2014 OPERATING MANUAL - · 2019-06-10 · 2014 OPERATING MANUAL for the Quest Engraver 1824 & 2448 Quality One Engravers, INC 9749 Crescent Center Dr., Unit 202 Rancho Cucamonga,

2014 OPERATING MANUAL for the Quest Engraver 1824 & 2448

Quality One Engravers, INC

9749 Crescent Center Dr., Unit 202 Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730

Phone: (909) 989-3898 • Fax: (909) 989-8617 www . Q1engravers . com

Operation Manual Q3D Engraver Section I Revised 12/20/13 Page 1 of 6

Table of Contents Table of Contents ................................................................................................... Section I

Unpacking and Taking Inventory ..................................................................................... 2

Specifications ..................................................................................................................... 3 Quest Engraving Table .............................................................................................................. 3 TABLE CHARACTERISTICS ................................................................................................ 3 Q3D CONTROLLER ................................................................................................................ 3 Q3D LCD PENDANT ................................................................................................................ 4

Brief Descriptions: ............................................................................................................. 5

WARNINGS ....................................................................................................................... 6

Setup ..................................................................................................................... Section II Hardware .................................................................................................................................... 1 Software ...................................................................................................................................... 2 Drivers ........................................................................................................................................ 3 Serial Port / Ethernet Port ....................................................................................................... 4

Table Adjustments .............................................................................................................. 5 Scale Adjustment / Table Limit Switches ............................................................................. 4/5

Pendant and Controller ..................................................................................... Section III Configuration Mode .................................................................................................................. 1 Table Parameters - Initial Factory Settings .......................................................................... 2 “Z” Set Mode – Manual / Auto / Auto Run ........................................................................... 8 Special Mode ............................................................................................................................ 11 Test Mode ................................................................................................................................. 14 LED Readouts .......................................................................................................................... 15 Pendant Controls: .................................................................................................................... 16 Toggle_Menus & Toggle_Hotkeys ......................................................................................... 18 Metric Micrometer Legend ..................................................................................................... 25

Maintenance ........................................................................................................ Section IV Maintenance .............................................................................................................................. 1 Troubleshooting ......................................................................................................................... 2 Warranty .................................................................................................................................... 3

Addendum...................................................................................................... Section V - 1 Serial Settings for Engravelab .................................................................................................. 1 Ethernet Settings for Network / Q3D Controller ................................................................... 3 Ethernet Settings for Engravelab ............................................................................................. 6 Q3D Firmware Upgrade ........................................................................................................... 9 Serial / Ethernet Settings for GravoStyle 98 ......................................................................... 10 GravoStyle PostPro Driver setup ........................................................................................... 14 Quest Axis Steps / Inch Calculations ...................................................................................... 15 Q3D Controller Input .............................................................................................................. 15


Unpacking and Taking Inventory

1) Quest Engraving Table (1824, 2448) 2) Q3D Controller Box 3) Q1E LCD Pendant 4) Spindle Motor Controller & cable 5) 24 Pin Interconnect Cable (Table to Controller) 6) AC Power Cord (Standard 3 prong) not pictured 7) Serial & Ethernet Cables 8) Software, Manual & Font Book 9) Quest Engraver Operating Manual 10) Additional equipment purchased

Possible Additional Equipment: Chip Removal System Computer Tooling Cadlink Software Scanvec-Amiable Software Conversion Software Cutters Clamps Table Mats

ME3-PC Software, Manual & Font Book

Quest 1824 or 2448 Engraver

24 Pin HRS Interconnect Cable 24 Pin Amp Interconnect Cable

Q3D Controller Shown w/ Function -

Speed Front Panel

Pendant

Serial Cable DB9 pin M/F Ethernet (Straight &

Crossover)

Spindle Motor Controller


Specifications - Quest Engraving Table Quest 1824 Engraving Area: 18" x 24" Table Size (w x l): 26.5" x 25.75" Overall Physical Dimensions: 34" x 31" x 19" Shipping Weight (in crate with controller): 230 lbs. Shipping Dimensions (in crate): 36" x 32" x 25" Quest 2448 Engraving Area: 48” x 24” Table Size (w x l): 26.5" x 55.75" Overall Physical Dimensions: 34" x 61” x 19" Shipping Weight (in crate with controller): 450 lbs. Shipping Dimensions (in crate): 36" x 63" x 25" Common specifications: Table Type: T-Slot, Stationary Clearance: Vertical – 2.2" under spindle, 26.75" width at Gantry Limit Switches: X,Y & Z Home, X & Y Max Limit X, Y & Z-Axis: Dual Linear Slides Spindle Motor 90 watt; Speed: 10,000 - 16,000 RPM Spindle: Heavy Duty, 30mm Quill, 1/4”x 6-1/2" Top Loading (11/64" optional) “Z” Float built into Z axis Assembly 16mm Precision Ground Ball Screw X & Y Axis Stepper Motors – Nema23 Hybrid High-Torque Belt and Pulley Power Transmission (X, Y, & Z) “Z” Axis Material Sensor

TABLE CHARACTERISTICS Stationary 1" Thick Cast Anodized Aluminum Plate 1/4" Wide T-slots w/ four T-clamp assemblies & T wrench Table Edges Radiused and Chamfered X & Y Table Scales ELECTRICAL 110 VAC 15 amps - Dedicated service recommended

Q3D CONTROLLER Size: 12" x 12" x 4" Weight: 16 lbs. TCP/IP & Serial Input Two Switched AC Outlets (Chip & Spindle) Heavy Duty Interconnect Cable to Table Pendant 9 pin Serial Cable Hook Up 3 Home Limits, 2 Max Table Limits and Z Material Sense Inputs Solid State Micro Stepping High performance Drivers X/Y/Z 20 LED Situation Indicators (10 Red & 10 Green) Mechanically Switched Auxiliary AC Power Outlet (Chip) Power On/Off Switch w/ Indicator Light Function - Speed Control Front Panel (Optional) Computer requirements to run the Quality Program: 486DX, 16 MB RAM, 200 MB HD. Recommended for use with CadLink™, CorelDraw™, CASMate™ XP or Win7.


Q1E LCD PENDANT (2014) Size: 4.5" x 8.5" x 3" Weight: 1 lbs LCD display (4 x 20 characters) Rugged ABS Plastic Housing Spindle Up / Auto Switch Chip Removal Off / Auto Switch Spindle Rotation Off / Auto Switch Output 4 Lube Pump (optional) Re-Initialize button to stop all engraver function Reset to Home with the touch of a button Slew head in all 4 directions & all 4 diagonals Move cutter head in 4 directions during Z axis Cutter Set Displays cutter set distance in steps Displays data in amount in bytes Stop, slew to view engraving, resume at original location Two internal simple jobs built in for testing and easy setup Programmable table slew speeds in real units (in./sec) Programmable table return to Home speeds X/Y/Z (in./sec) Programmable offsets from limit switches X/Y/Z (inches) Programmable fast & slow Z axis cutter set speeds (in./sec.) Programmable engraving default start delay time (seconds) Programmable table leadscrew steps per inch settings X/Y/Z Programmable Z axis clearance default setting (inches) Programmable Alternate Home position Programmable Preset Home Programmable Travel Speed (in/sec) Programmable Tick movement for X & Y (inches) Programmable 3 engraving parameter sets Start engraver at any position on table Jobs under 2 MB will repeat with a push of the Start button Selectable serial baud rate from 9600 to 115200 Selectable Ethernet IP address and Mask “Z” Axis Sensor capabilities and menus Ability to operate as a 2 axis engraver for diamond drag or bead insertion Z Head Reference Adjusting Position Displays switch positions, baudrate, type software input, touch sensor available, Auto Run, Braille mode, New Home, in 4th axis mode and limit sensed. Position monitoring mode for X & Y Axis Input and add to or subtract from cutter set values Function Buttons F1 – F2 – F3 to allow user assigned features


Brief Descriptions: Mission From the beginning it has been our quest to build the very best engraving machine we possibly could. An engraver, we would use in our own shop and one we would be proud to put the Quality One name on. We firmly believe that “good enough” is rarely really good enough. Our engraver with controller and pendant has raised the competitive bar to a whole new level. Components and features are two years ahead of the competition, and we intend to keep it that way. We will continuously improve the quality of our products and our processes in an effort to maintain our technological dominance, but to further strengthen our leadership role.

Quest Engraving Table The Quest line of engravers have been designed and built from all the best quality components available. There has been nothing done to scrimp on quality or workmanship. Most components are admittedly beyond what is required. But we wanted our engraver to be the very best engraver on the market. We truly expect this engraver to last for generations. The spindle is often considered the heart of an engraver and we have expanded the envelope with a spindle 25 to 100 times stronger than the competitions best.

Q3D Controller The Quest line of engravers comes with a state-of-the-art controller and pendant. Inside the Controller Box is a very simple array of components. All are easily accessible and replaceable. The major components are the Engraver Control Board, 3 axis driver board, transformer, Power Distribution Board, switches and hardware. Inside the top cover is a schematic of controller and component locations. 20 LED readout (10 green & 10 red) to identify system occurrences and modes. The firmware is constantly being updated and we are always looking for more features to pack in wherever possible. We will often have 2-3 firmware upgrades per month. These will keep your system up to date in an ever-changing industry requirement.

Q3D LCD Pendant An LCD pendant attaches to the front or rear of the controller to be the eyes and input station for the user. The keypad overlay is switches and nomenclature to control the input to the Engraver Control Board (ECBoard). The layout of the keypad and screen have seen hours upon hours of movement to make the input and recognition of parameters as easy as possible. It is not a 23” monitor nor a full size 101 key keyboard, so short cuts had to be taken. Suggestions are always welcome. Once you have made a few adjustments you will get very familiar with the layout and controls. If you happen to open up the bottom cover of the pendant you will see how simple the interior design actually is. Hopefully, that will never be necessary.


WARNINGS ♦ This product is a computer operated rotary engraver and is not intended

for any other purpose.

♦ Personnel operating the equipment must be physically capable of operating the machinery and recognizing abnormal noises or operations.

♦ Personnel operating the equipment must be capable of reading and understanding this manual.

♦ Personnel operating the equipment must know the components and their function. Especially how to stop the activity.

♦ This is a piece of moving equipment, as such, the danger exists that moving parts will come close to each other or touch under high force.

♦ At no time is there a need to touch the table during operation or while the motors are engaged/operating. Stop or reset the table prior to making adjustments to the table or material.

♦ This table and accompanying controller and pendant are electrical components. Do not open controller when AC power exists. Repairs should only be made by qualified electrical technicians.

♦ Always use protective eyewear.

♦ Keep long hair and loose clothing away from all moving parts.

♦ Should you have any questions or concerns regarding the safe operation of this equipment, contact the manufacturer 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Monday through Friday (Pacific Time) at (909) 989-3898. You can also e-mail to fred @ q1engravers.com

Q3D Quest Engraver Operation Manual Section II Revised 12/20/13 Page 1 of 5

Setup Hardware This product is a computer operated rotary engraver. The instructions below assume the presence of a suitable computer, support table and power source. 1) Remove all containers and internal boxes from the crate, leaving only the engraver.

Inventory and set all components aside. 2) Carefully remove the Engraving Table from the crate and place it on a level surface

strong enough to support approximately four times its weight. Two or more strong adults are required. Use four people or more for the Quest 2448 Engraver. Each person should lift from the left and right side. Front or rear has a bit less finger grip area. Pick up with fingers under table, not on the rails. Rails will often have some lubrication.

