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AcuNav Laser

Control Software
User Guide




User Guide

AcuNav Laser
Control Software


Software Version: 2.24.00

By Preco Laser Systems, LLC









Document Policy
Copyright
The contents of this manual are the property of Preco Laser Systems, LLC, Somerset, Wisconsin.
Any reproduction of this information without the express written permission of Preco Laser Systems is
prohibited.
Non Disclosure
The contents of this manual and all referred or associated documents marked PLS Confidential, are
provided to the original purchaser of the system for internal use only. Any disclosure of documents
marked PLS Confidential to outside parties without the express written permission of PLS is strictly
prohibited.
Policy
This manual is based upon the data available at the time of publication. While sincere effort has been
made to make the manual accurate, the information contained herein does not claim to cover all the
details or variations in hardware or software, nor to provide for every possible contingency in connection
with installation, operation, maintenance, repair or replacement.
The Preco Laser Systems policy is one of continuous improvement. Therefore, the information in this
manual is subject to change without notice and should not be construed as a commitment by Preco
Laser Systems. PLS also assumes no obligation to notify manual holders of subsequent revisions.
Preco Laser Systems makes no representation of warranty, expressed or implied, nor assumes any
responsibility for accuracy, completeness, sufficiency or usefulness or any problems that may arise from
the use of the information contained herein.
Made In The USA
PLS products are designed and manufactured in the USA.
Trademark Acknowledgments
AcuNav is a trademark of Preco Laser Systems, LLC.
AcuVision is a trademark of Preco Laser Systems, LLC.
AutoCAD is a registered trademark of Autodesk, Inc.
PLS is a registered trademark of Preco Laser Systems, LLC.
Preco is a registered trademark of Preco Industries.
ProCAM is a registered trademark of TekSoft, Inc.
Microsoft is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation.
Windows is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation.

All other product names mentioned herein are used for identification purposes only, and may be the
trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies.
Copyright 1997 - 2004 Preco Laser Systems, LLC. All rights reserved.


500 Laser Drive
Somerset, WI 54025
Telephone: 715.247.3285
FAX: 715.247.5650
Sales Toll Free: 1.800.77.LASER
Service Toll Free: 1.800.799.2583
Email: publications@precolaser.com
Website: www.precolaser.com

User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Contents v


Contents

INTRODUCTION ................................................................................. 1
OVERVIEW....................................................................................... 1
GUIDE COMMENTS........................................................................... 1
HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE................................................................. 2
HOW THIS GUIDE IS ORGANIZED....................................................... 2
HOW TO USE THE ON-LINE USER DOCUMENTATION .......................... 3
NOTATIONS AND CONVENTIONS........................................................ 3
STANDARD CONVENTIONS.......................................................... 3
MOUSE CONVENTIONS............................................................... 4
HOT KEYS ................................................................................. 5
SOFTWARE DESCRIPTION............................................................... 7
OVERVIEW....................................................................................... 7
APPLICATION................................................................................... 7
OPERATING SYSTEM........................................................................ 7
DISTRIBUTION.................................................................................. 7
SPECIFICATIONS .............................................................................. 8
SOFTWARE................................................................................ 8
HARDWARE................................................................................ 8
OPERATING INTERFACE.................................................................. 9
OVERVIEW....................................................................................... 9
MENU TOOL BAR ........................................................................... 11
FILE MENU............................................................................... 11
FILE MENU OPTIONS.......................................................... 11
FILE MENU WINDOWS ........................................................ 13
NEW FILE WINDOW...................................................... 13
OPEN FILE WINDOW..................................................... 13
SAVE AS WINDOW........................................................ 14
EDIT MENU.............................................................................. 15
EDIT MENU.............................................................................. 15
EDIT MENU OPTIONS.......................................................... 15
EDIT MENU WINDOWS........................................................ 18
SEARCH WINDOW ........................................................ 18
SEARCH AND REPLACE WINDOW.................................. 18
DISPLAY MENU ........................................................................ 19
DISPLAY MENU OPTIONS.................................................... 19
DISPLAY MENU WINDOWS.................................................. 21
EDIT FONT WINDOW..................................................... 21
CNC FONT WINDOW.................................................... 22

Issued: 9/22/2004 2004 Preco Laser Systems, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Product No.: 01001-224

User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Contents vi

Issued: 9/22/2004 2003 Preco Laser Systems, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Product No.: 01001-223
PARAMETERS MENU ................................................................ 23
PARAMETERS MENU OPTIONS............................................ 23
PARAMETERS MENU WINDOWS .......................................... 24
AUTO-FOCUS SETUP PARAMETERS WINDOW................ 24
AXIS DEFINITIONS PARAMETERS WINDOW .................... 25
HOMING PARAMETERS WINDOW................................... 26
FEEDRATE SETTINGS PARAMETERS WINDOW ............... 27
ACCELERATION PARAMETERS WINDOW........................ 29
SOFTWARE LIMITS PARAMETERS WINDOW.................... 31
TOLERANCES PARAMETERS WINDOW........................... 32
CHANGING A PARAMETER .................................................. 33
P-VARIABLES PARAMETERS WINDOW........................... 34
SETTINGS MENU...................................................................... 35
SETTINGS MENU OPTIONS ................................................. 35
SETTINGS MENU WINDOWS................................................ 37
AUTO-FOCUS HEIGHT WINDOW.................................... 37
CUTTER COMPENSATION WINDOW ............................... 38
PART COUNT/RUNTIME MAINTENANCE WINDOW........... 39
REFERENCE POSITIONS WINDOW................................. 40
WORKPIECE COORDINATE SYSTEM WINDOW................ 40
UTILITIES MENU....................................................................... 41
UTILITIES MENU OPTIONS .................................................. 41
UTILITIES MENU WINDOWS................................................. 43
STEP AND REPEAT SELECTION WINDOW....................... 43
OPERATOR MESSAGE WINDOW.................................... 44
SERIALIZATION WINDOW .............................................. 45
LASER MENU........................................................................... 49
LASER MENU OPTIONS....................................................... 49
LASER MENU WINDOWS..................................................... 49
LASER SETTING SELECTION ......................................... 49
RAMP POINTS WINDOW................................................ 53
DIEBOARD WINDOW................................................................. 56
AUTOMATIC POWER CALIBRATION WINDOW.................. 57
DIAG MENU ............................................................................. 58
DIAG MENU OPTIONS......................................................... 58
DIAG MENU WINDOWS ....................................................... 59
AUXILIARY INPUTS WINDOW......................................... 59
AUXILIARY OUTPUTS WINDOW...................................... 60
AXIS I/O WINDOW........................................................ 61
STANDARD I/O............................................................. 62
FOLLOWING ERROR WINDOW....................................... 63
ROTARY BUFFERS STATUS WINDOW ............................ 63
MPLC ACTIVE AXES WINDOW...................................... 64
LOGGER MENU........................................................................ 65
LOGGER MENU OPTIONS.................................................... 65
LOGGER MENU WINDOWS.................................................. 66
ALARM COUNT LOG WINDOW....................................... 66
LOGGED ALARMS WINDOW........................................... 67
User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Contents vii


ALARM LOG OPTIONS WINDOW..................................... 68
DEFAULT ACUNAV ALARMS .......................................... 68
TOOLS MENU........................................................................... 69
TOOLS MENU OPTIONS ...................................................... 69
VISION MENU........................................................................... 70
VISION MENU OPTIONS ...................................................... 70
VISION MENU WINDOWS..................................................... 71
VISION CUT ADJUSTMENT WINDOW.............................. 71
COORDINATE CALIBRATE WINDOW............................... 72
PART OFFSETS WINDOW.............................................. 73
MACHINE CONTROL MENU ....................................................... 74
MACHINE CONTROL MENU OPTIONS................................... 74
WINDOW MENU....................................................................... 76
HELP MENU............................................................................. 77
PROCESSING STATUS DISPLAY AND QUICK KEY CONTROLS............ 78
PROCESSING STATUS DISPLAY................................................. 78
QUICK KEY CONTROL AND STATUS BUTTONS ........................... 79
QUICK KEY CONTROL WINDOWS .............................................. 80
SERVICE QUICK KEY WINDOW............................................ 80
JOB STATUS QUICK KEY WINDOW...................................... 82
JOB LOAD QUICK KEY WINDOW.......................................... 85
CNC PROGRAM SELECTION QUICK KEY WINDOW............... 88
DIEBOARD QUICK KEY WINDOW......................................... 89
CHECK QUICK KEY WINDOW .............................................. 92
ALARMS QUICK KEY WINDOW............................................. 93
POSITIONS QUICK KEY WINDOW......................................... 94
CNC I\O CONTROL........................................................................ 96
MACHINE CONTROL PANEL ............................................................ 97
PROGRAM CYCLE CONTROL..................................................... 97
ABORT - F12...................................................................... 97
START - F2........................................................................ 97
HOLD - F3 ......................................................................... 98
RESET - F4........................................................................ 98
OPT STOP - F5 .................................................................. 98
BLK DELETE - F6 ............................................................... 98
DRY RUN - F7.................................................................... 98
SINGLE BLK (BLOCK) - F8 .................................................. 99
OPERATOR CONTROL MODES - F9 ........................................... 99
AUTO MODE ...................................................................... 99
JOG MODE....................................................................... 100
HANDWHEEL OPERATION ........................................... 101
MANUAL DATA INPUT (MDI) MODE ................................... 103
HOME.............................................................................. 103
PROGRAM MODE ............................................................. 104
TEACH MODE................................................................... 104
RETRACE MODE.............................................................. 104
FEEDRATE OVERRIDE CONTROL - F11 ................................... 105
RAPID.............................................................................. 105
Issued: 9/22/2004 2004 Preco Laser Systems, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Product No.: 01001-224

User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Contents viii

Issued: 9/22/2004 2003 Preco Laser Systems, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Product No.: 01001-223
CUTTING.......................................................................... 105
SPEED AND HEIGHT ................................................... 105
OPERATING PROCEDURES......................................................... 107
HOW TO HOME YOUR WORKSTATION............................................ 107
OPERATING PROCEDURES IN MDI MODE...................................... 108
CREATING A NEW FILE................................................................. 109
OPENING A RECENTLY CLOSED FILE ............................................ 110
OPENING AN EXISTING FILE .......................................................... 111
SAVING AN EXISTING FILE............................................................ 112
SAVING A NEW, UNNAMED FILE.................................................... 113
SAVING A COPY OF THE ACTIVE DOCUMENT ................................. 114
EXITING THE ACUNAV PROGRAM.................................................. 115
ENTERING NEW SETTINGS FOR THE AUTO-FOCUS HEIGHT
TABLE ......................................................................................... 116
ENTERING NEW SETTINGS FOR THE CUTTER COMPENSATION
TABLE ......................................................................................... 117
ENTERING NEW SETTINGS FOR THE STEP AND REPEAT
SELECTION TABLE ....................................................................... 118
CREATING A NEW STEP AND REPEAT HEADER/FOOTER FILE......... 120
SELECTING A STEP AND REPEAT CYCLE....................................... 121
ENTERING AN OPERATOR MESSAGE............................................. 122
SETTING UP FOR A DIEBOARD APPLICATION ................................. 123
SETTING UP A NEW MATERIAL...................................................... 130
PROGRAMMING REFERENCE ..................................................... 133
OVERVIEW................................................................................... 133
TABLE MOTION............................................................................ 134
AXES MOVEMENT SPECIFICATIONS......................................... 134
AXIS POSITION SPECIFICATIONS........................................ 135
FEED SPECIFICATION........................................................ 135
AXES MOVEMENT CONSIDERATIONS....................................... 136
COORDINATE SYSTEMS................................................................ 137
MACHINE COORDINATES........................................................ 137
PROGRAM COORDINATES....................................................... 138
ABSOLUTE COORDINATE VALUES ..................................... 139
INCREMENTAL COORDINATE VALUES ................................ 139
REFERENCE POINT ................................................................ 139
CONDITIONAL BRANCHING IN CNC CODING.................................. 140
PREPARATORY WORD DATA BLOCKS (G-CODES) ........................ 143
G00 RAPID TRAVERSE POSITIONING...................................... 145
G01 LINEAR INTERPOLATION.................................................. 145
G02/G03 CIRCULAR INTERPOLATION CW/CCW..................... 146
G04 DWELL/TIME DELAY ....................................................... 147
G07.1A CYLINDRICAL INTERPOLATION MODE (REQUIRES
MPLC) .................................................................................. 148
G09 EXACT STOP.................................................................. 148
User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Contents ix


G17/G18/G19 (XY/ZX/YZ) PLANE SELECTION ...................... 148
G20/G21 INCH/METRIC SELECT............................................. 149
G28 RAPID RETURN TO REFERENCE POINT............................ 149
G29 AUTO RETURN FROM REFERENCE POSITION................... 149
G30 RAPID RETURN TO SECOND, THIRD, FOURTH
REFERENCE POSITION ........................................................... 149
G40/G41/G42 CUTTER COMPENSATION ................................ 150
TREATMENT OF INSIDE CORNERS ..................................... 151
TREATMENT OF OUTSIDE CORNERS.................................. 151
OFFSET START-UP DIAGRAMS .................................... 152
OFFSET MODE DIAGRAMS........................................... 154
CHANGE OF OFFSET DIRECTION DIAGRAMS................ 158
OFFSET CANCEL DIAGRAMS........................................ 160
OVERCUTTING BY CUTTER COMPENSATION
DIAGRAMS ................................................................. 162
G50/51 PROGRAMMABLE SCALING......................................... 164
G50.1/G51.1 PROGRAMMABLE MIRRORING ........................... 165
G53 MACHINE COORDINATE SELECTION ................................ 166
G54-59 WORKPIECE COORDINATE SYSTEM 1-6 SELECTION ... 167
G61 EXACT STOP MODE........................................................ 168
G62 CUTTING MODE BASED ON ANGLE.................................. 168
G64 CONTINUOUS VELOCITY MODE ....................................... 169
G68/G69 COORDINATE SYSTEM ROTATION............................ 169
G90/G91 ABSOLUTE/INCREMENTAL MODE............................. 170
G92 WORK COORDINATE SYSTEM SET .................................. 170
G94.1Q PROGRAMMABLE ACCELERATION MODE.................... 171
G94.2 FEEDRATE AXES SELECTION ....................................... 171
G110Q PERFORATE CUT LENGTH (REQUIRES MPLC)............ 171
G111Q PERFORATE TIE LENGTH (REQUIRES MPLC) ............. 171
G112 ACTIVE AXES (REQUIRES MPLC) ................................. 172
MISCELLANEOUS WORD DATA BLOCKS (M CODES) .................. 173
M00 - PROGRAM STOP.......................................................... 175
M01 - OPTIONAL STOP .......................................................... 175
M02 - END OF PROGRAM ....................................................... 175
M10 - OPTIONAL PART COUNT INCREMENT ............................ 175
M11 TO M19 REMOTE BCD PARAMETER CONTROLS.......... 176
M11 PERCENT POWER ................................................. 176
M12 - KEYING FREQUENCY.............................................. 176
M13 - POWER CYCLES .................................................... 176
M14 AVAILABLE PARAMETER ........................................ 176
M15 MULTI-PULSE COUNT ............................................ 176
M16 SET PULSE RATE.................................................. 176
M17 SET SECTOR HEIGHT ............................................ 177
M18 SETS SECTOR WIDTH............................................ 177
M19 SETS PULSE SHAPE.............................................. 177
M30 - END OF PROGRAM....................................................... 177
M40 RESET LCC-PPG OR MPLC ENCODER REGISTERS
WITH SINGLE PULSE, VARIABLE DURATION ............................. 177
Issued: 9/22/2004 2004 Preco Laser Systems, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Product No.: 01001-224

User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Contents x

Issued: 9/22/2004 2003 Preco Laser Systems, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Product No.: 01001-223
M41 - RESET LCC-PPG OR MPLC ENCODER REGISTERS ..... 177
M42- PERF MODE CANCEL (MPLC ONLY) ............................. 178
M42.1 - ENABLES PERF MODE (CUT-TIE) (MPLC ONLY)........ 178
M42.2QXXX - ENABLES DUAL POWER LEVEL PERFORATION
MODE (CUT-TIE) (MPLC ONLY) ............................................ 178
M45(XXX) MANUAL MPLC CODES ......................................... 178
M56 WEB HANDLER CODES................................................... 178
M57 WEB HANDLER CODES................................................... 179
M60/M61 TO AUTO FOCUS DOWN/UP.................................... 179
M62/M63 FIRST AUTO FOCUS DOWN/UP FOR DUAL
AUTO FOCUS SYSTEMS.......................................................... 179
M64/M65 SECOND AUTO FOCUS DOWN/UP FOR DUAL
AUTO FOCUS SYSTEMS.......................................................... 179
M66/M67 POWER SUPPLY ON/OFF...................................... 179
M68/M69 TABLE VACUUM OPEN/CLOSE ............................. 179
M70/M71 HIGH / LOW ASSIST GAS PRESSURE.................... 179
M72/M73 SHIELD GAS ON/OFF .......................................... 180
M74/M75 - ASSIST GAS 1 ON/OFF ........................................ 180
M76/M77 - ASSIST GAS 2 ON/OFF ........................................ 180
M78/M79 AIR KNIFE/LENS AIR/ASSIST GAS 3 ON/OFF........ 180
M80 - SINGLE PULSE, 10 MSEC. (.0100 SEC.) DURATION........ 180
M81 - SINGLE PULSE, VARIABLE PULSE DURATION.................. 181
M82 - M87 MISCELLANEOUS OUTPUTS ON/OFF -
PULSING CARD...................................................................... 182
M82/M83 PRC LASER OPTION..................................... 182
M84/M85 PRC LASER OPTION..................................... 182
M86/M87 PRC LASER OPTION, EAGLE LASER
OPTION ........................................................................... 182
M88/M89 - SHUTTER OPEN/CLOSED ..................................... 182
M90/M91 - INCREMENTAL PULSING - LASER ON/LASER
OFF....................................................................................... 183
M92/M93 - REPETITIVE PULSING ON, OFF............................. 185
M94/95 - CONTINUOUS WAVE LASER ON/LASER OFF............. 188
M96 - LASER ON................................................................... 188
M96.1 LASER ON (ON-THE-FLY) ........................................ 188
M97 - LASER OFF.................................................................. 189
M97.1 LASER OFF (ON-THE-FLY)........................................ 189
M98 - SUBROUTINE ............................................................... 189
M99 - END SUBROUTINE........................................................ 189
SETTING VARIABLES .................................................................... 190
MATERIAL SELECTION CODE (P-CODES) ................................ 190
PULSE SPACING (S-CODES)................................................... 191
PULSE DURATION COMMANDS (T50S) .................................... 193
REP OFF-TIME COMMANDS (T60S)......................................... 195
MPLC LASER PROCESSING MODES............................................. 198
CONTINUOUS WAVE (CW) (MPLC) ........................................ 198
STANDARD INCREMENTAL PULSE (MPLC) .............................. 199
POWER (PROPORTIONAL TO) VELOCITY (MPLC) .................... 200
User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Contents xi


