V-6 PCI Users Guide.pdf

LUXEL V-6CTP

PCI USERS GUIDE

6800149003

FUJIFILM Electronic Imaging Ltd.Fuji film HouseBoundary Way

Hemel HempsteadHertfordshire HP2 7RH

England

Tel.: 01442 213440Tax: 01442 343432

Registered Number: 3244452

PRELIMINARIES

IMPORTANT: Fujifilm products are so designed and constructed as to be safe without risk to health when properly used (in accordance with the supplied documentation) and when the safety precautions contained in this document are fully observed.

WARNING: All precautions mentioned in this document must be strictly observed at all times. Personnel must read the contents of any documentation supplied and used with this product BEFORE commencing any work with equipment described in this document.

NOTE: Measured noise level for this product is less than 65 dBa.

CAUTION: FUJIFILM Electronic Imaging Limited cannot be held responsible for any loss or damage to customers data by unauthorised third parties accessing the system. In the event that Fujifilm becomes aware of any computer virus which will or is likely to affect the system it will take reasonable steps to bring this to the attention of customers but advises customers to take their own precautions against unauthorised access.

TRADEMARKS and COPYRIGHT: Fuji and Fujifilm are trademarks of Fuji Photo Film Co., Ltd that may be registered in certain jurisdictions; Luxel, Celix, FineTrak, DoubleProof, Fi-neScan, Celsis, C-dot, C-Scan, Quattro, Lanovia, ColourKit and Celebrant are trademarks of FUJIFILM Electronic Imaging Ltd that may be registered in certain jurisdictions; Win-dows and Windows NT are trademarks of Microsoft Corporation that may be registered in certain jurisdictions; All other company names, products or brand names are trade-marks of their respective holders.

LICENCE NOTE: A modified version of the eCos operating system (under GNU General Pub-lic Licence) is used with this product. This version is freely available from the FFEI (UK) FTP site (ftp.ffei.co.uk) in the directory /pub/VsixExpose/ecos which holds three files: Re-adme,txt, ecos_v1.tgz and ecos_v2.tgz.

FUJIFILM Notice to End Users: This product contains both proprietary software of Fujifilm and of third parties. Terms applicable to the use of Fujifilm software are displayedupon loading of software. These terms are deemed accepted if the user proceeds to use software beyond this display.

The proprietors of third party software are Adobe and Microsoft. Terms applicable to the use of third party software are displayed uponloading of software. These terms are deemed accepted if the user proceeds to use software beyond this display. By accepting those terms user enters into a licence with the third party proprietor and its the respon-sibility of the user to be aware of any changes to such terms. User will indemnify Fujifilm against any loss suffered by Fujifilm as a result of a breach of third party terms by user.

LUXEL V-6 CTP

Electromagnetic Compatibility Notice - USAThis equipment has been tested and found to be compliant with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio fre-quency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at their own expense.

Electromagnetic Compatibility Notice - EuropeThis product has been found to satisfy the Class A limits for a radio interface of informa-tion technology equipment. Class A equipment is intended for use in a light industrial or commercial environment for which the 30 metre protection distance is used. Operation of this equipment in a domestic or residential environment may result in interference to oth-er equipment, in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at their own expense. In some countries this equipment may be subject to restrictions on its use. Where applicable the user should inform the relevant local authority that Class A Informa-tion Technology Equipment has been taken into service.

This equipment may also be susceptible to strong electromagnetic fields and should not be sited close to high power radio transmitters or radio installations. If the intended site of operation is prone to electromagnetic disturbances due to lightening strikes, additional precautions should be taken to protect the equipment from the resulting electromagnetic disturbance. Typical examples for the intended environment of this equipment would in-clude:

business premises, for example, offices, banks, etc. retail outlets, for example, shops, supermarkets, etc. light industrial locations, for example, workshops, service centres, etc.

Locations which are characterised by being supplied directly at low voltage from the pub-lic mains are considered to be residential, commercial or light industrial.

This equipment conforms to the requirements of EC directives:

73/23/EEC - Low Voltage Directive 89/336/EEC - EMC Directive.

PRELIMINARIES

About this GuideThank you for purchasing a Luxel V-6 platesetter from FUJIFILM Electronic Imag-ing Ltd.

This Guide is used to operate the PCI (personal computer interface) application which provides you with the main method of controlling the platesetter directly from the same PC running the RIP.

If you have an optional MMI console fitted, then this Guide is used alongside the MMI Users Guide.

More information on how to load plates and select PCI options is in the Getting Started Guide.

To ensure the system is operated reliably and safely, refer to the Users Safety Guide.

LUXEL V-6 CTP

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Chapter 1 Introducing the Luxel V-6 PCI

Introducing the Luxel V-6 System........................................................ 1-1Luxel V-6 Features ..................................................................................... 1-2

Luxel V-6 Workflow .................................................................................. 1-3

Introducing the Luxel V-6 Equipment ............................................... 1-4Luxel V-6 Site Configuration.................................................................. 1-4

Luxel V-6 System Variants....................................................................... 1-5

Media Handling ......................................................................................... 1-9

Chapter 2 Using the PC Interface

Introducing PCI Menu Pages .................................................................. 2-1Introducing PCI Buttons and Icons ...................................................... 2-2

Looking at the RUN and PAUSE Menus ............................................. 2-3

RUN Mode Menu .................................................................................. 2-4RUN Mode Icons .................................................................................. 2-5RUN Mode Buttons ............................................................................. 2-7

PAUSE Mode Menu .............................................................................. 2-8

Operating with the PCI Menu ............................................................... 2-14How to Switch On and Launch PCI ...................................................... 2-14

Switch On the Engine .......................................................................... 2-14Launch the LuxelServer ....................................................................... 2-15Launch the PCI ....................................................................................... 2-16

How to Detect PCI-MMI Locking .......................................................... 2-18

How to Switch Off the System .............................................................. 2-19

How to Set Preferences ........................................................................... 2-21

PRELIMINARIES

Setting General Preferences ..............................................................2-21How to Create and Edit New Media....................................................2-23

Create a Media Name ..........................................................................2-24Edit a Media Name ...............................................................................2-25Delete a Media Name ..........................................................................2-25Create a Media Type ............................................................................2-26Edit a Media Type..................................................................................2-27Delete a Media Type ............................................................................2-28

How to Select Cassettes and Media (Manual-Loading) ................2-29

How to Change Cassettes and Media (Auto-Loading) ..................2-32

How to Calibrate Laser Exposure..........................................................2-36

Exposure Calibration ............................................................................2-38Edit Exposure: .........................................................................................2-39Exposure Information ..........................................................................2-40

How to Use Media Tools..........................................................................2-40

Manual-Loading System ......................................................................2-40Auto-Loading System ...........................................................................2-43

How to Operate with the RIP.................................................................2-44

How to Operate with the Processor ...................................................2-45

How to Obtain System Information ...................................................2-46

Engine Info .............................................................................................2-46 About Machine ...................................................................................2-47 Licence Options Installed ..................................................................2-47 Open Online Manual .........................................................................2-48 Save Elog File.......................................................................................2-49

Media Info ..............................................................................................2-50How to Empty the Interleaf Bin ............................................................2-51

How to Load Small Plates (Option) ......................................................2-52

LUXEL V-6 CTP

Chapter 3 Maintaining the Luxel V-6

Introducing Luxel V-6 Maintenance ................................................... 3-1

Starting the Scheduled Tasks ................................................................. 3-2Clean the Platesetter External Panels................................................. 3-2

Clean the Platesetter Interior ................................................................ 3-3

Clean Engine Drum .............................................................................. 3-3Clean Autoloader Interior.................................................................. 3-3Clean Cassette Interior ........................................................................ 3-3

Starting PCI Run-Time Tasks ................................................................... 3-4Manage the Job Queue........................................................................... 3-5

Clean the Spinner Mirror ........................................................................ 3-6

Empty the Chad Tray (Punch Option Only) ...................................... 3-10

Manage the Licence Options ................................................................. 3-11

Enter New Licence Key........................................................................ 3-11Review Licence Options ...................................................................... 3-12

Create/Edit Media Names and Types .................................................. 3-13

Chapter 4 Troubleshooting the Luxel V-6

PCI Error Handling ...................................................................................... 4-1

Understanding Errors ................................................................................ 4-2

Error Reports.................................................................................................. 4-3The Error Handling Page......................................................................... 4-3

Error Report Page ...................................................................................... 4-4

Error Groups ................................................................................................ 4-6

Error Codes .................................................................................................. 4-6

Recovering from Errors............................................................................. 4-8

Optics Errors ................................................................................................ 4-8

PRELIMINARIES

Traverse Errors.............................................................................................4-11

Spinner Errors ..............................................................................................4-12

Environmental Errors ................................................................................4-12

Input Data Path Errors..............................................................................4-14