Caution: For Quest Engravers the Front and Rear Vertical Table Plates must be supported. 3) Unpack the Q3D Engraver Controller Box (ECB) and place it close to the engraving

table. Connect to the table using the 24 Pin Interconnect Cable provided. This cable end connector is the same on both ends so cannot be attached incorrectly. It will screw in (Amp Circular) or snap-in (HRS) securely at both table and Q3D engraver controller box rear. Initially, have this box very near the engraver but after setup it can be placed under or at convenient location away from engraver to avoid engraving chips and lubricant contact. It requires a ventilated area. Do not hide under layers of debris. Please note we are phasing out the HRS Hirose rectangular connector due to no longer made by manufacturer. Fortunately it is a well-made connector and will last many-many years. The replacement is an Amp series 23 circular connector. This is more standard and much higher rated. Both will be referred to in the manual. WARNING – Always connect or dis-connect with power OFF.

4) Unpack the Q1e Pendant and place it next to the Q3D Controller Box and near the front of the engraver. Plug the cable from the pendant into the 9 pin connector usually at the front of the Controller. An alternate location can be the rear. The cable is extra-long inside the controller to accommodate this alternate location.

5) With the rear power switch off (0), connect the AC Power Cord provided to the Controller and plug into a standard 120VAC receptacle. It is recommended to be an isolated (dedicated) power source. Use a UPS (Un-interruptible Power Supply) or at least a good power strip to avoid power related problems.

Support Required

Quest 2014 Engraver Instruction Manual Section II Revised 12/20/13 Page 2 of 5

If any problem occurs, like head goes up and will not stop or hits an extreme and continues grinding away, press the Red Re-Initialize Button. 6) Clear off any components on the engraving table. Switch On the Q3D Controller

Box. A slight thunk may be heard as the stepper motors receive holding current. You should see 2 green light indicating power on and no button being pressed on pendant keypad. If red lights are seen. X, Y or Z Home/Max Limits should be able to be corrected with simple slewing away from applicable limit. If any other red light is lit, its condition must be corrected, look now at Pendant and Controller Configuration or Trouble Shooting. Calling the factory may be necessary.

7) Confirm the engraver head will slew by pressing the slew buttons on the pendant. All directions should match arrows. If they do not, it can be corrected in the Controller and Pendant Configuration / Axis Swap entries. Reverse applicable axis’.

8) Press the “Z” Set buttons (0 and Confirm) on the Pendant. The Pendant will display the mode instructions. Press the “Z” Dn Fast (9) button momentarily. The spindle head should go down as button pressed. If the direction is wrong, it can be corrected. Look at the Pendant and Controller Configuration / axis swap section of manual. Go down about 1” and press the C/S (Cutter Set) Achieve (5). The head should move up to the Z limit and offset slightly.

9) If all directions now seem correct, press the Reset Button. The engraver head again should move up to the limit and now the head will diagonally go towards Home (Upper Left) and backoff from all 3 limits.

NOTE: If help is required – call factory immediately. 909-989-3898 or email us. 10) Connect the supplied 9 Pin Serial Cable to the back of the Q3D Engraver Control

Box. Then connect the other end to the serial port in the back of your computer. Make note which port you are using. Com Port 1 is the preferred choice. Setup of the communications is covered in the ME3-PC Manual or Addendum of this manual.

11) Connect the Ethernet straight (we provide a yellow cable) or cross-over (orange). Note: We recommend the Ethernet data transmission and the serial as a backup if your network is not working.

Software The Q3D Serial/Ethernet Controller is currently able to accept input from Cadlink’s EngraveLab, PlotAll, Accurate Engraving’s DatPlot, Scanvec’s CASmate, New Hermes / Gravograph GravoStyle98, FlexiEngrave, EnRoute and Q1E’s ME3-PC software. Follow the installation procedures outlined in the manual provided by the particular software manufacturer. Cadlink’s EngraveLab v7-9 – Requires special Q3 drivers on the manufacturer CD supplied with software. Files required are QVX-STD.ini, QVZ-BR.ini, QVZ-MTL.ini, Q1dat.ini and q3xvz.dll. See addendum for serial and Ethernet setup for Cadlink. All engraving values are sent from software except Cut Depth (CD) unless a value is applied within job. Default CD (Cut Depth) engraving parameters in P1 – P3, PD. EngraveLab version 5 & 6 (not totally supported) is usable but requires files and use of AddADriver.exe program. Version 4.95 and older not supported. Q1E’s ME3-PC software v4.0 – All required drivers are within the program’s software. See software manual for serial setup. All engraving parameters are sent from the software. Runs at serial speeds up to 115,200. We recommend 57,600 baudrate.


Scanvec Amiable’s Flexi-Engrave – Drivers exist within software. Scanvec’s CASmate – Requires Q1E2000 (_.eng & _.cfg) and/or Concept2 drivers, usually on CD supplied with Scanvec software or from Q1E. The controller values (P1-P3) are used for actual engraving parameters (CD cut depth, CL clearance, DW dwell, SD XY feedrate speed and TV Travel Speed). Runs at serial speeds up to 19,200 baudrate. The 19,200 baudrate is somewhat slow and often the engraver will be faster than the data received. The Concept2 driver is used to create a DAT output. DatPlot will run effectively with this format and it is used to make logos for the Quality software. NOTE: The CASmate data input requires the controller being set to CASmate input mode. Toggle Hot Key available, see write up end of section III. GravoStyle98 – Drivers are NOT within the New Hermes program’s software. Driver must be supplied by Q1E. See software manual for Windows Print Driver setup. All engraving parameters are sent from the software. Runs via Windows Print Driver utilizing Ethernet or serial speeds up to 115,200. This software did not write a driver for us, therefore code had to manipulated to allow usage. Driver name Q1E_Auto.mac. The GravoStyle data input requires the controller being set to GravoStyle input mode. Toggle Hot Key available, see write up end of section III. Type3 – Drivers are NOT within the program’s software. Driver must be supplied by Q1E. See software manual for serial setup. All engraving parameters are sent from the software. Driver name Quest-engraver2007.mac. PlotAll – Requires PlotAll software and Q1E 2.5D driver setup. The engraving parameters (CD cut depth, CL clearance, VZ velocity of Z, SD XY feedrate speed and TV Travel Speed) are available from the software output settings. Runs via Windows Print Driver set to Ethernet port or serial port. Note: this ties up the serial port, so running from other software will be inhibited unless you alter parameters of port to file. Overall support is through software manufacturer.

Drivers Because of the Q3D Controller’s open architecture, it can be controlled using several different engraving programs. The current list will be expanded as more users force software manufacturers to write applicable drivers. All that can be done by the factory is being done to make the controller the most powerful available. Updates to the firmware is a monthly occurrence. A list of updates and problems can be emailed to you to allow you to decide if update is necessary. Also check our website for the latest info www.q1engravers.com. Please note the Q3X Controller has been discontinued and superseded by the Q3D Controller. This was a necessary step when serial ports started disappearing from computers. The last revision upgrade for the Q3X controller is 5-17-08. In many cases the Q3D controller board will fit right into an existing Q3X box. Call to get upgrade information.


Serial Port Basics The serial port is a very reliable source to run from. Its drawbacks are future availability and can only be used by one software or devise at a time. Some software’s require a Windows printer port directed at a serial port and this will capture the use when Windows loads. I recommend the serial be hooked up but only used if you encounter network issues. Note: A serial port at 57,600 is recommended.

Ethernet Port In addition to serial input is the much preferred Ethernet. This input being much faster, but is also more reliable. This option allows you to hookup directly computer to engraver (cross-over cable required) or thru a network hub or switch (straight cable). Controllers and computers on a network will allow one computer to communicate with several engravers simultaneously.

Table Scale Adjustment The Quest engraver comes with two scales up to 48” long x .050-.125” thick scales, one on each axis. The X & Y axis scales are mounted to the table utilizing the available t-slots and t-nuts. We have set these scales at the factory but you may have moved them or changed out a limit switch and need to replace or re-align them. Built into the controller via the pendant is a value of Backoff from Home Limit in X.XXX inches. Both X and Y have separate values. We also have a programmable Tick distance, which is usually at 0.500” (12.7mm) in both X & Y. There are several ways to set the scales. Within the controller firmware (test menu) is the ability to run a simple job from the pendant. It is a 1” square box (25.4mm) on a 2x2” (50.8x50.8mm) plate and a plus mark centered on a 2x2 plate. Also new is the ability to alter the position of Home to 90, 180, 270º and back to 0º. These features are covered in the Pendant and Controller Configuration Section III. The first procedure must be to set the origin correctly. I recommend a job get setup that is a plate size of 2” x 2” and with auto layout you program a simple plus mark. The crosses of the plus should be 1” (25.4mm) from top and left edge. Run this job and determine the error you have in both axis’. This error value must be added or subtracted from the backoff value in the Quick Configuration Menu (Toggle_1) of the Pendant. Again see above paragraph to possibly run the internal job, rather than set this job up. To get to this menu, press the 2 buttons to enter Quick Configuration Menu (Toggle_1). “Toggle” release, within one second press “1” release. Press the 4 key to identify the X, Y & Z Backoff (In) values. To alter either of these, press the associated key to select, type the required value followed by the Enter/Stop key. Look at the value typed in to ensure it is what you expected. Often a leading zero (0) is required. After all values are corrected, again press Stop (Enter) and continue pressing to exit menu when complete. You can program a job that has a line exactly 1” from the top of the plate and 1” from the left edge and move the scales to match these values. Also using the Tick from Home 2 times will move the head 1” from each scale, provided the values set in the Configuration are at .500”. Note if you are not familiar with setting the cutter; do not try to run any jobs until reading Section III.


Table Limit Switches The Quest engraver comes with X & Y Axis Home and Maximum Travel Limit Switches. We are one of the few engravers with these maximum limits. The proper setting is to have the table stop prior to a mechanical stop, and if there is an over-travel, the max limit switches will stop movement. The limit switches are all Normally Open and the same, so if one becomes damaged a maximum travel switch could be removed and put in service as a home limit, getting you back to engraving.

Within Firmware is the ability to alter the Home position. Machines only that have maximum limit switches! This means the origin can be moved to any corner. The once home limits can now become a max limits as required. As originally setup and shipped to you corner is considered 0º. Settings of 90, 180 and 270º can be selected. This feature is mostly valuable for those with the 2448 engraver and you want to engrave in the landscape mode. Rotate the pendant the same angle as the inputted value. SEE WARNING BELOW.

WARNING - XY HOME CHANGE This mode alters the states of the processor. Means very little to the user but, it requires the Engraver Control Box be Re-Initialized before the action can be implemented. SO PLEASE PRESS THE RED BUTTON AFTER IMPLEMENTING. Do not press Reset until the processor has been re-initialized, the limits will not be correctly set until this simple button (Re-Initialize) is pressed. Table Components The Quest engraver comes with a T-slot table, four T-clamp assemblies and T hex wrench. Additional clamps are available. Remember the ability to offset the engraving start position either with a New Home or with the Pendant inputted offsets. Moving the head away from the scales reduces the table size but allows for better usage of the clamps. Many more accessories to hold components are available now or are in production. Items like; over scale clamps, center fixtures, vacuum platens, quick clamps, extra long clamps, etc. The table repeatability is such that you can utilize the engraver as a precision CNC machine. All new enhancements will be highlighted in our “Q1E Engraver’s Digest Newsletter” on our website www.q1engravers.com.

Q3D Quest Engraver Operation Manual Section III Revised 12/20/13 Page 1 of 25

Pendant and Q3D Controller Configurations

Configuration Mode To enter the Configuration mode press the two Configuration keys “Toggle” (release, within 1 second) press the (“0”) key (see figure above).

The menu that appears will look like below. The Chevron “>” indicates the active line.

TABLE PARAMETERS F3-RECALL JOB MENU > AXIS MACHINE 25D 90 DEGREE STOPS NO Scroll up and down with the arrows keys (2 and 8) on the keypad. To change a numeric setting, press the right arrow (6) Select, this will toggle the selection or give you a cursor to enter a numerical value. If you are entering a numerical value, enter the number, and then press the Stop/Enter key. To change a set of choices just press the Select (6) key until proper variable appears. Once all changes have been made to the configuration, to get out; press the same two configuration keys simultaneously, as you did to get into menu. If you want to abandon all changes you can press the Red Emergency Stop button or not confirm as prompted.