DUTY CYCLE (PROPORTIONAL TO) VELOCITY (MPLC)............. 202
ANALOG POWER RAMP ON POSITION (MPLC)......................... 203
DUTY CYCLE RAMP ON POSITION (MPLC) .............................. 204
REPETITIVE PULSING (MPLC) ................................................ 206
ANALOG POWER RAMP ON TIME (MPLC)................................ 207
DUTY CYCLE RAMP ON TIME (MPLC) ..................................... 208
SINGLE PULSE (MPLC).......................................................... 209
DIEBOARD INCREMENTAL (MPLC) .......................................... 210
LCC-PPG LASER PROCESSING MODES....................................... 212
CONTINUOUS WAVE (CW) (LCC-PPG) .................................. 212
STANDARD INCREMENTAL PULSE (LCC-PPG)........................ 213
REPETITIVE PULSING (LCC-PPG) .......................................... 214
SINGLE PULSE VARIABLE (LCC-PPG) .................................... 215
DIEBOARD INCREMENTAL (LCC-PPG) .................................... 216
APPENDIX A: SAMPLE PROGRAMS........................................... 217
OVERVIEW................................................................................... 217
SQUARE PROGRAM IN ABSOLUTE MODE................................. 217
SQUARE PROGRAM IN INCREMENTAL MODE............................ 218
LARGE PROGRAM .................................................................. 219
SMALL PROGRAM................................................................... 221
APPENDIX B. ACUNAV WITH MANUAL VISION ROTARY /
TRANSLATION OFFSET................................................................ 223
MISCELLANEOUS CONTROL FUNCTIONS ....................................... 224
G-CODES .............................................................................. 224
M-CODES.............................................................................. 224
RULES FOR RUNNING THE MANUAL VISION ROTARY /
TRANSLATION OFFSET PROGRAM................................................. 225
MANUAL VISION ROTARY / TRANSLATION OFFSET SAMPLE
PROGRAM ................................................................................... 226
APPENDIX C. ACUNAV ALARM MESSAGES .............................. 229
SYSTEM ALARMS ................................................................... 230
MOTOR ALARMS .................................................................... 232
PLC FATAL ALARMS .............................................................. 236
PLC STOP ALARMS ............................................................... 239
PLC WARNING ALARMS......................................................... 246
PLC MESSAGES .................................................................... 247
APPENDIX D. PROCAM................................................................. 249
INDEX.............................................................................................. 257
BIBLIOGRAPHY ............................................................................. 263

Issued: 9/22/2004 2004 Preco Laser Systems, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Product No.: 01001-224
User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Introduction 1


INTRODUCTION
OVERVIEW
This guide was designed to provide operating and programming information
for the AcuNav Laser Control Software designed by Preco Laser Systems.
The ACUNAV LASER CONTROL SOFTWARE USER GUIDE assumes the reader is
familiar with Microsoft Windows 98 operating system.
GUIDE COMMENTS
At Preco Laser Systems, our policy is one of continuous improvement. We
appreciate your comments regarding the information in this manual.
After reading this manual, if there is any information you feel to be incorrect,
missing or difficult to understand, please contact us using one of the
following methods:
Preco Laser Systems, LLC
Service Department
500 Laser Drive
Somerset, Wisconsin 54025
Voice: 715-247-3285
Facsimile: 715-247-5650
Sales: 1-800-77.LASER
Service: 1-800-799-2583
Email: service@precolaser.com
Website: www.precolaser.com
Please be as specific as possible when you submit a correction or
suggestion. Information such as manual title, revision date, section titles,
page numbers and figure numbers make it easier for us to reference the
material when reading your comments.
Preco Laser Systems makes the final decision as to what information, if any,
is incorporated into a manual.
Preco Laser Systems appreciates the time you take to offer comments and
considers all comments received.
Issued: 9/22/2004 2004 Preco Laser Systems, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Product No.: 01001-224

User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Introduction 2

Issued: 9/22/2004 2004 Preco Laser Systems, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Product No.: 01001-224
HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE
This guide contains detailed information about using the AcuNav program for
Windows

. Read this guide in its entirety before using the system.


Information given in a previous section may be needed to understand or
complete a step in a subsequent section.
HOW THIS GUIDE IS ORGANIZED
The ACUNAV LASER WORKSTATION CONTROL FOR WINDOWS USER GUIDE is
designed to provide information on how to use and program AcuNav Laser
Control Software. This guide is organized as follows:
INTRODUCTION -- This section provides a description of how this guide
is designed, conventions used in the guide, reference information
and so on.
SOFTWARE DESCRIPTION -- This section provides an overview of the
AcuNav Laser Control Software and its components.
OPERATING INTERFACE -- This section provides a description of the
AcuNav Laser Control Software operating interface. It describes the
AcuNav main screen regions and operator functions.
OPERATING PROCEDURES This section provides AcuNav Laser
Control Software procedures.
PROGRAMMING REFERENCE -- This section provides programming
reference information for AcuNav Laser Control Software
programming functions.
APPENDIX A This appendix contains sample programs.
APPENDIX B This appendix describes the manual vision translation
offset program.
APPENDIX C This appendix contains AcuNav alarm messages with
brief descriptions.
APPENDIX D This appendix contains a step-by-step flowchart on
how to use the ProCAM software program.
User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Introduction 3


HOW TO USE THE ON-LINE USER
DOCUMENTATION
You can view the AcuNav help contents window by choosing Contents
from the Help menu. From the contents window, you can jump to more
specific information.
NOTATIONS AND CONVENTIONS
Different types of conventions are used throughout this guide. It is important
to understand these conventions. For example, all references to buttons,
switches or indicators on the system are indicated in the text in Bold Initial
Capital letters.
Example:
The Coolant interlock light illuminates if....
STANDARD CONVENTIONS
The following table lists the standards conventions used in this guide.
Convention Information
Bold Type Text we ask you to type-in appears in
bold.
Bold Initial Capital letters All reference to buttons, switches or
indicators on the system.
Initial Capital Letters All reference to the titles of screens and
fields.
Italic Small Initial Capital
Letters
All reference to the titles of sections and
manuals.
Italic Lower Case Letters Indicates a sample name or file name,
for example, test.cfg.
Menu > Path The Greater-than sign (>) is used to give
the path for a drop down menu option,
for example, File > Save As.

Issued: 9/22/2004 2004 Preco Laser Systems, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Product No.: 01001-224

User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Introduction 4

Issued: 9/22/2004 2004 Preco Laser Systems, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Product No.: 01001-224
MOUSE CONVENTIONS
The left mouse button is the one to use most of the time (unless you have the
mouse configured differently).
Point means to position the mouse pointer so the tip of the pointer
rests on whatever you want to point at on the screen.
Click means to press and then immediately release the mouse
button without moving the mouse.
Double-click means to press and immediately release the mouse
button twice without moving the mouse.
Drag means to select and hold down the mouse button while moving
the pointer across the screen.
Select means to highlight a word, line or paragraph by placing the
pointer on the desired item and double-clicking or dragging.
User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Introduction 5


HOT KEYS
AcuNav Laser Control Software uses Edit commands Hot Keys for short-
cuts. They are activated by using the Ctrl or Shift key plus the
corresponding function short-cut key from the keyboard. The following table
lists some of the more useful Hot key commands.

Hot Key Function
CTRL + A Selects all.
Ctrl + C Same as the Copy command. Copies
selected text to the clipboard.
Ctrl + E Sends the cursor to the bottom of the
program.
Ctrl + H Sends the cursor to the top of the program.
Ctrl + L Sends cursor to the line number in the
program that you specify in the dialog box.
Ctrl + N Same as the Search Next command.
Searches for the next occurrence of the
search criteria.
Ctrl + S Same as the Save command. Saves the
current open file.
Ctrl + V Same as the Paste command. Pastes
selected text from the clipboard.
Shift +
Insert
Same as the Paste command. Pastes
selected text from the clipboard.
Ctrl + X Same as the Cut command. Removes
selected text.
Ctrl + Z Same as the Undo command. Reverses
the last action.

Issued: 9/22/2004 2004 Preco Laser Systems, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Product No.: 01001-224

User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Software Description 7

Issued: 9/22/2004 2004 Preco Laser Systems, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Product No.: 01001-224
SOFTWARE DESCRIPTION
OVERVIEW
This section provides an overview of the AcuNav Laser Control Software
designed and developed at Preco Laser Systems.
For information regarding the operating interface or programming, refer to the
OPERATING INTERFACE and PROGRAMMING REFERENCE sections in this guide.
AcuNav Laser Control Software provides a method to control speeds and
laser power and utilize features unique to laser based workstations.
AcuNav Laser Control Software includes the following main features:
Designed to be compatible with Microsoft Windows 98 operating
system.
Provides an Operator Interface to set laser control parameters.
Networkable
Uses standard industrial G-code programming.
Allows background editing while another program is running.
Allows part serialization.
Provides configurable Operator Interface menus.
Provides alarm tracking logs.
APPLICATION
AcuNav Laser Control Software is specifically designed for the use in PLS
manufactured, laser based workstations.
OPERATING SYSTEM
AcuNav Laser Control Software is designed to be utilized on Windows
95/98 operating systems.
DISTRIBUTION
AcuNav Laser Control Software is distributed on a CD-Rom using an install
program and a custom disk containing machine specific parameters.

User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Software Description 8

Issued: 9/22/2004 2004 Preco Laser Systems, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Product No.: 01001-224
SPECIFICATIONS
AcuNav Laser Control Software includes the following Software and
Hardware specifications:
SOFTWARE
Windows 98 operating system
On-screen operator panel
EIA-274 G-Code programming
Remote modem diagnostics
Laser processing database
Step and Repeat database
Programmable scaling, mirroring, coordinate rotation
Subroutines
Background editing
Compensations: cutter, optional stored pitch error
Interpolations: helical, linear, circular
Inch/metric switchable
Six workpiece coordinate system
Velocity and acceleration feed forwards
Part counter
Cycle time display
Standard text editor.
HARDWARE
Personal computer:
Keyboard and mouse pointer device
15 inch color monitor
2000 Hz servo loop update rates
Up to 2064 inputs and outputs
500 blocks per second processing rate
Linear and rotary motor capability


User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Operating Interface 9


OPERATING INTERFACE
OVERVIEW
The AcuNav Laser Control Software for Windows is specifically designed
for use in PLS manufactured, laser-based workstations. This section
describes,
AcuNav Screen Layout
Functions and features

When the system starts, the initial screen displayed is main operator control
interface. This is the starting point for both system operation and
configuration. The AcuNav Laser Control Software screen is divided into five
regions, as shown in the figure on the following page.
Menu tool Bar
Processing Status Display and Quick Key Controls
Computer Numeric Control (CNC) I/O Controls
Window Display Section
Machine Control Panel

For more programming information, refer to the PROGRAMMING REFERENCE
section of this guide.

Issued: 9/22/2004 2004 Preco Laser Systems, LLC. All Rights Reserved Product No.: 01001-224

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AcuNav Laser Control Software
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Figure 1. Sample AcuNav Main Screen
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MENU TOOL BAR
The Menu Tool Bar topics are displayed in a drop-down menu when you click
on an option. Move your mouse pointer to select (highlight) an option. The
menu topics are discussed in the following sections.
FILE MENU
The File menu lists options for opening, closing and saving files. This menu
also displays a list of the most recently opened documents.

FILE MENU OPTIONS
The File menu options are described as follows. The access level for these
options is configurable by PLS.
Option Description
New Used to create a new program.
Open Used to open existing files.
Close Closes your current edit window but does not close
the AcuNav program
Save Lets you save and re-save the current edit window.

NOTE: If a part program is loaded in the CNC and
you have edited it in Program Mode, switching to
Auto Mode automatically saves the changes to the
part program.
Save As Lets you save an existing document under a new or
different file name.
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Option Description

NOTE: If you type-in a file name that already exists,
there is a message displayed asking whether or not
you want to replace the existing program with the
active program.
Exit Ends an AcuNav session. AcuNav prompts you to
save any previously unsaved changes to a file.
Recent File
List
Lists the last four (4) files recently opened.

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FILE MENU WINDOWS
The following sections describe the File menu windows.
NEW FILE WINDOW
The New window is a dialog window that displays the message,
Load file to CNC or Editor?
Click on the CNC button. CNC allows the part program to be executed from
Auto Mode, or edited in Program mode. The Editor button is used primarily
as a background editor while running a program in Auto mode.

OPEN FILE WINDOW
The Open window is used to select a file that exists on the hard drive or file
server. In the File Name box, type-in or select the name of the document
you want to open. If you do not see the document you want to open, select a
new drive or directory, or select a different type of file in the List Files of Type
box.

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SAVE AS WINDOW
The Save As window is used to give a new or different name to an existing
file.


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EDIT MENU
The Edit menu displays edit, search and file navigation options.

EDIT MENU OPTIONS
The following table describes the Edit menu options (the associated Hot Key
is listed in parenthesis). The access level for these options is configurable by
PLS. Some of these Edit menu options differ from the standard Windows
environment.

Option Description
Undo
(Ctrl + Z)
Reverses changes you make in a program, such as
editing, formatting, inserting, and deleting.

NOTE: Up to 15 commands can be undone with the
Undo command.
Cut
(Del)
Removes selected text and places it on the
Clipboard. This command is available only when you
select text. Text that you place on the Clipboard
remains there until you replace it with a new item.
Copy
(Shift +
Insert)
Copies selected text to the Clipboard. This command
is available only when you select text. Text that you
copy to the Clipboard replaces the previous contents.
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Option Description
Paste
(Ctrl + V)
Inserts a copy of the Clipboard contents at the
insertion point, replacing the selection (if any) with the
text on the Clipboard. This command is not available
if the Clipboard is empty or if the selected text cannot
be replaced.
Select All
(Ctrl + A)
Selects the entire program for editing.
Search
(Ctrl + N)
Searches for specified text, formatting, and codes in
the program. You can also include special characters
-- for example, using punctuation marks -- in your
search criteria.
Dialog Box Options:
Search - Type-in the information you want to find.
Whole words only - Finds occurrences that are words,
and not part of a larger word.
Case insensitive - Finds only those occurrences with
the exact combination of uppercase and lowercase
letters specified in the Search box. If selected, the
search finds all occurrences of the specified search
regardless of case.
Start at cursor position - Searches the entire
document from the insertion point. If selected, this
begins the search command at the point of the
cursor.
Direction:
Backward - Searches from the insertion point or end of
the selection to the beginning of the document or
selection.
Forward - Searches from the insertion point or
beginning of the selection to the end of the
document or selection.
Search Next
(Ctrl + N)
Finds and selects the next occurrence of the text or
formatting specified in the Search box.
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Option Description
Search and
Replace
Opens the Search and Replace dialog box, retaining
any information typed in the Search box. In the
Replace With box, type-in the replacement text, and
then specify any formatting you want to apply.
Dialog Box Options:
Search - Type-in the information you want to find.
Whole words only - Finds occurrences that are words,
and not part of a larger word.
Case insensitive - Finds only those occurrences with
the exact combination of uppercase and lowercase
letters specified in the Search box. If selected, the
search finds all occurrences of the specified search
regardless of case.
Start at cursor position - Searches the entire
document from the insertion point. If selected, this
begins the search command at the point of the
cursor.
Direction:
Backward - Searches from the insertion point or end of
the selection to the beginning of the document or
selection.
Forward - Searches from the insertion point or
beginning of the selection to the end of the
document or selection.
Goto top
(Ctrl + H)
Sends your cursor to the top of the program.
Goto Bottom
(Ctrl + E)
Sends your cursor to the bottom of the program.
Goto Line
No.
(Ctrl + L)
Sends your cursor to the line number in the program
that you specify in the dialog box.

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EDIT MENU WINDOWS
The following sections describe the Edit menu windows.
SEARCH WINDOW
The Search window is used to enter search criteria. The Search Next option
also displays this window.

SEARCH AND REPLACE WINDOW
The Search and Replace window is used to enter search criteria and enter
what the item being search for is to be replaced with, for example:
Search: screen
Replace with: window
This search task searches for the word screen and replaces it with the word
window.

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DISPLAY MENU
The Display menu displays size (units of measure), font and save layout
screen options.

DISPLAY MENU OPTIONS
The following table describes the Display menu options. The access level for
these options is configurable by PLS.
Option Description
Inch or mm Selects Inch or mm as the default (active) unit of
measure.
The following functions are affected by the active unit
system:
Main Screen:
Position display
Feedrate display
Jog Mode:
Step Feed multiple in Jog Mode (Incremental)
Utilities:
Step and Repeat database parameters
Lasers:
Laser database parameters
Settings:
Auto-Focus Height Table values
Cutter Compensation Table values
Workpiece Coordinate systems
Reference Positions

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Option Description
Parameters:
Homing
Feedrate
Acceleration
Software Limits
Tolerances
Diagnostics:
Following error
Edit Window
Font
Displays the Font selection window. Select the
attribute you want for your edit window font.
NOTE: To change the settings you must be in
Program Mode.
CNC Window
Font
Selects the attribute you want for your CNC window
font.
NOTE: To change the settings you must be in Auto
Mode and have a program loaded.
Save Screen
Layout
Saves your screen layout and recalls the layout, font
selections and inch/metric settings each time you
launch AcuNav.

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DISPLAY MENU WINDOWS
The following sections describe the Display menu windows.
EDIT FONT WINDOW
The Edit Font window is used to select a desired font format. The Edit Font
window is used for programmable and background editing.
NOTE: To change the settings you must be in Program Mode.

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CNC FONT WINDOW
The CNC Font window is used to select a desired font format.
NOTE: To change the settings you must be in Auto Mode and have
a program loaded.




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PARAMETERS MENU
The Parameters menu displays parameter setting options. See
PARAMETERS MENU WINDOWS in this section for a description of the
Parameter windows displayed from this menu.

PARAMETERS MENU OPTIONS
The following table describes the Parameters menu options. The access
level for these options is configurable by PLS.

Option Description
Auto Focus
(Optional)
Maintains a fixed focal length automatically on
uneven material surfaces on both sides of a focal
point. This parameter sets up the conversion units
per/inch or per/mm for the transducer on the Auto-
focus sensor assembly. This parameter is factory-
set and should not be changed, unless directly
advised by the PLS service department.
Axis
Definitions
These parameters are factory-set for your system.
The parameter settings depend on how many
programmable axes are present and should not be
altered. From this window, you can find Motor
Activation, Motor Axis Assignment and Pulses Per
Unit.
Homing Parameters for automatic homing sequence. The
two options available for making adjustments are
Speed and Offset.
Feedrate Defines the feedrates in Jog Mode and Max Rapid
(G00, G53) in Auto and MDI Modes.
Acceleration Used to ensure smooth starting and stopping of the
axes and to prevent damage to the machine
resulting from harsh movements.
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Option Description
Software
Limits
Sets up in software, the limits an axis can physically
travel.
Tolerances Sets up the tolerance band for which a completed
move is considered to be in position.
P-Variables
(Optional)
Used for material specific programming

PARAMETERS MENU WINDOWS
The Parameters menu windows display parameter setting options. The
following sections describe the Parameters menu windows.
AUTO-FOCUS SETUP PARAMETERS WINDOW
The Auto-Focus Setup Parameters window is used to set the conversion
units (units per inch) for auto focus position control. .


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AXIS DEFINITIONS PARAMETERS WINDOW
The Axis Definitions window is used to assign a physical motor to an axis
definition that can be controlled by using preparatory word data blocks (G-
Codes.