Output Data Path Errors ..........................................................................4-16

Processor Errors ..........................................................................................4-16

Diagnostic Errors ........................................................................................4-17

Media Control Errors ...............................................................................4-18

Input Platen Errors....................................................................................4-19

Input Conveyor Errors...............................................................................4-20

Drum Errors ..................................................................................................4-20

Output Conveyor Errors..........................................................................4-22

System Errors ..............................................................................................4-25

Autoloader Errors.......................................................................................4-26

Using Diagnostic Tools ..............................................................................4-29 How to Run Self-Tests..............................................................................4-29

How to Expose Stock Images .................................................................4-31

How to Create/Save/Delete Error Logs................................................4-32

Create an Error Log...............................................................................4-32Save an Error Log...................................................................................4-33

Chapter 5 Luxel V-6 Product Data

Media Data......................................................................................................5-1Media Types .................................................................................................5-1Max/Min Plate Size and Imaging ..........................................................5-1

Laser Light and Safelight Data ..............................................................5-4

Media Thickness..........................................................................................5-4Output Data .................................................................................................5-4

LUXEL V-6 CTP

Dot Types and Shapes ......................................................................... 5-4Screen Options ....................................................................................... 5-5Resolution and Spot Sizes .................................................................. 5-5

Platesetter Data............................................................................................ 5-6Electrical Data ............................................................................................. 5-6Safety Isolator ............................................................................................. 5-6

Punch Options ............................................................................................ 5-6

Platesetter Environment..................................................................... 5-6

Chapter 6 Using the Status Panel

Introducing the Status Panel ................................................................. 6-1

Status Panel and System States............................................................. 6-3

Status Panel and Loading ........................................................................ 6-5

Chapter 7 Options and Updates

Small Plate Option ...................................................................................... 7-1How to Load Small Plates ....................................................................... 7-1

Using LuxelServer ........................................................................................ 7-3Launch the LuxelServer ........................................................................... 7-3

Reviewing Licence Options ..................................................................... 7-4Review Licence Options........................................................................... 7-4

How to Calibrate Laser Exposure......................................................... 7-5Exposure Calibration............................................................................ 7-7Edit Exposure:......................................................................................... 7-8Exposure Information.......................................................................... 7-9

PRELIMINARIES

INTRODUCING THE LUXEL V-6 PCI

1.1 Introducing the Luxel V-6 SystemThe Luxel V-6 belongs to a family of four-page B2 computer-to-plate (CTP) systems for imaging. It operates as a single-laser machine that exposes to aluminium plates. Jobs are downloaded from a remote RIP server to an engine where they are exposed, punched (if required) and developed by an online chemical processor (semi- and fully-automatic variants only).

Job image data is sent directly across a FireWire bus to the engine which includes the main electronic and optical modules. While exposing images to plate, the engine continues to receive new jobs from the RIP.

User control of the platesetter output is from three possible interfaces:

PC Interface (PCI): this is displayed as a browser set of menu pages on the RIP PC that is a standard window for all V-6 systems. On a fully-automatic system, indirect PCI control of the engine allows the user to continue operating the RIP during a continuous job session.

This chapter introduces the Luxel V-6 platesetter system and describes its main modules

Introducing the Luxel V-6 System.............................................................. 1-1Introducing the Luxel V-6 Equipment........................................................ 1-4Before using this Guide, work through the Tutorial in the Getting Started Guide which shows how to start the system, load plates, create media, select media, expose a plate and shutdown.

1-2 INTRODUCING THE LUXEL V-6 PCI

Information about PCI menus, system maintenance and troubleshooting is in this Guide.

Man Machine Interface (MMI): this is an optional touch pad that provides direct control of the engine using a set of menu screens.

Information about this interface is in a separate MMI Users Guide supplied with the option.

Status Panel: if an MMI console is not fitted, the engine will have a status panel of a single LED and bleeper indicating if jobs are running normally or the engine requires attention.

Information about using the status panel is in Chapter 6.

1.1.1 Luxel V-6 FeaturesSome of the features offered on the V-6 are:

RIP Interface Features:

A FireWire bus between the RIP server and the engine for passing RIP image data.

Automatic downloading of jobs to the engine from a RIP queue of jobs held on the PC.

Support for Valiano workflows. Use with RIPs, such as, Celebrant, Rampage and other RIPs via

Gateway.

Platesetter Features:

Comprehensive diagnostic and error handling information displayed on the PCI or MMI.

A Manual Load Slot (MLS) option for plates above size 350 mm x 350 mm (auto-loading machines only).

Availability of machine upgrades and options from a PCI licensing interface.

Media Features:

Automatic plate selection for jobs from up to five cassettes selected from the RIP server (PCI) or the engine (MMI).

Wide range of media sizes supported.

LUXEL V-6 CTP 1-3 Ability to create media names for custom jobs.Chapter 5 describes useful media, output and platesetter product data for the operator.

1.1.2 Luxel V-6 WorkflowA typical workflow of jobs from a desktop publishing source to the platesetter is illustrated in Figure 1.1 on page 1-3.

Figure 1.1 Typical Luxel V-6 workflow

Operator control of the job workflow is from the PCI (or MMI) interface to:

troubleshoot machine errors respond to scheduled maintenance tasks set laser exposure levels for all resolutions graphically view the current status of the job.

PROCESSED JOB

JOB IMAGESPCI/RIP PC

RIPPED JOBIMAGES

PLATES FROMPLATEN

OR CASSETTE

ENGINEPROCESSOR

EXPOSED AND PUNCHED* JOBS

ON PLATE

JOBS HELD INQUEUE

DTP NETWORKS

* PUNCH OPTION FITTEDThe engine receives jobs from the RIP queue and images them in


the order they are sent. Imaging output is continuous once you have loaded a single plate on a manual or semi-automatic machine.

The platesetter and RIP application work in unison using a set of plate types and sizes specified for the cassette database by the operator. Your RIP PC holds current database information on each cassette that includes plate type, thickness and size. These details are created and edited by the operator from the PCI application when different plate types are added for new jobs.

1.2 Introducing the Luxel V-6 Equipment

1.2.1 Luxel V-6 Site ConfigurationThe V-6 operates as a system of linked modules that are configured during installation for maximum job output.

A typical V-6 CTP configuration is illustrated in Figure 1.2 on page 1-5.

Your Luxel V-6 configuration allows the PC operator to manage the job workflow and remotely control plate imaging.

1. Desktop application-to-RIP/PCI PC: job images are networked to the RIP PC, typically across an Ethernet link.

2. RIP/PCI PC-to Engine: RIPed image and PCI control data is passed to the engine across a FireWire link.

3. Engine-to-RIP/PCI PC: an additional RS232 cable bus passes diagnostic data to the PC for review by the service engineer and operator.

4. Engine to Processor (semi- and fully-automatic): an RS232 bus passes status commands between the two units to maximise the workflow.

LUXEL V-6 CTP 1-5

Figure 1.2 Typical V-6 configuration: manual/semi-automatic

1.2.2 Luxel V-6 System VariantsLuxel V-6 systems are supplied as three possible variants:

1. Manual: a single plate is loaded on the engine platen by the operator after removing the interleaf sheet. The imaged plate is then collected by the operator from the engine output. For this system, plate loading and collection is carried out under

PROCESSOR COMMS

PCI/RIP SOFTWARE

DIAGNOSTICDATA (RS232)

IMAGE DATA/ENGINE CONTROL (FIREWIRE)

ENGINE

(ETHERNET/TCP/IP)

IMAGES FROM DESKTOP SYSTEMS*

PCI/RIP PC

NOTE: STACKERNOT SHOWN

PLATEPROCESSOR

*SEE YOUR RIP USERS GUIDE/PRE-INSTALLATION MANUALsafelight conditions.


The platen has two guides for:

A) centering the plate on the machine, and

B) pushing the plate into the drum.

Both sets of guides automatically adjust to the correct position for the job before the plate is loaded.

Figure 1.3 The Luxel V-6 platesetter manual variant

.

Figure 1.4 The Luxel V-6 platesetter semi-automatic variant

EDIT MEDIA TYPE

ENGINEMMI CONSOLE

PLATEN

USER ACCESS DOOR

PROCESSOR

LUXEL V-6 CTP 1-72. Semi-Automatic: a single plate is loaded on the engine platen

by the operator after removing the interleaf sheet. The plate is then automatically passed to an online processor. For this system, only plate loading is carried out under safelight conditions

3. Fully-Automatic: multiple plates are loaded directly into the engine through an autoloading cassette, the loader removes the interleaf sheet and places it in the installed interleaf bin. The imaged plate is then automatically passed to an online processor.

.

Figure 1.5 The Luxel V-6 platesetter fully-automatic variant

NOTE: It is possible to upgrade your existing manual or semi-automatic platesetter to the fully automatic variant.

