Vision Engraving & Routing Systems 1212 User manual

Page1
Liability Statement ________________________________________ 2
Safety ____________________________________________________ 3
Chapter 1: Unpacking and Taking Inventory_______________ 5-8
Chapter 2: Table Description ____________________________ 9-14
Chapter 3: Setting Up The Table ___________________________ 15
Chapter 4: Table Adjustments __________________________ 17-20
Chapter 5: Table Maintenance__________________________ 21-24
Chapter 6: Earlier Table Models ________________________ 25-30
Chapter 7: Optional Accessories and Uses ______________ 31-39
Chapter 8: Troubleshooting ____________________________ 41-44
Thismanualis designed toprovideyou with informationaboutyour VisionComputerizedEngraving
andRoutingSystems table, beginningwithunpacking thetableand continuing throughinstallation
andlifetimetable maintenance.Thismanual does not attemptto teach youhowto engrave, howto
useacomputer,orhowtouseyourengravingsoftware.Somepreviousknowledgeofengravingterms
andtheengravingprocessisassumed.Forinformationonyourindividualcomputersystem,seeyour
computer’susermanualorcontactyourcomputerdistributor.Forinformationontheengravingsoftware
youusetodriveyourengravingsystem,seethemanualfortheindividualsoftwarepackagesupplied
bythesoftware developer.
Table of
Contents
Table Of Contents
VISION
ENGRAVING
TABLES
Operating Manual

Page2
Copyright 1998 Vision Computerized Engraving & Routing SystemsCopyright 1998 Vision Computerized Engraving & Routing Systems
Copyright 1998 Vision Computerized Engraving & Routing SystemsCopyright 1998 Vision Computerized Engraving & Routing Systems
Copyright 1998 Vision Computerized Engraving & Routing Systems
(A Division of W(A Division of W
(A Division of W(A Division of W
(A Division of Western Engravers Supplyestern Engravers Supply
estern Engravers Supplyestern Engravers Supply
estern Engravers Supply, Inc.), Inc.)
, Inc.), Inc.)
, Inc.)
All Rights ReservedAll Rights Reserved
All Rights ReservedAll Rights Reserved
All Rights Reserved
This publication is protected by copyright, and all rights are reserved. No part of this manual may be reproduced or
transmitted by any means or in any form, without prior written consent from Vision.
Limits of Liability / Disclaimer of WLimits of Liability / Disclaimer of W
Limits of Liability / Disclaimer of WLimits of Liability / Disclaimer of W
Limits of Liability / Disclaimer of Warar
arar
arranty for this Tranty for this T
ranty for this Tranty for this T
ranty for this Table Manual:able Manual:
able Manual:able Manual:
able Manual:
The information contained within this manual has been carefully checked and is believed to be accurate, however,
Vision makes no representations or warranties for this manual, and assumes no responsibility for inaccuracies, errors,
or omissions that may be contained within this manual. In no event shall Vision be liable for any loss of profit
including (but not limited to) direct, indirect, special, incidental, consequential, or other damages resulting from any
defect or omission in this manual, even if previously advised of the possibility of such damages.
In the interest of continued product development, Vision reserves the right to make improvements to this manual
and the products it describes at any time, without notice or obligation.
Vision Computerized Engraving and Routing Systems WVision Computerized Engraving and Routing Systems W
Vision Computerized Engraving and Routing Systems WVision Computerized Engraving and Routing Systems W
Vision Computerized Engraving and Routing Systems Warar
arar
arranty Franty F
ranty Franty F
ranty For The Vision Tor The Vision T
or The Vision Tor The Vision T
or The Vision Table:able:
able:able:
able:
Vision Computerized Engraving and Routing Systems warrants that for a period of one (1) year from the date of
delivery to the user of the Vision table, that the table will be free from defects in material and workmanship under
normal use and service. It is specifically understood that this warranty covers normal use only and shall be null and
void in the event that the Vision table is altered or modified by the user without authorization, or is subject to abuse,
neglect, or other misuse by the user. The spindle is covered by a ninety-day (90) warranty. Other equipment may
be purchased which is not included in this warranty, and may have a separate manufacturer’s warranty, which
applies. Other items considered “consumable”, are not covered and are excluded from any and all warranties.
Specifically these items include spindle motor brushes, spindle belts, lubricant, and cutters furnished with the table.
In the event a defect is discovered during the warranty period, the user shall contact Vision Computerized Engraving
and Routing Systems for instructions regarding resolution of the problem. Vision Computerized Engraving and
Routing Systems shall at its option, replace the Vision table or correct the defect or problem by repair at Vision’s
manufacturing facility or at one of its authorized field service offices. In the event of either replacement or repair,
Vision Computerized Engraving and Routing Systems shall be liable only for the cost of repairs, including parts and
labor. Any incidental costs, including the cost of shipment from the user’s location to the point of repair, and
subsequent return, shall be at the expense of the user. Vision Computerized Engraving and Routing Systems shall
have no further liability hereunder. Vision Computerized Engraving and Routing Systems shall have no obligation or
liability to repair or replace, during the warranty period, those items that form a part of the Vision table and are
considered expendable by design, including but not limited to, cutters, spindle motor brushes, and spindle belts.
The above and foregoing is the only warranty of any kind, either express or implied, including but not limited to any
warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose, made by Vision Computerized Engraving and
Routing Systems on the Vision table. Any warranties expressed by law are hereby expressly disclaimed. No oral or
written information, advice, or other communications given by Vision Computerized Engraving and Routing Systems,
its dealers, distributors, agents, or employees shall create a warranty or in any way increase the scope of this war-
ranty. Neither Vision Computerized Engraving and Routing Systems nor anyone who has ever been involved in the
creation, production, or delivery of the Vision table shall be liable for any direct, indirect, consequential, or inciden-
tal damages (including but not limited to damages for loss of business profits, business interruption, loss of business
information, and the like) arising out of the use or inability to use this product.
Any software supplied by Vision Computerized Engraving and Routing Systems in conjunction with the purchase of
the Vision Engraving table, for use therewith, shall be governed by its own separate software license and warranty
agreement.