Parameter Description
Motor
Activation
Defines which programmable motors are activated.
Motor Axis
Assignment
Axis character assignment; defines which motor
corresponds to which axis.
Pulses Per
Unit
Defines how many encoder pulses per unit of
measure the axis motor has.

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HOMING PARAMETERS WINDOW
The Homing window is used to set homing parameters to an assigned axis.


Parameter Description
Speed Displays the speed (inch/min. - mm/min. -
degree/min.) at which each axis searches for its
home location.
Offset Displays the distance (inch/min. - mm/min. -
degree/min.) that the axis zero location is to be from
the Home switches.

NOTE: The plus(+) and minus (-) sign on the speed parameter
determines the direction an axis will home.
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FEEDRATE SETTINGS PARAMETERS WINDOW
The Feedrate Settings parameters window is used to set rapid and jog
speeds to an assigned axis.


Parameter Description
Maximum
Rapid
Displays the maximum allowable feedrate value for a
rapid (G00) move.
Jog Speed
Low
Displays the lowest feedrate value (inch/min. -
mm/min. - degree/min.) allowable when in Jog
Mode.
Jog Speed
Medium Low
Displays the medium low feedrate value (inch/min. -
mm/min. - degree/min.) allowable when in Jog
Mode.
Jog Speed
Medium
Displays the medium feedrate value (inch/min. -
mm/min. - degree/min.) allowable when in Jog
Mode.
Jog Speed
Medium High
Displays the medium high feedrate value (inch/min. -
mm/min. - degree/min.) allowable when in Jog
Mode.
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Issued: 9/22/2004 2004 Preco Laser Systems, LLC. All Rights Reserved Product No.: 01001-224
Parameter Description
Jog Speed
High
Displays the highest feedrate value (inch/min. -
mm/min. - degree/min.) allowable when in Jog
Mode.

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ACCELERATION PARAMETERS WINDOW
The Acceleration parameters window is used to set acceleration and
deceleration rates to an assigned axis.


Parameter Description
Cutting
Acceleration
Displays the acceleration time in milliseconds for G1,
G2 and G3 moves.
Cutting S-
Curve
Percent
Displays the S-curve percent of cutting acceleration
applicable for G1, G2 and G3 moves.
Jog/ Home/
Rapid
Maximum
Acceleration
Displays the maximum acceleration time (inch/sec
2

- mm/sec
2
- degrees/sec
2
) for jogging, homing and
rapid (G00) moves.
Jog/ Home/
Rapid
Acceleration
Time
Displays the acceleration time (msec) for jogging,
homing and rapid (G00) moves.
Jog /Home/
Rapid S-
Curve Time
Displays the S-curve time (msec) spent in each half
of the S for the S-curve acceleration for jogging,
homing or rapid-mode moves.
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Parameter Description
Overtravel/
Abort
Deceleration
Displays the acceleration (inch/sec
2
- mm/sec
2
-
degrees/sec
2
) for overtravel, abort and mode
switching.

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SOFTWARE LIMITS PARAMETERS WINDOW
The Software Limits parameters window is used to set position limits for an
assigned axis.


Parameter Description
Positive Sets the positive range of motion (inches - mm -
degrees) for the axes.
Negative Sets the negative range of motion (inches - mm -
degrees) for the axes.

NOTE: Setting values to zero (0) disables software limit.
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TOLERANCES PARAMETERS WINDOW
The Tolerances parameters window is used to set tolerance limits for an
assigned axis.


Parameter Description
In-Position Displays the magnitude of the maximum positional
tolerance band (inches - mm - degrees) at which the
axis is considered to be in-position for exact stop
(G09) and when turning the laser on and off with M-
Codes (M90, M91, and so on).
In-Position
Servo Cycles
Displays the number of consecutive servo cycles at
which the axis must be in the positional tolerance
band before it is considered to be in-position for
exact stop check (G09) and M-code laser functions.
Circle Error
Limit
Applicable when only the R vector specification for
Circular Interpolation is used. Sets the tolerance
(inches - mm) that the arc can be out of round
before a Circle Radius Error alarm is generated.
Following
Error Limit
Displays the magnitude of the following error (inches
- mm - degrees) at which the axis shuts down and
generates a Following Error alarm.
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Parameter Description
DAC Error
Limit Timer
Defines the amount of time (msec) that the DAC
output to the motors has to remain at 10 volts before
an error is detected.

CHANGING A PARAMETER
CAUTION:
You need not make any adjustments. If you feel a need to
make adjustments, contact the Service Department at PLS
for instructions.
NOTE: Parameters can only be changed in Program mode.
1. Move the cursor to the selected text box with the mouse or use
the Tab key.
2. Delete the current setting.
3. Type-in the new number.
4. Click on the Save button to save parameters.


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P-VARIABLES PARAMETERS WINDOW
The P-Variables parameters window is used for material specific
programming.

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Operating Interface 35


SETTINGS MENU
The Settings menu displays setting options.

SETTINGS MENU OPTIONS
The following table describes the Settings menu options. The access level
for these options is configurable by PLS.

Option Description
Auto-Focus
Height Table
(Optional)
Used to maintain a fixed focal length on an uneven
material surface. This table is used to input Auto-
Focus Heights to be recalled later in the program
using the corresponding H-code. There are
provisions for 20 different settings.

Cutter
Compensation
Since all laser beams are focused to slightly
different diameters, a program written for
processing with the center of the laser may not cut
the workpiece to the proper size. To produce a
workpiece that has the correct size, an offset must
be used. This table is used to input radius offsets
to be recalled later in the program using the
corresponding D-code.
Part Count/
Runtime
Maintenance
Used to reset the processing data information.
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Option Description
Reference
Positions
Reference Positions let you select specific
machine coordinate reference positions on the
worksupport. There are three (3) reference
positions available, denoted as 2
nd
, 3
rd
or 4
th
. The
usage of the Reference Position lets you use the
return function (G29) after the reference position
has completed. If G29 is used immediately
following the G30, the table is positioned to the
point commanded by G29 through the
intermediate point commanded by G30. The
Reference Position screen is specified in machine
position coordinates. The P in the syntax lets you
pick the reference machine position from the
Reference Positions table.
Workpiece
Coordinate
System
When processing a workpiece using a program
created on a CAD program, it may be desirable to
match the zero point on the coordinate system of
the part drawing with the zero point of the work
coordinate system. The Workpiece Coordinate
System is established by programming the
distance between the desired zero point of the
work coordinate system and the zero point of the
machine coordinate system.
There are six (6) pre-set Workpiece Coordinate
Systems selectable using G54-G59. The desired
work coordinate system can be selected by
specifying any of these G-codes in the program.
Work Coordinate Systems called out by G54-G59
have zero points that are entered in a Workpiece
Coordinate Systems menu. These zero points are
in the form of values from the machine coordinate
system zero point.

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SETTINGS MENU WINDOWS
The following sections describe the Settings menu windows.
AUTO-FOCUS HEIGHT WINDOW
The optional Auto-Focus Height window is used to store twenty (20) preset
focus height settings in a database table.

NOTE: H1-H20 come factory preset. H1 = .010 inch (.025mm)
through H20 = .200 inch (.508mm). Range Available: 0 - .250 inch.


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CUTTER COMPENSATION WINDOW
The Cutter Compensation window is used to store twenty (20) preset beam
radius settings in a data base table.

NOTE: D1-D20 come factory preset. D1 = .001 inch (.025mm)
through D20 = .020 inch (.508mm).

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PART COUNT/RUNTIME MAINTENANCE WINDOW
The Part Count/Runtime Maintenance window is used to reset the
processing data information. You may also select which M-code (M10/M30)
to use in incrementing the part count.


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REFERENCE POSITIONS WINDOW
The Reference Positions window is used to move to three separate machine
user settable preset positions.


WORKPIECE COORDINATE SYSTEM WINDOW
The Workpiece Coord Systems window is used to set six (6) separate
absolute coordinate positions.

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UTILITIES MENU
The Utilities menu displays system utility options.

UTILITIES MENU OPTIONS
The following table describes the Utilities menu options. The access level for
these options is configurable by PLS except Change Password and Set User
Level, which are Supervisor access levels.

Option Description
Change
Password
(Optional)
Displays the Set Password screen, which lets you
alter or change the maintenance level access
password. This option is Supervisor access only.
Do the following:

1. In the Old Password field, type-in the current
password.
2. In the New Password field, type-in the new
password
3. Click on the Close button to close the screen.
4. Click on the Cancel button to cancel the
without changing the password.
Set User
Level
(Optional)
Lets the workstation owner limit the access of
machine functions. This option is Supervisor
access only. These options include the disabling of
any menu items, display status as well as machine
control. Maintenance level allows full access to all
available options.
Step and
Repeat
Selection
Allows a part program to be executed repeatedly over
a sheet where you specify the X and Y offsets and
the number of parts (rows and columns) desired. The
offsets, number of parts, start position and end
position are specified in the Step and Repeat tables.
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Option Description
Step and
Repeat
Enabled
Enables or disables the selected Step and Repeat
sequence.
Step and
Repeat
Header and
Footers
Enables or disables Step and Repeat header and
footer commands.
Repair
Database
Restores the Laser Settings Selections database in
the event it becomes corrupt, typically due to
computer power failure when AcuNav is writing to the
Laser Database.
Operator
Message
Displays the Operator Message screen. This screen
lets you enter messages, special instructions and
other communications for the user. The message
also contains the date and time the message was
entered.

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U ENU TILITIES M WINDOWS
T ection
S SE
he following s s describe the Utilities menu windows.
TEP AND REPEAT LECTION WINDOW
The Step and Repeat Selection window is used to specify the X and Y offsets
and the number of parts (rows and columns) desired. The offsets, number of
p osition a arts, start p nd end position are specified in the Step and Repeat
tables.


Parameter Description
Current Step
and Repeat
Selection
Information
Starting Displays the Step starting position. This
parameter can be changed to the desired part
starting position, relative to the total number of parts.
Total Number of Parts Displays the total number
of parts. AcuNav sets this parameter from the
number of parts along the X axis and parts along the
Y axis.
Step and repeat Enabled Check box. Check this
box to enable the Step and Repeat process.
Description Provides a brief description of the part.
X-Y- Axis
Start Position
(in)
This parameter displays the machine start position of
the part for the Step and Repeat process before the
first part.
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Parameter Description
X-Y- Axis
Ending
Position (in)
This parameter displays the machine ending position
of the part for the Step and Repeat process after the
Step and Repeat process finishes with the last part.
X-Y- Axis Incr
(in)
This parameter is used to set the increment distance
between parts.
Parts Along X This parameter is used to set the part quantity along
the X axis.
Parts Along Y This parameter is used to set the part quantity along
the Y axis.

OPERATOR MESSAGE WINDOW
T Messa he Operator ge window is used to enter messages, special
instructions and other communications for the user. The message also
contains the date and time the message was entered.

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Operating Interface 45


SERIALIZATION WINDOW
The optional Serialization window is rameters for part used to set pa
serialization identification codes.


Parameter Description
Enable Prefix A toggle field. Enables or disables the use of a
prefix. If you are using a prefix, check this option
and enter the prefix in the Serial # Prefix ld. fie
NOTE: Prefixes can be both Alpha and
numeric characters.
Standard Used when running a non-series. The standard
option places up to a six-digit serial number on a
part.
Series Used for running a series of parts that you would like
to select (that is, 20/200 is used to identify part 20
out of 200).
Leading
Zeros
A toggle field. Enables or disables using leading
zeros.
Special codes used for Serialization:
Syntax: M98(path and filename) ;prewritten subroutine supplied by PLS
M9 (Increment serial number)
M98 (c:\pls\ncfiles\serialno.sub) (Calls serial number)
M9 (increments serial number)
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Part Program with Serialization Example:
Code Comments
F100 (Speed Feedrate)
G90 (Absolute Mode)
G92 X0Y0 (Set Relative 0)
M88 (Open Shutter)
L1 (Set Laser Settings, see following
page)
M90 (Laser On)
G1X5 (Cut square)
G1Y5 (Cut square)
G1X0 (Cut square)
G1Y0 (Cut square)
M91 (Laser Off)
G0X6 (Insertion Point)
M90 (Laser On)
M98 (c:\pls\ncfiles\serialno.sub) (Calls serial number subroutine)
M91 (Laser Off)
M89 (Close Shutter)
M30 (Program end)

G1X0
G1Y0
G1X5
G1Y5
G0X6 (insertion point)
RRJ0020/006223
Recalls M98 code

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AcuNav Laser Control Software
Operating Interface 47


Serialization Subroutine Example:
Code Comments
M98 Q1 (Serial number prefix)
M98 Q2 (Serial number prefix)
M98 Q3 (Serial number prefix)
M98 Q4 (Serial number prefix)
M98 Q10 (Serial number 6-digit)
M98 Q11 (Serial number 6-digit)
M98 Q12 (Serial number 6-digit)
M98 Q13 (Serial number 6-digit)
M98 Q14 (Serial number 6-digit)
M98 Q15 (Serial number 6-digit)
M98 Q20 (Serial number slash)
M98 Q30 (Serial number total in series -
6-digit)
M98 Q31 (Serial number total in series -
6-digit)
M98 Q32 (Serial number total in series -
6-digit)
M98 Q33 (Serial number total in series -
6-digit)
M98 Q34 (Serial number total in series -
6-digit)
M98 Q35 (Serial number total in series -
6-digit)
M9 (Increment serial number)
M99 (program end)

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Serialization Character Subroutine Example:
This subroutine creates one sub file for every character.
Code
M98(C:\PLS\NCFILES\SERIAL,NO\ZERO.SUB\
M98(C:\PLS\NCFILES\SERIAL,NO\ONE.SUB\
.
.
.
M98(C:\PLS\NCFILES\SERIAL,NO\Z.SUB\
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Operating Interface 49


LASER MENU
The optional Laser menu displays the laser database options.

LASER MENU OPTIONS
The following table describes the Laser menu options. The access level for
these options is configurable by PLS.

Option Description
Laser
Database
Displays the Laser Selections window.
Power
Calibration
(Optional)
Displays the Automatic Power Calibration window.

LASER MENU WINDOWS
The following sections describe the Laser menu windows.
LASER SETTING SELECTION
The Laser Setting Selection window menu is a comprehensive processing
parameter database, which laser users preset the laser settings to be
recalled in a program using an L-Code. Window

NOTE: AcuNav Laser Control Software has two, system dependent,
laser database tables: MPLC and LCC-PPG.
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Laser Database with MPLC Window

Laser Database with LCC-PPG Window


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Material Selection Information Parameters
Parameter Description
Material and
Thickness
Displays a descriptive name and thickness for a given
material.
Lens Displays the focal length of the lens being used.
Gas Displays assist gas.
Pressure Displays assist gas pressure.
Programming
Remarks
Contains remarks/notes about the program method for
this material.
Cautionary Remarks Contains remarks/notes regarding any hazards for this
material.
Nozzle Orifice Displays the size of the assist gas nozzle orifice being
used.
Nozzle Stand-off Displays the stand-off height of the assist gas nozzle
orifice being used.
Nozzle Focus Dist Displays the focal distance of the assist gas nozzle
being used.

L Paramete aser Settings rs
Parameter Description
L-Code Selects between configurations of laser settings for a
given material.
Type of Cut Describes the type of cut for a given material.
Mode Selects the laser processing mode being used. See
LASER PROCESSING MODES in the PROGRAMMING
REFERENCE section of this guide.
CW / REP Select Ramping parameter. Select Continuous Wave (CW) or
Repetitive Pulse (REP) modes for Power Ramp-
Distance, Power Ramp Time and Power Velocity modes.
Ramp / Dieboard Ramp/Dieboard selection. Depending upon mode, this
selection either sets up the Data Table for up to 26
ramping points or sets up the Dieboard database for
height and speed parameters.
Feed Rate (in/min) Feed Rate or speed of motion for G01, G02, G03 and
G07.1A moves.
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Parameter Description
Spacing (in) Sets the distance between the Pulse On increments for
Incremental Pulsing and Dieboard Incremental Pulsing.
Pulse On (sec) Sets the length of time the laser is ON in seconds for
Repetitive Pulsing, Single Pulsing, Incremental Pulsing
and Dieboard Incremental Pulsing.
Pulse Off (sec) Sets the length of time the laser is OFF in seconds for
Repetitive Pulsing and Dieboard incremental.
Duty Cycle (%) Sets the duty cycle percentage (%) for Incremental
Pulsing, Dieboard Incremental Pulsing, Repetitive
Pulsing and Duty-Cycle-Velocity modes.
Power (watts) Selects the Laser power (system dependent).
Pulse Freq (Hz) Sets the Pulse Frequency for the Duty-Cycle Ramping
modes and Duty-Cycle-Velocity mode.
Min Power/ Duty Sets the absolute minimum laser power/duty cycle that
can be output for Power-Velocity and Duty-Cycle-
Velocity modes.
Max Power/ Duty Sets the absolute maximum laser power/duty cycle that
can be output for Power-Velocity and Duty-Cycle-
Velocity modes.
Min Feedrate Sets the minimum feedrate for be output for Power-
Velocity and Duty-Cycle-Velocity modes.
Comments Displays any notations for a given laser setting.
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Operating Interface 53


R NDOW AMP POINTS WI
T ts win he Ramp Poin dow lets you access further options in the laser
database. To access this window, double-click on the Ramp/Dieboard
sy ser mbol on the La Settings Selection Window.



Parameter Description
L-Code Point Number -- Sets the point number (up to 26) to
use for control settings.
Power (watts) / Duty Cycle (%) -- Sets the Power
or Duty Cycle desired for this point.
Distance (in) / Time (sec) -- Sets the Distance or
Time desired for this point.
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Parameter Description
Insert Point Inserts a Ramp Point above the cursor location.
Delete Point Deletes the Ramp Point highlighted (selected) by the
cursor.
Add Point Adds a Ramp Point at the end of the table.

Ramping Example
This sample job welds the end on a hydraulic cylinder with an OD of 2.5.
This sample procedure uses cylindrical interpolation where a round part is
programmed as if it was a linear move using the G01\7.1 code. Refer to
G07.1A CYLINDRICAL INTERPOLATION MODE in the PROGRAMMING section of
this guide.
G07.1A1.25 Puts control into this mode with a 1.25 indicating the
radius of the part.
G07.1A0 Cancel this mode.
Weld Schedule:
1. Tack weld the pieces together at 4000 watts with three (3) tacks .5
inches long and .25 inches ramp up and ramp down at each end of
the tack welds should be equally spaced.
2. Weld the two pieces together using 6000 watts for one (1) full
revolution with a 1 inch ramp up to 6000 watts, a partial ramp down
to 5000 watts for the last 1.5 inches to compensate for heating the
work piece, and then a ramp down to 3000 watts to start the
cosmetics weld pass.
3. Do a cosmetic weld pass for one (1) revolution around the part at
three (3) kilowatts and ramp out to zero (0) power over the next three
(3) inches.
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D W IEBOARD INDOW
Depending upon mode, this selection sets up the Dieboard database for
height and speed parameters.