Hot Tip: Press Reset/Home and use Confirm to save or any other key to abandon changes. “PRESS CONFIRM TO ACCEPT. ANY OTHER KEY TO IGNORE CHANGES.” Press the “Confirm” button for changes to take effect.

NOTE: If “Emergency Stop” pressed you will return to initial power up state. This will reset the controller’s memory buffer. It is not harmful. No changes made will be saved.

To enter Configuration: Press Toggle then “0”

Use these keys to get into and out of Configuration menu or h h ( i l )


Table Parameters Initial Factory Settings Built into the controller are values that the engraving table will perform at. These values can be modified to suit your application. Vary numeric values at a modest rate of change and confirm reliable operation before altering further. AXIS MACHINE 25D / 250 / 251 / 252 / 2D / 20

Select: 25D for a 2.5D engraver with X, Y & Z Limit switches (most common) 250 for a 2.5D engraver with No Limit switches (old Vision) 251 for a 2.5D engraver with only Z Limit switch (old Vision) 252 for a 2.5D engraver with X & Y Limit switches (Wizzard) 2D if you have a 2 axis engraver with X & Y Limit switches, typically air z axis (C2000) 20D if you have a 2 axis engraver with No Limit switches (TLC).

90 DEGREE STOPS NO / YES YES enables a feature that slows the XY feedrate as it goes around a curve when a stepper motor on one of the axis has to reverse directions. Reversing direction at a high speed may cause the motor to lose a step. Near all new and retrofitted engravers have been able to maintain position at these extreme conditions. NO disables this feature.

XY SLEW SPD 1.50 units: Inches per sec mm/sec XY Slew Speed is the rate at which the cutter will slew around the table in inches per second (ips) using the keypad arrows. Typical range 0.75 - 2.00 ips. Hot Tip: Using the “0” key in conjunction with slew keys will reduce speed to 10%. Toggle_1 Hot Key available.

Z RUN SPD .70 units: Inches per sec mm/sec Z Run Speed in inches per second that the cutter will move in the z axis down to and from the clearance position. Only seen at the beginning and ending of a job. This is also the speed that the Touch Sensor will seek the material contact. Works in conjunction with the Touch Sensitivity. A typical value may be 0.40 to 1.00. Toggle_1 Hot Key available.

CUTSET SLW SPD 0.04 units: Inches per sec mm/sec Cutter Set Slow Speed - In the “Z” Set mode this is the speed in inches per second that the cutter moves up or down when the Z Up Slow or Z Down Slow keys are pressed. Used for fine adjustment. Avoid below 0.03 ips.

CUTSET FST SPD 0.50 units: Inches per sec mm/sec Cutter Set Fast Speed - In the “Z” Set mode this is the speed in inches per second that the cutter moves up or down when the Z up or down fast buttons are pressed.

CUTSET HOM SPD 0.70 units: Inches per sec mm/sec Cutter Set Home Speed - Once the “Z” Set is done this is the speed that the cutter returns to home position in inches per second (ips). Do not make too fast since this action is seeking the limit switch. Hitting the limit at very fast speed can give bad results or damage the switch.

XY HOME SPD 0.90 units: Inches per sec mm/sec The speed, in inches per second, that the cutter head returns home when the “Reset/Home” button is pressed. Do not make too fast, this action is seeking the limit switches. Hitting the limit at very fast speed can damage the switch and or table components.


X BACKOFF IN. 0.060 units: Inches mm The distance that the head backs off once it hits the X axis home limit switch. Adjust accordingly to achieve the cutter head at true zero when Reset to Home. Each engraver will have unique value. Toggle_1 Hot Key available for all backoffs.

Y BACKOFF IN. 0.060 units: Inches mm The distance that the cutter backs off once it hits the Y axis home limit switch.

Z BACKOFF IN. 0.060 units: Inches mm The distance that the cutter backs off once it hits the Z home limit switch. This can be increased to lower the cutter closer to the material. This shortens the Z return to Home distance, but increase the Reset time.

X TICK IN. 0.500 units: Inches mm The distance moved in the “X” direction when the “TICK” button is pressed. Use for offsetting when engraving cutouts, tick marks or quick preset distance from home. Note: X & Y Tick may be different values.

Y TICK IN. 0.500 units: Inches mm The distance moved in the “Y” direction when the “TICK” button is pressed.

XY STPS/IN 08128 units: Steps per Inch The steps per inch that the engraver moves in the x and y directions. This is a calculated number based on the screw pitch, stepper motor characteristics, and the micro-stepping setting on the stepper driver. See Addendum section 5 for details on this calculation.

Z STPS/IN 08000 units: Steps per Inch The steps per inch that the engraver moves in the z direction. Also a calculate value. See Addendum section 5 for details on this calculation.

XY STPS/IN CPU 04000 units: Steps per Inch The steps per inch that the computer is sending out to the Engravers Control Board (ECB) for the x and y axis’. We have established this value as our standard. It is quite accurate 1/4000” equal 0.00025”.

Z STPS/IN CPU 04000 units: Steps per Inch The steps per inch that the computer is sending out to the Engravers Control Board (ECB) for the z direction.

X AXIS SWAP N0 / YES This allows the X axis direction to be reversed. Typically not necessary for our own engraver, but very necessary on retrofitted engravers.

Y AXIS SWAP N0 / YES same as above Z AXIS SWAP N0 / YES same as above X HOME SENSE N.0. / N.C.

This setting allows a limit switch to be normally (when not engaged) in a Normally Open or Normally Closed condition. All the limits on the Quest are N.O.

Y HOME SENSE N.0. / N.C. Z HOME SENSE N.0. / N.C. X MAX SENSE N.0. / N.C. Y MAX SENSE N.0. / N.C.


BAUDRATE 9600 / 19.2 / 38.4 / 57.6 / 0115 units: x1000 bits/second This is the rate at which data is transmitted from the computer Com port to the Engraver Control Board. We find the 57,600 baud rate has been very stable. Remember to adjust software values to match. Available settings 9600, 19200, 38400, 57600 & 115200.

SOFTWARE STANDARD / CASMATE / GRAVO 98 / XENETECH This setting allows for Standard data input, CASmate, New Hermes’ GravoStyle98 and Xenetech to run the engraver. Standard is EngraveLab, Quality, PlotAll & DatPlot softwares. CASmate the baud rate will automatically be set to 19200 which is the maximum CASmate will send. It will reset to original upon exiting CASmate input. Also available is a Xenetech input but is very limited to the older 8 bit software. Good only for testing or small jobs. Toggle_1 Hot Key available, see write up end of this section III.

TOUCH SENSOR YES / NO This allows the Z axis material sensor to be utilized. In the NO condition, it is strictly a manual Z Set to establish a distance to the material. You will be able to set a value beyond the point that the nose touches the material surface. If your engraver is not equipped with Touch Sensor it must be set to NO. Indicator on pendant line one far right will show a “0”. In the YES condition, the sensor is active and usable when activated, Z Auto Set is available and Z Auto Run. Indicator on pendant line one right will show a “1”.

TOUCH SENSITIVE 08 01 to 99 This allows the Z axis touch sensor to have a sensitivity setting. Each engraver will have to determine the optimum setting. The down tension spring setting will affect this setting, as will the Z Run Speed. If too low any slight bump will trigger the sensor. If too high engraving dwell time will be high, thus slowing down engraving process. Toggle_1 Hot Key available, see write up end of section III.

AR Z HOME RESET NO / YES This allows the Z axis touch sensor to reset to home after completing a job that is run utilizing the touch sensor. Some engravers may experience an accumulation of lost steps in the Z axis after many repeated actuations. Usually “NO” is utilized by the Quest, but may be necessary if jobs are several hundreds of characters.

XY HOME CHANGE 0 / 90 / 180 / 270 This allows the Home position to be any corner. The Quest is equipped with 4 limits on the table, it is possible to utilize the limit switch as either a Home or a Max Limit. This is especially useful on a 24” x 48” engraver and want to engrave in a landscape orientation.

NOTE: This feature will NOT work properly unless both X & Y axis are NON-Swapped. This will be the cases on all Quest Engravers and any retrofit done at Q1E factory. Engraver must have working maximum limit switches, since these will now be used as home limits when the table home is swapped.


SPINDLE TRKG REQD NO / YES Built into the controller is the ability to turn on the spindle during specific operations. It was done out of necessity due to the belts not tracking during cutter set and reset to home. The 2003 and later Quest have tracking spindles (NO), prior versions were Non-tracking (YES). The following items get turned on or off if option is selected. RESET Z TO LIM Applies delayed voltage to the spindle motor when Reset is pressed. Allows the belts to remain tracking during reset to home. CS DWN & UP ARRW FST Applies voltage to the spindle motor when “Z” Dn Fast is pressed. CS ACHIEVE LIM Applies delayed voltage to the spindle motor when “Z” Set Achieve is pressed. AUTO ZERO MODE Applies delayed voltage to the spindle motor when “Z” Auto Zero Mode is enabled.

METRIC MODE NO / YES Built into the controller is the ability to alter the readout in US or Metric units. NO is US inch and Yes is Metric mm units.

ERASE MEM AFT JOB N / Y This is the ability to keep a job data in memory or erase upon job competition. Use with auto-loading badge fixtures or very long jobs that are not want to be accidently repeated.

RESET MODE X / Y / STD This is a feature to force the head to move to Home in a specific order. STD will move both X & Y towards Home until either limit is hit then continue along the non contacted axis. If “X” is selected, head will first move towards the X axis limit, make contact, then move towards the Y limit. The “Y” selection will go to Y limit first. Very handy if utilizing a center vise or clamps are in the way.

HI ACC LIMIT B/O Y / N Abbreviation for High Accuracy Limit Switch Backoff. This is a feature to allow a more accurate backoff from the Home Limits. It works well on the Quest but on limit switches with much over-travel they are a bit annoying when offsetting from Home.

LANGUAGE English / Spanish / French / German This will when completed alter the language displayed on pendant screen. Sorryfor delay but hope some progress late 2014.

IP= 192.168.001.165 The IP address must be altered if your network is not this address. It will be a static IP so no other devise can be using the same IP address. Use “6” to select, then Confirm at first entry sets, followed by Stop/Enter on last entry field. This must match software output.

MSK= 555.555.555.000 The Mask IP is typically this value but your IT person may limit available addresses.

GAT= 192.168.001.001 The Gateway IP is defaulted to 000.000.000.000. This value can be altered by your IT person.


ORIGIN TOP-L / BOT-L

The US and Korean pendant and engraving orientation is just a bit different. In order to allow either pendant used, this feature was added.

REV OUTPUT 2&4 NO / YES The US and Korean wiring to Output 2 & 4 is reversed. This was done in order to make the engraver compatible with either controller. Only with the Router Lubrication System.

SLEW RAMP DLY 1 0-9 units: Seconds Slew Ramp delay is provided to allow a varied ramping time to allow for much faster slew speeds on large tables or on under-powered engraving tables.

PULSE WIDTH STD STD/EP1/EP2 Pulse width was provided to allow older controller drivers to be talked to by todays faster controller. This is the case currently on the EP Module Retrofit Kit.

4th STPS/IN 08000 units: Steps per Inch The steps per inch that the engraver moves in the 4th axis directions. This is a calculated number based on the screw pitch, stepper motor characteristics, and the micro-stepping setting on the stepper driver. See Addendum section 5 for details on this calculation.

4th AXIS SWAP N0 / YES This allows the 4th axis direction to be reversed. Typically not necessary for our own engraver, but very necessary on retrofitted engravers.

USAGE 4th SameAs X / 4th is X / SameAs Y / 4th is Y This allows the 4th axis to be utilized for multiple rotational devises or used on a table table that may have 2 stepper motors to drive a single axis.

4TH AXIS NO / Yes This allows the 4th axis to be turned On or Off.

