSERTING THE KEY
The rotating clamp makes it possible to insert keys from either the front or the back, according to the length
of the key.
Fig. 17
T1
V1
K1