Parameter Description
Speed
Control
SY Positive or Negative Y-axis cutting
speed.
SX Positive or Negative X-axis cutting
speed.
Height
Control
HY Positive or Negative Y-axis Auto Focus
Height setting.
HX Positive or Negative X-axis Auto Focus
Height setting.
Off Axis When checked, uses Off Axis speed and height
values when a combined X, Y move is implemented.
Speed Cutting speed for off axis motion.
Height Auto Focus Height setting for off axis
motion.
Beam Off
Delay
MPLC system only. Sets the time interval for the
beam trail to catch up at the end of a move (ms).
User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Operating Interface 57


AUTOMATIC POWER CALIBRATION WINDOW
The optional Automatic Power Calibration window is used on systems
configured with an analogue power feedback option. This window is used to
calibrate the commanded laser power output to actual laser power output.



Parameter Description
Calibrated An indicator light. When lit, the MPLC has calibrated
the laser.
Non-
Calibrated
An indicator light. When lit, the MPLC is not
calibrated and the Laser Power control is not linear.
Calibrating An indicator light. When lit, the system is calibrating
the laser by slowly ramping up and down the power
of the laser while setting 26 calibration points to
reference the power ramp profile.
Calibrate/
Save
Saves the calibration parameters.
Uncalibrate Clears the existing calibration parameters.

N hen cali amping the OTE: W brating, take note that the laser is r
power up and down. It is possible to calibrate the laser with it OFF
resulting in all calibration parameters being zero (0).
NOTE: The Calibration Procedure takes about two (2) minutes.

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DIAG MENU
The Diag menu is used to troubleshoot system problems. Refer to the DIAG
MENU WINDOWS in this section, for a description of these windows.

DIAG MENU OPTIONS
The following table describes the Diag menu options. The access level for
these options is configurable by PLS.

Option Description
Auxiliary
Inputs
Displays the Auxiliary Inputs window.
Auxiliary
Outputs
Displays the Auxiliary Outputs window
Axis I/O Displays the Axis I/O window.
Standard I/O Displays the Standard I/O window.
Following
Error
Displays the Following Error window.
Rotary
Buffers
Displays the Rotary Buffers window.
MPLC Active
Axes
Displays the MPLC Active window.

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Operating Interface 59


DIAG MENU WINDOWS
The following sections describe the Diag menu windows.
AUXILIARY INPUTS WINDOW
Auxiliary Inputs are used for systems designed with more than eight inputs.
They are implemented by using auxiliary I/O boards. Associated with each
Auxiliary I/O Board, are 32 input points and 32 output points.



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AUXILIARY INDOW OUTPUTS W
A re used for sy uxiliary Outputs a stems designed with more than eight
ou plemented b tputs. The are im y using auxiliary I/O boards. Associated
w iliary I/O Board, ar ith each Aux e 32 input points and 32 output points.



User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Operating Interface 61


AXIS I/O WINDOW


Switch Description
Amplifier Enable Indicates whether the amplifier (motor
drive) is commanded to be enabled.
Home Flag Switch Input is not used.
Negative Limit Indicates the state of this switch
(normally closed).
Positive Limit Indicates the state of this switch
(normally closed).
Amplifier Fault
(Optional)
This parameter is wired for axes with
Yaskawa Drives and not available with
axes that have Baldor Drives
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STANDARD I/O
The Standard I/O window displays status information. It monitors the
Standard I/O on the motion control card that consists of eight inputs and
eight outputs. Window


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Operating Interface 63


FOLLOWING ERROR WINDOW
The Following Error window displays error status information. It indicates
how well the system is executing the actual command moves.



ROTARY BUFFERS STATUS WINDOW
The Rotary Buffer Status window displays Rotary Buffer Status information.
It indicates how many blocks of CNC code are currently loaded into the
motion controller.


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MPLC ACTIVE AXES WINDOW
The MPLC Active Axes window displays active status information for the
listed axes.


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Operating Interface 65


LOGGER MENU
The optional Logger menu displays alarm count and logging options.
Logger is used to log alarms chronologically and numerically (keeps a sum
total of each alarm time for the set time period). The logged alarms are rolled
over (either monthly or weekly) depending on how the Alarm Log Options
screen is configured. When rolled over, they are stored in a file using a file
name that denotes the week or month of the rollover. These files are stored
in the C:\PLS\Logfiles directory.
N e file na ed yearly, so if you want to keep a OTE: Th mes are re-us
ye d, you arly recor should remove them from the directory each year.
With the alarm information, you are able to generate reports that may help
track potential problems.

LOGGER MENU OPTIONS
The following table describes the Logger menu options. The access level
for these options is configurable by PLS.

Option Description
Alarm Count Displays the Alarm Count Log screen.
Logged
Alarms
Displays the Logged Alarms screen.
Alarm Log
Options
Displays the Alarms Log Options screen.
Manual
rollover
Manually clears the logged alarms from the database.
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LOGGER MENU WINDOWS
The following sections describe the Logger menu windows.
ALARM COUNT LOG WINDOW
The optional Alarm Count Log window displays the frequency for which an
alarm occurs; it maintains a running count of how many times a particular
alarm is captured. Click on the Print button to display a report screen.


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LOGGED ALARMS WINDOW
The optional Logged Alarms window displays the logged alarms and the last
rollover date. The Print command prints current logged alarms in a report-
type format.


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ALARM LOG OPTIONS WINDOW
The optional Alarm Log window displays alarm logging options. This screen
lets you configure which alarms you would like to log, disable and enable
logging, and set the log rollover period.
To activate/de-activate an alarm, click on the appropriate check box to
enable or disable the alarm. Then click Save to put changes into effect.

DEFAULT ACUNAV ALARMS

Alarm Message Description
Encod Motor er Loss on (X) Contact PLS. The motor has lost
feedback an unstable condition
exits. Contact the PLS Service
department immediately.
X = Motors 1, 2, 3 or 4


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AcuNav Laser Control Software
Operating Interface 69


TOOLS MENU
The optional Tools menu lets you access the Step and Repeat Header and
Footer, which are used to enhance the Step and Repeat capability. These
options execute desired commands at the beginning and the end of Step and
Repeat process. Commands such as Auto focus Up/Down, Shutter
Open/Close and Assist Gas On/Off are only issued at the beginning or at the
end of the entire sheet to be processed.

When a part program is loaded and Step and Repeat is selected and
enabled, you can enable Step and Repeat Headers and Footers from the
Utilities menu. The following sequence takes place:
1. AcuNav issues the commands from the Step and Repeat Header file.
2. AcuNav runs the part program as many times as is programmed
from the Step and Repeat database until the Program End is issued.
3. AcuNav issues the commands from Step and Repeat Footer file.
If a Step and Repeat Header or Step and Repeat Footer file does not exist,
se A NEW EAT HEADER/FOOTER FILE later in this e CREATING STEP AND REP
se
T NU OPTIONS
ction.
OOLS ME
Th ble d evel for e following ta escribes the Tools menu options. The access l
th con ese options is figurable by PLS.

Option Description
Step and
Repeat
Header
Inserts or deletes commands at the beginning of Step
and Repeat.
Step and
Repeat
Footer
Inserts or deletes desired commands at the end of
Step and Repeat.
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VISION MENU
The optional Vision menu lets you access certain features of the Vision
System. Under this menu, you can manually override, display and calibrate
the vision offset correction factors.

VISION MENU OPTIONS
The following table describes the Vision menu options. The access level for
these options is configurable by PLS.

Option Description
Cut
Adjustment
Manually overrides the applied vision Cut Offset.
See the ACUVISION II LASER CONTROL SOFTWARE
USER GUIDE for more information.
Co Calibrates the Coordinate Offset for vision. See the
ACUVISION II LASER CONTROL OFTWARE USER GUIDE
ordinate
S
for more information.
System
Offset
Part Offset Displays the Adjustment and Correction factors that
were applied by the vision system. See the
ACUVISION II LASER CONTROL SOFTWARE USER GUIDE
for more information.

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AcuNav Laser Control Software
Operating Interface 71


VISION MENU WINDOWS
T g sectio
VISION CUT ADJUSTM
he followin ns describe the Vision menu windows.
ENT WINDOW
The Vision Cut Adjustment (Vision Cut Offset) Window is used to apply
additional compensation when needed as irregularities in printing of fiducial
m mp arks and the co ensation produced by the vision system may not be as
accurate as required a . This window contains three values: X, Y offsets and
rotational angle. Values entered can be applied to the compensation in
addition to the vision compensation. This adjustment should not be needed
fo pplications r most a .


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COORDINATE CALIBRATE WINDOW
This window is used to set the location of the camera with respect to the
laser, and the laser with respect to the camera. You can set these fields, but
they are calculated during the calibration process.
NOTE: Locating the camera in AcuNav must be done after the
Coordinate Calibration procedure is completed in the vision software
system. See the ACUVISION II LASER CONTROL SOFTWARE USER
GUIDE for more information regarding Coordinate Calibration
procedure.


Button Description
Calibrate Calibrates the camera with respect to the laser, and
the laser with respect to the camera position in
AcuNav.
Store Stores the calibration position.

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Operating Interface 73


PART OFFSETS WINDOW
The Part Offsets windows displays the current part offset information.

Section Description
Fiducial 1
(Inches) and
Fiducial 2
(Inches)
Displays both the ideal and actual (real) X and Y
locations for two fiducials in inches.
Adjustment Displays the cut adjustment that was manually
entered in the Vision Cut Offset window.
Correction Displays the total correction by using the sum of both
the vision calculated offsets and rotation, and the cut
adjustment.

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MACHINE CONTROL MENU
The Machine Control menu is used for machine control. It emulates all the
buttons on the Program Cycle control panel (except Reset) and all the
configured buttons on the CNC I/O control panel.

MACHINE CONTROL MENU OPTIONS
The following table describes he the Machine Control menu options. T
access level for these options is configurable by PLS.

Option Description
Abort Stops all motion, the laser beam shuts OFF, and the
shutter closes. You must reset the machine at this
point.
Cycle Start In this mode, performs a home on all active axes; or if
a program was loaded and the system is in Auto
mode, the system begins processing the loaded part
file.
Cycle
Feedhold
Ramps down to a stop (while the system is
processing a part) the program and the machine
operation and turns the laser beam off.
Option Stop Stops program execution at the M01 block (requires a
Cycle Start command to restart the program). When
Optional Stop condition is de-activated, it ignores the
M01 in the program and the control continues
executing the part program as normal.
Block Delete If the first character of a block has a forward back
slash (\) and the Block Delete is active, this block is
skipped.
User Guide
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Operating Interface 75


Option Description
Dry Run Permits the checking of a part program to ensure that
the machine motions are correct. The Dry Run
function does not execute M-function codes with the
exception of M60/M61, Auto Focus Enable/Disable.
All other codes operate as normal.
Single Block Lets you run a part program one line at a time. Every
time you press F2 (Cycle Start) another block is
executed. This mode is useful while troubleshooting
programs.
Mode
Selection
Selects a mode: Auto, Jog, MDI, Home, Program, or
Teach.
CNC I/O
Control
Buttons
These options coincide with the CNC I/O control
buttons along the right-side of the AcuNav main
screen.

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WINDOW MENU
The Window menu is used to choose ways to arrange windows in the
window display region of your screen. In AcuNav, window arrangement
applies to windows associated with the Quick Keys (CNC Load, Dieboard,
Check, Alarms and Positions), and the windows associated with a part file
(files opened for background editing and files opened in the CNC).

The following table describes the Window options.

Option Description
Cascade Displays the open windows cascaded with the title
bars displayed so that you can easily click on the
window you want to display.
Tile
Horizontal
Displays all open windows in a horizontal
arrangement.
Tile Vertical Displays all open windows in a vertical arrangement.
Title of the
currently
open
windows
Displays the title of the windows that are currently
open. You can select an open window by clicking on
the title you want to display.

User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Operating Interface 77


HELP MENU
The Help menu displays the available online help topics.

The following table describes the Help options.

Option Description
Contents Displays the AcuNav Help application.
Search for
Help On
Displays the AcuNav Help application.
Obtaining
Technical
Support
Displays PLS contact information.
About
AcuNav for
Windows
Displays application and version information about
AcuNav Laser Control Software.
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PROCESSING STATUS DISPLAY AND QUICK
KEY CONTROLS
The following subsections describe the processing status displays and quick
key controls.
PROCESSING STATUS DISPLAY
The Processing (CNC) Status window displays machine operation
information.


Status of the CNC.
Current Material Selected in the Laser
Database.
Current Line Number and Total Number of
Lines in Part Program (if loaded).
* Tot. Run: Total run (Number of parts).
* Cyc. Time: (For current program).
* Tot. Time: Total time (Summation of
Cycle Times)

* Can be reset in Part Count/Run Time Maintenance Screen.

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Operating Interface 79


QUICK KEY CONTROL AND STATUS BUTTONS
The Quick Key Control buttons provide quick access to specific user and
informational screens.

Service quick key button (optional) Displays the system
maintenance screen

Job Status quick key button (optional) Displays

information and status of current work order.
Job Lo log ad quick key button (optional) Displays a dia
box containing a checklist and user definable work order
parameters required for loading job.

CNC L on Displays the CNC oad quick key (optional) butt
Program Selection screen. This option eliminates the need
for you to search through the Windows file system to locate
a CNC file.
Diebrd (Dieboard) quick key (optional) button Displays

the Dieboard screen.


Check quick key button Displays the Check window.

Alarm quick key button Changes to red if there is an

alarm n, it present. If the Alarms Quick Key window is ope
displa ys a list of the current alarms. See the Alarms Quick
Key Window in this section.
Pos (Positions) quick key button Displays the Positions
window.


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QUICK KEY CONTROL WINDOWS
The Quick Key Control windows are displayed when you click on the Quick
Key control buttons. The following sections describe the quick key control
windows.
SERVICE QUICK KEY WINDOW
The Service quick key window displays a maintenance schedule for the
system. The maintenance schedule contains two sections: Part Based
Maintenance and Machine Timers.


Count
Reset
Buttons
User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Operating Interface 81



Parameter Description
Part Based Maintenance Part based maintenance provides scheduled maintenance
based on parts run. Once the Count reaches the Set
Point for a given Part Based Maintenance item, an alarm
is generated.
Count Displays the current number of parts
processed.
Set Point Amount of parts to be processed before
maintenance is required for the specified
task. The Set Point can be set in one of
two ways:
Programming the set point by using M-
Codes within the part program, or
Setting set point within the service
screen.

NOTE 1: Programmed set points using M-Code method,
within part program, supersede set points entered under
Part Based Maintenance.
NOTE 2: Resetting part count Located next to each set
point is a button. Click the button to reset Count.
The following M-Codes are used to program the set points
within the part program:

M170Qxxx Maintenance Part Counter Set Point #1.

M171Qxxx Maintenance Part Counter Set Point #2.

M172Qxxx Maintenance Part Counter Set Point #3.

M173Qxxx Maintenance Part Counter Set Point #4.
Where xxx represents the count
Machine Timers Commission Date Date the system initially entered
into service.
CNC On Time Total time system has been
powered on since commission
date.
CNC Run Time Total system run time since
commission date.
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JO QUICK KEY WINDO B STATUS W
T quick key window displays quick reference information for he Job Status
th . The ured as per your system e Work Order fields in this window are config
configuration. The following window is an example. Most fields on this
window are display only, the drum identification number and the alarm set
point can be modified.


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AcuNav Laser Control Software
Operating Interface 83



Parameter Description
Job/Part Status
Work Order
Number
Displays the current work order number.
Due Date Displays the date the job is due to be completed.
Part Number Displays the current part number.
Drum ID Displays the current Drum Identification Number of
the Clad material. This is a user definable field.
Parts
Requested
Displays the total requested number of parts.
Parts Passed Displays the amount of parts that have passed of the
requested number of parts.
Parts Run Displays the total number of parts that have been
processed of the requested number of parts.
Parts Failed Displays the amount of parts that have failed of the
requested number of parts.
Alarm
Seq Reject
Count
Displays the number of sequential parts, which have
failed for the current work order. If the number of
sequential failed parts reaches the Alarm Set Point,
the system will generate an alarm and halt. If a part
passes the Seq Reject Count is reset to zero.
NOTE: After an alarm is triggered, this field is reset
by clicking on the Reset System CNC I/O button.
Alarm Set
Point (Seq)
Displays the set point for the sequential reject count.
This is a user definable field. (See Seq Reject
Count)
Data Collection
Data
Collection
Items
Current data collection values. These values are
then saved to a data log file. The data log file is a
comma separated value (csv) file and has the
following filename format:
work order number.csv

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AcuNav Laser Control Software
Operating Interface 84

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Sample Data Collection File
Data format:

Part Count, Date, Time, Work Order Number, First 16 Data Values, Second 16 Data Values
-1, Fail, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A,0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A 1,12/23/2003, 14:57:26, AB2045-002, Side-A, Clad

1,
12/23/2003,
14:57:26,
AB2045-002,
Side-A, Clad-1, Fail, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A,
0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A

[Header]
Requested Parts: 2000
Parts Run: 0
Parts Passed: 0
Parts Failed: 0
Work Order Number: WO2233
Part Number: snow
Due Date: 12/31/03

[Data]
1,12/23/2003, 14:57:26, AB2045-002, Side-A, Clad-1, Fail, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, N/A,
N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A
2,12/23/2003, 14:57:33, AB2045-002, Side-A, Clad-1, Fail, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, N/A,
N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A
3,12/23/2003, 15:11:02, AB2045-002, Side-A, Clad-1, Pass, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, Side-A, Clad-2, Pass,
0, 0, 0, 0, 0, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A
4,12/23/2003, 15:12:57, AB2045-002, Side-B, Clad-1, Pass, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, Side-B, Clad-2, Pass,
0, 0, 0, 0, 0, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A
5,12/23/2003, 15:18:35, AB2045-002, Side-B, Clad-1, Pass, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, Side-B, Clad-2, Pass,
0, 0, 0, 0, 0, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A
6,12/23/2003, 15:19:08, AB2045-003, Side-B, Clad-1, Pass, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, Side-B, Clad-2, Pass,
0, 0, 0, 0, 0, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A, N/A



User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Operating Interface 85


JOB LOAD QUICK KEY WINDOW
The Job Load quick key window is used to load and configure a new work
order. Before a new work order can be loaded, the operator must perform
tasks listed in the checklist and check them when completed.
NOTE: The text for the items in the Check List is configurable as
needed.
Enter the work order number, drum ID, part number, job completion data and
number of parts to be processed. After all required items have been entered,
the Load CNC button is enabled. Click on the Load CNC button to continue
loading the work order.
NOTE: When the Job Load screen is opened, the work order number,
drum ID, part number, job completion date and number of parts will
contain the last work order information. Also the status will indicate
whether the job is complete or still running.

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Parameter Description
Work Order
Number
Enter the work order number.
Drum ID Enter the drum identification number.
Part Number
Click on the button to display an Open dialog
window. From this window you can choose a part
number.


Job
Completion
Date
Enter the job completion date.
Number of
Parts
Enter the number of parts to be processed.
Parts Run Displays the nu r of parts that have been mbe
processed of the requested number of parts.
Parts Passed Displays the amount of parts that have passed of the
requested number of parts.
Parts Failed Displays the amoun t of parts that have not passed of
the requested number of parts.
Check List
Items
Displays a list of maintenance items that must be
checked before the job can be loaded.
User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Operating Interface 87


Parameter Description
Buttons
New Click on the the New button to clear the fields. Enter
appropriate information in each field.
Load CNC Click on the Load CNC button to load the part
number program. If this button is not enabled, verify
that the Check List Items criteria has been
completed.
Cancel Click on the Cancel w. button to close this windo


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Operating Interface 88

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CNC PROGRAM SELECTION QUICK KEY WINDOW
The CNC Program Selection quick key window lets you select a program by
using a more descriptive name for the part program file than what is available
in the Windows file system. CNC Program Selections are set up in
Maintenance Mode.