4th BACKOFF IN. 0.000 units: Inches mm The distance that the head backs off once it hits the 4th axis home limit switch. Adjust accordingly to achieve true zero when Reset to Home. Each engraver will have unique value.

F1- This feature allows for the usage of the Function buttons and will be constantly enhanced. Pressing once will display what action will occur if pressed again. Pressing and holding will allow the altering of these functions to be optionally selected and will override those input here. Available features are current: NONE Will take no action RECALL LAST JOB Will recall last job sent to the controller

AR <-> MAN C/S Will switch from AR (AutoRun) to MAN (Manual Cutter Set) and back and forth. Setting remains in memory thru shutdown.

SAVE JOB Will take you to the Job Save Menu screen. Start with key “1” to name job. Use keys 2-8 as required. Confirm to save.

RECALL JOB MENU Will take you to the Recall Job Menu screen. Scroll thru list using 2 and 8, or 3 and 9, 6 or Confirm to select.

Z EXERCISE Allows moving the Z axis to lubricate to do some maintain. This features currently has limited functionality, but will soon include sending head to Home, Clearance, Cutter Set and Cut Depth position.


ADD .001 to CD Intended to add .001” to the Special menus cut depth. When doing precision engraving this will come in handy to run again at a new value. Look for improvements beyond these goal. HOWEVER, this is not implemented at this writing. Rev 11-23-13

SAVE JOB Will take you to the Job Save Menu screen. APPLIQUE 2 PASS This feature will run a sent job 1 pass with spindle motor running

(provided it is turned ON) and a second pass that will turn spindle motor off. This works well when cutting applique and you want to clean up the small stuck chips at the cut line. The non-rotating cutter will act like a scoop shovel to remove debris. The chip collection will remain ON. HOWEVER, at current writing; it works on manual Cutter Set and kinda works on AutoRun. Look for this fix shortly. Current Rev 11-23-13.

F2 and F3 These work same as F1. Typically we setup to our initial liking. Future Function buttons If this feature works well and customers request more features we plan

on using the Toggle key to double up to 6 function keys. Space left below for many future features in store. Suggestions welcome!


“Z” Set Mode – Manual 1 / Auto Run / Manual 2 Manual Z Cutter Set #1 - The controller must be told where the top of the material is to establish a position to cut and perform clearance from. I will assume you will be engraving with the supplied nose and a suitable piece of flexible engraving stock is on the table. There are 2 Cutter Set values available. Both are set the same. More information below on this feature. 1. Remove the cutter from the spindle. Insure the

nose assembly is secure to the lower micrometer. Nose should be tight but SST tube should be able to freely rotate.

2. [US Micrometer 0-5-10-15-20-0” markings] Each revolution .025”. Spin the spindle lower micrometer to the very top. Then back it off to a convenient zero. I like to spin it down just over .100”, which is just over 4 turns. Each full turn is .025”.

3. [Metric Micrometer 0-2-4-6-8-0mm markings] Each revolution 1mm (.039”). Spin the spindle lower micrometer to the very top. Then back it off to a convenient zero. I like to spin it down just over 2-3mm .079-.118”, which is just over 2-3 turns. Each full turn is .039”. Legend cheat sheet and sticker available to do conversion. Look at last page this section.

4. Move the head above the material to zero to using the slew keys. I like to use the Tick (5). 5. Enter the “Z” Set mode by pressing the two “Z” Set buttons (0 & Confirm). 6. To move the Z head Down Fast press 9. Get

within ¼” of the material. Now move the Z head Down Slow by pressing 7 to finish the setting.

7. Monitor as the nose just touches the material. This is our material zero point. If you go too far the spindle float mechanism will be seen moving. This is a covered SST socket screw in a machined slot to the left of the spindle. On engravers equipped with “Z” Sense the head will stop at actuation if ON is selected at the TOUCH SENSOR in the Table Configuration. There is a lower SST ring that will be seen separating if NO is selected for the Touch Sensor and material surface is exceeded. The indicator will still illuminate but have no effect.

8. Insert a well out of adjustment cutter (too short) into the spindle. Snug brass knob. With a spline wrench (.069” 4 flute Bristol spline) allow cutter to float down and touch material. Tighten the setscrew. Do this to all cutters being used or utilize our Q1E Cutter Length Adjuster Tool (MSC-1854-003 or -005 [11/64 or 1/4”].

9. To achieve this Z set value, it can be accomplished by pressing the “Z” Set Achieve (5), which will send cutter head up to limit and Z backoff. Or pressing the Reset, which will send cutter head up, then to XY home, XY backoff and Z backoff. The Reset will save you one step if needing to be at home anyway.


Observe a Cutter Number exists on Pendant LCD. Typical number will be 1000 – 8000 steps (4000 steps equals 1”). Significantly lower on some retrofitted engravers. Value can be up to 16,000 if a router.

Other keys accessible: To move the Z head Up Fast press 3. To move the Z head Up Slow press 1. To slew the head to an alternate position on the table press 2, 4, 6 or 8.

Dual Manual Z Set (1 & 2) - The Q3D controller now has the ability to retain two Z Cutter Set Values, conveniently names 1 & 2. This is a very powerful feature when going from plastic engraving using a nose and to burnishing or to Braille Raster insertion. Understand this feature and the Toggle_Start to best utilize. Do not be afraid of!

1. Set the Manual Cutter Set #1 as above. 2. To get to Manual Cuter Set #2, press the Toggle Key. If the Touch Sensor is No it will be the

next display menu. If in Yes condition, you will need to Toggle thru Auto Run menu. 3. Once in the Manual Cuter Set #2 mode, press the “9’ key to start the cutter set procedure. 4. If you have the Dual Raster Braille Insertion Option with the Pneumatic Operator, you will

want to press Confirm to activate Output #1. On units without this option, nothing will happen except output #1 light on Engraver Control Board will light.

NOTE 1: If using this mode or many like it pressing the RED Emergency Stop will take you completely out and not accept any of the changes you may have made. NOTE 2: Use this feature to load Raster Beads into the hopper when supply is low. Remember to press Re-Intialize to cancel any possible changes you made to Cutter set value.

5. You can also input or alter these cutter set values in the Toggle_1 “Quick One to Use” Menu. Press Toggle to see the following screen. Once familiar with menu you can press the “5” and get there quicker.

5)CUTSET XXXXX XXXXX 6)Z RUN SPEED 0.50 7)XY SLEW SPD 1.50 8)RESET MODE STD 6. Pressing the “5” key CUTSET XXXXX XXXXX will display the following menu.

CUTTER SET MAN ENTRY 1)CUTSET 1 XXXXX 2)CUTSET 2 XXXXX 3)SWAP 4)ADD/SUB 7. Pressing the “1” or “2” key CUTSET 1 or 2 will allow you to type in a value for the cutter

set. 8. The “3” key will swap Cutter Set #1 & #2. 9. The “4” key ADD/SUB will display the following menu.

1) ADD 1/32 TO C/SET 2) ADD 1/16 TO C/SET 3) SUB 1/32 TO C/SET 4) SUB 1/16 TO C/SET


Use these keys to add and subtract the desired thickness from BOTH Cutter Set values. This extremely useful when going from 1/16” to 1/8” material or other way around.

NOTE 3: Remember when you add to a Cutter Set value the material has gotten thinner. The further down you go to material the larger the Cutter Set value. See Toggle_Start features write up at end of section III, a must to make this feature awesome.

The greyed out section below was eliminated starting 2014. It had very limited application, confusing and increased keystrokes.

Semi-Auto Z Set – Touch Sensor must be in YES condition. 1. Remove the cutter from the spindle. Insure the nose assembly is secure to the lower micrometer.

Nose should be tight but tube should be able to freely rotate. 2. Set the nose to a convenient zero. 3. Move the head over the material to be sensed. [I like to press “5” key TICK twice.] 4. Enter Z Set mode. It will default Manual Set #1. Press the Toggle button to the bottom right to

alter to Auto Set. Continuing to press will rotate around Manual Set 1/ Auto Set / Auto Run / Manual Set 2 and around.

5. With Auto Set selected, press the Confirm button. You now have more choices. These are displayed on the pendant, Start / Tick / Reset.

6. Press the Start key and the head will move down to the material until the sensor is triggered. It will remain in this position to allow you to set your cutters.

7. You will again have two more choices, Tick / Reset. Tick will return head up and XY will not be altered. Reset will return head and reset XY to Home.

Auto Z Set – Touch Sensor must be in YES condition. 1. Remove the cutter from the spindle. Insure the nose assembly is secure to the lower micrometer.

Nose should be tight but tube should be able to freely rotate. 2. Set the nose to a convenient zero. 3. Move the head over the material to be sensed. 4. Enter Z Set mode. It will default Manual Set. Press the Toggle key to alter to Auto Set.

Continuing to press will rotate around Manual Set 1/ Auto Set / Auto Run / Manual Set 2. 5. With Auto Set selected, press the Confirm button. You now have more choices. These are

displayed on the pendant, Start / Tick / Reset. 6. Press the Tick key and the head will move down to the material until the sensor is triggered and

will return head up to Z Home. The XY position will not be altered. Rest will return head and rest XY to Home. OR

7. Press the Reset key and the head will move down to the material until the sensor is triggered and will return head up to Z Home. The XY position will reset to Home.

Auto Run Z Set “Maintained” - The controller also is able to perform material sensing automatically. You will have a much easier task of engraving but you sacrifice some control. This setting will remain until a Manual Z Set is done, a Function change implements or it is turned off in Toggle_1 menu. AutoRun will remain if controller loses power or is turned off and back on. AR will be displayed on line 2 of pendant. 1. Insure the nose assembly is secure to the lower micrometer. Nose should be tight but tube should

be able to freely rotate. 2. The nose and cutter must be set, with the cutter extended the required amount.


3. Enter Z Set mode. It will default Manual Set 1. Press the Toggle button to alter to Auto Run Maintained. Continuing to press will rotate around Manual Set 1 / Auto Run – Maintained / Manual Set 2. Or use a Function mode to switch back and forth.

4. With AutoRun Maintained selected, press the Confirm button. You will now see AR displayed on line 2 of the pendant.

5. Send a job to the engraver and the cutter head will automatically go down to the material until the sensor is activated. Engraving will commence.

6. Upon engraving finishing, the head will move up, XY will return to Home and Z will reset. 7. Auto Run mode will remain until a Cutter Set is attempted or Special Parameter specifies a

change. It will not revert back to Manual Cutter Set. See Special Mode next section.

Special Mode This mode was added to make changing some of the engraving parameters and table conditions quickly. Some software will send out the required information to set engraving speed, cut depth, clearance, dwell and travel speed. But for those that don’t, a value must be utilized. These values are in this menu. Three parameters P1, P2 & P3 are available to program to your liking. Also in this menu is the setting of a New and Preset Home. See info in this section on procedure and usage. Upon entering the Special Menu you will see items that relate to the engraving parameters. The parameters are abbreviated and relate to the actual code letters that the software sends to the controller. A typical screen will read: 1 > CD 0.015 5 > TV 1.50 2 > CL 0.070 6 > MD .02 3 > VZ 0.60 8 > NewHome 4 > SD 1.00 0 > AR - P1, P2, P3, PD Key 1 will allow altering the Cut Depth (CD).

CUT DEPTH 0.015 units: Inches mm The depth the cutter will dive into the material (go beyond Z set value). This value is used only if software does not send a value.

Key 2 will allow altering the Clearance (CL). CLEARANCE 0.070 units: Inches mm The clearance that the cutter will have when moving between cuts during a job. This is a value up from the Z set value. You want this value to be as small as possible to quicken the job, but obviously not too small such that it drags between cuts. This value is used only if software does not send a value.


Key 3 will allow altering the Velocity of Z (VZ). Velocity of Z 0.60 units: inches/sec mm/sec The velocity that the cutter moves into the item being engraves. It is also called dive or plunge speed. Hard metals may be at 0.05 and soft up to 1.00 ips. Good rule of thumb 40-70% of the Engraving Speed (SD) value.