Page3
Safety
Safety PrecautionsSafety Precautions
Safety PrecautionsSafety Precautions
Safety Precautions
ff
ff
for Vision Engraor Vision Engra
or Vision Engraor Vision Engra
or Vision Engraving Tving T
ving Tving T
ving Tablesables
ablesables
ables
!Keep hands clear of the spindle belt during operation.
!Keep hands clear of the bottom of the spindle during operation.
!Always stop the machine before making any adjustments.
!Keep clear of adjustment knobs located on the rear, left and right side of the table.
!Disconnect the table cable and spindle drive cable before servicing.
!Do not operate the system with covers removed.
!Wear safety glasses when cutting any materials that emit chips. Use of the optional vacuum
system will remove most chips
!Use extreme caution when inserting or removing cutters, as cutter surfaces are very sharp.

Page4

Page5
The table or engraving system may be shipped in more than one carton, depending on the
options, software, and accessories purchased. The table itself is contained in a wooden crate
and the controller, if purchased, will be in a foam-pack cardboard container. Examine the condi-
tion of all containers for external damage. In the event of apparent external damage, notify your
carrier upon receipt and call your sales representative or Vision immediately.
Note: The shipping containers are considered reusable and should be stored for use
in the event of service need or upgrade.
Step 1. (Figure 1.1)
Open the wooden shipping crate by removing the Phillips-type screws holding the top lid down.
The following items should be included:
a. The engraving table
b. An accessory kit
c. Optional accessories you may have purchased.
Check all the items in the crate to assure they are of the correct type. Should any of the contents
be missing, damaged, or of the incorrect type, please call your sales representative immediately.
Step 2.
When unpacking the crate, be sure to look for items packed in boxes secured to the inside of the
shipping crate. Remove all of these items before attempting to remove the table. This may
include a table stand if purchased.
Chapter 1
Chapter 1:Chapter 1:
Chapter 1:Chapter 1:
Chapter 1:
UU
UU
Unn
nn
npacking and Tpacking and T
packing and Tpacking and T
packing and Taking Inaking In
aking Inaking In
aking Invv
vv
ventent
entent
entoror
oror
oryy
yy
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Reusable
Container