In addition, your platesetter system will include one or more of the following modules: Engine: this receives RIPed job data and converts it to laser

beam for plate imaging. Plates are registered and conformed in the drum by vacuum before imaging. They are punched

AUTOLOADER

TROLLEY/CASSETTEafter imaging (if the punch is fitted).


Laser beam imaging is reflected from a spinner, fixed to a traverse carriage, that moves across the drum and plate. The beam is directed towards the spinner mirror that rotates at high speed to write image data onto the plate. Although the platesetter automatically compensates for exposure at various periods the operator will need to clean the mirror surface to maintain quality imaging.

Processor (semi- and fully-automatic only): this automatically bakes, washes, develops, rinses, gums and dries the imaged plate.

Your processor has separate documentation (User Guide, etc.) explaining how to operate and maintain the unit.

Plate Stacker (semi- and fully-automatic only): an optional stacker accepts plates from the processor allowing transport to the next production stage.

Figure 1.6 Stacker

A stacker has separate documentation explaining how to operate and maintain the unit.

Air Filter Unit (PAT 506id): this provides purified air to the engine drum. Your Luxel distributor will explain the schedule for replacing the filters over the working life of the machine.

CAUTION: This unit is positioned correctly when the platesetter is

installed. Do not change its location.

LUXEL V-6 CTP 1-9

Figure 1.7 PAT

Vacuum pump: vacuum is switched on to conform the plate against the drum surface during imaging.

CAUTION: Make sure the pump is ALWAYS positioned with the exhaust facing away from the PAT.

Figure 1.8 Vacuum pump

1.2.3 Media Handling

CAUTION: Before plates are loaded into the cassette on a fully-automatic system they must be acclimatised to the same environment conditions as the platesetter room for at least 12 hours.

Storing plates in a cold room just before loading into a warm machine environment can cause condensation that dampens the

PAT AIR FILTER

EXHAUSTinterleaf paper sheets making them more difficult to handle.

USING THE PC INTERFACE

2.1 Introducing PCI Menu PagesCommunication between the operator and the engine are across a FireWire bus linked to the RIP PC and a separate PC Interface (PCI) application running on the RIP PC.

PCI menus are displayed as a set of Web-type browser pages, each with graphic buttons and icons that allow the operator to view job progress, machine status and select available functions with all their options.

Navigating PCI menus is very straightforward, easy to learn and operate. Once the platesetter is switched on, job image data is automatically downloaded to the engine, buffered and exposed in a queue sequence of First In First Out as jobs sent from the RIP.

For all Luxel machines, the user has complete control of the workflow. While a queue of jobs are downloading, plates are fed into the drum, imaged and ejected in queue order. At any stage the operator can pause, stop and restart the engine to change media or complete a maintenance task.

This chapter introduces the PCI menus with the main options for running and pausing the platesetter engine. Before starting customer jobs, refer to the Luxel V-6 Getting Started Guide and make sure you are familiar with how to switch the system on/off, load plates and select the correct plate types from the PCI.

Introducing PCI Menu Pages ......................................................................2-1Operating with the PCI Menu ....................................................................2-14

2-2 USING THE PC INTERFACE

2.1.1 Introducing PCI Buttons and IconsAn example page (Pause mode) is shown in Figure 2.1 on page 2-2 below with the main type of buttons and icons running on PCI:

Figure 2.1 Typical PCI screen: Pause mode (manual-loading)

Function Buttons: these buttons on a keypad allow you to open an available function with its own set of options. For instance, the screen above shows a typical PAUSE mode screen allowing you to select the diagnostic function.

Option Buttons: You can select options depending on the mode and function previously selected. For instance, select Run Diagnostics to open the self-tests.

NOTE: Buttons highlighted in orange show the currently active functions and options.

Confirm Buttons: Click on these buttons to start the selected option, or press Return to access the previous page.

OPTION GRAPHIC (PAUSE MODE)

FUNCTION BUTTON (PAUSE MODE)

MINIMISE BUTTON

EXPOSE PROGRESS

KEYPAD

FUNCTION BUTTON (DIAGNOSTICS)

SHUTDOWN BUTTON

RETURN CONFIRM

LUXEL V-6 CTP 2-3To complete an operation on a page menu, buttons are normally selected in the following sequence:

Some other buttons available on the keypad panel are:

Minimise Button: This button minimises the PCI application to the PC taskbar, and leaves a floating minimised window on the desktop.

Shutdown Button: This button starts the Engine Shutdown sequence before the machine is switched off.

Return Button: This button returns the interface to the previ-ously selected page.

2.1.2 Looking at the RUN and PAUSE MenusPCI menus operate in two modes:

1. RUN: this is where the platesetter is online and exposing, or ready to expose, and is also receiving images from the queue on the RIP.

See Section 2.1.2.1 on page 2-4 and also Section 2.1.2.2 on page 2-8.

2. PAUSE: this is where the user has temporarily stopped exposing, for instance, to change a cassette. The platesetter will continue to download until a maximum of 3 jobs are on the engine for exposing.

See Section 2.1.2.2 on page 2-8.

1. Function

2. Option

3. Confirm.

MAXIMISE BUTTON


2.1.2.1 RUN Mode MenuA RUN page, shown in Figure 2.2 on page 2-4 (manual-loading) and Figure 2.3 on page 2-5 (auto-loading), displays details of the current exposing job and the next job to be downloaded from the RIP.

As jobs are exposed, the window continually displays an indication of their progress, and whether more jobs are being downloaded to the queue.

During a job run, the progress of plates through the platesetter media path is automated and displayed as a sequence of animated icons (for advancing and ejecting the plate) on the RUN display.

In addition, there are other icons that appear on the RUN display to inform the operator about the status of the job flow:

Figure 2.2 RUN mode: manual-loading

ENGINEERINGDIAGNOSTICS

TIME TO END CURRENT EXPOSE

NEXT JOB NUMBER/SEPARATION ID

ANIMATED ICON

CURRENT JOB NUMBER/ SEPARATION ID

IMAGE DOWNLOADING/JOBS IN QUEUE

ENGINE INFO

MEDIA INFO

PAUSE MODE

LUXEL V-6 CTP 2-5

Figure 2.3 RUN mode: auto-loading

2.1.2.1.1 RUN Mode IconsCurrent Job Number/Separation ID:

The RIP number and separation ID currently being exposed. This number is identical to the job sent from the RIP.

Image Downloading/Jobs in Queue:

The job currently downloading and the number of jobs in the queue.

A spinning disk indicates that RIP images are currently being downloaded to the Engine.

A static disk indicates when the downloading of images is complete.

Exposure Progress:

The progress of the current job now being exposed. This is the first indication that the job has started imaging. The bar denotes the image expose progress.

ENGINEERINGDIAGNOSTICS

TIME TO END CURRENT EXPOSE

SHEETS IN BIN

RUN MODE

CURRENT JOB NUMBER/ SEPARATION ID

IMAGE DOWNLOADING/JOBS IN QUEUE

EXPOSE PROGRESS

PLATES INCASSETTE

ENGINE INFO

MEDIA INFO

PAUSE MODE

CASSETTE ID

ANIMATED PLATE VIEW


Next Job Type and Size:

Gives the type of plate required for the next job and its size metric (mm) or imperial (in)

Engineering Diagnostics:

Select to open Engineering Diagnostics mode to launch the Engineering Diagnostics window. This option is only available to service engineers with a password.

Time to End Current Exposure:

The remaining time in minutes and seconds for the expose job to be completed.

Next Job Number/Separation ID:

The RIP number and separation of the next job to be exposed.

Next Job Orientation:

Check the icon (and the text description above) for information on the size and orientation of the next job plate.

Cassette ID (Auto-loading):

The cassette installed on the autoloader.

Plates in Cassette (Auto-loading):

Indicates the remaining number of plates in the cassette.

Sheets in Bin (Auto-loading):

Indicates the current number of interleaf sheets in the autoloader bin.

Animated Plate View:

Shows the progress of the job as a green plate advancing through the engine.

0:32

LANDSCAPE LARGE:The next job is large landscape size

PORTRAIT SMALL:The next job is small portrait size

LUXEL V-6 CTP 2-7

2.1.2.1.2 RUN Mode ButtonsRUN Mode:

Select this function to open the RUN mode menus.

Engine Info:

Select this function to reveal information about the machine settings and other information options:

Current preferences/software modules: this shows the preferences selected and the downloaded software modules.

Licence options: the options currently installed. Online manual: this allows the current Luxel V-6 PCI Users

Guide to be opened in PDF format.

Save Log File: this provides a facility to save an Error Log File to a local folder for forwarding to a service engineer, if requested.

See also Section 2.2.12 on page 2-46.

Media Info:

Select this function to reveal a full screen showing information on the next media to be loaded.