Key 4 will allow altering the Engraving Speed (SD). XY RUN SPD 1.00 units: inches per sec mm/sec The speed that the cutter will move in the x and y feedrate during a job. This value is used only if software does not send a value.

Key 5 will allow altering the Traversing Speed (TV). TRAVEL SPD 1.50 units: inches per sec mm/sec The speed that the cutter will move in the x / y travel speed during a job; from and to home, and between characters. This value is used only if software does not send a value.

Key 6 will allow altering the Move Delay (MD). Move Delay .00 units: Seconds This feature will stay in the down position for .00 to up to .99 seconds. Great for air spindles or drilling operations. Value limited to avoid setting too high.

Key 8 is ability to set a New Home or PreSet operating position. See description on next page. Key 0 was ability to set a variable Cutter Set type AR to Manual or back. This has been disabled. Use Function keys to utilize this change. Toggle Key is pressed to toggle thru the available Parameter setups.

Parameter Changes - Again these parameter values are used only if the software does not send this data within the job. Parameter P1, P2 & P3 are able to be modifies to suit. PD is the Default and is not alterable. When pressing 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5 to alter value, the screen you see will look like this: 1 = +1 | 2 = +5 | 3 = UP 7 = -1 | 8 = -5 | 9 = DN 6 = SELECT | STOP = exit Key 1 & 7 increase / decrease value by 1 unit per press. Key 2 & 8 increase / decrease value by 5 units per press. Key 3 & 9 increase / decrease value by slewing while pressed. Key 6 will allow you to select and type in the value desired. Stop key will exit the menu.


Setting a New Home There is a very powerful feature available to you, understanding it will allow you to utilize it effectively. Press key 8 will allow inputting a New Home. You will see is: 1) RETURN TO STD 2) CURRENT AS HOME 3) INPUT NEW HOME 4) PRESET HOME 1) Return to Standard This key will remove any New Home condition if they exist. After exiting this menu, you must press the Reset to return to the backoff input in the Configuration menu. Toggle_Reset Hot Key available, see write up end of section III.

2) Current as Home This key will establish the current engraver head as a New Home. Slew the table to any position and this will be the position it will establish. After initiating this command a Warning will appear on the pendant. You must press the Confirm to allow the engraver head to return home to calculate its location. It will then offset to the New Home position. Stop will void this action. When a New Home is present a letter N will appear on line 2 of the Pendant LCD. Toggle_5 Hot Key available, see write up end of section III. Note: This condition will remain even after shutdown and can be removed with the Return to Standard Home procedure or Toggle_Reset Hot Key.

3) Input New Home This key will establish the ability to set the engraver head to a specific New Home. First reset the head to standard home. After initiating this command a menu will appear to allow input of X and Y offset values. You can now press keys 3 or 4. Pressing the 3 key to initiate move, a Warning will appear on the pendant. You must press the Confirm key to allow the engraver head to move to the input home to location. Stop will void this action. When a New Home is present a letter N will appear on line 2 of the Pendant LCD. Pressing the 4 key will input the changes but not move the head to position. Typically used when the head was not fully reset to Home. Note 1: When in a New Home is entered or by current position, this value will be reflected in the Input New Home variables. Great to return to a specific setting at some later time. Note 2 This condition will remain even after shutdown and can be removed with the Return to Standard procedure or Toggle_Reset Hot Keys.

4) Preset Home This key will establish the ability to set the engraver head to a preset specific New Home. Great for a specific location that is used on a regular basis. Reset the head to standard home. After initiating this command a menu will appear to allow input of X and Y offset or use existing values. You can now press keys 3 or 4. Pressing the 3 key to initiate move, a Warning will appear on the pendant. You must press the Confirm key to allow the engraver head to move to the preset location. Stop will void this action. When a New Home is present a letter P will appear on line 3 of the Pendant LCD. Pressing the 4 key will input the changes but not move the head to position. Toggle Hot Key available, see write up end of section III. Note: This condition will remain even after shutdown and can be removed with the Return to Standard procedure or Toggle_Reset Hot Keys.


Test Mode This mode is set up to confirm operation of many components, but has evolved to include a few bonus features. Below are what are available now, but look for many improvements and additions to this area. Once entering this mode you have 6 choices: TEST 192.168.001.165 1 ) r 112313 3 ) OUTPUTS 2 ) RUN JOB 4 ) Z MOVE 5 ) ARCUS DRIVER ADJ

The first line will display the IP address the controller is set to. 1) Revision - Shown is abbreviated revision date. Pressing the “1” key will take you to the

Firmware Revision date and Copyright. Latest firmware 11-23-2013. 2) Run Jobs - The “2” key will take you to a menu to allow you to run two simple jobs. 1) 2x2 w/ Box will engrave a 1” square box centered in a 2x2” plate. 2) 2x2 w/ a Plus will engrave a plus marked centered in a 2x2” plate. 3) Outputs - The “3” key will take you to the Output Test Mode. The Q3D controller has 6

outputs (only 1-4 currently utilized). Press the 1 thru 4 keys to energize. Press again to stop or Stop to exit menu. These outputs are used to test the spindle rotation, chip removal switched output and optional pneumatic spindle on the Quest. Note: Output 4 is optionally used on the Router to control lubricant flow.

Output #1 - Used to control a solenoid on a 2 axis engraver and Pneumatic Bead Insertion Solenoid.

Output #2 - Used to control chip removal. Output #3 - Used to operate spindle motor. Output #4 - Used optionally for special purposes and features in the Router Engraving Mode,

usually controls a coolant pump. Output #5/6 - Available on controller and power distribution board but no current usage.

4) Z MOVE - The “4” key will take you to the Z MOVE MODE. Use the 1, 3, 7 or 9 keys to achieve these moves up and down. Use the 5 key to reset Z to Home. More features are planned to set a variable hi and low position and force the Z axis to cycle at a set speed and frequency to work in.

5) ARCUS DRIVER ADJ - The “5” key will take you to the Xaxis Driver Settings. Note 1: Only controllers with Arcus Drivers will be able to be modified as detailed below. Note 2: Only controllers with Engraver Control Board rev J will be able to alter X, Y & Z drivers.

Rev H will allow for Z only and swapping cable is necessary to other drivers manually. Initially the values will be all 0’s for STEPPING, RUN AMPS, and HOLD AMPS. Press the “1” key to read the Arcus driver. Alter settings as required, usually with Q1E’s technical help, and then press 2 to write to the driver. Keys 3, 4 & 5 are listed to alter parameters. Use the Toggle key to advance to the next driver X to Y, Y to Z and Z back to X axis. Increases to Amperage are done in small increments to overcome step losses. Decreases are done to not over power motor. Stepper Motors getting very hot is NOT good. Consult Q1E or knowledgeable technician on all changes in this arena.


LED Readouts The Engraver Control Board has 2 banks of 10 each LED’s. One set is green and the other Red. The green indicate good things are happening and the Red are not necessarily bad, but… are more on the warning side of the street.

Please look at these indicator to identify a problem area that you may be able to relay to a tech or resolve yourself.

Green: 1. Power On - Actually it is an indicator that the processor is energized. 2. Output #1 - Indicated Output #1 On, typically used to control a solenoid on a 2 axis engraver. 3. Output #2 - Indicates Output #2 On, typically used to control Chip Removal. 4. Output #3 - Indicates Output #3 On, typically used to operate Spindle Motor. 5. Output #4 - Indicates Output #4 On, used for special purposes and features. 6. Output #5 - Indicates Output #5On, not currently used. 7. Output #6 - Indicates Output #6 On, not currently used. 8. Future 9. Future 10. No pendant button is pressed. (Troubleshooting) Red: 1. X Axis Limit - Head is actuating the X axis Home limit. 2. Y Axis Limit - Head is actuating the Y axis Home limit. 3. Z Axis Limit - Head is actuating the Z axis Home limit. 4. Max Limits - Head is actuating the X or Y axis Maximum travel limit. 5. Z Sense - Nose is touching the material surface. 6. 4th Home Limit - Rotational devise or table is actuating the 4th axis Home limit. 7. 4th Max Limit - Rotational devise or table is actuating the 4th axis Max limit. 8. Future 9. Future 10. Any Pendant button is pressed. (Troubleshooting)


Pendant Controls: Emergency Stop – Red Button This button will reset the processor within the controller. It will flush any job information or any changes you may have made to the configuration settings, should you have been in that mode. It is also an Emergency Stop button. If things aren’t sounding right press this button to cease all movement. Since the Z cutter set numbers are retained it is a very useful tool to stop the action for some setups and troubleshooting.

Note: There is no damage done to the controller when this button is pressed. Spindle Up/Dn Switch 1 – Auto(On) / Off This switch will turn On or Off the cutter up down movement at the next available tool up. If a job is started with this in the Off “0” position the cutter will not go down from the clearance position. Hence, there will be no engraving. An indicator of the switch’s position is shown on the pendant under the letter Q in Q1E. Value “1” equals Auto (On) and a “0” equals Off. To lift the cutter within a long contour being engraved use the Stop button, then Start and the action will be initiated. Great feature to see proofing over a job to be engraved.

Chip Removal Switch 2 – Auto(On) / Off This switch will turn On (Auto) or Off the chip removal switch AC outlet on the controller box rear. If a job is started with this in the Auto position the outlet is energized while the engraving process takes place. An indicator of the switch’s position is shown on the pendant under the letter 1 in Q1E, Value “1” equals Auto (On) and a “0” equals Off.

Spindle Rotation Switch 3 – Auto / Off This key will turn On (Auto) or Off the spindle rotation. If a job is started with this in the Auto position the spindle motor will energized while the engraving process takes place. An indicator of the switch’s position is shown on the pendant under the letter E in Q1E, value “1” equals Auto (On) and a “0” equals Off.

Lube/Output 4 Switch 4 – Auto / Off This key will turn On (Auto) or Off the lubrication or output #4. If a job is started with this in the Auto position output 4 will energized while the engraving process takes place. An indicator of the switch’s position is shown on the pendant under the space after the E in Q1E, value “1” equals Auto (On) and a “0” equals Off. Often the lube can be turned off during machining to allow viewing and usage of possible puddled lubricant.

Function 1 2 and 3 This operation is spelled out on pages 6 and 7 of this section


Start This key will Start the engraving process. Note all the job data does not have to be sent to the Engraver Control Box to allow starting the job. As soon as data is available, go for it. Toggle_Start Hot Key available, see write up end of section III.

Reset This key will Reset the engraver head to Home or Alternate New Home, if exist. It can also be used to achieve cutter set value, in which, it will also send engraver head to Home after achieving Cutter Set number. Basically it will do a Z Set Achieve and a Reset in one step. Toggle_Reset Hot Key available, see write up end of section III.

Stop This key will Stop the engraving process. It will need to get to the end of a calculated contour. This button is also the Enter key when entering values. And a key used to enter the Special Mode. When a running job is stopped, slew and “5” keys can be used to view work. Start will return to location and continue engraving. If an immediate stop is required use the Emergency Stop Button to cease all movement. Slew Key 1-9 (not 5) Use the pair of keys 0_1-9 (not 5) to slow slew to 10%. Key 1 Diagonal up & left slew, a digit “1” and in Cutter Set mode a Z Up Slow key. Key 2 Up slew, a digit “2” and in Cutter Set mode you can still perform the up slew. Key 3 Diagonal up & right slew, a digit “3” and in Cutter Set mode a Z Up Fast key. Key 4 Diagonal left slew, a digit “4” and in Cutter Set mode you can left slew. Key 5 Tick diagonal down & right movement (distance depends on value entered in Table Configuration), a digit 5 and in Cutter Set mode a Z Cut Set Achieve. Using this Cutter Set Achieve will leave the head in the current position. Also use for lifting cutter for viewing during engraving pause (will raise head to Z Home (ZA0)). Key 6 Diagonal right slew, a digit 6 and in Cutter Set mode you can right slew. Key 7 Diagonal down & left slew, a digit 7, and in Cutter Set mode a Z Down Slow key. Key 8 Down slew, a digit 8 and in Cutter Set mode you can down slew. Key 9 Diagonal down & right slew, a digit 9, and in Cutter Set mode a Z Down Fast key. Key 0 Digit “0”, a one of the pairs of keys to enter Special, Configuration and “Z” Set modes. When pressed with a slew key the speed is reduced to 10% of XY Slew Speed. Confirm The Confirm key, a one of the pairs of keys to enter “Z” Set and Test modes. Toggle This key is a one of the pairs of keys to enter Configuration and Test modes. It is also the toggle for Z set modes and selecting a Parameter in Special Mode. This key will have many uses as we develop our firmware. Toggle_Hot Key are listed next page.