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AcuNav Laser Control Software
Operating Interface 89


DIEBOARD QUICK KEY WINDOW
The optional Dieboard quick key window was developed specifically for the
Dieboard manufacturing industry. Special Dieboard windows were
developed to let you adjust the speed and the focus height based on the axis
and direction of the mo ve. AcuNav provides up to ten (10) point types for
each material; you are also allowed to put in your own description for the
point types. ..
NOTE: If the Off-Axis Enable box is checked, the parameters
programmed in the Off-Axis area are used for all off-axis moves. If
the Off-Axis Enable box is not checked, off-axis moves use the
combined speed and focus height parameters based on the angle of
the cut for the quadrant in which the system is currently cutting

Parameter Description
Speed
Control
SY Positive or Negative Y-axis cutting
speed.
SX Positive or Negative X-axis cutting
speed.
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Operating Interface 90

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Parameter Description
Height
Control
HY Positive or Negative Y-axis Auto Focus
Height setting.
HX Positive or Negative X-axis Auto Focus
Height setting.
Off Axis When checked, uses Off Axis speed and height
values when a combined X, Y move is implemented.
If not checked, off-axis moves use the combined
speed and focus height parameters based on the
angle of the cut for the quadrant in which the system
is currently cutting.
Speed Cutting speed for off axis
motion.
Height Auto Focus Height setting for off
axis motion.
Off Axis Enable Check this box to enable Off
Axis
Point Type
Select
When Track Mode is disabled, this parameter lets
you select the cut kerf width measurement in single
point increments of .014 inch.
NOTE: The industry standard kerf width
measurement is .014 inch per point.
2 Point .028 inch
3 Point .042 inch
Special Point This point type can be used for
anything other than .028 and
.042 inches.
Undefined Point Type#
Not configured point type.
These points can be defined by
the user
Mode / Track When the Track Mode button is lit, the selected
Point Type is currently being executed.
When the Track Mode button is not lit, AcuNav lets
you select a Point Type to edit.
User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Operating Interface 91


Parameter Description
Set Incr Clicking on the Set Incr button displays the Point
Control increment table.
Speed Sets the adjustment increments
for speed controls (in/min or
mm/min) by clicking on the
spinners.
Height Sets the adjustment increments
for height controls (in or mm) by
clicking on the spinners.
Duration On/Repetitive Pulse
Sets the time interval for the
beam trail to catch up at the end
of a move (ms).
Save to DB Clicking on the Save button saves settings to
database.

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Operating Interface 92

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CHECK QUICK KEY WINDOW
The Check quick key window is used to monitor the active G-codes, the
active L-code, current laser mode, current programmed feedrate, and laser
pulsing mode.


User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Operating Interface 93


ALARMS QUICK KEY WINDOW
The Alarms Quick Key window is used for viewing error messages.
The Alarm Quick Key turns,
RED during system, motor, PLC Fatal, PLC Stop
and PLC Warning alarm conditions.

YELLOW when a PLC Message alarm is

detected,
or homing is required.
The CNC Program halts, the laser shutter closes and the laser beam shuts
off in the case of a System Alarm, Motor Alarm, PLC Fatal Alarm or a PLC
Stop Alarm,
In a PLC Warning condition, the CNC Program continues to execute;
however, once the program has completed, a Cycle Start cannot be re-
issued until the alarm condition is cleared.

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PO IONS Q SIT UICK KEY WINDOW
The Positions quick key window displays Absolute (Abs), Relative (Rel),
Machine (Mach) and Distance To Go (Dist) - individually or together when
All is selected. You can also set program origin (Set Origin), which resets
the Relative Position, and only applies to the display.

Parameter Description
Absolute Displays the position relative to the selected
workpiece coordinate and/or G92 command.
Relative Displays the position referenced from when the Set
Origin button was depressed.
Machine Displays the actual position referenced from the
homing buttons.
Distance to
Go
Displays the distance to go while moving to the next
commanded position.
Buttons
Abs Displays only the Absolute position values.
Rel Displays only the Relative position values.
Mach Displays only the Machine position values.
User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Operating Interface 95


Parameter Description
Dist Displays only the Distance To Go position values.
All Displays all four (4) position categories: Absolute,
Relative, Machine and Distance To Go.
Set Origin Resets the relative position to zero (0).
Close Closes the window.


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CNC I\O CONTROL
The optional CNC I/O buttons are used to activate various (optional)
peripheral devices. Click once to activate and once to de-activate. They are
also activated using the Ctrl + corresponding function key (F key) from the
keyboard and from the Machine Control menu, see MACHINE CONTROL
MENU described previously in this section.

NOTE: The CNC I/O buttons may vary according to your system
configuration. Refer to the OPERATIONS INTERFACE section of the
operations manual that accompanies this guide for system specific
information.


CTRL + Corresponding Number
(from PC keyboard)
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8



NOTE: Only the available CNC I/O control buttons for your system
configuration are visibly labeled.
User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Operating Interface 97


MACHINE CONTROL PANEL
The Machine Control Panel region of the AcuNav screen provides control
buttons for the following operation functions:
Program Cycle Control (Cycle)
Operator Control Modes (Mode F9)
Feedrate Override Control (Feedrate Override F11)

These operation functions are described in the following sections.

PROGRAM CYCLE CONTROL

BORT - F12 A
When this option is selected during command file execution, all motion
ceases, the laser beam is disabled, and the shutter closes. You must reset
th e at this p
START - F2
e machin oint. See RESET F4.
By selecting Cycle Start - F2, one of following may occur:
If the system ll is in Home mode, the system performs a home on a
active axes; or
If a program em was loaded and the system is in Auto mode, the syst
begins processing the loaded part file.
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Operating Interface 98

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H - F3 OLD
When Hold - F3 is selected, while the system is processing a part, ramps the
motion down to a stop and turns the beam off.
To continue the current part in progress, select Start (F2). A restart after a
Hold turns on the laser beam and re-starts the program from where it left off
without damage to the
R
part.
ESET - F4
T set - F4 key a alarm still exists, it is he Re ttempts to clear all alarms. If the
re-scanned and displayed within the Alarm screen.
If an abort was issued in all alarms auto mode, Reset will attempt to clear
and additionally reset the program pointer to the beginning of the part
program.
After an emergency-stop d press the (E-STOP), reset the E-Stop button an
Reset button to clear the
O - F5
E-STOP condition.
PT STOP
When the Opt (Optional) Stop condition is active, the program stops
ex cution at the M01 blo . When O al Stop dition is d ed, e ck ption con e-activat
th M01 in the program is ored an contro ues ex the e ign d the l contin ecuting
part program as normal.
B DELETE - F6 LK
When the Blk Del (Block Delete) condition is active, programming a forward
ba at the b ckslash ( \ ) eginning of the block in your program causes the
co (not ex med commands in that ntrol to skip ecute) all remaining program
block.
NOTE: Placing a f ck orward slash ( \ ) in front of an M98 places a Blo
Delete on every line of a subroutine.
DRY RUN - F7
This function permits the checking of a part program to ensure the machine
motions are correct. The dry run function does not execute M-function codes
with the exception of M60/M61, Auto Focus. All other codes operate as
normal.
NOTE: To disable the Auto Focus, press the Auto Focus
enable/disable button located in the CNC I/O panel.
User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Operating Interface 99


SINGLE BLK (BLOCK) - F8
Single Block mode - F8 lets you run a part program one line at a time. Every
time you press F2 (Cycle Start) another block is executed. This mode is
useful while troubleshooting programs.
NOTE: For certain G-Codes and M-codes it takes multiple F2 (cycle
starts) to complete the block.
OPERATOR CONTROL MODES - F9


AUTO MODE
Auto (automatic) Mode is the operation mode of the control and is used in the
execution of part programs.
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Operating Interface 100

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JOG MODE
In Jog Mode, the motion on the axis is controlled by clicking the left mouse
button on the appropriate axis buttons on the screen or by using the numeric
keypad arrow keys.
NOTE: Be sure that the Num Lock is active (illuminated) for the
arrow keys to be active.

Parameter Description
Jog Type
Select
The options offered on the screen change
depending on Jog Type Select. The axes can be
jogged using three different methods:
Continuous The axes move continuously while the mouse or the
arrow key on the numeric keypad is held down.
Incremental The axes move at the pre-determined amount each
time the mouse or the arrow key is pressed. The
increment at which the axes move is determined by
the setting of the Speed/Step Select.
Handwheel
(Optional)
The axes move when the handwheel is turned. The
speed at which the axes move is set by the
Increment Select dial on the handwheel. Jogging
the axes with the handwheel is default in Teach
mode.
Set Origin Resets the relative positions are to zero.
User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Operating Interface 101


NOTE: You can jog multiple axes simultaneously by using the arrow
keys on the numeric keypad.
HANDWHEEL OPERATION
The optional Handwheel is used to jog any assigned axis to a precise
position. Refer to the following figure and table for a description.


CYCLE
START
FEED
HOLD
0
X
Y Z
4 x1
x10 x100
0

I
I
III
INSERT
BLOCK
E-Stop
Button
Feed Hold
Butto
Cycle Start
Button n
Increment
Pulse
Generator
Dial
Select Dial
Select Dial
Axis
- +
Insert Block
Button


Button/Dial Description
E-Stop Emergency Stop Pushbutton. Pressing the E-Stop
button shuts power OFF to the system immediately
and all operations cease. The E-Stop condition
must be cleared before restarting the system.
Insert Block
(Optional)
Pushbutton/Indicator Light. Used with the Teach
Mode (Optional) for positioning and capturing axes
positions to NC code.
Cycle Start Pushbutton/Indicator Light. Performs a home on all
active axes; or if a program was loaded and the
system is in Auto mode, the system begins
processing the loaded part file.
NOTE: The green Cycle Start button is illuminated
until a Feed Hold is performed, or the cycle has
completed.
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Operating Interface 102

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Button/Dial Description
Feed Hold Pushbutton/Indicator Light. Ramps (while the system
is processing a part) the motion down to a stop and
the laser beam turn off.
NOTE: The red Feed Hold button is illuminated until
the Cycle Start button is pressed to restart, or an
abort or mode switch is performed.
Axis Select
Dial
Selector dial. Turn this dial to select the desired axis
to jog (standard configuration).
0 None
1 X-axis
2 Y-axis
3 Z-axis
4 A/U-axis
Increment
Select Dial
Selector dial. Turn this dial to select the desired jog
step-size increment.
inch mm degree
X1 .001 .0025 0.036
X10 .010 .025 0.36
X100 .100 .25 3.6
Pulse
Generator
Dial
Selector dial. Turn this dial to jog the selected axis
by the selected increment.
Clockwise Jogs in the positive direction.
Counterclockwise Jogs in the negative direction.

User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Operating Interface 103


MANUAL ATA NPUT D I (MDI) MODE
Manual Data Input (MDI) mode lets you input and execute NC commands
directly from the keyboard.

HOME
The machine HOME operation is used to move all active axes to a pre-
determined machine zero location called the Home position. This position is
established through using a home limit switch mounted on the machine. The
execution of machine HOME establishes the machine coordinate system.
Since all of the work coordinate systems are referenced from the zero point
of the machine coordinate system, none of these features is available until
the machine homing operation has completed.
To Home the machine, press F2 or the Cycle Start button.
NOTE: Homing only needs to be performed after power up of the PC.
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Operating Interface 104

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PROGRAM MODE
In Program mode, you are able to load programs to CNC, edit previously
load C ed NC programs and make parameter changes to AcuNav and its
databas
TEACH MODE
es.
The optional Teach Mode uses an external pendant/Handwheel for
positioning and capturing axes positions for NC code. See also HANDWHEEL
OPERATION previously described in this section.
RETRACE MODE
NOTE: Retrace Mode is currently not available. A future release will
have this option.
User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Operating Interface 105


FEEDRATE OVERRIDE CONTROL - F11

RAPID
The Rapid Feedrate Override switch is used to override the rapid feedrate
for G00 mode in five increments: 0, 25%, 50%, 75%, 100%.
CUTTING
The Cutting Feedrate Override switch can override the programmed
feedrate. This switch has a range of 0-200 percent of the programmed
feedrate, and overrides the programmed feedrate by a pre-determined
percent increment (default is 10%).
SPEED AND HEIGHT
The optional Speed and Height Feedrate Override buttons are used to
override the Z-axis position, which allows the user to adjust the focus position
on-the-fly

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User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Operating Procedures 107


OPERATING PROCEDURES
This section describes the operating procedures and activities for the
Acu
HO KSTATION
Nav Laser Control Software system.
W TO HOME YOUR WOR
Homing your workstation is required whenever the Alarm light is yellow and
the Alarms display indicates which axes are not homed.
Startup: The workstation must be homed every time the computer is
powered on. Home mode will be active and the Home button
automatically highlighted when AcuNav is launched.
Alarm Condition: Homing your workstation is also required whenever
the alarm light is yellow or red, or the Alarms Display indicates that
the axes are not homed.

1. To place in Home Mode, press the F9 button repeatedly, or click on
the Home button until it is highlighted on the AcuNav Mode panel.

WARNING:
Before performing the next operation, ensure that all
personnel and materials are clear of the range of motion for
the workstation.
2. Click on Start (F2) on AcuNav Main screen program Cycle control
panel. The axes automatically begin their homing routine. When
complete, the current status window will display the message
Homing Complete, and the yellow Alarm light will turn gray.


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User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Operating Procedures 108

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OPERATING PROCEDURES IN MDI MODE
1. Click on the MDI button on the AcuNav Main screen operator Mode
panel to display the MDI Mode window.

2. With your cursor in the MDI Command To Issue text box, type in the
NC command block.
3. Click on the Execute button or press the Enter keyboard button to
execute the block.


User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Operating Procedures 109


CREATING A NEW FILE
1. Click on the File drop-down menu
2. Select the New option.

3. The following window is displayed:

4. Choose allows the part d from
Auto Mode. The Editor option is used primarily as a background
editor.
5. A blank program window is displayed in the window display area for
you to begin keying in a new program.

CNC. CNC program to be execute
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Operating Procedures 110

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O R C F PENING A ECENTLY LOSED ILE
AcuNav keeps track of the last four files you worked on and lists them at
the bottom of the File menu.
1. Click on the File drop-down menu
2. Select the file you want to open.

3. The following window is displayed:

4. Choose CNC. CNC allows the part program to be executed from
Auto Mode. The Editor option is used primarily as a background
editor.
5. A blank program window is displayed in the window display area for
you to begin keying in a new program.



User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Operating Procedures 111


OPENING AN EXISTING FILE
The ved on Open command on the File menu opens a document that was sa
a disk or hard drive.
1. Click on the File drop-down menu
2. Select the Open option.
3. The following window is displayed,

4. In the File Name box, type-in or select the name of the document
you want to open. If you do not see the document you want to open,
select a new drive or directory, or select a different type of file in the
List Files Of Type box.
5. Click on the CNC button. CNC allows the part program to be
executed from Auto Mode. The Editor button is used primarily as a
background editor.
6. A blank program window is displayed in the window display area for
you to begin keying in a new program.
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Operating Procedures 112

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SAVING AN EXISTING FILE
If y lrea a do se ou have a dy saved cument, u the Save command frequently to
preserve your work.
1. Click on the File drop-down menu
2. ve . Select the Sa option
NOTE: If the program file is a new program, selecting Save displays
the Save As dialog box (see SAVE A NEW, UNNAMED FILE).
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SAVING A NEW, UNNAMED FILE
Until you give a new program a unique name, a temporary name is displayed
in th t e ti le bar. The first new program is UNTITLED.
1. ile drop-down menu Click on the F
2. Select the Save As option.
3. The following window is displayed:

4. Do one of the following:

To save the document Do this
On the current drive and in
the current directory
Type-in a name in the File
Name box.
On a different drive and in a
different directory
Select a different drive or
directory, or type the
complete path and
filename in the File Name
box.

5. Click on the Ok button.
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SAVING A COPY OF THE ACTIVE DOCUMENT
If you revise a program and want to preserve the original version, or if you
want to save a copy in a different location, you can save the program with a
different name or in a different location. The original program remains
unchanged.
1. Click on the File drop-down menu
2. Select the Save As option. The following window is displayed:

3. In the File Name box, type-in a new name for the document.
To save the program copy in a different location, do one of the
following:
In the File Name box, type-in the complete path of the program --
for example, a:\laser\cuts
Select a different drive or directory.
NOTE: If you type-in a file name that already exists, there is a
me g ssa e displayed asking whether or not you want to replace the
existing program with the active program.
4. Click on the Ok button.

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EXITING THE ACUNAV PROGRAM
1. Click the (Close button) at the far right of the title bar, or
2. Click the File menu, and then select Exit, the following screen is
displayed,

3. Click on Ok.




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ENTERING NEW SETTINGS FOR THE AUTO
FOCUS HEIGHT TABLE
-

To enter new settings (optional), set the controller in Program Mode and
follow these steps:
1. Click on the Program button on the AcuNav Main screen operator
Mode panel.
2. Click on the Settings menu and select Auto Focus Height Table,

3. Select the H-Code from the Auto-Focus Height table.
4. Move cursor to the Height field and type-in the new setting.
5. Move the cursor to Comment field and type-in any comments you
may have.

5. Click on the Save button to save your changes.
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ENTERING NEW SETTINGS FOR THE CUTTER
r
COMPENSATION TABLE
1. Click on the Program button on the AcuNav Main screen operato
Mode panel.
2. Click on the Settings menu and select Cutter Compensation Table,

3. Select a D-Code from the Cutter Compensation Table.
4. Move the cursor to the Radius field and type-in the new setting.
5. Move the cursor to the Comment field and type-in any comments you
may have.

6. Click on Save to save your changes.

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ENTERING NEW SETTINGS FOR THE STEP
AND REPEAT SELECTION TABLE
Step and Repeat allows a part program to be executed repeatedly over a
she and the number of parts (rows et where you specify the X and Y offsets
and columns) desired. The offsets, number of parts, start position and end
position are specified in the tables below.

1. Click on the Add Selection button.
2. Highlight the description field (50 characters maximum). Type-in an
appropriate description (that is, part number, part name, filename).
3. Highlight the X and Y Start Position fields. Type-in the position
(relative to machine home) where you want the process to begin.
4. Highlight the X and Y Ending Position fields. Type-in the position
(relative to machine home) you want the table to be in for the unload
position after the parts are completed.
5. Highlight the X and Y Increment fields. Type-in the desired
increment from part to part.
6. Highlight the Parts Along X and Y fields. Type-in the number of rows
and columns desired.
NOTE: You can edit any of the current fields by selecting that field
and typing in any alterations.