PAUSE Mode:

Click on PAUSE to temporarily halt the expose session. The Pause menu appears after the current job has finished exposing.

A small Wait Timer icon is displayed until the job is ejected. All other downloaded jobs will remain in the queue ready for exposing in RUN mode.

PLATE NOT IN ENGINE PLATE IN ENGINE


2.1.2.2 PAUSE Mode MenuPAUSE mode shows options that apply while the platesetter is not exposing plates but RIP data is still being downloaded. From here you can:

select new media run media tools to load and eject a single plate obtain current media and engine information select maintenance options run diagnostics run exposure calibration set preferences.A typical PAUSE menu page (Media Tools) appears as:

Figure 2.4 PAUSE menu: Media Tools (manual-loading)

A keypad opens a set of PAUSE functions available for the platesetter variant with the currently active function highlighted.

Figure 2.5 on page 2-9 below shows the manual and semi-automatic PAUSE keypad and their functions:

MEDIA TOOLS

RETURN

EDIT MEDIA TYPE

LOAD MEDIA

LUXEL V-6 CTP 2-9

Figure 2.5 PAUSE keypad: manual-loading

Figure 2.6 PAUSE keypad: auto-loading

Empty Interleaf Bin:

Use the method shown in Section 2.2.13 on page 2-51 to empty the interleaf bin on an autoloader.

Select Media:

Opens a menu allowing you to select the media types defined for the RIP.

Exposure Calibration:

An Exposure Calibration utility allows you to calibrate to a predefined exposure level at the drum surface for all eight

MEDIA TOOLS

ENGINE INFO

RUN MODE

MEDIA INFO

RUN DIAGNOSTICS

SELECT MEDIA

EXPOSURE CALIBRATION

MAINTENANCE

SET PREFERENCES

PAUSE MODE

CHANGE CASSETTE

EMPTY INTERLEAF BINENGINE INFO

RUN MODE

MEDIA INFO

RUN DIAGNOSTICS

MAINTENANCE

SET PREFERENCES

PAUSE MODE

MEDIA TOOLS

EXPOSURURECALIBRATIONresolutions. After the resolution exposure levels are set their


values are indicated on the page.

NOTE: The exposure power level for the plate type you are using should not be changed unless specified by the plate supplier.

See Section 2.2.8 on page 2-36 for more details about Exposure Calibration.

For various reasons you could find the exposure power level is inadequate for quality imaging - for example, a Fuji LP-NV plate has an exposure level of 50.

Maintenance:

Click on the Maintenance function to open the following options:

manage the job queue clean the spinner empty the interleaf bin empty the chad tray (if a punch is fitted) open licence manager (to add a new licence) review licence options (to display the current licence

Table 2.1 Exposure Calibration options

Button Action

START CALIBRATION:This button allows you to run the exposure calibration.

EDIT EXPOSURE:This button allows you to set a new exposure calibration value.

EXPOSURE INFORMATION:This button provides information on the current Neutral Density settings for each resolution.

EXPOSURE CALIBRATIONoptions)

LUXEL V-6 CTP 2-11 create or edit media for the list.

Table 2.2 Maintenance options

Button Action

MANAGE JOB QUEUE:This button allows you to manage the job queue where you can delete jobs on the engine.

CLEAN SPINNER MIRROR:This button starts the facility to clean the spinner mirror.

EMPTY CHAD TRAY (punch option fitted):This button is used to access and empty the chad tray (if fitted for a punch).

ENTER NEW LICENCE KEY:This button allows you to create new licences.

REVIEW LICENCE OPTIONS:This button opens the page where you can view currently installed licence options.

CREATE / EDIT MEDIA:This button allows you to create and edit media names.

CREATE/EDIT MEDIA TYPE:This button allows you to create and edit media media type names.

MAINTENANCESee Section 3.1 on page 3-1 for more details about Maintenance


procedures.

Set Preferences:

Click on Set Preferences to select preferences for units of measurement, bleeper On/Off, method of loading next media type.

See Section 2.2.4 on page 2-21 for more details.

Media Tools:

Select this function to load and eject plates without having to expose a job. You would normally use Media Tools to check that you have the correct media type and size.

See Section 2.2.9 on page 2-40 for more details.

Engine Info:

This provides you with information about the current state of your engine in terms of software installed and which preferences you have chosen. You can also view the licence options and serial number, open the online PCI Users Guide and save an error log for your engine.

Table 2.3 Engine Info options

Button Action

ENGINE INFORMATION:This button allows you to view machine information relating to your current platesetter.

REVIEW LICENCE OPTIONS:This button allows you to view currently installed licence options.

OPEN ONLINE MANUAL:This button launches the online PCI Users Guide in PDF format for the platesetter.

SAVE ERROR LOG:This button allows you to save an error log file to a specified folder on the PC.

ENGINE INFO

LUXEL V-6 CTP 2-13See Section 2.2.12.1 on page 2-46 for more details.

Media Info:

This option shows you the current type of media selected.

See Section 2.2.12.2 on page 2-50 for more details.

Run Diagnostics:

This function offers several options that allow you to confirm if the machine is operating correctly for the expected image quality. It opens a set of diagnostic tools that provide feedback about the machine.

From the Run Diagnostics menu you can:

run auto self-tests on the system electronics expose stock images create a snapshot log of the current machine status save an error log file to a defined folder launch the online Users Guide.

Table 2.4 Run Diagnostics options

Button Action

RUN DIAGNOSTICS:This button runs the self-test diagnostics for the engine hardware.

EXPOSE STOCK IMAGE:This button allows you to select from a set of stock images on the PC for checking image quality.

OPEN ONLINE MANUAL:This buttons allows you to open and view the online Users Guide for the platesetter.

RUN DIAGNOSTICS


2.2 Operating with the PCI Menu

2.2.1 How to Switch On and Launch PCIThe engine and RIP/PCI applications on the PC operate together as the Luxel V-6 platesetter system. To ensure that the equipment initialises correctly and images are able to download from the RIP to the engine, use the following switch ON sequence:

1. Processor (see the User's Guide supplied by the manufacturer).

2. PAT (Integrated Air Purifier - see the User's Guide supplied by the manufacturer).

NOTE: The PAT is only powered OFF when the filters are replaced.

3. PC and V-6 Server.

4. Engine with autoloader (see Section 2.2.1.1 on page 2-14).

5. PCI application (see Section 2.2.1.2 on page 2-15).

6. RIP application (see your RIP Operators Manual and the documentation supplied with the PC).

You can start to expose jobs immediately after switching on the platesetter system and the PCI.

2.2.1.1 Switch On the EngineThis switches on the engine, the autoloader (if installed) and the vacuum pump.

CREATE LOG:This button allows you to create a snapshot error log. of the system

SAVE ERROR LOG:This button allows you to save an error log to a specified folder on the PC.

Table 2.4 Run Diagnostics options (Continued)

Button Action1. Check that the processor, PAT and PC are switched on.

LUXEL V-6 CTP 2-152. Locate the Power On/Off switch at the rear of the engine (see

Figure 2.7 on page 2-15).

Figure 2.7 switch engine power on/off

2.2.1.2 Launch the LuxelServer1. LuxelServer, which operates as a web server for PCI, automatically

launches on start-up of the PC. See Section 2.2.1 on page 2-14.

The PC System Tray shows the LuxelServer Manager as a minimised icon:

2. Normally, you would not need to open or view the Manager during job imaging.

POWER OFF

POWER ON


If, however, you need to check the Connection status to the engine, double-click on the LuxelServer Manager icon to obtain:

The message shows that the server is either Online or a Device not Attached. You can return the engine to Online by switching on the engine or, for a more complex failure, checking the FireWire cable connection to the engine.

2.2.1.3 Launch the PCI1. Open the PCI application from:

Start Programs V-6 Utils V-6 PCI2. A Boot page is displayed with separate icons representing each of

the main system modules during system initialisation:

Figure 2.8 Boot page (auto-loading)

NOTE: The system modules shown depend on the installed Luxel V-6 variant.

SYSTEM MODULES

PROCESSOR

SYSTEM WAITTIMER

LUXEL V-6 CTP 2-17

3. As each module completes its initialisation and self-test routines, the icons on the Boot page turn from grey to bold.

4. If the boot fails it could be due to an error, such as:

Table 2.5 Boot page icons

Icon Description

SYSTEM WAIT TIMER:This icon is active while the system functions initialise.

AUTOLOADER: (fully-automatic only)This icon appears if the system is fully-automatic.

OPTICS MODULE: This icon is greyed out during the optics function load and turns bold when the function has been successfully initialised.

TRAVERSE MODULE:This icon is greyed out during the traverse function load and turns bold when the function has been successfully initialised.

INPUT DRUM MODULE:This icon is greyed out during the drum function load and turns bold when the function has been successfully initialised.