Toggle_X “Toggle_Hot Key”: The firmware within the Q3D controller is packed with productive features. Some have been designed with specific customers in mind others are more generic. All are designed to make our system the best it can be. If you have suggestions, a feature needed or a problem, we want to hear this. Below are the current Toggle_Hot Key combinations available Toggle_Start This sequence will stop the engraving head at the clearance position of the first character to engrave. This is like pressing the Start button and quickly pressing the Stop button when the Z head just starts to descend. This is where the similarity ends. At the clearance position, available to you are 2 keys to press. The “8” key will move the head down exactly the Clearance amount and the “2” key moves it back to the Clearance position. A VERY VALUABLE FEATURE, LEARN IT AND MAKE MONEY. Uses: The best use is when performing burnishing. It allows you to easily set the burnisher at the down position touching the material. OK to touch material since it is a point that will be engraved. Use in conjunction with a dual cutter set. Switch from plastic nose to burnishing and never adjust the cutter set value. Also this feature can be used when multiple plates are non-nose engraved and are slightly varying thickness or requires an alternate cutter used. Procedure: Set a Cutter Depth without a cutter installed. Just get near material. Send job from computer. Press Toggle_Start. The head will stop at the first spot to engrave. Put in a well out of adjustment cutter (too short). Press the “8” (down) key and head will move towards material. Loosen cutter to allow it to touch material. Don’t worry about scratching material, it will be engraved anyways. Press “2” (up) to take head up the Clearance amount. Press Start to engrave job.

Toggle_Reset This sequence will Reset the engraving head and remove any New Home conditions. Saves several steps. Great for Braille bead installation to get back to normal operation, which is required to utilize the front spindle.

0_1-9 (except 5) Normally pressing these keys the engraving head will slew around the table. Holding down the “0” then the slew keys will make the head move at 1/10 the programmed XY Slew Speed.


Toggle_1 - Quick 1 Menu (Commonly Altered Settings) This menu will yield the ability to quickly change items that are most common. Alternately you would go to the Configuration Menu, which is many more keystrokes. Use “Toggle” to access additional page menus. Page 1

1) RAMPING FACTOR This feature will for very specific ramping factors to be altered. Going very fast form run to stop or stop to run can cause issues once speed is increased. This is set at the factory. Usually the only altering that is done will be to the Base Speed where the ramping factor will be utilized. By pressing 1 key to enter menu you will see a base speed. Weaker machines need a low Base Speed like .3 to.4 ips and stronger engravers will be in the .5 to as high as 1.0 ips.

2) SOFTWARE STANDARD / CASMATE / GRAVO 98 / XENETECH 3) TOUCH SENSOR OFF/ON XX This feature will produce a sub-menu allowing you to make Touch Sensor available or not. You are also able to alter the Sensor Sensitivity value. 4) BACKOFFS This feature will produce a sub-menu listing X, Y & Z Backoffs. Alter as required. Great at initial setting up of the true Home position.

Page 2 5) CUTSET XXXXX XXXXX Displayed are the Cutter Set values for #1 & #2 in steps. 4000 steps equals 1”. This menu will allow you to input an alternate value for Cutter Set Number #1 or #2 by pressing “1” or “2”. Also in this sub-menu is the ability to SWAP the #1 Cutter Set with the #2 by pressing the “3” key. Both values remain in memory even when powered down. Prssing “4” ADD/SUB sub-menu will appear: 1 ) ADD 1/32 to C/SET - used when going from 1/16” to 1/32” material 2 ) ADD 1/16 to C/SET - used when going from 1/8” to 1/16” material 3 ) SUB 1/32 to C/SET - used when going from 1/32” to 1/16” material 4 ) SUB 1/16 to C/SET - used when going from 1/16” to 1/8” material Obviously other material sizes may come into play, eg 3/32” or 1/4”. When these are being used, you can press a key twice or 2 different keys to get value you want. Always note initial value to allow getting back to if wrong keys are pressed. NOTE: This ADD/SUB will affect both Cutter Set values. 6) Z RUN SPEED This feature will allow you to quickly input an alternate value. This is important if you are utilizing the AutoRun feature on hard metal. Remember this is the speed the Z head will move to the material in search of the surface. Typically a faster number when going to clearance value than you may want the head to run into material. 7) XY SLEW SPEED This feature will allow you to quickly input an alternate value. This is important if you are working on a large table. 8) RESET MODE This feature will allow you to alter the way the engraver will reset to Home (X, Y or Std).


Page 3

9) RECALL LAST JOB This feature will allow you to recall last job. However, there are many other quicker ways to recall last job like Toggle_Toggle or Function key. 0) STORE CURRENT JOB This feature will allow you to store a job on the SD card resident on the Q3D Engraver Controller Board. When pressed you will be in the job naming menu. It is a bit cryptic but can be mastered after a few tries. Press and hold the 1 key to get to required first character, then 1 to step back 1 at a time. Do the same for second character pressing the 2 key. When complete press Confirm. Note to delete a job use the recall job and 0 key when highlighted. C) RECALL/DIR JOBLIST This feature will allow you to recall a stored job on the SD card resident on the Q3D Engraver Controller Board. When Confirm pressed you will be in the job recall menu. Use the 2 and 8 keys to slew through the list, it will scroll slowly id held for 3 seconds then increase scroll speed. Also 3 and 9 to go by 10 jobs at a time up or down. Pressing 6 or Confirm to select job with “>” (Chevron) from list. Note: Use this menu to also delete unwanted saved jobs. Simply arrow to the job, press the “0” key and press Confirm at prompt. Note: The memory stick can be removed from controller and programmed with jobs. To do this use a driver setup to plot to file. The file name will need the simple 8 letter DOS convention and the extension will need to be *.Q1E.


Toggle_2 - Engraver or Router Menu Settings This menu will yield the ability to change the scheme of the chip removal, spindle and Output 4 (usually a lubrication pump). The old Start Delay is built into this menu. Toggle between the two menus press the Toggle key. To exit press the Stop key. Engraver Menu

1) START DLY 2&3 XX seconds 2) OUTPUT 04 OFF 3) OFF DELAY 02 XX seconds

Start Delay Time in seconds between when the job is started to when the cutter head starts movement. This time is to allow for the spindle motor to get to full speed and the chip removal to build up full suction. Diamond Drag applications set to minimum. Off Delay will keep the chip removal running this long after the job is complete.

Router Menu 1) START DLY 2&3 XX sec 2) ON DELAY 04 XX sec 3) OFF DELAY 02 XX sec

Start Delay This is usually a longer time interval than standard engraving, to allow for full suction and lubrication to get up to the cutting area. On Delay Output 4 This delay time is the amount of time elapsed before the lubrication pump starts. Off Delay O2 will keep the chip removal running this long after the job is complete, yet the O4 will turn off at job end.

Chip Removal Blower …… Spindle Rotation ………… Lubrication Pump …………


Toggle_3 - Position Monitoring Menu This menu will allow you to slew the head around and monitor the position of the Head displayed as X & Y values.

POSITION MONITORING X = 0000.000 Y = 0000.000

STOP TO EXIT This is especially useful to determine maximum size of table, or fixture position.New features now available are:

• Press Toggle_0 to zero the values. • Press Reset to reset to Home yet still keep recording position.

Toggle_4 4th Axis Control This menu will allow for adjusting the 4th axis setup. Currently most of Setup is all working and turning status on and off. Other items may not be totally necessary. Always look for improvements we do 2-3 times permonth.

Toggle_5 Cutter Compensation This sequence will yield the ability to set a cutter compensation and resulting New Home. Our Quest is often used as a tool to cut out signage. We also have a laser line generator to allow accurate positioning of the head over a crosshair. If this crosshair is the edge of the plate to cut, the problem is compensating for the cutter diameter. This feature will establish its current position and move off the Home this amount minus the steps corresponding to ½ the cutter diameter. You may ask why the 0” amount? No cutter is 0”. Well this is a simple and quick way to create a new home where the cutter head sits. Saving only 1 key stroke (3 vs 4), but also an easier menu to utilize.

CUTTER COMPENSATION 1) .060” 4) .125” 0) 0” 2) .090” 5) .188” 3) .100” 6) .250”

Toggle_6 & 7 Not currently active.

Toggle_8 - Move to Preset Home This sequence will move the cutter head to the PRESET HOME value that is set in the Special Mode / New Home menu. This is great for repeat jobs on a center fixture or offsetting 40mm for the dual spindle used with Braille bead insertion tool. The menu that displays is dominated by the Braille Beading features.

Preset / Auto Beading Dual C/S 1)Man 2)Air AutoRun 3)Man 4)Air Confirm – Std Preset

Lets cover the simple first. The Preset Home value is a bit harder to change as compared to the New Home. So it will not be subject to change by wondering hands. I use this feature on my router table to get me to the exact position I typically start my jobs. This value remains in memory after shutdown. To execute this move; enter the menu using Toggle_8 and press Confirm (Std PreSet) and Confirm again at the warning screen to initiate a move to take place.


Now in addition to the simple PreSet Home, we have added a number of trick features for the Beading Braille Method of bead insertion. Our system of inserting Raster beads consists of using 2 spindles offset by 40mm (1.575”). The rear spindle is the standard rotary top load spindle. The front spindle is a mechanical slide or pneumatic cylinder controlled assembly. The sequence of events, simply stated; rear spindle drills the holes and the front spindle, equipped with a Accent Signage Auto Raster, lowers to insert beads as the job is semi-automatically or automatically rerun. The exact sequence if “1” (Dual Cutter Set Manual) is pressed. Assuming at standard Home.

1. A Warning is displayed, Confirm to Continue. 2. The head will move to the Preset Home. The letter “B” (indicating Braille Mode) will appear

in line number 2. 3. A job is sent to controller. 4. Start is pressed. 5. The rear spindle will engrave the Braille holes. 6. Head returns to Preset Home and Pauses. 7. Manually the front slide spindle must be lowered. 8. Pressing Start; the head returns to standard Home and swaps Cutter Set #1 with Cutter Set

#2. 9. Re runs the same job. This time at standard home, C/S #2 and the Auto Beader lower than

rear spindle. 10. At job completion, the head returns to Standard Home than Preset, C/S value returns to #1,

and operator must manually raise Auto Raster. The sequence if “2” (Dual Cutter Set Auto) is pressed. Assuming at standard Home.

Basically the same as manual, except a pneumatic cylinder will automatically lower the Auto Raster and the entire sequence will run start to finish without any need for manual intervention.

The controller will remain in this condition. To re-run the same job is just change plate and press Start. To exit this mode; Toggle_Reset, Emergency Stop or if the job gets interrupted. NOTE: The usage of the Touch Sensor for 3 & 4 options are implemented in the firmware, but we have not been totally happy with the results. The problem seems to lie in the inability to go beyond the actuation of the touch sensor. Therefore the beads do not get inserted fully. It is an issue we are working on. Other usage: This ability to rerun a job can also be used to create a very nice effect on trophy brass. An age old argument is which is better, diamond drag or burnishing? Well, how about both done automatically. The rear spindle will burnish the plate and the font spindle will rerun with a diamond drag cutter. Done deal!