Page6
Step 3.
Prepare a clean, level surface to put the engraving table on.
Step 4.
Remove the four wing nuts by hand or by using pliers. Using a 7/16" wrench, remove the nuts
and washers securing the table to the floor of the crate. Most tables are secured at four loca-
tions around the base of the table. This prevents the machine from moving around during
shipment and becoming damaged. Plastic tie straps may have been used to secure various
mechanisms on the machine. These do not need to be removed immediately.
After removing the nuts and washers securing the table to the crate, the table can be carefully
removed. It is recommended that two people lift the table out of the crate. Four persons may be
required to remove larger tables from the crate. Do not lift the table by the stepper motors, the
lead screws, or similarly aligned parts. This could damage the bearings, motors, lead screws,
and general alignment of the engraver.
CAUTION: Lift the table by the base plate only!
Step 5.
Remove the plastic tie straps that may have been used to secure the Z-assembly (Spindle
Block). Remove them by cutting through with a sharp knife or scissors. After removing the tie
straps, remove the shipping foam from under the carriage.
Step 6.
After unpacking the table, save the crate and any other boxes as well as the nuts
and washers. They can be reused in the event the table must be transported to
another location or returned for service. Improper packaging for shipment can
damage the table and may void the warranty.
Chapter 1
(Figure 1.2)
Wing Nut
7/16”Nut
Plastic Protector
Washer
Crate Bottom
Engraving Baseplate
Foam Packing

Page7
Assembling the
optional table stand.
Approximate time for
assembly is 10-20
minutes.
Chapter 1
Description 24x24 Qty 24x48 Qty
1. frame 38" w/o holes 4 -
2. frame 62" w/ holes - 2
3. frame 62" w/o holes - 2
4. frame 19.5" w/ holes 2 2
5. frame 19.5" w/o holes 2 3
6. frame 25" w/o holes 4 4
7. locking swivel caster 4 4
8. mounting bracket (optional) --
9. t-handle hex key 1 1
10. socket head cap screw (5/16-18 x 1 1/4”) 16 16!
11. sae (AN 5/16”) flat washer 16 16!
12. socket head cap screw (1/4-20 x 4 1/2”) 4 4 "
13. nylock 4 4 "
14. uss (1/4”) flat washer 8 8 "
15. Instruction Sheet 1 1
!connects frames together "mounts table (not shown) to frame
(one extra for center cross beam)
A. Cross beam is only for the 24” x 48” table stand.
B. Swivel casters are inserted up into the frame, in the positions indicated.
The ring at the neck of the caster can be turned to tighten the caster in place, once inserted.
C. Four 4¼” bolts are used to connect the table to the roll-around frame.
Note: All connections are made with a socket hex screw and washer (supplied).
Do not fully tighten all screws until the engraving table is bolted to the cross members (#4’s);
then align the legs (#6’s) to corners of the engraving table. This helps the overall alignment.
(used to bolt center cross beam)
7.
1.or2.
1.or2.
1.or3.
1.or3.
6.
6.
5.
5.
4.
4.
5.
6.
6.
8.
(Figure 1.3)
Table stand for Vision 2424 and 2448 models
Step 7.

Page8
Description 16x24 Qty
1. frame 29” w/ holes 1
2. frame 29” w/ holes (different spacing) 1
3. frame 29” w/o holes 2
4. frame 26” w/o holes 4
5. frame 26” w/ holes 4
6. locking swivel caster 4
7. t-handle hex key 1
8. socket head cap screw (5/16-18 x 1 1/4”) 16 !
9. sae flat washer (AN 5/16”) 16 !
10. socket head cap screw (1/4-20 x 4 1/2”) 4 "
11. nylock 4 "
12. uss (1/4”) lat washer 8 "
13. Instruction Sheet 1
!connects frames together "mounts table (not shown) to frame
A. Swivel casters are inserted up into the frame, in the positions indicated. The ring
at the neck of the caster can be turned to tighten the caster in place, once inserted.
B. Four 4¼” bolts are used to connect the table to the roll-around frame.
Note: All connections are made with a socket hex screw and washer (supplied).
Do not fully tighten all screws until frame is assembled; this helps keep alignment.
(Figure 1.4)
Table stand for Vision1624
Chapter 1
4.
4.
4.
4.
5. 5.
5.
5.
3.
2.
1.
3.
A.