OUTPUT DRUM MODULE:This icon is greyed out during the output function load and turns bold when the function has been successfully initialised.

PROCESSOR NOT READY: (fully- and semi-automatic only)A Wait Timer indicates the processor is currently not ready to receive imaged plates. This remains in grey if the processor is taking extra time to respond, possibly because of a problem with chemicals or pre-heat temperature. Check the processor LCD to determine the cause and ensure the unit is ready before continuing.


Control Failure: One of the software modules shown above fails to load and its icon remains greyed-out.

Cover Open: An interlocked cover or door has been left open, for example, the user door on the engine. Close the door and the system will automatically reboot.

Processor Comms: The link between the engine and the processor is not working. Check that the link is enabled on the Preferences menu.

Fatal Error: An Error Code number provides more information on the problem, indicating the machine is unable to continue until the fault is rectified. You will find a description of fatal errors in Chapter 4.

NOTE: If you wish to prevent the machine from immediately imaging after booting, press the PAUSE button on the Boot page keypad. This will open the application in PAUSE mode.

5. After the system has successfully initialised, the RUN mode page appears.

6. The engine immediately starts to image the first downloaded job on the queue.

If you are starting the system for the first time, you may want to modify some of the machine preferences using information in Section 2.2.4 on page 2-21.

2.2.2 How to Detect PCI-MMI LockingIf your engine is also fitted with the MMI option, you will not be able to select:

PCI options when the MMI is in PAUSE mode. MMI options when the PCI is in PAUSE mode.This is to ensure that both interfaces cannot receive conflicting information at the same time. A locked interface is shown on the PCI and MMI displays as:

LUXEL V-6 CTP 2-19

If a Locked Interface icon appears on the PCI you can only operate the platesetter from the MMI.

To switch off the MMI lock you need to select RUN mode on the MMI.

2.2.3 How to Switch Off the SystemBefore switching off the engine at the mains on/off switch, the platesetter completes a controlled shutdown to ensure that the spinner slows to a stop, the last imaged plate ejects, and the traverse moves to a safe position.

Always use the correct shutdown sequence before switching off. If you omit to shutdown correctly, and switch on the system at a later stage, you may find there are plates in the engine that have not been ejected.

If the PCI is locked (see Section 2.2.2 on page 2-18) then you can either shutdown at the MMI or select RUN mode on the MMI to unlock the PCI.

1. If the platesetter is in RUN mode, select Pause to enter PAUSE mode. You will be presented with the following options:

LOCKED MMILOCKED PCI


Figure 2.9 Shutdown button

2. Click on the Shutdown button to display the Shutdown Wait page:

Figure 2.10 Shutdown Wait page

3. A Wait Timer icon appears as the spinner slows down, the current job download finishes and the current imaging job ejects.

4. Click on the Confirm button to complete the shutdown, or the Reset button to restart the engine.

Once Confirm has been selected, the system must be switched off using the power switch at the rear of the engine before it can be restarted.

NOTE: If you switch off the engine while the Image Downloading icon is still spinning, you will lose the RIP image currently being transferred.

SHUTDOWN (MANUAL/SEMI-AUTOMATIC)

CONFIRM

RESTART

RETURN

WAIT TIMER

LUXEL V-6 CTP 2-21If you wish to shut off the system immediately, by selecting Shutdown you can stop the last images from downloading. This is not recommended while you still have jobs transferring to the engine, as shown by the Image Downloading icon.

NOTE: You can press Return to cancel the shutdown and revert back to the PAUSE menu.

5. Once the controlled Shutdown procedure is complete, you will be presented with a Switch off icon, as shown in Figure 2.11 on page 2-21:

Figure 2.11 On/Off Switch

6. Switch off the engine. You do not need to power down the RIP PC at the same time.

2.2.4 How to Set Preferences

2.2.4.1 Setting General PreferencesMachine Preferences can be modified at any stage to suit the operator or type of job in progress. When using the engine for the first time it is wise to specify the general preferences suited to your needs.

While the system is paused, obtain the Preferences menu, by pressing Set Preferences.SET

PREFERENCES


Figure 2.12 Preferences menu: manual-loading

Set the preferences of your choice by clicking on the desired option which then changes colour to orange. Once you have specified all of your preferences click on the Confirm button.

Select Language:

Click the radio button for the required language and then confirm your selection by clicking on the Confirm button.

Table 2.6 Preference options

Option Description

UNITS OF MEASUREMENT:Select Imperial units in inches (in) or as Metric units in millimetres (mm) for the plate sizes

BLEEPER ON/OFF: (manual-loading only)Select ON to set the audio beeper alert. This turns the audio bleeper on or offSemi-automatic: warning the user that the plate has been left too long on the platen and fogging may occur.Manual: warning the user that the plate has been left too long on the platen or output and fogging may occur.

SELECT LANGUAGE

CONFIRM

UNITS OFMEASUREMENT

BLEEPER ON/OFF

AUTOLOAD

NEXT MEDIA SIZE

LUXEL V-6 CTP 2-23

2.2.5 How to Create and Edit New MediaDefault media names have already been entered into the PCI database list on your installed machine. If different media is required it can be created/edited from the PCI and read by the RIP for use on the Job Ticket, (or selected from the MMI as a cassette media choice).

The media name holds details about the plate type, size and thickness. As new media is added to the PCI list, each name (associated with a FFEI-supported plate type) appears on both the RIP and the MMI. In total, a PCI list can hold up to 32 media names.

Creating and editing new media allows you to specify plates of different sizes, types and thickness for jobs to be exposed. Using

PROCESSOR COMMS ENABLED/DISABLED: Select ENABLED to set the interface link between the processor and the engine. In this mode, a plate automatically passes to the processor when the last plate has passed the pre-wash.If the link is disabled then then the processor pre-heat setting for a new plate thickness has to be set manually.

AUTOLOAD ENABLED/DISABLED: (manual-loading only)Select ENABLED to load the plate automatically into the drum (after a three second delay) once it is positioned on the platen.Select DISABLED to delay the load until the Load Media button on the status panel has been pressed.

NEXT MEDIA SIZE: (manual-loading only)Select this preference in order to show small or large plate orientation icons for job information on the RUN page. This option hides the plate progress animation.

PRELOAD: (auto-loading only)Select this preference if you wish to increase production by allowing the system to advance a plate into the autoloader while the plate in the drum is being imaged. This option is only used when there is a long run of jobs using the same media. If you have to change cassettes during the job run, then disable Preload.

Table 2.6 Preference options (Continued)

Option Description


these Media Manager options you can also edit and delete media names for the required job or the plates physically available.

2.2.5.1 Create a Media NameTo create new media name proceed as follows:

1. Press Pause to display the PAUSE keypad and click on Maintenance to open the first page showing all the maintenance options.

2. Press the Create/Edit Media button to show:

Figure 2.13 Create Media Name page

3. Create a new media name as follows:

A) Enter a name for the media in the text dialog box (up to 19 alphanumeric characters with spaces).

B) Select the media type and thickness from the pull-down menus.

C) Select the negative or positive radio button.

D) Enter the plate width in the text dialog box (525, for example).

E) Enter the plate height in the text dialog box (459, for example).

F) Enter the plate quantity:

MEDIA NAMEMEDIA TYPETHICKNESSNEGATIVE /POSITIVE PLATE

MEDIA WIDTH

MEDIA HEIGHTPLATE QUANTITY

CONFIRMFor a manual-loading system, always enter a value of 1.

LUXEL V-6 CTP 2-25For an auto-loading system, enter the number of plates loaded on the installed cassette. This is the value that first appears on the Media Quantity icon when a new media pack is installed. You can always edit this value to the show the actual number of plates loaded.

4. Click on the Confirm button to create a new media name for the list.

2.2.5.2 Edit a Media NameYou can change details for a selected media name as follows:

1. Select Create/Edit Media and Edit Media.

2. Click on a media name from the list and select Confirm.

3. Set new values for plate height, width and cassette quantity in the edit page for the selected name.

4. Click on Confirm.

2.2.5.3 Delete a Media Name

NOTE: A media name for a plate already in a cassette cannot be deleted.

You can delete a media name from the list as follows:

1. Select Create/Edit Media and Delete Media.


3. Check the media name details before deleting.


EDIT MEDIA

MEDIA NAMES LIST EDIT MEDIA NAME


2.2.5.4 Create a Media Type Media type details from the plate packaging include:

plate manufacturer and type, for example, Fuji LP-NV plate thickness negative or positive.

Media types for a Luxel V-6 are recognised by the RIP calibration software and used for setting up print characterisations.

To create a new media type proceed as follows:

1. Press Pause to display the PAUSE keypad and click on Maintenance to open the first page showing all the maintenance options.