Toggle_9 - Z Reference (Requires optional Touch Limit Switch) This sequence puts you into the Z Reference Mode. This mode is not for the novice, but for you experts, it can be awesome. Often setting depth is a horrible especially if job is started engraving and cutter gets dull and even worse if the spindle is a collet. Typically it will require a digital or analog indicating gauge. With this feature within a job or on subsequent jobs you are be able to accurately set the cutter length, without sending the cutter down to the material. NOTE: All features are reasonably working but many improvements can be expected. The first step is to have a larger than normal backoff from Z home, typically about ½”. This is the value that will be altered when a new cutter length is seen. Therefore if it is too small only shorter cutters can be used and compensated for. Cutter Reference Position. This is the position of the switch to activate when the cutter touches. Cutter Reference Value. This is the value that will be saved and compared to when a cutter is changed. If the cutter is longer, the Z backoff will decrease by this amount. If shorter the Z backoff will increase. Pressing Toggle _9 will yield

1) Z REF NEW 5) AUTO-N 2) Z REF ALT 6) AUTO-A 3) SET Z-REF POSITION 4) SET OFFSET TO .500

Initially you must perform 3) SET Z REF POSITION. This routine will allow you to manually slew the head over the Touch Limit Switch (then press 3) or type in a known dimension to the switch location on the table. This step may only need to be done once and it will be remembered within controller.

Next there must be adequate Z backoff to allow the cutter compensation to take place. I have created the ability to set this value at .500”. Pressing “4” SET OFFSET TO .500. Note it will zero the Cutter Set value since leaving a possibly large cutter set will cause a dive deep into the material. Better safe than sorry. You can utilize the Z Cutter Set to achieve a value or go to Toggle_1/5 to type in a possibly known value.

Now assuming you have done a cutter set with the first cutter and all is well, you must establish a Z Ref value. There are 2 ways to do it, 1) Z REF NEW 5) AUTO-N. The “1” entry is manual and the “5” will do it automatically. Upon a cutter change, you will then perform a 2) Z REF ALT 6) AUTO-A. The “2” entry is manual and the “6” will do it automatically.


Metric Micrometer Legend

Q3D Quest Engraver Operation Manual Section IV Revised 12/7/13 Page 1 of 3

Maintenance Proper Linear Bearing Maintenance Linear Bearings must be kept clean. The inner race of a linear bearing is vulnerable to contamination since it is constantly exposed to local environmental conditions. If any contaminants (fluids, powders, dusts, metal chips, etc.) settle on the linear rail, they will eventually enter the re-circulating ball tracks, potentially causing premature contamination failure. It is also important to keep the linear bearings well lubricated. Regular lubrication decreases friction, prevents rusting, and forms a protective fluid film between mating metal parts, helping to prevent premature bearing failure. Light oils lubricate best due to their low viscosity and ability to flush contamination from the bearing chamber. We recommend Wonder Mist Spray Lubricant and Corrosion Inhibitor (available from Quality One Engravers—Part # MSC-003).

Lubrication Procedure 1) Prior to re-lubricating the bearing, wipe the rail with a cloth soaked in solvent to

remove contamination and old lubricant. Clean thoroughly around wiper area. 2) Re-lubricate linear bearings while moving the bearing to assist in distributing

lubricant. 3) Wipe the lubricant directly on the shaft with a clean cloth. 4) To determine if you have enough lubricant in the linear bearing, wipe your finger

on the rail. If you can feel the lubrication between your fingertips, you probably have enough. Make sure the entire linear rail is coated.

Establishing Lubrication Interval Frequency of lubrication varies for each application. We recommend starting with a weekly re-lube program. After one week, check if the lube is still present by using the finger test method described above. If the lube is still clean and present, extend the interval to two weeks, then three weeks, etc. We recommend re-lubrication every two months even if the lube is still present and clean. Proper Ballscrew Maintenance Follow the same procedures outlined above, applying lubricant to ballscrews in place of rail. Belts Inspect all of your belts on a regular basis. An extra supply of belts should be kept on hand, and frayed or worn belts should be replaced as soon as noticed. Spindle No maintenance items are present on the spindle. DO NO LUBRICATE. If the spindle starts making noise, take out of service. Get repaired as soon as possible. Loaners are available.


Troubleshooting

We have had near zero problems reported so these are basically made up items that we would possibly expect. No Power to Controller Box – Note always check to see if the outlet being used is operational.

Possible causes: Bad power cord Blown Inlet Fuse Power switch bad Toroid (round transformer) bad

Pendant LCD Not Displaying – Possible causes: Excessive static shock in the area. Bad LCD Wiring or cable loose problem Engraver Control Board Bad Pendant Control Board Bad

Spindle Motor Not Turning – Note always check to see if spindle is locked up by removing belts and re-testing.

Possible causes: Switch #3 in OFF position Output from ECB Bad Spindle Motor Bad Solid State Relay Bad Wiring break

Chip Removal Not Energizing – Note always check to see if blower will energize when plugged into a known good wall outlet.

Possible causes: Output from ECB Bad Switch #2 in OFF position Solid State Relay Bad Wiring break

Poor Lettering Quality– Note always check engraving with another font, axis swap and in a larger letter size to compare results.

Possible causes: Output from computer Bad – IRQ interference with modem or sound card. Try alternate computer or com port. X or Y axis timing belt loose or worn. X or Y axis pulleys set screws loose. X or Y axis loose bearing thrust mount. Worn cutting tool. Part being engraved not being held rigid. Weak Stepper Motor Weak Stepper Driver Module Z axis loose mount to linear slide.

Cutter Does Not Engrave– Note always check the cutter is extending beyond the nose and a proper cutter set has been done.

Possible causes: Switch #1 Spindle Up/Down in OFF position. Switch #1 bad

Engraver Shifting Left Right or Dropping Baseline– Possible causes: Engraving speed excessive, reduce to 1.00 ips and retry X or Y axis binding. Lubrication required Weak Stepper Motor Weak Stepper Driver Module


Warranty Quality One Engravers warrants this equipment to be free from malfunctions and defects in both material and workmanship for one year from the date of purchase.

If the equipment does not function properly during the warranty period due to defects in either materials or workmanship, Quality One will, at its option, either repair or replace the equipment without charge, subject to the conditions and limitations stated herein. Such repair service will take place at Quality One and includes all labor as well as any necessary adjustments and/or replacement parts. Shipping charges both to and from Quality One are the responsibility of the customer. Quality One will return ship repaired or replaced equipment via the same shipping method as was used to ship the equipment to Quality One, unless otherwise specified by the customer. If replacement parts are sent to the customer or to used in making repairs, these parts may be remanufactured, or may contain remanufactured materials. If it is necessary to replace the entire system, it may be replaced with a remanufactured system. It is the customers’ responsibility to return any non-functioning components within one week of replacement. It is Quality One Engravers discretion to allow the loaner to replace non-functioning component or repair actual customers unit. Quality One will provide telephone assistance during the warranty period.

Limitations -THIS WARRANTY BECOMES NULL AND VOID IF YOU FAIL TO PACK YOUR EQUIPMENT IN A MANNER CONSISTENT WITH THE ORIGINAL PRODUCT PACKAGING AND DAMAGE OCCURS DURING PRODUCT SHIPMENT. IF THE ORIGINAL PACKAGING HAS BEEN DISCARDED OR IS NOT AVAILABLE, PACKING WILL BE AT THE OWNER’S EXPENSE. QUALITY ONE IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR SHIPPING COSTS TO OR FROM A QUALITY ONE AUTHORIZED REPAIR FACILITY. THIS WARRANTY DOES NOT COVER: CIRCUMSTANCES BEYOND QUALITY ONE’S CONTROL; SERVICE OR PARTS TO CORRECT PROBLEMS RESULTING FROM THE USE OF ATTACHMENTS, ACCESSORIES OR ALTERATIONS NOT MARKETED BY QUALITY ONE; LABOR AND TRAVEL EXPENSES FOR ON-SITE REPAIRS AND SERVICE; SERVICE REQUIRED AS THE RESULT OF UNAUTHORIZED MODIFICATIONS OR SERVICE; MISUSE, ABUSE; FAILURE TO FOLLOW QUALITY ONE’S OPERATING, MAINTENANCE OR REPACKING INSTRUCTIONS; OR FAILURE TO USE ITEMS SUPPLIED BY QUALITY ONE (SUCH AS ADAPTERS AND CABLES). QUALITY ONE MAKES NO OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS, IMPLIED OR OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE FOR THIS EQUIPMENT OR SOFTWARE. REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT WITHOUT CHARGE ARE QUALITY ONE’S ONLY OBLIGATION UNDER THIS WARRANTY. QUALITY ONE WILL NOT BE RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY SPECIAL, CONSEQUENTIAL OR INCIDENTAL DAMAGES RESULTING FROM THE PURCHASE, USE, OR IMPROPER FUNCTIONING OF THIS EQUIPMENT REGARDLESS OF THE CAUSE. SUCH DAMAGES FOR WHICH QUALITY ONE WILL NOT BE RESPONSIBLE INCLUDE, BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO, LOSS OF REVENUE OR PROFIT, DOWNTIME COSTS, LOSS OF USE OF THE EQUIPMENT, COST OF ANY SUBSTITUTE EQUIPMENT, FACILITIES OR SERVICES, OR CLAIMS OF YOUR CUSTOMERS FOR SUCH DAMAGES. Depending on your geographical location, some limitations and exclusions may not apply.

Q3D Quest Engraver Operation Manual Section V Revised 12/20/13 Page 1 of 16

Addendum Serial Port Settings for Engravelab The Q3D controller can run from 9600, 19200, 38400, 57600 or 115200 baud rate. Below are settings that have worked well. We currently recommend the 57600 as our default baud rate. In version 7 thru 9 the software will adjust serial port to correct settings regardless what is specified in System Device Manager.

Engrave \ Engraving Defaults \ Q3X STD-ZU shown below

Click Setup for an 1824 engraver – Engraver Tab:


Tool Options: The Tool Options menu will look like below. This you will be able to fine tune for each driver or as you send job to engraver. This menu is accessible right under the Engrave drop down or once in the plot menu.

Click Ok once all items adjusted. Please leave AutoStart to “0” until you are well familiar with the engraver and software. It will start the engraver upon job send automatically (if in the “1” condition.

Port Tab: Click the Port tab to see the below menu. Use Direct to port and appropriate Com port (usually Com 1) and adjust the Baud rate to 57600 (or other if required). Then click OK.

Engraver Options Tab – not necessary to alter Test this Driver! My recommendation is to setup this driver to a “GOOD WORKING” driver via Com Port and table size. Then make copies of this driver to be what are more used and better named. So we will do that now. Assuming this driver is A OK.


Ethernet Port Settings (Computer / Q3D Controller) The Q3D controller can also run from an Ethernet connection. The connection to the controller must be hardwired. At this time no wireless input to controller. However, the computer can be wireless to your Office network. You may utilize an Office network or a Local Computer network. An Office network will be a router that may be both hardwired and wireless. I do not know if a wireless remote hub will work. I have some users that have gone total wireless and have some that have failed. I would recommend common hardware throughout your system, like all Netgear or all Linksys and good luck.

Using an Office Network The Q3D controller has a TCP/IP port on the rear that communicates with the Netburner to the controller board. You will use a straight cat5 Ethernet cable (yellow 15’ provided). Most network operate at 192.168.1.xxx. But yours may be different.

To determine your network ip. Click Start\ Settings \ Control Panel \Network Connections. Double click on Local Area Connection\Support Tab. You will see this:

My network is 192.168.1.xxx as seen above. Because you may have some restricted address’ your IT person may be necessary. Also you may have other devices using a static IP address. These may include network printers, machinery, etc. You can use trial and error or ping your system for no reply, indicating a non-used address. See section III for altering your IP address. NOTE: Restart controller (Emergency Stop or Off then On) when any IP address change is made. Setting up an Ethernet driver in EngraveLab and Print Folder to follow.