Page9
Chapter 2:Chapter 2:
Chapter 2:Chapter 2:
Chapter 2:
TT
TT
Table Descriptionable Description
able Descriptionable Description
able Description
This chapter briefly describes the major components of the Vision table. Figure 2.1 and Figure
2.3 show pictures of two typical engraving tables. This chapter will help you identify the parts of
your Vision table discussed elsewhere in the manual.* Find the model number as referenced in
the description for each type of table design.
*Optional equipment such as accessory vises, clamps, fixtures or vacuum systems may have
been included with your system. For information regarding this equipment, see the individual
instructions for these options. For descriptions of controllers, computers, and software used in
your system, see the manuals from the manufacturers of these units.
TABLE SPECIFICATIONS:
Z-Axis Clearance
(definition: the distance between the bottom of the spindle and the work surface)
Vision Tables: Adjustable Clearance
Z-Axis Stroke
(definition: the travel distance of the Z-axis mechanism or spindle)
Vision Tables: 1 7/8 Inches (31.75 mm)
Table Resolution
(definition: the smallest controlled motion the table is capable of)
.0005 inch on all tables (when connected to a Vision Controller)
Engraving Engraving Overall Table Shipping
Table Area Dimensions Type Weight
VISION 1212 12”x12” 28”x33”x16” T-Slot 202lbs.
VISION 1224 12”x24” 40”x33”x16” T-Slot 269lbs.
VISION 1624 16”x24” 40”x33”x16” T-Slot 269lbs.
VISION 2424 24”x24” 42”x33”x16” Flatbed 371lbs.
VISION 2448 24”x48” 66”x33”x16” Flatbed 520lbs.
DEFINITION OF TERMS
A. Tables With Moveable T-Slot Engraving Beds (VISION 12x12, 12x24, and 16x24)
In this design, the T-slot table moves in the Y-axis direction while the gantry remains fixed. The
carriage moves from left to right in the X-axis. There are no particular design advantages or
disadvantages to this style of table. The main engineering criteria in the development of this
design was the need to minimize the overall table footprint while providing the maximum
engraving area.
Chapter 2
approx. packaged
L x W x H

Page10
Chapter 2
(Figure 2.1) Series 3 full linear T-slot table format. Shown here is the top view of
the Series 3 Vision 1624. The Vision 1212 and the Vision 1224 have a similar design.
1. Table Base Plate
2. Y-Axis Linear Rails
5. Gantry Assembly
6. Carriage Assembly
7. Breakout Box
8. Y-Axis Stepper Motor (underneath)
4. Y-Axis Lead Screw
(under metal cover)
10. Material Guides
11. Engraving Motor
3. T-Slot Table
7. Breakout Box
1. Table Base Plate
2. Y-Axis Linear Rails
10. Material Guides
6. Carriage Assembly 5. Gantry Assembly
4. Y-Axis Lead Screw
(under metal cover)
11. Engraving Motor
9. X-Axis Stepper
Motor
9. X-Axis Stepper
Motor
3. T-Slot Table
8. Y-Axis Stepper Motor
12. Quick-Lock Vise
1. Table Base Plate. This is the large flat plate upon which everything else is mounted. All
mechanical alignments are referenced to this plate, so the space upon which you place the
engraving table must be a reasonably level surface.
2. Y-Axis Linear Rails. Mounted on the table base plate are steel rails with sealed
bearings, which allow the motion of the T-slot table in the Y-axis direction.
(Figure 2.1a) Series 3 T-slot table format. Shown here is front angled view of the
Series 3 Vision 1624.