1. Press Create /Edit Media Type to open:

DELETEMEDIA

CONFIRM CONFIRM

MEDIA NAMES LIST DELETE MEDIA NAME

LUXEL V-6 CTP 2-27

Figure 2.14 Create Media Type page

2. Enter an appropriate media type up to 19 alphanumeric characters long.

3. Select the plate thickness.

4. Check the Negative box if the media is for negative printing.


2.2.5.5 Edit a Media TypeYou can change details for a selected media type as follows:

1. Select Create/Edit Media Type and Edit Media Type.


3. Edit the media type Name, Thickness and Negative setting.


CREATE MEDIA TYPE


2.2.5.6 Delete a Media Type

NOTE: A media type for a plate already in a cassette cannot be deleted.

You can delete a media type from the list as follows:

1. Select Create/Edit Media Type and Delete Media Type.

2. Click on a media type from the list and select Confirm.

3. Check the details of the media type before deleting.


MEDIA TYPES LIST EDIT MEDIA TYPE

EDIT MEDIA TYPE

MEDIA TYPES LIST EDIT MEDIA TYPE

DELETE MEDIA TYPE

CONFIRM CONFIRM

LUXEL V-6 CTP 2-29

2.2.6 How to Select Cassettes and Media (Manual-Loading)

Media details shown on the RIP, MMI and PCI for a manual and semi-automatic platesetter are stored on the PC as five separate system containers called 'cassettes' each with their own IDs 1 to 5. Figure 2.15 on page 2-29 and Figure 2.18 on page 2-31 show how media and cassettes are selected.

From the PCI (or MMI, if fitted), the operator highlights a cassette as active (online) and selects media from the created list, see Section 2.2.5 on page 2-23, for the plates available and the jobs being downloaded.

Each of the five cassettes displays a currently selected media name from the PCI media list. You can select a cassette ID as active and choose a new media name from the existing list of media.

Once the cassette media details (1 to 5) are chosen on the PCI, it is read by the RIP and, if selected, downloaded with the Job Ticket.

#3

#4

#2

20

45

60LPNV 762

#1

#5

33

90

LPNV 762

1

32

SELECT MEDIA NAME FOR CASSETTE

ENGINE WITH MMI

PCI/RIP ON PC

SELECT MEDIA NAME FORCASSETTE

SELECT CASSETTE ID AS ONLINE


PC WITH MEDIA DATABASE

JOB DATA

MEDIA NAMES LIST

CASETTE DETAILSFigure 2.15 Select cassettes and media: manual-loading


Select cassettes and media as follows:

1. Press Pause to display the PAUSE keypad and click on Select Media to open:

Figure 2.16 Select Cassette ID menu

2. Select a Cassette ID (black indicates the online cassette) showing the currently defined Media Name and click on the Confirm button to open the list of media names:

Figure 2.17 Select Media menu

CONFIRM

CASSETTE ID (WITH MEDIA NAME)ONLINE

CASSETTE ID

CONFIRM

MEDIA NAME

LUXEL V-6 CTP 2-313. Select a new media name and click on the Confirm button.

4. Alternatively, if you prefer to leave the cassette as empty then select the blank media name from the list and click on Confirm.

5. The page now reverts to the Select Cassette ID menu. If a blank media name has been selected then the active Cassette ID media shows as:

You can now select the next function from the PAUSE keypad.

6. Start loading plates using the method shown in the Luxel V-6 CTP Getting Started Guide.

7. When different or new media is required for the next job you can easily swap or create media for another cassette ID before selecting it for the Job Ticket.

ENTER NEW MEDIA DETAILS

MEDIA NAME CONFIRMED, NEW MEDIA ADDED TO LIST

SELECT ONLINE CASSETTE TO ADD NEW MEDIA TO

SELECTMEDIA

NEW MEDIAAPPEARS INCASSETTEFigure 2.18 Create New Media sequence: manual-loading


2.2.7 How to Change Cassettes and Media (Auto-Loading)

NOTE: Make sure the plates are acclimatised to platesetter room conditions for at least 12 hours before loading them into the cassette.

Media details shown on the RIP, MMI and PCI for a fully-automatic platesetter are stored for up to five separate cassettes each with their own IDs 1 to 5. Figure 2.19 on page 2-32 shows how media is selected.

From the PCI (or MMI, if fitted), the operator installs a cassette and selects a media name from the created list, see Section 2.2.5 on page 2-23, for the plates available and the jobs being downloaded.

Each of the five cassettes displays a currently selected media name from the PCI media list. You can select a cassette ID as active (online) and choose a new media name from the existing list of media.

Once the cassette media details (1 to 5) are chosen on the PCI, it is read by the RIP and, if selected, downloaded with the Job Ticket.

#3

#4

#2

20

45

60LPNV 762

#1

#5

33

90

LPNV 762

1

32

#2

ENGINE WITH MMI

SELECT MEDIA NAME


SELECT CASSETTE AS ONLINE

PCI/RIP ON PC

MEDIA NAMES LIST

SELECT MEDIA NAME

AUTOLOADER

CASSETTE ID #2

PC WITH MEDIA DATABASE

JOB DATA

CASSETTE DETAILSFigure 2.19 Change cassettes and media: auto loading

LUXEL V-6 CTP 2-33Change cassettes and media as follows:

1. Press Pause to display the PAUSE keypad and click on Change Cassette to open:

Figure 2.20 Change Cassette page

2. Click on Confirm and a Help image tells you to remove the empty cassette.

Pull back the cassette release latch on the trolley and pull out the empty cassette. The next Help image tells you to install a new cassette.

CHANGE CASSETTE

CONFIRM

PULL OUT EMPTY CASSETTE

PUSH IN FULLCASSETTE


Load the new cassette using the method in the Getting Started Guide to avoid plate or paper jams.

3. Push the cassette into the autoloader door until you can hear the latch lock.

4. Select Media opens as the next page:


5. Select a media name from the created list on the PCI and click on Confirm.

6. The next page, Edit Quantity, opens to allow you to modify the quantity of plates loaded into the cassette.

CONFIRM

SELECT MEDIA

LUXEL V-6 CTP 2-35

Figure 2.22 Edit Quantity

7. Before entering a new value, note that:

If the last Media Quantity value was at 0 before the cassette was reloaded, then the value automatically resets to the plate pack quantity last entered by the user. This value is likely to vary for different types, so refer to the packaging for details of the number of plates in a plate pack. A cassette is able to hold the maximum plate quantities of:

Current media details of a cassette are remembered if the cassette is retracted and then re-installed.

8. Enter a new plate quantity to modify the value shown on the Media Quantity icon, and press Confirm. Use the Delete key to erase unwanted values.

CONFIRM

DELETE

MEDIAQUANTITY

EDIT QUANTITY

Plate thickness (mm/gauge/inch) Maximum number of plates

0.15 / 6 / 0.005 120

0.20 / 8 / 0.007 100

0.24 / 10 / 0.009 60

0.30 / 12 / 0.010 60When different or new media is required for a new set of jobs


you can easily load and install a cassette with the required plates, then select a media name and quantity before choosing the cassette for the Job Ticket.

Figure 2.23 Create New Media sequence: auto-loading

2.2.8 How to Calibrate Laser ExposureExposure calibration is required on a regular basis to ensure your Luxel V-6 continues to produce high-quality output. It is run to compensate for loss of power in the optics due to aging or contamination. The recommendation is to calibrate every time the processor is cleaned or serviced. Linearisation should then be verified to ensure the %dots are correct.

During exposure calibration, the contamination on the spinner mirror is checked. If a warning is given, clean the spinner mirror. See Section 3.3.2 on page 3-6. When the system reboots, calibration automatically runs again to correct exposure.

The system is initially calibrated during site installation. A calibration value of 50 (on the MMI and PCI) corresponds to the correct exposure for LP-NV plates. This is only changed if a new plate type introduced and a request is made by your local service

ENTER NEW MEDIA DETAILS

MEDIA NAME CONFIRMED, NEW MEDIA ADDED TO LIST

CHANGE CASSETTE ID AND SELECT MEDIA NAME

EDIT MEDIA QUANTITY

NEW MEDIAAPPEARS FOR

CASSETTE IDcentre.

LUXEL V-6 CTP 2-37Before starting Exposure Calibration make sure the engine has finished imaging:

1. Click on Exposure Calibration in the PAUSE menu to obtain:

Figure 2.24 Exposure Calibration menu

An Exposure Value icon shows the current power as it images on the plate.

CAUTION: The Exposure Value is never edited or changed unless dif-ferent media to Fuji LP-NV is used or at the request of the supplier.

Available options for Exposure Calibration are:

EXPOSURE CALIBRATION

Table 2.7 Exposure Calibration options

Button Action START CALIBRATION:

Press and confirm to run a calibration sequence based on the current exposure level for each licenced resolution. Exposure calibration runs automatically at boot up after the spinner mirror has been cleaned.