Using an Single Computer Network (No Internet) This option is when you have no network or want the engraver to be isolated from your network and not allowing web browsing. For this you will need to setup your computer on a static IP similar to IP address in the controller. You will use a CROSSOVER cat5 Ethernet cable (orange 15’ provided). Most network operate at 192.168.1.xxx. But yours may be different. But for this setup it can be these values since they will not be part of your company network connection.

Step #1 – Setup computer to be Static IP

Click Start\ Settings \ Control Panel \Network Connections. Then click on Local Area Connection and right click to select Properties. What you will see pictured. Scroll down to select TCP/IP and click Properties.


Click on Use the following IP address and type in a similar IP address as controller. The last value must be from 001 to 255. The first 3 values ets to be same. In example once you click enter at 155 (example), the Subnet mask will automatically populated with 255.255.255.0

No need to fill in any other values. Simply click OK.

Best to restart computer to insure activation of these changes. If you have multiple Q3D engravers you can setup a multi-port hub or switch to talk to these controllers. The cable from computer to switch is a crossover and switch to engravers will be straight Ethernet cables.

Setting up an Ethernet driver for EngraveLab later in this section.


Ethernet Driver Setup for Engravelab It is assumed that a Good Working Driver exists from a serial port.

Click on Engrave\Engraving Defaults\ Setup

I like name the driver as best you can with initial 8-10 characters to be very informative. Info best to see machine name and IP address (like below).

Click on OK. BE CAREFUL the selected driver after OK is the original and not the new one to alter.

SO click the new one in the list.


Now click on the Port tab and alter the port Location to TCPIP raw.

Type in settings similar to what you see pictured. IP address must match that of the Q3D controller. Port to be 9100.

Click Apply and OK. The Apply and Close next window.

If cables all hooked up test this driver. If it does not work look at next section.


Ethernet Checkout Supplied with any computer from Q1E is a directory (folder) on the Hard drive labeled Q3D. Within this directory is a couple of exe files. AutoUpdate and IPSetup. AutoUpdate is used to upgrade the firmware via Ethernet cable. IPSetup does very little for the user but we may have you utilize for troubleshooting. This directory is also on the Quality software CD or can be emailed to you. For our purposes now just execute either of these and see if the Netburner MOD5234 is recognized. Any powered on and connected Q3D controllers should be seen when searched for. If listed this is a good indicator.

If changes are done to network settings, it is a good idea to restart the computer before deeming things are not working.

EngraveLab should now be able to communicate with Q3D controller.

When all else fails. Restart computer and Controller and retest.


Upgrade firmware on Q3D controller The Q3D controller can be upgraded to the latest firmware with just a simple file emailed to you and copied to the Q3D directory using AutoUpdate. All update files will be naming format Q3D2_112313_APP.s19. The numbers in middle of file represent the firmware date; 112313 is 11-23-2013.

Double click on AutoUpdate.exe.

Click on OK to run program if warning appears.

Click on Find and click MOD5234 to upgrade in the list.

Click on Browse.. to find the firmware file usually in the C:\Q3D directory.

Check Reboot when complete.

Click on Upgrade. Will take about 3-10 seconds.

Close all open windows once all controllers upgraded.

Good to get latest upgrade features so you can test them immediately.


Serial Port Printer Driver Setup for GravoStyle Click on the Printers Folder, to display all your current printers. Click on Add Printer.

This will bring up a Wizard and just click Next. Answer Local Printer. Select Manufacturer: Generic Printers: Generic / Text Only. Select Port: Com 1 Port or available port to utilize, then Next. Screen should look as below.

Define the Printer name that is recognizable and easily selectable. Select No to being your default printer. Then Next. Select No to printing a test page. Select Do Not share this printer, Next. Select Do Not print a test page, Next. Click on Finish. Allow to auto-install. You will now see your Printer Folder with this additional Printer. Select this new printer and Right click to Properties. Click on Ports tab. Click on Configure Port. Change Bits per second to usually 57,600 and insure handshake is Hardware. Click on Advanced tab and check Print directly to printer. Apply and then OK. This serial port should now be ready to utilize. NOTE: The New Hermes Gravograph controller uses a Null modem cable, our system uses a standard DB9 M/F cable.


Ethernet - Printer Driver Setup for GravoStyle Click on the Printers Folder, to display all your current printers. Click on Add Printer.

This will bring up a Wizard and just click Next. Answer A Local Printer. Click Create a new port

Select Standard TCP/IP, then Next. Then Next again Type the IP address of the Q3D controller in top line and bottom line with self complete, then Next


Leave setting or set to Standard - Generic Network Card

Allow some time and you should get this message:

Click Finish


Select Manufacturer: Generic Printers: Generic / Text Only. Keep Existing Driver is usually the answer.

Define the Printer name that is recognizable and easily selectable. Select No to printing a test page. Select Do Not share this printer, Next. Select Do Not print a test page, Next. Click on Finish. Allow to auto-install. You will now see your Printer Folder with this additional IP Printer. It should now be ready for usage. NOTE: If it does not work; recheck your settings and restart computer and controller.


Q3D Controller Driver for GravoStyle ‘98 In order to run from GravoStyle ’98 you must put the controller in this mode. You can utilize the Configuration Mode to alter the SOFTWARE input or utilize the Quick Toggle_1 menu. Displayed on the second line of the pendant LCD will be a “G” indicating the GravoStyle ’98 input mode.

1. Add the Quality One file (Q1E_Auto.mac) to the directory called POSTPRO under the directory Gravostyle98 is loaded (i.e. c:\Gravostyle98\postpro\)

2. Go to machining setup and add machine and find Q3X controller.

3. Set the min. and max. X,Y, and Z to negative values relative to the table connected to the Q3X controller.

Quest1224 min. X=-24.000, min. Y=-12.000, min. Z=-4.000 Quest1224 min. X=-24.000, min. Y=-24.000, min. Z=-4.000 Quest2448 min. X=-24.000, min. Y=-48.000, min. Z=-4.000 Observe that standard points are zero.

4. Note some engraving parameters are not sent from the software. Use the Special menu to adjust these values: These items included:

TV – Travel Velocity (ips) – this is the speed that the engraver leaves home to the first character, goes between characters and returns home from last character. ST - Start Delay (sec) – Delay to allow spindle motor & chip removal to get to full force. Note: On most of our software inputs the Z Dive Speed or Plunge Rate is a calculated value. In GravoStyle this calculated value is utilized. This is probably a better scheme than our way of doing it, since what is most important is the speed at which the cutter enters the material. And not the time it takes to do it. Although knowing this time value, can certainly help to reduce and understand job time.


Quest Axis Steps / Inch Calculations The Q3X controller can be set up to handle many different combinations of sending data to the stepper motor. We have found that 1/8 stepping the X & Y axis works best for both speed and accuracy. And we have determined 1/5 stepping best for the Z axis. The formula is as follows to end up with steps per revolution. 1.8 degree Stepper Motor=200 steps/rev 1 revolution of the ball screw = 10 mm or .3937” (X & Y) 1 revolution of the Z leadscrew = .25” (Z) Multiplier 1/4 = 4 (quarter stepping), 1/5 = 5 (fifth stepping). 1/8 = 8 5 (eighth stepping) 200 x 8 x 1 /.3937 = 4064 steps/in (X & Y axis) 200 x 5 x 1 / .25 = 4000 steps/in (Z axis) Note the stepping setting is a set of 4 DIP switches on the IMS driver. Refer to the “IMS” 483 manual for more particulars or call the factory. We have also determined the best output from the computer be 4000 steps per inch being generated at the computer. This value has each step equates to ¼ of a thousandth of an inch (0.00025”). Users that want to increase speed at the sacrifice of some accuracy can alter the XY settings to 1/5 or 1/4 stepping. Steps for these DIP switch settings will be 2540 and 2032 respectively. Q3X Controller Input The Q3X controller will accept the following input. Any software could utilize this input to create a driver. Here is the output required for our 2 types of Q1E Engravers.

2¼ output for our engravers - X & Y stepper motors, Z pneumatic solenoid 2 ¾ output for our engravers – X, Y & Z stepper motors

Note the values in ITALICS would be nice if the software sent these, but are not absolutely necessary. If these values do not exist, the defaults in the pendant will be utilized. Our pendant engraving values are easily input, but again, would be best if sent and saved as part of the job. The Q3X controller and the Quest engraver can be outfitted to run with a pneumatic system. This is very advantageous for diamond drag and Braille bead insertion. Common to 2 1/2 & 2 3/4 Axis Engraver: Variables and allowable ranges: Com port: Selectable 1 or 2 - Baud rate: 19200, 38400, 57600 or 115,200 Parallel port: We have been using a Generic Windows driver with good results. XY Table Slew rate (default of SD100 in controller)

0-5 inches per second SD100 = 1.00 ips, SD55 = 0.55 ips Spindle Start Delay (default of ST20 in controller)

ST - Start Delay – Delay to allow spindle motor & chip removal to get to full force. ST0 = 0 seconds, ST22 = 2.2 seconds Travel Velocity (default of TV100 in controller)

TV - Speed between characters, move from Home and return to Home. TV100 = 1.00 inches/sec, TV200 = 2.00 inches/sec

Spindle Motor On/Off R0 - Spindle motor Off R1 - Spindle motor On


Cutter Dwell Time (default of DW10 in controller) 0.10- 9.99 seconds, DW10 = .10 sec, DW200 = 2.0 sec.

Home is the upper left corner The Q3X controller utilizing 1”=4000 steps for X,Y & Z. 2 ½ Axis (Z axis Solenoid) Example of a 3 x 4 plate w/ two single line capital L’s, XY speed 1.3 ips (SD130), Travel Velocity 1.50 ips (TV150), Dwell 0.10 sec (DW10). ;IN;ST20;TV150;PU;PA0,0;SP1;R1;SD130;DW10;PU;PA4656,4000;PD;PA4656,8000;PA7330,8000;PU;PA8670,4000;PD;PA8670,8000;PA11344,8000;PU;R0;PA0,0;SP0; 2 ¾ Axis (Z axis Stepper Motor– not 3-D) For our 2 ¾ axis output, we use a ZU (Z up), ZD (Z down), ZC (Z to Clearance), CLxxx (Clearance value), CDxxx (Cut Depth value). We set the distance to the material on our engraver control board with a joy stick. This number in steps is stored. Our firmware keeps track of this number to apply to the job being sent. The engraving software if sending CLxxx or CDxxx must converts the dimensions selected to a step number knowing the Z axis leadscrew pitch (4000 steps/in for the Quest) for the desired depth and clearance numbers.

;CLxxxx Clearance Value to be in steps. A calculated number at computer based on user input Clearance Distance (inches) times steps per inch of the leadscrew or cam mechanism (preset pitch value part of driver setup).

;CDxxxx Cut Depth Value to be in steps. Also a calculated value at computer. Same as above, user input times preset value.

ZU - “Z” Up 3 axis ZD - “Z” Down 3 axis ZC - Spends “Z” down to clearance position. This input is very necessary.

This is a sample output for the 2 ¾ axis engraver. Engraving speed 1.30 ips (SD130), Travel Velocity 1.50 ips (TV150), Dwell time .40 seconds (DW40), Clearance value .060” (CL240) and cut depth .010” (CD40).

;IN;ST20;TV150;PU;PA0,0;ZA0;SP1;R1;CL240;DW40;CD40;R1;SD130;PA4656,4000;ZC;ZD;PD4656,4000;PD4656,8000;PD7332,8000;ZU;PA8668,4000;ZD;PD8668,4000;PD8668,8000;PD11344,8000;ZU;R0;ZA0;PA0,0;SP0;

Documents

2014 OPERATING MANUAL - · 2019-06-10 · 2014 OPERATING MANUAL for the Quest Engraver 1824 & 2448 Quality One Engravers, INC 9749 Crescent Center Dr., Unit 202 Rancho Cucamonga,