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Exampl e of Part Cut Order (4 parts X, 4 parts Y)
#1 #16
#2
#3
#4 #5
#6
#7
#9
#15
#8
#14
#13
#10
#11
#12
End Posi ti on
XY Start Position
(Start posti on i s at the
beginni ng of Part #1)



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CRE ND EPEAT
HEA
ATING A NEW STEP A R
DER/FOOTER FILE
The Step and R der/Foote e execution of G- epeat Hea r files only allow for th
Code and M-Code commands at the beginning and end of the sheet of parts,
respectively. If a Step and Repeat header/footer file does not exist, the
following notepad dialog box is displayed. Do the following steps:

1. Click on the Yes button to create a new test file.
2. The Notepad text entry window is displayed, type-in the commands.


3. Click on the File menu, select Save.
4. Click on e menu, sele the Fil ct Exit.

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SELECTING A STEP AND REPEAT CYCLE
A part program must already be loaded before performing this procedure.
1. Click and highlight a row containing the desired step and repeat
information.
2. Choose the Step and Repeat Enabled option to activate Step and
Repeat.
3. Click on Select/Closed button to complete selection.

NOTE: Once a Step and Repeat selection is made, it remains in
effect until you select a new setting and it is put into effect or is
disabled by de-selecting the Step and Repeat Enabled check box.

NOTE: If desired, you may start on a part other than number 1 in the
Step and Repeat cycle. Place the cursor in the Start Part dialog box.
Type-in the part you wish to begin with and press Enter.

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EN AGE TERING AN OPERATOR MESS
The Operator Message window lets you enter messages, special instructions
and other communications for the user. The message also contains the date
and time the message was entered.
1. Click on the Utilities menu option.
2. Select the Operator Message option.
3. Select the type of action you want to complete,
a) Click on the Add Message button and type-in the message text.
b) Highlight a message you want to remove and click on the Delete
Message button.
c) Highlight a message you want to modify ad click on the Edit
Message button.
4. Click on the Close button to close this screen.

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SE TTING UP FOR A DIEBOARD APPLICATION
See the DIEBOARD QUICK KEY WINDOW for a description of this window and
associated parameters.
1. Start the AcuNav application.
2. Click on Laser Database. the Laser menu option and select


3. Click on the Add Material button.
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4. Locate the New Material Description field and type-in material and
thickness information in that field.
For this procedure, the following information will be used:
Material Birch Dieboard 5/8
Lens 5.0
Gas Air
Pressure 40

5. Tab to the Lens, type in 5, representing the use of a five (5) inch
lens.
6. Tab to the Gas assist information, type in air.
7. Tab to the gas assist Pressure information, type in 40.
8. Tab to next field, type-in any other miscellaneous processing
information and notes.
9. Click on the Add Laser Settings button. A set of default settings
appear in the Laser Settings table.
For this procedure, the following information will be used to replace
the default information. The default information is not intended to
process Dieboard:
L-Code 1
Type of Cut 2-point
Mode Dieboard-Incremental
Spacing 0.0010
Duty cycle 110%
Power 1000

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10 Click on the L-Code and type in 1. .
11. lect 2-point for Dieboard Double click on Type of Cut field, and se
(optional - user defined)

NOTE: You can select 2-point, 3-point, Special Point or a user defined
point type.
12. Double click on the Mode field, and select Dieboard Incremental.


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13. Tab to the Spacing Field, and type in 0.0010.


14. Tab to the Duty Cycle field, and type in 110.
15. Tab to the Power (watts) field, and type in 1000.


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16. Double click on the Ramp/Dieboard field to display the Die-Board
window.
For this procedure, the following information will be used. Note that
this information is intended for a 2-point cut:
Speed +SY 40.0
-SX 40.0
-SY 40.0
+SX 40.0
Height +HY 0.025
-HX 0.025
+HX 0.025
-HY 0.025
Height 0.025

Off-Axis Speed 40.0

Beam Off Delay 0.100

17. Click on each Speed field (+SY, -SY, +SX, -SX), and type in 40.0.
18. ach Height field (+HY, -HY, +HX, -HX), and type in 0.025. Click on e
19. . Click on the Off Axis Speed field, and type in 40.0
20. 5. Click on the Off Axis Height field, and type in 0.02
21. elay field, and type in 0.100. Click on the Beam Off D
22. Click on the Close button.
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23. window, click on the Select/Close button. On the Laser Database
24. On the AcuNav main screen, click on the quick key Dieboard button
to display the Dieboard window.

The Dieboard window lets you adjust the speed and the focus height based
on the axis and direction of the move.
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General rules for Dieboard adjustment,
If the top of the cut is wide reduce the Height (HX, HY) for
that direction
If the top of the cut is narrow increase the Height (HX, HY)
for that direction.
If the bottom of the cut is wide increase the Speed (SX,SY)
for that direction.
If the bottom of the cut is narrow reduce the Speed (SX,SY)
for that direction.
ht Check each direction after every adjustment. There are eig
(8) adjustments two (2) per direction.

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SETTING UP A NEW MATERIAL
1. Click on Program mode option.
2. Click on the Laser menu option to display the laser database table
screen.

3. Click on the Add Material button.
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Operating Procedures 131


4. Locate the New Material Description field and type-in material and
thickness information in that field.

NOTE: Steps 5, 6, 7 and 8 are only for operator reference and do not
affect the system.
5. Tab to next field, type-in the Lens focal.
6. Tab to next field, type-in the Gas assist information.
7. Tab to next field, type-in the gas assist Pressure information.
8. Tab to next field, type-in any other miscellaneous processing
information.
9. Select Add Laser Settings button. A set of default settings appear
in the Laser Settings table.

10. Click on the L-Code and change it to the desired number.
11. Arrow to Type of Cut field, and you have one of the following
choices:
2pt -- slot for dieboard (optional - user defined)
3pt -- slot for dieboard (optional - user defined)
CUT -- cut through
PECK -- hole piercing
PERF -- series of cuts
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SCRIBE -- scoring
SPECIAL -- custom slot for dieboard (optional - user defined; up
to 10 dieboard settings available)
12. Arrow to the Pulse Type field, and you have one of the following
choices:
CW -- Continuous Wave
STD-INC Standard Incremental Pulse
DIE-INC -- Dieboard Incremental Pulse
REP -- Repetitive Pulse
SP -- Single Pulse
SPV -- Single Pulse with Variable duration
Power Proportional to Velocity
Duty Cycle Proportional to Velocity
Analog Power Ramp on Position
Duty Cycle Ramp on Position
Analog Power Ramp on Time
Duty Cycle Ramp on Time
13. Depending on the pulse type selected, different fields become
available. Type-in the appropriate required settings.

NOTE: Refer to the PROGRAMMING REFERENCE section of this manual
for a description of these fields.


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PROGRAMMIN
OVE
G REFERENCE
RVIEW
A Computer Numeric Control (CNC) file is made up of a series of data
blocks. The data block is the fundamental building blocks of a program.
A modal word data block establishes a mode of operation that
remains in effect for data blocks that follow it. The mode remains
active until another word that cancels the current modal word is
executed.
A non-modal word data block establishes a mode of operation that
remains active only for the data block in which it is programmed.
Computer Numeric Control (CNC) programming utilizes D, F, G, H, L, M, S
and T codes as described in the following table.

D Cutter Compensation from the table
F Feedrate Control of tables
G Table movement preparation
H Auto-Focus Height from the table
L Selects laser setting from the laser database for a given
material
M Laser control and miscellaneous outputs
S Pulse spacing set up
T Pulse duration set up

CNC commands are a special combination of alpha-numeric characters that
form unique commands which, when programmed in a logical order, cause
the system to operate in a desired fashion.
This section is intended to give an overview of CNC programming. The first
portion describes different types of commands. The second portion
describes the functions of the Laser Control Card that controls the laser and
various other output devices.
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TABLE MOTION
AXES MOVEMENT SPECIFICATIONS
The function of moving the axes along straight lines and arcs is called
interpolation. Program commands for interpolated motion are called the
preparatory functions and specify the type of interpolation used. The three
basic interpolation preparatory functions are:
Axes movement along straight lines: G01
Axes movement along circular arc: G02/G03
Reference of the axis position word executes motion. The control
coordinates the movement of the axis motors to execute the command. In
this document, the generalized form of the axis position word, X__Y__Z__, is
used.

Figure 2. Axes Movement Specifications
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AXIS POSITION SPECIFICATIONS
The path of the interpolated motion assumes the current position as the start
and expects the final position in the command. This is specified with axis
position words, the axis address letter followed by a numeric literal:
X5.2Y0Z-.001 length units (in/mm/degrees)
FEED SPECIFICATION
Movement of the axes at a specified speed for cutting a workpiece is called
the feedrate. Feedrates can be specified similarly with the feed word:
F150.0 length/time units (in/min mm/min degrees/min)
Length units are within program control (see the G-code definitions in the
next section).
NOTE: The Feed is also dictated through the L-code programmed in
the Laser Database. The most recent Feed takes precedence
whether programmed from the L-code or the F-code.
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AXES MOVEMENT CONSIDERATIONS
For linear acceleration/deceleration after interpolation, the acceleration or
deceleration is applied in feed start and feed stop, automatically with a time
constant so that the system is not jarred. The result of this is Move Blending
(see Figure 3). Because of blending, corners are not cut sharply. If sharp
corners are required to be cut, you must enter the Exact Stop or Dwell
commands in the block or set modally (see G04, G09, G61).


Figure 3. Axes Movement Considerations

NOTE: The Exact Stop command forces an in-position stop before
starting the next move. In-position means that the feed motor is within
the specified range based on the in-position tolerance band set in
parameters.
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COORDINATE SYSTEMS
There are two types of coordinate systems.
Machine Coordi system, whic rom the Home nate h is referenced f
position.
Program (Absol oordinate s cified by the ute) C ystem, which is spe
CNC program th incides with at co the part drawing.
The control is aware of only the Machine Coordinate system. Therefore, in
order to cut the workpiece as specified on the drawing, the two coordinate
systems must be specified at machine start up. When a workpiece is set on
th coo te systems la e table, these two rdina y as follows:
Machine Coordina Coordinate system specified by the CNC. tes
Program Coordinates Coordinate system specified by the part.
MACHINE COORDINATES
The machine zero point is the home position which is established after
homing the machine. This machine zero point is the reference for the
Machine Coordinate System. A G-Code program cannot be executed
witho machine coordinate s st established, that is, all the ut the ystem being fir
mach es must be homed be am can be executed. ine ax fore a G-Code progr
Once the machine coordinate system is established, it is not changed.
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PROGRAM COORDINATES
The Program coordinates are always within one of the Workpiece Coordinate
Systems, G54 through G59. On startup, the system is defaulted to the G54
Workpiece Coordinate System that typically is identical to the Machine
Coordinate System. A Workpiece coordinate offset (Woff), defines the
position within the Machine coordinate space. When there are no Workpiece
offsets in effect, then the Machine and Program coordinates are the same.
Program ntal coordinates can be used as either absolute positions or increme
values.

Figure 4. Coordinate Systems
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Programming Reference 139


ABSOLUTE COORDINATE VALUES
The axes moves to a point, which equals the distance from the current
Workpiece coordinate to the position of the coordinate values. Specify the
axes movement from point A to point B by using the coordinate values of
point B.
INCREMENTAL COORDINATE VALUES
The incremental coordinate values specify that the axes move relative to the
current axes position. A move from point A to point B uses the signed
difference between the two points.
REFERENCE POINT
In addition to Machine zero, the machine may need to locate other fixed
positions corresponding to attached hardware, for example: a rotary. This
pos alled the reference point (w cide with Machine zero). ition is c hich may coin
The axes can be moved to the reference point in two ways:
Manual reference point return is performed by manual operation.
Automatic reference point return is performed in accordance with
programmed commands.
In general, manual reference point return is performed first after the power is
tu on. This n since the rned is usually the same as the homing functio
reference point is at a fixed offset from the Machine zero position. In order to
move the axes to the reference point for rotary, thereafter, the function of
automatic reference point return is used.
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CONDITIONAL BRANCHING IN CNC CODING
Conditional branching lets you skip over CNC blocks in a part (*.nc)
program through defined conditioned types. If a conditional string of
code is placed in the part (*.nc) program and the condition is true, the
line pointer skips o d line number. ver the CNC blocks to a desire
Sample:
*{N[Line Number]} IF (! lue])B=[Board#] GO [Branch Label]

condition
Designates the current
ompliment of
pe
check before
alue of a
utputs.
alue to specify which ACC34
rd.
ranch La branches to if the
branch label must be in the
[Condition Type]=[Va
* Identifies a branch
N Line number (optional)
line number.
! Logical not. Operator checks the c
the value.
Condition
Ty
Type of input or output condition to
branching (see table below)
Value Condition value to check (decimal v
specific input or output).
Board# Applicable for auxiliary inputs and o
Checks the v
Auxiliary boa
B bel Designates where the code
condition is true. The
G-code program, prefixed by a colon (:).

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Condition Type Command Comments
Standard Input SI On-Board input
Board number not applicable
Standard Output SO On-Board Output
Board number not applicable
Auxiliary Input AI ACC34 Board
Auxiliary Output AO ACC34 Board
Part count C From Part Count/Runtime
Maintenance Screen
Sample Program:
Command Comments
G91 (Incremental)
M72 (Gas #1 ON)
M60 (Auto focus down)
M88
*IF(SI=2) GO 200 statement)
M94 eam ON)
G1X0Y1
1
G1X1Y0
G1X0Y0
M95 (Beam OFF)
:200 (Branch label)
M61 (Auto focus up)
M89 (Shutter close)
M73 (Gas #1 OFF)
M30 (Program end)
(Shutter open)
(Branch
(B

G1X1Y

NOTE: The range for Auxiliary Inputs and Outputs is from 0 to 31.
For Standard Inputs and Outputs, the range is from 1 to 8.


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current condition of Auxiliary I/O board
al
200.
if the input (Input 1, binary 10, decimal 2 = 2
1
) condition is
gram
= 2
1
) condition is
*GO (skips this part of code)
onal jump option to bypass a section
.
Examples:
*N100IF(AI=128)B1 GO 200 (if condition True, skips this
part of code)
:200
M30
This example checks the
number 1 to see if the input (Input 7, binary 10000000, decim
128 = 2
7
) condition is True (I/O ON). If the condition is False (I/O
OFF), the program branches to line

*IF(SI=2) GO 200 (if condition True, skips this
part of code)
:200
M30
This example checks the current condition on Standard I/O to
see
True (I/O ON). If the condition is False (I/O OFF), the pro
branches to line 200.
*IF(SI!=2) GO 200 (if condition True, skips this
part of code)
:200
M30
This example checks the current condition on Standard I/O to
see if the input (Input 10, binary 10, decimal 2
NOT True (I/O OFF). If the condition is False (I/O ON), the
program branches to line 200.
200
:200
M30
This example uses the unconditi
of CNC code. When the program reaches the GO statement, the
program branches (jumps) to line 200

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PREPARATORY WORD DATA BLOCKS
(G-CODES)
A preparatory word data blo the mode of operation for the ck defines
controller. The preparatory word consists of a preparatory address (G)
fol code is to lowed by a function . They are used to define how the system
operate.
Coordinate word data blocks set conditions that affect the coordinate system
and programming methods of the machine. These commands typically
appear near the beginning of the program.
All G-Codes belong to a group. If the G-Code is in Group 0, it is not modal
(on G-Co l, where e-time use). If the de belongs to any other group, it is moda
tha tive unt cified. t G-Code is effec il another G-Code of the same group is spe
The following table is a concise list of the active G-codes. The codes are
explained in detail in their corresponding sections.

G Code Group Description
G00 01 Rapid Traverse positioning
G01 01 Linear interpolation
G02 01 Clockwise circular interpolation
G03 01 Counterclockwise circular interpolation
G04 00 Dwell/Time Delay
G07.1A 00 MPLC option only. Cylindrical interpolation, A-axis only.
G09 00 Exact Stop, per block
G17 2 XY Plane Select *
G18 2 ZX Plane Select *
G19 2 YZ Plane Select *
G20 06 Inches Select *
G21 06 Metric Select *
G27 00 Reference return check.
G28 00 Rapid return to Reference Point, send Home
G29 00 Auto Return from Reference Point
G30 00 Rapid return to 2
nd
, 3
rd
, 4
th
Reference Point
G30P 00 Return to Reference Point 2, 3, 4
G40 07 Cutter Compensation Cancel
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G Code Group Description
G41 07 Cutter Compensation Left
G42 07 Cutter Compensation Right
G50 11 Programmable scaling cancel
G50.1 11 Programmable scaling
G51 18 Programmable mirroring cancel
G51.1 18 Programmable mirroring
G53 00 Machine Coordinate Selection
G54 14 Workpiece Coordinate System 1 Select
G55 14 Workpi at ece Coordin e System 2 Select
G56 14 Workpiece Coordinate System 3 Select
G57 14 Workpiece Coordinate System 4 Select
G58 14 Workpiece Coordinate System 5 Select
G59 14 Workpiece Coordinate System 6 Select
G61 15 Exact Stop Mode
G62 15 Exact Stop Mode based on angle
G64 15 Continuous Velocity Mode
G68 16 Coordinate rotation
G69 16 Coordinate rotation cancel
G90 03 Absolute Positioning
G91 03 Incremental Positioning
G92 00 Program Offset
G94.1Q 00 Programmable acceleration rate
G94.2 00 Feedrate axis selection
G110Q 00 MPLC Option Only: Perforate cut length
G111Q 00 MPLC Option Only: Perforate tie length
G112 00 MPLC Option Only: Axis enable. Enables the axis in the
MPLC that is used for Laser control.

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G00 RAPID OSITIONING TRAVERSE P
G00 is used to position the axes from the current programmed point to the
next programmed point at maximum traverse rate for all axes. G00 is modal
in Group 01. The rapid move is usually not linear, and each axis may have
its own maximum traverse rate. The axis with the greatest distance-to-speed
ratio for the move actually moves at this speed, all other motors are slowed
from the specified speed to complete the move in approximately the same
time so the move is nearly linear. Rapid moves are never blended with
adjacent blocks.
SYNTAX: G00X__Y__Z__

G01 LINEAR INTERPOLATION
Linearly interpolates the position of the axes from the current point to the
programmed point in the G01 block. G01 is a straight line at a programmed
feedrate. If the G01 block contains a Dwell/Time Delay (G04) or an Exact
Stop (G09), these commands inhibit blending with the next block. If the G61
Exact Stop function is active, no blending between blocks occurs until
canceled (G64 Cutting Mode). The speed is controlled by the modal word F
and is the v r velocity of the be ecto am path defined by,
Fx=F* Lx
(Lx
2
+ Ly
2
)
Fy=F* Ly
(Lx
2
+ Ly
2
)
SYNTAX: G01X__Y__Z__F__

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G02/G03 CIRCULAR INTERPOLATION CW/CCW
Circular interpolation uses the axis information contained in a block to move
the axes in a Clockwise (G02) or Counterclockwise (G03) arc of a circle, up
to 360 degrees. The velocity at which the axes are moved is controlled by
the feedrate
2 2
word and is vector tangential (F=[Fx + Fy ]), when in the XY-
Plane. All circles are defined by programming three pieces of information to
the control. This information is:
Start Point of the arc -- The Start Point is defined prior to the
G02/G03 block, by a G01/ G02/G03 or G00 positioning move and is
the ending point of the last move.
End Point of the arc -- The End Point is defined by the X and Y axis
coordinates within the G02/G03 block when in the XY - Plane.
Arc Center of the arc -- The Arc Center is defined by the I, J and K
values (vector incremental from the start point) or by the R value
within the G02/G03 block. The full format for a G02/G03 block must
reflect in which plane the arc is being cut, which is accomplished by
using a G etter addresses I, J and code to define the plane and the l
K.
G17 (XY-Plane) Letter address I for X, Letter address J for Y
G18 (ZX - Plane) Letter address I for X, Letter address K for Z
G19 (YZ - Plane) Letter address J for Y, Letter address K for Z
The I, igned distances from where J and K vector incremental values are s
the axes start cutting (Start Point) the arc to the Arc Center. The G17 (XY -
Plane) is the default or power ON condition. If another axis, not specified in
the circular interpolation, is programmed, then helical cutting is effected.
SYNTAX: [G17/G18/G19]G02X__Y__I__J__F__
[G17/G18/G19]G02X__Y__R__F__
(i.e. G2 X0.Y0. I.5J0)
This examples creates a 1.0 inch diameter circle providing the starting point
is X0.Y0. The X and Y represent the ending point. The sign of I and J are
the direction in which the circle starts to the circle center, and the value of I
and J represent the distance to center.
For an arc, X and Y indicate the position where the arc ends, and I and J
indicate the distance to the center of the arc.
The following examples describe a circle creation process.