Page11
Chapter 2
3. T-Slot Table. Also referred to as the work surface, this aluminum bed supported by the
linear rails allows placement of the engraving material or special clamps and fixtures. The
slots in this table are shaped with an upside-down T, with the bottom of the T being a
single-line slot across the top of the table (see fig 2.1b). The slots are used to hold various
accessory holders, clamps, and jigs. (A selection of various T-slot accessories used with the
T-slot table appears in chapter 7.)
4. Y-Axis Lead Screw. This is a threaded rod located underneath the T-slot table.
Combined with the stepper motor, the lead screw is rotated and causes the T-slot table to
move along the rails in the Y-axis direction (as seen in figure 2.1c). There is also a second
lead screw called the X-axis lead screw. The X-axis lead screw is contained within the gantry,
and can be accessed by removing the black sheet metal gantry cover. The X-axis lead screw
is responsible for X-axis motion of the carriage assembly, moving it left and right across the
gantry.
5. Gantry Assembly. The gantry or “bridge” is a large, rectangular bar suspended across
the width of the table in the X-axis. The carriage assembly is supported and rides on the
gantry in the X-axis.
6. Carriage Assembly. The carriage assembly houses the engraving spindle, Z-Axis
mechanism and engraving motor. The carriage moves along the gantry assembly on a set of
sealed bearing. The carriage assembly holds the engraving spindle; it raises and lowers the
spindle during the engraving process using a lead screw and stepper motor.
7. Breakout Box. This electrical access is used to connect the table to the system
controller. The breakout box and connector may be located in different locations near the
rear of the table and is usually protected by a sheet metal cover (see fig 3.1).
8. Y-Axis Stepper Motor. Drives the T-Slot table in the Y-Axis.
9. X-Axis Stepper Motor. Drives the carriage in the X-Axis. Located under the protective
sheet metal cover.
10. Material Guides. Used as a back and side stop for accurately locating material and
clamps during set-up.
11. Engraving Motor. Drives the spindle for rotary engraving.
12. Quick-Lock Vise. A “cam” type locking device that allows quick change of parts for
engraving.
(Figure 2.1c) T-slot table motion
(Figure 2.1b) T-slot close up

Page12
1. Engraving Motor. The engraving motor or “spindle motor”, is the large black motor on
the top of the carriage assembly. The engraving motor drives a belt and pulley system,
which turns the engraving cutter during the engraving process.
2. Z-Axis Stepper Motor. The small motor under the carriage cover that provides the up
and down motion of the spindle during the engraving process.
3. Spindle Assembly. The spindle mounted in its block; includes a pulley, housing,
micrometer, retainer ring, nose cone and associated hardware. The spindle assembly moves
up and down along a linear bearing, which attaches to the face of the carriage assembly.
4. Spindle Block. Houses the spindle assembly. See Chapter 4 for information on how to
remove the spindle assembly from the spindle block.
5. Z-Leadscrew. Connects the Z-axis stepper motor with the Z-axis linear rails to raise and
lower the spindle during the engraving process.
6. Engraving Motor Belt. Drive belt connecting the engraving motor to the spindle pulley.
B. Tables With Moveable Gantrys (“Flatbeds”-Vision 24x24, 24x48)
The difference in design of the flatbed table versus the moving T-slot type is that the flatbed work
area does not move. In this design, the entire gantry travels the length of the X-axis and the
carriage moves in the Y-axis.
Chapter 2
(Figure 2.2) Close up of the
Series 3 Vision table carriage
Shown is 3/4 view, without
sheetmetal top cover 1. Engraving Motor
2. Z-Axis Stepper Motor
6. Engraving
Motor Belt
5. Z Lead Screw
3. Spindle Assembly
4. Spindle Block

Page13
Chapter 2
(Figure 2.3) Series 3 flatbed (moveable gantry) table format. Shown here is a top
view of the Series 3 Vision 2424.
1. Table Base Plate
2. X-Axis
Linear Rails
4. Gantry Assembly
5. Carriage Assembly
6. Breakout Box
7. Y-Axis
Stepper Motor
8. X-Axis
Stepper Motor
9. Material Guides
10. Engraving Motor
3. X-Axis
Lead Screw
6. Breakout Box
1. Table Base Plate
2. X-Axis Linear Rails
9. Material Guides
5. Carriage Assembly
4. Gantry Assembly
7. Y-Axis Stepper
Motor Knob
1. Table Base Plate. This is the large flat plate upon which everything else is mounted. All
mechanical alignments are referenced to this plate, so the space upon which you place the
engraving table must be a reasonably level surface. (Always carry the table by the base plate
only.)
2. X-Axis Linear Rails. Mounted under the table base plate are steel rails with sealed
bearings, which allow the motion of the gantry in the X-axis direction.
(Figure 2.3a) Front angled view of the Series 3 Vision 2448