EDIT EXPOSURE: Press and confirm to manually set a new exposure level for all resolutions. Use this option if the plate supplier recommends a change to exposure.

CONFIRM CALIBRATION

EXPOSURE VALUE


Once the level has been calibrated, click on the required button on the keypad for the next function.

2.2.8.1 Exposure Calibration1. Press Start Calibration and while a Wait Timer icon appears the

machine measures power levels at the drum for each licenced resolution before calculating optimum ND settings.

2. An ND Values page then appears showing:

a Pass icon against each resolution that has passed a Non-Fatal Error icon against the resolution that has

failed. This indicates that the resolution has reached the maximum power available.

Figure 2.25 ND Values page

EXPOSURE INFORMATION:Press and confirm to obtain the ND (Neutral Density) Values page showing the ND values for all 8 resolutions. Use this option if you need to check the results of a calibration for a working resolution.

Table 2.7 Exposure Calibration options (Continued)

Button Action

PASSED

FAILED

ND VALUE

RESOLUTION TIME SINCE LAST CALIBRATION (hrs:min)

EXPOSURE VALUE

LUXEL V-6 CTP 2-393. Press Maintenance on the PAUSE keypad and clean the spinner

mirror before attempting another calibration. See Section 3.3.2 on page 3-6.

4. If there are still failures for a required resolution, call your local Support Centre.

5. Re-linearise from the RIP the system to adjust output quality.

2.2.8.2 Edit Exposure:1. Press Edit Exposure to open the following page:

Figure 2.26 Edit Exposure page

NOTE: an Exposure Value level has been defined during platesetter installation for the media type to be used. Extreme care should be taken when altering this level as it will affect the amount of laser light on the plate.

2. Enter an exposure value from 10 to 99 on the keypad. Use the Delete button to remove and re-enter a new value.

3. Click on Confirm and a Wait Timer icon appears while the machine sets the new level.

4. An ND Values page appears next, see Figure 2.25 on page 2-38, showing which resolutions have passed and failed.

NUMERIC PAD

EXPOSUREVALUE

CONFIRM


5. Press Maintenance on the PAUSE keypad and clean the spinner mirror before attempting another calibration. See Section 3.3.2 on page 3-6.

If there are still failures for a required resolution, call your local Support Centre.

2.2.8.3 Exposure Information1. Press Exposure Information or run an Exposure Calibration to open

the ND Values page, see Figure 2.25 on page 2-38.

2. This page shows the results of the last calibration as either a pass (Tick) or a fail (Non-Fatal Error) for a licenced resolution. It also shows:

Exposure Level: the current power setting. Time Since Last Calibration: the elapsed time in hours and

minutes since the last calibration setting.

3. Press the next required function on the PAUSE keypad.

2.2.9 How to Use Media ToolsUse the Media Tools facility to advance and eject an unexposed plate in order to verify the correct operation of the media handling devices, such as, motors, rollers, sensors, etc. (if requested by a service engineer).

You can also use this tool to eject an exposed plate left in the drum if it has not already been auto-ejected.

2.2.9.1 Manual-Loading SystemOutput a plate as follows:

1. Click on Media Tools on the PAUSE menu to obtain:MEDIA TOOLS

LUXEL V-6 CTP 2-41

Figure 2.27 Media Tools page: manual-loading

2. Click on Select Media to choose the type and size of plate for output.


3. Click on the Confirm button to show the orientation and type of required plate.

MEDIA TOOLSSELECT MEDIA

MEDIA NAME

CONFIRM


4. Load the plate on the platen.

5. Click on Confirm to advance the plate.

6. As a plate is loaded into the drum, an animated Advancing Plate icon is displayed.

7. Click on Confirm to eject the plate.

8. An animated Ejecting Plate icon shows the plate starting to eject from the drum.

LANDSCAPE PORTRAIT

CONFIRM ADVANCE

CONFIRM EJECT

LUXEL V-6 CTP 2-43

9. Select more plates, if required, using the same method.

10.Click for the next function on the PAUSE keypad when Media Tools is no longer required.

2.2.9.2 Auto-Loading SystemOutput a plate as follows:

1. You can either use the currently installed cassette and plates to run Media Tools, or follow the Change Cassette procedure (see Section 2.2.7 on page 2-32) to install new plates.

2. Click on Media Tools on the PAUSE menu to obtain:

3. Select Confirm to advance the plate into the drum.

As the plate is loaded into the drum, an animated Advancing Plate icon is displayed.

4. When the plate is ready to be ejected, the following page appears:

MEDIA TOOLS

CONFIRM


5. Select Confirm to eject the plate.

An animated Ejecting Plate icon shows the plate starting to eject from the drum.

6. The next page asks if you wish to advance another plate.

Choose another function to leave Media Tools.

2.2.10 How to Operate with the RIPYour RIP server runs the RIP application that allows you to create, for instance, job tickets or select screen sets. Images and pages created by desktop applications are sent to the RIP before being downloaded to the engine for imaging. This workflow, using a remote RIP connected across a FireWire bus, generates a steady stream of job images as shown in Figure 1.1 on page 1-3.

The RIP holds details of the available media types and names held on cassettes selected for the Job Ticket before the job is put on the engine queue.

From the PCI menu you pre-select up to five different cassette medias to use for the range of jobs coming from the RIP. For most workflows, five active media types are adequate. However, if a different type is required, the media details for that cassette is easily edited from the PCI, see Section 2.2.5 on page 2-23.

Once the media type and name is chosen for a cassette, it is

CONFIRMremembered by the system until the media is changed.

LUXEL V-6 CTP 2-45

2.2.11 How to Operate with the ProcessorA processor, for a semi- and fully-automatic system, is online with the engine to accept exposed plates via the engine output which holds the plate until the processor is ready for the next job. The coupled modules operate as a single system using an RS232 communication (comms) link for transferring machine commands and messages.

Luxel V-6 processors are able to operate in two modes:

Comms On: this is where the processor uses a communication protocol recognised by the engine. Software commands and diagnostic data is passed between the two units, allowing the processor to work as an online device. For the protocol to operate effectively, the link needs to be enabled as a preference, see Section 2.2.4 on page 2-21.

Comms Off: this where the processor is prevented from communicating with the engine. Plates can still be sent and developed by the processor but essential media information, for instance, on plate thickness, is not received by the Processor. For this setup, the link is disabled as a preference, see Section 2.2.4 on page 2-21.

In the event of a Comms problem, you can temporarily disable the link from Preferences.

An indication of the communication link is displayed as:

Processor Comms Enabled: shows the link as active allowing the two machines to transfer signals on plate loading, errors, etc. If there is a link problem, indicated by an Error Code, disable the link and reboot before continuing to expose.

Processor Comms Disabled: shows the link as disabled but the processor still online with, however, reduced functions.

While the platesetter is exposing, a Processor Not Ready icon may occasionally appear on the display. This is not an error warning but a reminder to the operator that the processor has halted because, for instance, the chemicals are too low or the processor is not operating at the required temperature. Check the display on the processor.


2.2.12 How to Obtain System InformationYou can obtain more information about the system, its current settings, software levels and media used by selecting:

Engine Info: see Section 2.2.12.1 on page 2-46. Media Info: see Section 2.2.12.2 on page 2-50.

2.2.12.1 Engine InfoEngine Info provides four options that allow you to:

display current preferences and software levels check licence options open the online Users Guide display the Log file generated by the system.

1. Press Engine Info on the RUN or PAUSE page to obtain the following options:

ENGINE INFO

Table 2.8 Engine Info options

Button Action

ABOUT MACHINE:Serves as an About screen showing the current system Preference settings and application software issue levels for each PCB.

REVIEW LICENCE OPTIONS:Shows the installed licence options.

OPEN ONLINE MANUAL:Launches the current online PCI Users Guide in Adobe PDF format.

SAVE LOG FILE:Displays the error log file generated from Run Diagnostics and allows you to save it to a local folder.

LUXEL V-6 CTP 2-472.2.12.1.1 About MachineSelect About Machine to obtain more information about the installed system.

Figure 2.29 About Machine page

This screen shows you in a graphical format the currently active/inactive system preferences, the software modules and their version numbers that are installed, and the PCI software version currently running on your system.

2.2.12.1.2 Licence Options InstalledYou can choose to upgrade your system with a number of licence options, such as, more resolutions, at any time during the life of the machine.

To check the current set of options available select Review Licence Options.

CURRENT PREFERENCES

SOFTWARE MODULES AND VERSIONS INSTALLED

PCI VERSION

ENGINE INFO


Figure 2.30 Review Licence Options page

2.2.12.1.3 Open Online ManualThe Luxel V-6 PCI Users Guide is available online in Adobe PDF format and requires a Reader obtained free from the Adobe Web site (www.adobe.com/products/acrobat/readstep.html).