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Examples:
G2 X0.Y0.I.5J0. This one-inch diameter circle would be
clockwise an
oclock).
G2X0.Y0 I0.J-.5 This one-inch diameter circle would be
art in the -Y direction (12
d start in the +X direction (9
G2 X0.Y0. I-.5J0. This one-inch diameter circle would be
clockwise and start in the -X direction (3
oclock).
G2 X0.Y0. I0.J.5 This one-inch diameter circle would be
clockwise and start in the +Y direction (6
oclock).
clockwise and st
oclock).
These codes are the same for the counter-clockwise circles except the G2
command is replaced with the G3 command.
G04 DWELL/TIME DELAY
This command is used to match the timing of the computer to the manual
functions (for example: Shutter, gas, auto-focus). When programmed in a
block following some motion such as G00, G01, G02 or G03, all axis motion
is stopped for the time specified in the X word in seconds. Only axis motion
is stopped; machine functions under PLC control are unaffected. The
numerical range is from .001 to 99999.999 seconds
SYNTAX: G04X__
G04X1.5 (1.5 second dwell)

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G07.1A CYLINDRICAL INTERPOLATION MODE
(REQUIRES MPLC)
Available only on A-Axis. When the cylinder radius is programmed,
programming of that axis is done in a circumference distance using either
inches or millimeters (depending on the mode).
SYNTAX: G07.1A2
Where: 12.56 Circumference of the
cylinder (2X2 )
A Refers to the A-axis
2 Radius of the cylinder
G07.1A0 (Cancels the action)
G09 EXACT STOP
G09 causes the system to decelerate to a stop and performs an In-position
check before continuing to the next block. This prevents Move Blending and
results in sharp corners between blocks.
SYNTAX: G1G09X1.0
NOTE: Placement of G09 can be anywhere on the line. It has the
same effect and is always issued after current block.

G17/G18/G19 (XY/ZX/YZ) PLANE SELECTION
When cutting motion is for X and Y circular contouring geometry with no
motion in Z, the G17 plane must be in effect. The G17 plane is a power ON
condition. When cutting motion is for Z and X, circular contouring geometry
with no motion in Y, the G18 plane must be in effect. When cutting motion is
for Y and Z, circular contouring geometry with no motion in X, the G19 plane
must be in effect.
SYNTAX: G17/G18/G19
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G20/G21 INCH/METRIC SELECT
Interprets G-Code file as being in inch or metric mode, where G20 represents
inch units and G21 mode represents mm units. The default is G20 (inches).
Whenever a G20 or G21 is programmed, all subsequent blocks will be
interpreted as being in the corresponding units.
NOTE: The AcuNav system display is not affected by the G20 or G21
codes. For example: The program can be run in inches (G20) and be
displayed in metric.
SYNTAX: G20/G21

G28 RAPID RETURN TO REFERENCE POINT
The axes are returned to the reference point (Default for AcuNav is the Home
Position X0Y0Z0) via an intermediate point (IP) specified in the block
(X_Y_Z_). The intermediate point is saved for subsequent use by G29.
SYNTAX: G28X__Y__Z__

G29 AUTO RETURN FROM REFERENCE POSITION
The axes are moved to the point specified in the block through the
intermediate point stored by G28 or G30.
SYNTAX: G29X__Y__Z__
G30 RAPID RETURN TO SECOND, THIRD, FOURTH
REFERENCE POSITION
The axes are moved to the second, third, fourth reference point by using the
intermediate point specified in the block. The intermediate point is saved for
subsequent use by G29.
SYNTAX: G30P2__X__Y__ Z__
G30P3__X__Y__Z__
G30P4__X__Y__Z__
NOTE: Reference Points (G30) may be set under the SETTING menu
option.
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G40/G41/G42 CUTTER COMPENSATION
Cutter Compensation compensates for the beam diameter by altering the cut
path. Cutter Compensation takes the stored value for the diameter and
calculates the cutter path offset for that value. You may access the Cutter
Compensation Table (under the Settings menu) and then input the beam
diameter.
NOTE: Changes to the program are NOT necessary.
When activating Cutter Compensation, a lead-in and lead-out are required.
Bring the Z axis down without Cutter Compensation in effect. Make a ONE
axis start-up move (lead-in) on the same program block as or one block after
the G41or G42 call-out.
When de-activating Cutter Compensation (G40), program a lead-out one
block before the G40 call-out. If the lead-out is omitted, the control causes it
to cancel one block early and will not currently cut the part.
Example:
D2 Set Cutter Compensation Radius
M90 Beam On
G41 Turn on Cutter Compensation
G1X Lead In
Use G-Codes for Geometry of Feature
G1X Lead Out
G40 Cancel Cutter Compensation
M91 Beam Off

NOTE: DO NOT cancel cutter compensation on any line that is still
cutting the part.
The beam diameter is addressed by a D code. If the beam diameter is
measured at .010 inch, then .005 should be the entered value for the D code
in the Cutter Compensation table.
NOTE: If an invalid D code is used, an alarm is displayed. The
Alarm Quick Key turns Red and the program halts.
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When Cutter Compensation (G41 left or G42 right) is active, the control is
looking ahead in the program. Care must be taken that programmed moves
do not violate the call for compensation.
SYNTAX: D2 (Sets Cutter Compensation radius
from table)
G41 or G42 (Enables Cutter Compensation)
G40 (Disables Cutter Compensation)
NOTE: Only one NO MOTION command is allowed on any
consecutive blocks. (Examples of no motion commands are F100,
G09, G04, M74, BLANKBLOCK, etc.).
TREATMENT OF INSIDE CORNERS
Inside corners are still subject to blending. The longer the acceleration time,
the larger the rounding of the corner. The corner rounding starts and ends a
distance (F Code Cutting Acceleration Time) from the compensated, but
unblended corner. When coming to a full stop at an inside corner, AcuNav
will stop at the compensated, but unblended corner.
TREATMENT OF OUTSIDE CORNERS
For outside corners, AcuNav introduces an arc move to cover the additional
distance around the corner. The starting and ending points for the arc are
points offset from the programmed corner point, perpendicular to the path on
each side at the corner point, by an amount equal to the tool nose
compensation. The arc has its center at the programmed corner point. (Any
outside corner with a change in angle less than 1 degree does not introduce
an arc; it simply blends the offset corner using the Cutting Acceleration Time.
When coming to a full stop at an outside such as, Single Block, Blank Block),
AcuNav includes the added arc move around the outside of the corner before
stopping.
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OFFSET START-UP DIAGRAMS



Legend: S = Intersection
L = Linear
C = Circular

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Legend: S = Intersection
L = Linear
C = Circular



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OFFSET MODE DIAGRAMS




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NOTE: When the change in angle is less that 1 (a>179), no circular
segment is added. There is simply the blending from the incoming
segment to the outgoing segment.
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Legend: S = Intersection
L = Linear
C = Circular

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CHANGE OF OFFSET DIRECTION DIAGRAMS










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Legend: r CCR
S= Intersection
L = Linear
C = Circular
P = Parabolic

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OFFSET CANCEL DIAGRAMS


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OVERCUTTING BY CUTTER COMPENSATION DIAGRAMS





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NOTE: AcuNav calculates trajectory two (2) blocks ahead. If the
radius of compensation is sufficiently large and programmed
segments are short, overcutting can occur.

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G50/51 PROGRAMMABLE SCALING
The scaling command enlarges or reduces the program with respect to the
scaling center specified by X_Y_Z_. In other words, if a program is scaled, it
lengthens or shortens itself from the scaling center. I_J_K_ is the scaling
magnification of the X-, Y- and Z-axis respectively. For example, the
following figure illustrates how scaling-up would affect the letter D.

Figure 5. Programmable Scaling around Center X0Y0
AcuNav Syntax:
G1 G51 X0.Y0 I.5 J.5 (1/2 scale for both axes)
G1 G51 X0.Y0. I.75 (3/4 scale in x-axis only)
NOTE: A circle does not become an ellipse even when different
scaling factors are applied to each axis during circular interpolation.
NOTE: Programmable Scaling will not take effect if programmed in
block1 of an NC program.

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G50.1/G51.1 PROGRAMMABLE MIRRORING
X_Y_Z_ specifies the axes or line to mirror about. The parameters
associated with X_Y_Z_ are meaningful in Absolute Mode. In Incremental
Mode, only the axis letter is meaningful and the actual value may be set at
anything.
Mirroring is canceled by issuing a G50.1 command.
Exa p m le:
Acu v Na Syntax:
G1 G X0.Y 51.1 0. (both axes)
G1 G51.1 X0 (X axis only)
G1 G51.1 Y0 (Y axis only)
G1 50.1 (Cancels mirroring)

2

Figure 6. Programmable Mirroring about the X-axis (1),
Y-axis (2) and the X- and Y-axis (3)
NOTE: Programmable Scaling will not take effect if programmed in
block1 of an NC program.
1 3
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G53 MACHINE COORDINATE SELECTION
The Machine zero point is the home position of the machine and is
established once the machine is homed. A coordinate system having the
zero point at the machine zero point is called the Machine Coordinate
System. Once the Machine Coordinate System is established, it is not
changed by reset; change of Program Offset (G92), Workpiece Coordinate
System (G54-G59) settings or other operations.
Occasionally it is desired to move the axes to a specific position in relation to
Machine zero and to ignore any axes and work offsets that are active. This
is accomplished using G53 for machine coordinate programming, which
specifies e in the Coordinate Syste a mov Machine m. This code is non-modal
and is eff only in in which it is progr ective the block ammed. Machine
coordinates are always expressed as absolute coordinates. All G92 offsets
are canceled. The interpolation mode is G00. The axes are moved to the
absolute machine coordinates expressed in the G53 block.
SYNTAX: G53X__Y__Z__

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G54-59 WORKPIECE COORDINATE SYSTEM 1-6
SELECTION
Six (6) coordinate systems proper to the machine axes are set in advance,
permitting the selection of any of them by G54 to G59.
G54 Work Coordinate System 1
G55 Work Coordinate System 2
G56 Work Coordinate System 3
G57 Work Coordinate System 4
G58 Work Coordinate System 5
G59 Work Coordinate System 6
The six coordinate systems are determined by setting distances (work zero
offset values) in each axis from the Machine zero point (Machine Coordinate
System) to respective p their zero oints. The offsets are saved in the Settings
menu.
Example:
G55G00X20.0Z100.0;
X40.0Z20.0;
In the previous example, positioning is made to positions (X=20.0, Z=100.0)
and (X=40.0, Z=20.0) in Work Coordinate System 2. Where the axes are
positioned on the machine depends on workpiece zero point offset values. If
Work Coordinate System 2 is specified at X=4, Y=4 with respect to the
Machine Coordinate System, then in the example above, positions in the
machine Coordinate System would be (X=24.0, Z=104.0) and (X=44.0, Z-
24.0).
Workpiece Coordinate Systems 1 to 6 are established after reference point
return (or homing) after the power is turned on. When the power is turned
on, the G54 coordinate system is selected.
SYNTAX: G54-G59

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G61 EXACT STOP MODE
The G61 command causes a stop between block moves so that no corner-
rounding or blending between the moves is done (i.e. sharp corners are cut).
When the G61 command is entered, deceleration to zero (0) is applied to the
end point of a cutting block. This G61 is valid until a G62 (exact stop mode
based on angle) or a G64 (cutting mode) command is entered. Cutting mode
(G64) is the start-up default.
Syntax: G61


G62 CUTTING MODE BASED ON ANGLE
G62 mode accommodates many cases where an exact stop check is desired
only on sharp corners, but blended on large angle corners. In the
Parameters/Tolerances/Min Dwell Angle screen, an angle parameter is set.
If the angle in the part program between the vectors is greater than the angle
set in parameters, the vectors are blended. If the angle is less, there is a
stop check implemented resulting in a sharp corner.
Syntax: G62

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G64 CONTINUOUS VELOCITY MODE
When the G64 command is entered, deceleration at the end point of each
block is not performed thereafter, and cutting is blended to the next block.
This command is valid until the G61 (exact stop mode) or G62 (exact stop
mode based on angle) command is entered. However, in G64 mode, feed
rate is decelerated to zero in the following cases:
Positioning mode (G00)
Block with exact stop check (G09)
Next block is a block without movement command.
Syntax: G64

G68/G69 COORDINATE SY ATION STEM ROT
A programmed shape . For example, when using this function, can be rotated
it is possible to modify a program using a rotation command a workpiece has
been placed with som from the programmed position on the e angle rotated
machine. Further, w ern comprised of some identical hen there is a patt
shapes in the positio e original shape, the time required for ns rotated from th
programming and the duced by preparing a length of the program can be re
subprogram of the sh neficial for ape and calling it after rotation. This is be
material usage. Ang mand with a le of rotation (+ is the CCW direction) is com
signed angle value in ck. decimal degrees using the R address in the G68 blo
The center of rotation st is specified with the G68 as shown below and mu
have all axes specifie mand is specified, d in the rotation plane. After this com
the subsequent commands are rotated by the angle specified with R.
Command the angle of rotation within the range of -360 to 360 degrees.
NOTE: The center of rotation and the command following G68 must
have all axes spec ified in the rotation plane. For example, If the
move after the G68 en if is X1.0 the Y move must also be specified ev
it is a zero (X1.0Y0).
The rotation will take e effect in the current plane select (G17, G18, G19). Th
coordinate system ro ignated in tation is canceled by G69. G69 may be des
the same block as th ed e other commands. Cutter compensation is perform
after the coordinate system is rotated for the command program.
Syntax: G68X__Y__R__
NOTE: Coordinate System rotation will not take effect if programmed
in block 1 of the NC program.
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G90/G91 ABSOLUTE/INCREMENTAL MODE
Program commands for movement of the axes may be programmed either in
incremental moveme dinates. The absolute nt commands or in absolute coor
mode is automaticall the absolute y selected when the power is turned on. In
mode (G90), all axis gle program work dimensions are referenced from a sin
zero point. The alge e braic signs (+ or -) of absolute coordinates denote th
position of the axis relative to program zero.
In the incremental mo dimensions are referenced de (G91), the axis word
from the current position. The input dimensions are the distance to be
moved. The algebraic sign (+ or -) specifies the direction of travel.
Syntax: G90 (Absolute mode)
G91
G92 WORK C INATE SYSTEM SET
(Incremental mode)
OORD
The G92 command e that stablishes a new Workpiece Coordinate System
resets the command axis absolute zero position. This position can be used
as an alternative to the workpiece Coordinate Systems (G54-G59). For
example, the nozzle tip becomes the Initial Start Point in the established
Workpiece Coordinate System. Any subsequent absolute commands use
this position as a refe rence in this Workpiece Coordinate System. When
creating a new Workpiece Coordinate System with the G92 command, a
certain point of the axis becomes a certain coordinate value; therefore, the
new Workpiece Coor spective of the old dinate System can be determined irre
Workpiece Coordinat used to determine a e System. If the G92 command is
start point for machining based on workpieces, a new coordinate system can
be created even if the ld Work Coordinate System. If the re is an error in the o
relative relationship a orkpiece Coordinate Systems mong the G54 to G59 W
are correctly set at th ce Coordinate Systems become e beginning, all Workpie
new coordinate systems as desired.
Syntax: G92X__Y__Z__
NOTE: If a G53 command is issued, the G92 command is canceled
and the absolute po ine zero. sition would be referenced off mach

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G94.1Q PROG CCELERATION MODE RAMMABLE A
This command lets you change the acceleration time in a program. This
setting will override th e Cutting Acceleration time set in the parameters. The
acceleration time is p s rogrammed in msec. The cutting acceleration time i
restored to its origina ram l values as set in the parameters on the start of prog
(it is embedded in the first line of the program, hidden from the user).
Syntax: G94.
EEDR
1Q___
G94.2 F ATE AXES SELECTION
By default, on startup lculation. all active axes are included in the feedrate ca
At times it is not desi eedrate rable to have all axes included in the f
calculation (particula set up to be rly if there is a rotary axis that is
programmed in degrees). To select which axes to include in the feedrate
calculation, type in th 4.2 command. Any other e desired axes after the G9
axes with a programmed move (such as, a rotary axis) will be synchronized
to start and stop in the same amount of time as the feedrate axes.
Syntax: G94.2XY (Selects the X- and Y-axis)
NOTE: If an axis that is not used in the feedrate calculation is
programmed by itself, it will attempt to make that move in zero (0)
time since there are no other axes to which it can be synchronized.
G110Q PERFORATE CUT LENGTH (REQUIRES
MPLC)
This command sets the cut length in inches (G20 mode for inches, G21 for
mm mode) for the Perf Mode. See also M42.1.
Syntax: G110Q___
ENGTH (REQUIRES G111Q PERFORATE TIE L
MPLC)
This command sets the tie length in inches (G20 mode for inches, G21 for
mm mode) for the Perf Mode. See also M42.1.
Syntax: G111Q___

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G112 ACTIVE AXES (REQUIRES MPLC)
This command selects which axes are active to be used in the spacing or
distance calculation for the MPLC. This command applies to perforating, and
the following modes: Incremental Pulse and Dieboard Power/Duty Cycle
Ramping Based on Distance. The axes that follow the G112 command are
active, all others are deselected. If G112 is programmed by itself, all axes
are deselected. To determine which axes are selected, check the MPLC
Active Axis screen under diagnostics. Default is the X and Y axes.
Syntax: G112XY (Selects the X- and Y-axis)
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MISCELLANEOUS WORD DATA BLOCKS
(M CODES)
Miscellan ord Data B eous W locks (M-Codes) command actions such as
turning th r ON or OFF e lase . The miscellaneous word data block is a
miscellaneous address (M) followed by a numeric function code.
Miscellaneous words may be modal or non-modal.
NOTE: All F, G, M, S and T codes can be executed from the program
or manua choosin lly by g MDI.
The follow ble is a con ing ta cise list of the active M-codes. The codes are
explained in greater detail in their corresponding sections.