Page14
Chapter 2
3. X-Axis Lead Screw. This is a threaded rod located underneath the table base.
Combined with the stepper motor, the lead screw is rotated and causes the gantry to move
along the rails in the X-axis direction (see fig 2.3b). There is also a second lead screw called
in the X-axis lead screw. The Y-axis lead screw is contained within the gantry, and can be
accessed by removing the black sheet metal gantry cover. The Y-axis lead screw is
responsible for motion of the carriage assembly, moving it left and right across the gantry.
4. Gantry Assembly. The gantry or “bridge” is a large, rectangular bar suspended across
the width of the table. It travels down the table along the X-axis (see fig 2.3b).
5. Carriage Assembly. The carriage
assemblyhouses theengraving
spindle, the Z-axis mechanism and the
engravingmotor. The carriage moves
along the gantry assembly on a set of
sealed bearings in the Y-axis (see fig
2.3b). The carriage assembly raises
and lowers the engraving spindle
duringthe engraving processusinga
lead screw and stepper motor.
6. Breakout Box. This electrical
access is used to connect the table to
the system controller. The breakout
box and connector may be located in
different locations near the rear of the
table and is usually protected by a
sheet metal cover.
7. Y-Axis Stepper Motor. Drives the
carriage in the Y-Axis.
8. X-Axis Stepper Motor. Drives the
gantry in the X-Axis.
9. Material Guides. Used as a back
and side stop for accurately locating
material and clamps during set-up.
10. Engraving Motor. Drives the
spindlefor rotaryengraving.
(Figure 2.3b) Gantry movement along the X-axis
Y-Axis
X-Axis

Page15
Connection of Power, Cables, and Controllers
Additional boxes may have been shipped along with your table, depending on the system
ordered. These will typically include a control unit and associated cables. The proper connection
of these cables is essential. Check the appropriate user’s manuals for your controller before
attempting to connect them it to the table. After connection of the cables as directed by your
controller manual, power can be connected to the system. It is suggested that a surge protector
be used. (A surge protector--often called “power strip”--is included with the newest Vision Serial
Controllers; otherwise, one may be purchased inexpensively at any hardware store.) If your
system was purchased with a Vision Serial Controller, a surge protector may have been included.
This will allow powering all of the elements of the system at once.
Some models may have included a separate spindle motor speed controller. This unit is powered
separately in some configurations. See the next section for information on installing this unit.
Chapter 3
Chapter 3:Chapter 3:
Chapter 3:Chapter 3:
Chapter 3:
SeSe
SeSe
Setting Utting U
tting Utting U
tting Up The Tp The T
p The Tp The T
p The Tableable
ableable
able
(Figure 3.1) Breakout box with 25-pin connection to the Vision Serial Controller
Back view of the
Vision Serial Controller

Page16
Chapter 3

Page17
Spindle Assembly Description
Our most recent tables (the “Series 3’s”) include our newest spindle design, which now
incorporatestension springadjustment.
Chapter 4
Chapter 4:Chapter 4:
Chapter 4:Chapter 4:
Chapter 4:
TT
TT
Table Aable A
able Aable A
able Adjustmentsdjustments
djustmentsdjustments
djustments
(Figure 4.1) The Series 3 Top-
Loading Spindle Assembly
1. Pulley
2. Inner Spindle Housing (under sleeve)
3. Outer Spindle Sleeve
4. Pressure Spring Adjuster
5. Pressure Spring
6. Micrometer
7. Retainer Ring
8. Nose cone
(Figure 4.2) The Series 3 Top and
Bottom-Loading Collet Spindle
Assembly
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
13.
6.
7.
10. 8.
9.
12.
11.
9. DrawBar
10. Cutter
11. Solid Collet (Optional)
12. Split Collet
13. Pointer
14. Cutter Knob
15. Cutter Knob Setscrew
14.
15.