Figure 2.31 Open Online Manual page

1. Select the Open Online Manual button at the top of the Engine Info screen.

LICENCE OPTION AVAILABLE

MACHINE SERIAL NUMBER

CONFIRM

LUXEL V-6 CTP 2-492. Click on the Confirm button to complete the action and the

Adobe Acrobat Reader opens with the online Guide.

2.2.12.1.4 Save Elog FileError Log text files are automatically generated when the platesetter has a fatal error. The log file is also automatically named to reflect the time and date of the error. It can then be renamed and saved to another location by the operator, or e-mailed directly to a service engineer should they request more details. As .txt files they are easily opened from Notepad or Wordpad.

You can also generate an Error Log from the Run Diagnostics function at anytime even if no error has occurred. See Section 4.5.3 on page 4-32.

Figure 2.32 Save Log File page

1. Press the Save Log File at the top of the Engine Info screen. A list of old log files will be presented.

2. Select the desired log(s) that you wish to save to the PC or network drive.

3. Click on the Confirm button to reveal the Windows Save As... dialog box. You may rename the Log file and save it to a location of your choice.

NOTE: Save the file directly into a folder and not into a folder shortcut.

LOG FILE VERSION

CONFIRM


2.2.12.2 Media InfoThis page allows you to view information on the plate required for the next job so that it can be prepared and loaded onto the platen.

1. Press Media Info on the RUN or PAUSE keypad to display the Media Info page:

Figure 2.33 Media Info page (manual-loading)

Figure 2.34 Media Info page (auto-loading)

MEDIA INFOONLINE CASSETTE ID

ORIENTATION OF NEXT PLATE

JOB ID

MEDIA NAME

ONLINE CASSETTE ID PLATES IN CASSETTE

LUXEL V-6 CTP 2-51Icons on the Media Info page show:

Cassette ID:

This icon shows the cassette ID selected as online for the job.

Job ID:

Job ID details the current job number.

Media Name:

The media name shows details of the media type and size for the next job.

Plate Orientation (manual-loading):

This icon shows the orientation of the next plate, that is to say, portrait or landscape. The above example shows that the next plate will have a portrait orientation.

2.2.13 How to Empty the Interleaf BinThe first indication of a nearly full bin (110 sheets) is shown by the warning error number 1260. You can continue to advance plates until the bin is completely full (120 sheets), causing a fatal error 1270.

1. Select Empty Interleaf Bin in the PAUSE menu to open:

Figure 2.35 Empty Interleaf Bin page

CONFIRM


2. Select Confirm and follow the Help image steps shown below:

3. If the bin has been emptied then select Interleaf Bin Empty which will reset the paper counter to zero. If the bin has not been emptied then select Interleaf Bin Full to continue.

Figure 2.36 Interleaf bin empty or full

2.2.14 How to Load Small Plates (Option)If your manual-loading system has the Small Plate licence option enabled you can output a plate less than 350 mm x 350 mm in size.

Small plate jobs on a manual-loading system are downloaded and

OPEN DOOR AND REMOVE PAPER

CLOSE DOOR

INTERLEAF BIN FULL

INTERLEAF BIN EMPTY

LUXEL V-6 CTP 2-53imaged in the same way as standard size plates. The only difference is that the operator has to adjust the width on the platen centering guides before loading the plate.

1. The following RUN page shows the next job as a small plate

Figure 2.37 RUN page: fit small plate adjusters

2. Attach the small plate adjusters to the centering guides as shown in Figure 2.38 on page 2-53.

ATTACH SMALLPLATE

ADJUSTERSFigure 2.38 Attach the small plate adjusters


NOTE: If the adjusters are not fitted an error is indicated when the plate starts to load.

3. Continue to select the PCI options for loading a normal size plate.

4. Remove the adjusters when the RUN page indicates the next job as standard size.

MAINTAINING THE LUXEL V-6

3.1 Introducing Luxel V-6 MaintenanceIn order to output images at optimum quality, the Luxel V-6 platesetter requires scheduled maintenance tasks with additional PCI run-time tasks to enhance performance and production.

Scheduled Tasks: these help to reduce contamination and retain image quality. A recommended schedule of cleaning tasks on the platesetter include the:

A) engine interior (drum and base)

B) engine and autoloader panelling

C) cassette (interior and exterior).

Run-time Tasks: these are often completed as part of a job ses-sion where you may need to:

A) check the job queue

B) clean the spinner mirror

C) empty the chad tray (if a punch option is fitted)

D) empty the interleaf bin (autoloader only)

This chapter describes how to maintain the Luxel V-6 using scheduled tasks and PCI menu options.

Introducing Luxel V-6 Maintenance ........................................................... 3-1Starting the Scheduled Tasks .................................................................... 3-2Starting PCI Run-Time Tasks ..................................................................... 3-4

3-2 MAINTAINING THE LUXEL V-6

E) check the Licence Manager (if requested by your FFEI Distributor)

F) review current licences installed

G) create new media for the list.

3.2 Starting the Scheduled Tasks

WARNING: Operators need to be aware of the interlock system on the platesetter and the access points for completing a maintenance task. All maintenance tasks are critical for the correct operation of the machine over a long period. See the Luxel V-6 CTP Users Safety Guide.

A maintenance schedule should be carried out monthly by the user to prevent plate contamination. A more detailed schedule is normally completed by the service engineer every six months to ensure quality imaging.

In addition, the system software constantly monitors the system while it is in operation and alerts the operator with an error code if a critical maintenance procedure is due for:

cleaning the spinner mirror emptying the interleaf bin emptying the chad tray (punch option only).

3.2.1 Clean the Platesetter External Panels External covers and frames should be cleaned every month or sooner, depending on the room conditions.

CAUTION: Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents, such as, Benzine. These may cause damage to the platesetter covers.

1. Shutdown the platesetter.

2. Using a soft cloth slightly moistened with water or mild detergent solution, wipe the outside covers. Difficult stains and marks can be removed using IPA (Isopropyl alcohol).

3. Wipe the covers dry before switching on the platesetter again.

LUXEL V-6 CTP 3-3

3.2.2 Clean the Platesetter Interior

3.2.2.1 Clean Engine DrumInterior mechanisms should be cleaned every week or earlier if there are signs of contamination on the plate.

CAUTION: Always use a soft-brush attachment on the vacuum cleaner. Use an extension to the brush to access the other end of the drum.

The aim should be to prevent the build-up of particles inside the drum causing minute dust spots on the exposed plate. The cleaning period should be set by the customer based on plate throughput and the build up of contamination seen as spots on the media.

1. Shutdown the platesetter.

2. Very gently push the traverse carriage to the other end of the drum, if it is obstructing access.

3. Lightly vacuum the following areas:

drum surface interior punch mechanism (if fitted) pullbar.

NOTE: Take care not to deposit debris from clothing, etc, when cleaning the drum.

3.2.2.2 Clean Autoloader InteriorYou do not need to clean the autoloader interior.

3.2.2.3 Clean Cassette InteriorInterior mechanisms should be cleaned every week or earlier if there are signs of contamination on the plate.

1. Remove the platen from the cassette.

1. Lightly vacuum the interior.

2. Clean the platen and the cassette with a lint-free cloth and mild detergent.

Make sure the cassette interior is dry before loading new plates.

3-4 MAINTAINING THE LUXEL V-6

3.3 Starting PCI Run-Time TasksOpen the Maintenance page using the Maintenance button on the PAUSE keypad to select the following options:

Figure 3.1 Maintenance options page

Table 3.1 Maintenance options

Button Action

MANAGE JOB QUEUE:This opens the option that allows you to delete job images from the queue.

CLEAN SPINNER MIRROR:This opens a facility for cleaning the mirror. A Help page opens after the system has closed down all moving parts and the laser beam.

EMPTY CHAD TRAY: (punch option only)This opens the empty chad tray option which will allow you to safely shutdown the engine and empty the chad tray when required.

ENTER LICENCE NUMBER:This option allows you to view licenses and initiate new licences if required.

MAINTENANCE OPTIONS: SEE TABLE BELOW

RETURN CONFIRM

MAINTENANCE

LUXEL V-6 CTP 3-5

3.3.1 Manage the Job QueueSelect this option to open a Manage Job Queue page, that lists all the current jobs (maximum of 3) held in the engine Job queue, ready for imaging. These jobs are held here after passing from the RIP queue to the Download queue on the PC before transfer, via the FireWire bus, to the engine.

From Manage Job Queue you can delete a job image from the engine before it is exposed.

NOTE: Job promotion on the queue for exposing is performed from the RIP. Job deletion can also be performed from the RIP.

As part of normal job housekeeping, jobs are tagged by the RIP for imaging, or for ejecting (if, for instance, they do not contain image data). There are two types of Eject jobs shown by their character prefixes:

Documents

V-6 PCI Users Guide.pdf