Page18
Chapter 4
Zeroing Cutters for Top-Loaded Spindles (see figure 4.1)
1. Turn the micrometer to zero. This provides a starting point and reference for setting the
depth accurately. It’s important to note that the micrometer should be threaded onto the
spindle housing sufficiently to prevent excessive play in the micrometer and nosecone. If
there are too few threads holding the micrometer in place it will move during the engraving
process. The best starting position is 3 or 4 complete revolutions from the top.
CAUTION: When you loosen the setscrew in this step, the cutter may easily fall out
of the spindle and can cause cutter tip damage. Use one hand to hold the cutter
before loosening.
2. With the appropriate cutter installed in the spindle, loosen the setscrew in the brass
cutter knob with a spline wrench (commonly referred to as the cutter wrench).
3. Gently place a piece of metal (brass preferred) against the nosecone so as to push the
cutter even with the bottom of the nosecone. Now the cutter should be flush with the
nosecone. Retighten the cutter knob setscrew. Your cutter is now zeroed. Rotating the
micrometer clockwise will adjust the depth of the cut. Each click of the micrometer =
.001”. A full revolution is .025”.
Zeroing Cutters for Top-and-Bottom-Loaded Collet Spindles (see figure 4.2)
The collet spindle can be used for either top loaded or bottom loaded cutters. To install a top
loaded cutter in the collet spindle, first set the micrometer to zero. Loosen the knurled draw bar
on the very top of the spindle slightly. Remove the cutter knob from the cutter, and slide the
cutter into the spindle. Place a piece of flat material against the bottom of the nosecone and
lower the cutter until it rests against the material. Tighten the draw
bar around the cutter, make sure it is tight. Then reattach the cutter
knob to the top of the cutter and screw it in counterclockwise until
secure. Be careful screwing the cutter knob in, as counterclockwise is
the direction to unscrew the draw bar (see fig 4.3). Never use pliers!
The cutter depth can be adjusted by turning the micrometer counter
clockwise. Note: If using 2" short cutters, install them from the
bottom. Use the draw bar on the very top of the spindle to tightly
secure the cutter.
A solid collet, if purchased, can be installed in place of the split collet
for burnishing. Install the collet in the bottom of the spindle and
tighten the draw bar firmly. The spindle now acts as a normal top
loaded spindle for ease of operation. The split collet can be
reinstalled when required.
(Figure 4.3) Tightening the cutter
knob in the draw bar.

Page19
Chapter 4
Diamond Engraving
To install a diamond drag adapter, remove the retainer ring and nose cone from the bottom of
the spindle and replace with the diamond drag adapter. (See fig.4.4 on the next page) For
diamond drag cutting, the engraving motor is turned off and the cutter “drags” across the
material. This is accomplished with the motor on/off switch in the “off” position. Down pressure
against the material can be reduced or increased as necessary by adjusting the spring pressure
adjuster as described in the next section.
Proximity Sensing Device
All Series 3 Vision Table Models come standard with a proximity-sensing device.
Explanation and procedure for operating a Vision engraving machine equipped with a proximity-
sensingdevice.
Advantage of this feature
The advantage of this device is that it eliminates the need to perform a surface setting before
zeroing the cutter.
Procedure
1. Make sure that the proximity switch is in the “On” position on the controller front panel.
Ensure that some travel is allowed to “float” the spindle on the pressure spring.
2. Zero the cutter in the spindle and dial in the desired depth on the nose cone micrometer.
3. Send the job down to the controller via the computer.
4. Press the “Start” button on the controller front panel to begin engraving.
IMPORTANT NOTES:
“Nose-riding” - WITH proximity sensor
Engraving with the proximity sensor can only be performed with a nose cone
attached.
“Non-nose-riding” - WITHOUT proximity sensor
When setting a depth in the computer engraving program, the proximity switch
should be in the “Off” position on the controller front panel. Also, make sure that
there is no “float” on the spindle by locking the pressure spring adjuster all the way
down. Locking is especially important when engraving into hard surfacesor
materials like brass and stainless steel.

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Chapter 4
(Figure 4.4) Series 3 Spindle
Shown With Diamond Drag
Adapter
Pulley
Spindle Housing
Micrometer
Diamond Drag
Adapter
Pressure Spring
Adjuster