M Code Description
M00 Program Stop
M01 Optional Stop
M02 End of Program
M10 Optional Part Count Increment
M11/ M19 Remote BCD Laser parameter controls.
M11 Trumpf Laser Option: Laser percent power. Sets
percent power in the Task Controller, refer to the
TRUMPF LASER OPERATORS MANUAL.
M12 Trumpf Laser Option: Keying frequency. Sets
keying frequency in the Task Controller, refer to the
TRUMPF LASER OPERATORS MANUAL.
M13 Trumpf Laser Option: Power cycles. Sets power
cycles in the Task Controller, refer to the TRUMPF
LASER OPERATORS MANUAL.
M15 Lumonics Laser Option: Multi-pulse count, refer to
the LUMONICS LASER OPERATORS MANUAL.
M16 Lumonics Laser Option: Pulse rate, refer to the
LUMONICS LASER OPERATORS MANUAL.
M17 Lumonics Laser Option: Sector length, refer to the
LUMONICS LASER OPERATORS MANUAL.
M18 Lumonics Laser Option: Sector, refer to the
LUMONICS LASER OPERATORS MANUAL.
M19 Lumonics Laser Option: Set pulse, refer to the
LUMONICS LASER OPERATORS MANUAL
M30 End of Program
M40 Reset LCC-PPG or MPLC encoder registers with
single pulse, variable pulse duration
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M Code Description
M41 Reset LCC-PPG or MPLC encoder registers
M42 Cancel Perf mode (MPLC only)
M42.1 Enables Perf Mode (Cut-Tie, MPLC only)
M42.2Qxxx Enables Dual Power Level Perforation Mode (Cut-
Tie) (MPLC Only)
M45(xxx) MPLC string command
M56 Waits for Index Complete input signal from web
handler
M57 Turns ON the Cycle Done output signal to web
handler
M60/M61 Auto Fo s Down/Up (b cu oth Auto Focus, if dual Auto
Focus)
M62/M63 First Auto Focus Down/Up (Z-axis), if dual Auto
Focus
M64/M65 Second Auto Focus Down/Up (U-axis), if dual Auto
Focus
M66/ M67 Power supply ON/OFF (primarily used for Trumpf
Laser systems)
M68/ M69 Table vacuum gate OPEN / CLOSE
M70/M71 Assist Gas Pressure - High / Low
M72/M73 Shield gas ON/OFF
M74/M75 Assist Gas 1 ON/OFF
M76/M77 Assist Gas 2 ON/OFF
M78/M79 Air Knife or Lens Air or Assist Gas #3 - ON/OFF
M80 Single pulse, 10 msec
M81 Single pulse, variable pulse duration
M82/M85 Misc. Outputs ON/OFF - LCC-PPG pulsing card
M82/M83 PRC Laser Option: Simmer Mode, refer to the PRC
LASER OPERATORS MANUAL.
M84/M85 PRC Laser Option: Super Pulse, refer to the PRC
LASER OPERATORS MANUAL.
M86/M87 PRC Laser Option: Hyper Pulse, refer to the PRC
LASER OPERATORS MANUAL.
Eagle Laser Option: Enhanced pulse mode
M86 Beam Switch request
M87 Beam Switch -- release
User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Programming Reference 175


M Code Description
M88/M89 Shutter open/closed
M90/M91 Incremental Pulsing - Laser on/Laser off (LCC-PPG)
M92/M93 Repetitive Pulsing - Laser on/Laser off (LCC-PPG)
M94/M95 Continuous Wave - Laser on/Laser off (LCC-PPG)
M96/ M97 Turns the laser ON/OFF for all modes of the MPLC,
and the TRUMPF laser only with an MPLC
M96.1/M97.1 Turns the laser ON/OFF on-the-fly without stopping
the motion as M96/M97 does. This command works
for all program modes of the MPLC, and the
TRUMPF laser only with an MPLC.
M98(xxx) Subroutine: Subprogram call
M99 Return from Subprogram
M00 - P STOP ROGRAM
The M00 command causes program execution to stop after it has executed
the remaining commands in the M00 block.

M01 - OPTIONAL STOP
The M01 command, when activated, stops the automatic operation of the
control after it executes the remaining commands in the M01 block. If the
Optional STOP button is not enabled, the M01 is ignored and the control
continues executing the part program as normal.

M02 - END OF PROGRAM
Operates the same as the M30 command, indicates the end of the main
program. The program is rewound to the beginning.
M10 - OPTIONAL PART COUNT INCREMENT
The M10 command is used to increment the part counter. When a M10 is
encountered, the part count counter increments by one. The user must
select this option from the Settings menu, under Part Counter/Runtime
Maintenance dialog box. M30 or M02 increments the counter if M10 is not
selected.
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M11 TO M19 REMOTE BCD PARAMETER
CONTROLS
The optional M11 through M19 commands enable discrete outputs to form
BCD data lines including a strobe that adjust the desired remote laser
parameters option.
M11 PERCENT POWER
The M11 command sets percent power in the Trumpf Task Controller.
Range: 0 to 100 %
Syntax: M11Qxxx
M11Q50 (Sets power at 50%)
M12 - KEYING FREQUENCY
The M12 command sets the keying frequency in the Trumpf Task Controller.
Range: 100 to 99999 Hz
Syntax: M12Qxxx
R YCLES M13 - POWE C
The M13 command sets the power cycles in the Trumpf Task Controller.
Range: 0 to 99
Syntax: M13Qxxx
ILABLE PARAMETER M14 AVA
The M14 command is an available parameter.
Syntax: M14Qxxx
M15 MULTI-PULSE COUNT
The M15 command sets the multi-pulse count for the LUMONIX Laser.
Rang 1 to 9999 e:
Synt 15Qxxx
M16 S PULSE RATE
ax: M
ET
The M16 command sets the pulse rate for the LUMONIX Laser.
Range: 2 to 500
Syntax: M16Qxxx

User Guide
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Programming Reference 177


M17 SECTOR H SET EIGHT
The M17 command sets the sector height for the LUMONIX Laser.
Rang 1 to 100 e:
Synt M17Qxxx
SECTOR WIDTH
ax:
M18 SETS
The M18 command sets the sector width for the LUMONIX Laser.
Range: 5 to 20
Syntax: M18Qxxx
M19 SETS PULSE SHAPE
The M15 c and s omm ets the pulse shape for the LUMONIX Laser.
M30 - END OF PROGRAM
The M30 command indicates the end of the main program. The program is
rewound to the beginning.
M4 SET LCC MPLC ENCODER
REGISTERS WITH SINGLE
DURATION
0 RE -PPG OR
PULSE, VARIABLE
The M40 command resets the counters in the LCC-PPG or MPLC encoder to
zero ives out a single pu he pulse duration and g lse of variable duration. T
must be defined using four T50 words or an L-code from the laser database.
This command is useful for drilling a series of holes equally spaced at a
known distance. For the LCC-PPG only, an M90 must be placed directly
before and M91directly after the M40 to enable this pulsing function (not
necessary with an MPLC).
M4 ESET LCC- PLC ENCODER
REGISTERS
1 - R PPG OR M
The M41 command resets the LCC-PPG or MPLC encoder registers to zero.





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M42- PERF MODE CANCEL (MPLC ONLY)
Canc ser mode for st
M42.1 - ENABLES P (CUT-TIE) (MPLC
ONLY)
els the la itch-like pattern.
ERF MODE
Enables a laser mode to make stitch-like pattern (cut-tie or cut/no-cut) The
laser beam is ON for a programmed distance, then OFF for a programmed
distance. First the G11Qxxx cut length and G111Qxx tie length must be
commanded, then issue the M42.1 command to enable perf mode.
NOTE: Perf Mode may b d w y e use ith an laser operating mode.
Syntax: G110Qxxx (Cut length)
G111Qxxx (Tie length)
M42.1 (Enable Perf mode)
ERFORATION ODE UT-TIE) (MPLC ONLY)
M42.2QXXX - ENABLES DUAL POWER LEVEL
P M (C
This command is used to enable Dual Power Level Perforation Mode (Cut-
Tie) (MPLC Only).
This mode is similar to M42.1 mode, except that the tie component of the cut-
tie pattern keeps the beam ON at the programmed percentage (%) power
level of the cut component.
NOTE: This perforation mode is only available for Standard
Incremental Pulsing Mode in the Laser Database.
Range: 0 to 100% for the tie section of the cut-tie pattern
Syntax: M42.2Qxxx
M45(XXX) MANUAL MPLC CODES
The M45(xxx) command sends the string designated in the parenthesis (xxx)
to the MPLC. This command lets you program the MPLC without using the
Laser Database if so desired.
M56 WEB HANDLER CODES
The M56 command is used to pause (wait) the CNC program until the Index
Complete input signal is received from the web handler.
User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Programming Reference 179


M57 WEB HANDLER CODES
The M57 command is used to turn ON the Cycle Done output signal to the
web handler.
M60/M61 TO AUTO FOCUS DOWN/UP
Executing the M60/M61 commands in the program causes the Auto-focus to
traverse down and begin tracking or traverse up to its previous location. If the
system is equipped with a dual auto focus, then both of them will traverse
Down/Up together.
M62/M63 FIRST AUTO FOCUS DOWN/UP FOR
DUAL AUTO FOCUS SYSTEMS
Executing the M62/M63 commands in the program causes the First Auto-
focus (Z-axis) to traverse down and begin tracking or traverse up to its
previous location.
M64/M65 S A F D /U ECOND UTO OCUS OWN P FOR
DUAL AUTO FOCUS SYSTEMS
Executing the M64/M65 commands in the program causes the Second Auto-
focus (U-axis) to traverse down and begin tracking or traverse up to its
previous location.
M66/M67 POWER SUPPLY ON/OFF
The M66 command turns ON the auxiliary laser system power supply
(primarily used on Trumpf lasers). The M69 command turns OFF the
auxiliary laser power supply.
M68/M69 TABLE VACUUM OPEN/CLOSE
The M68 command OPENS the gate for the table vacuum. The M69
command CLOSES the gate for the table vacuum.
M70/M71 HIGH / LOW ASSIST GAS PRESSURE
This optional command is used to select a pressure level for systems with
dual pressure level assist gas. The M70 command is used to select High -
Assist Gas Pressure. The M71 command provides Low - Assist Gas
Pressure.

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M72/M73 SHIELD GAS ON/OFF
This command is primarily used on welding systems. The M72 command
turns Shield Gas ON; the M73 command turns Shield Gas OFF.
M74/M75 - ASSIST GAS 1 ON/OFF
The optional M74 command turns ON Assist Gas 1; the M75 command turns
OFF Assist Gas 1.
M76/M77 - ASSIST GAS 2 ON/OFF
The optional M76/M77 commands provide ON/OFF options for Assist Gas 2.
M78/M79 AIR KNIFE/LENS AIR/ASSIST GAS 3
ON/OFF
The optional M78/M78 commands provide ON/OFF options for Air Knife,
Lens Air or Assist Gas 3.
M80 - SINGLE PULSE, 10 MSEC. (.0100 SEC.)
N DURATIO
The M80 command gives a 10 millisecond pulse out on the laser outputs
whenever it is executed. The pulse is output immediately after the M80 is
executed.
Default: Off
See s
Exa p
al o: M81
m le:
This ro ach corner of a one inch square. p gram gives a 10 ms pulse at e
Program Comments
F100 (Set feed rate to 100 inches/min)
open) M88 (Shutter
G9
G9
M80 (10ms pulse)
)
M80 (10ms
G0
M80 (10 ms pulse)
G0
0 (Absolute mode)
2X0.Y0. (Set workpiece zero point)
G0 X1.0 (1 inch move
pulse)
Y1.0 (1 inch move)
X0.0 (X-axis return to zero point)
User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Programming Reference 181


Program Comments
M80 (10ms pulse)
.0
M89 (Shutter close)
rogram end)
M81 - SINGLE PULS URATION
G0Y0 (Y-axis return to zero point)
M30 (P
E, VARIABLE PULSE D
M81 command gives out a pulse of a duration preset using T50 words or an
L-Code using parameters from the Laser Database is executed. Refer to
T50 ANDS PULSE DURATION, later in this section, for a description on COMM
how to use T-Codes for setting pulse duration. If you are using L-Codes,
refer to ASER PROCESSING or LCC-PPG LASER PROCESSING MPLC L MODES
MOD o later in this secti ES als on.
Defa Off ult:
T50s (.00010 sec. after power up or reset)
See 50 Commands (T
Example:
Also: T 50s), M80
This program gives 2 sets of pulses of different duration .1 inch apart.
Program Comments
F100 (Set feed rate to 100 inches/min)
M88 (Shutter open)
G91 (Incremental mode
T50 (Set 2ms pulse duration)
T52
T50
T50
M81 (First pulse)
G0X.1 (Move .1 inch)
M81 (Second pulse)
G0X.1 (Move .1 inch)
T55 (Set 50ms pulse duration)
T50
T50

T50
M81
G0.X1
M81 (Second 50ms pulse)
(First 50ms pulse)
(Move .1 inch)
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Program Comments
G0X-.3 (Return to initial position)
M89 (Shutter closed)
M30 (Program end)
M82 - M87 MISCELLANEOUS OUTPUTS ON/OFF -
PULSING CARD
LCC-PPG only. Optional I/O pulsing card.
PRC LASER OPTION M82/M83
The M82/M83 commands put the PRC Laser in High/Low Simmer Mode
respectively.
M84/M85 PRC LASER OPTION
The M84 command puts the PRC Laser in Super Pulse Mode respectively.
The M85 command cancels this mode.
M86/M87 PRC LASER OPTION, EAGLE LASER OPTION
The M86 command puts the PRC laser in Hyper Pulse Mode. The M87
command cancels this mode.
The M86 command puts the Eagle laser in Enhanced Pulse Mode. The M87
command cancels this mode.
88/M89 SHU M - TTER OPEN/CLOSED
The execution of these M-functions in the program causes the shutter to
either open or close.

User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Programming Reference 183


M90/M91 - INCREMENTAL - LASER
ON/LASER OFF
PULSING
Incremental pulsing is a useful laser function for quality laser cutting/scribing
applications. The incremental pulsed mode pulses the laser at a frequency
that is proportional to the speed the table is moving. The beam is ON only
when the table is moving.
M90 turns ON the incremental Pulsing function. When the table moves, the
output pulses the laser proportional to the speed. When the table stops, the
output pulses also stop. M91 turns OFF the incremental Pulsing function.
NOTE: The LCC-PPG/MPLC outputs one pulse, then waits for the
table to start moving before outputting other pulses. When the table
stops the LCC-PPG/MPLC stops outputting pulses.
The goal of incremental pulsing is to keep laser power parallel to the table
speed. When the table speed reaches a point where the frequency of the
pulses times the pulse duration equals 1, uous wave the laser is in contin
(CW the table speed slows down a t settings of ) until gain. With the defaul
.001 inch spacing and 1 ms pulse duration this speed is 1 inch/sec or 60
inches/min.
To get the best cut from the incremental pulsed mode, you must use an L-
code set for incremental pulse with the proper pulse spacing, pulse duration
and feedrate for the type of material being processed and laser power
available. Alternatively, you can use the T50 command for pulse duration and
S-Codes for pulse spacing.
The tion can be set to any val pulse dura ue from 0.00001 sec. to 0.09999
sec. The pulse duration is set using four T50 commands in series, or
established in the Laser Database using an L-Code. See SETTING
VARIABLES.
The pulse spacing can be set to any value between 0.0001 inch and 0.4095
inch when used with the LCC-PPG board. The MPLC limits are 0.0001 inch
to 0.9999 inch if you are using S-Codes, and 0.0001 inch to 1.0000 inch if
you are using the Laser Database. The s set using two (2) S- pulse spacing i
codes in series or established in the laser database by using an L-code. See
SETTING . VARIABLES
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Beam
ON
OFF
M
Duration
" ON
90
M91
"
T50's
ulse
idth
P
W
Spacing


Figure 7. Incremental Pulsing
Defa M91 Incremental pulsing disabled ult:
T50s 1.0 ms
S codes 0.0010"
See commands (T5 s), S-Codes
Exam
also: T50 0
ple:
A typical example would be if you needed full power to cut through inch
wood at 95 inches/min feed rate. You need a smooth cut, so you might set
the p acing to .0030 inc han 50% overlap of pulses ulse sp hes for a better t
(dep n beam spot size) ends o .
So now you have 3 of the 4 settings needed:
Feed rate = 95 inch/min
Pulse spacing = .003 inches
Duty Cycle = 100% (CW Current Setting)
1. Calculate the pulse duration that gives full laser power when the
table speed rea

ches 95"/min. The following formula can be used.

sec/min Pulse Duration (sec) = Pulse Spacing(in) x 60
Feed Rate (in/min)

2. For our example, this would give:
Pulse Duration = .003" x 60 sec/min
95"/min

Pulse Duration = .0019 seconds (T50, T51, T59, T50)

User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Programming Reference 185


If your part required a 2 inch hole, the program would be written as follows:
Program Comments
G20
(Interprets G-Code file as being in inch
code)
S00
S30 (Set pulse spacing .0030 inches)
(Feedrate)
nable incremental pulsing)
ut circle)
(E of pro
M92/M93 - REPETITIVE PU
T50 (Set pulse duration .0019 sec.)
T51
T59
T50
F95
M90 (E
G2X0 Y0 I0 J1 (C
M91 (Disable incremental pulsing)
M30
nd gram)
LSING ON, OFF
The repetitive pulsing function outputs a continuous train of pulses when
turned on. The Rep mode is turned on with an M92 and is turned off using
an M93. The beam is turned ON immediately after the M92 and remains on
until an M93 is executed.
The ON time of the pulse train is set using the T50 Commands functions.
The off time of the pulse train is set using the T60 Commands functions.
Alternatively, you can establish these parameters in the Laser Database and
implement them by using an L-Code.

Beam
ON
OFF
M92
M93
Duration
"ON"
T50
Time
On
Duration
"OFF"
T60
Time
Off

Figure 8. Repetitive Pulsing

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The T50 Commands and T60 Commands can be changed while the Rep
mode is on (pulsing), but the beam is off for the time it takes to send the four
new T50 or T60 codes.
The range of settings for the T50 Commands and T60 Commands is from
.00001 sec to .09999 sec. This range of time values let you set frequencies
that range from approximately 50000 Hz down to 5 Hz. The duty cycle can
range from .01% up to 99.99%.
If you are using the Laser Database and the MPLC with L-Codes, the range
of time is .00001 seconds to .15000 seconds, which allows frequencies in the
range from 50000 Hz to 3 Hz.
Default: M93 (Repetitive pulsing off)
T50s (1.0 ms)
T60s (1.0 ms)
See also: T50 Commands (T50s), T60 Commands (T60s)
Example:
The typic ple w al exam ould be if you were cutting metal and needed to peck
through before making a cut-out in CW mode. To peck through, you typically
need to output a train of short pulses for a short period of time to drill a hole
through the metal before cutting. To do this you may use settings and a
program similar to the one shown below.
If you wanted a peck-through pulse duration of .5 ms at a frequency of 20 Hz,
you can rearrange the formula to find the off time (T60s) required as shown
below.

T50s value = .5 ms = .0005 sec
Freq. = 20 Hz
Frequency (Hz) = 1
T50s value (sec) + T60s value (sec)

T60s value (sec) = 1 T50s value (sec)
Frequency (Hz)

T60s value (sec) = 1 .0005 (sec)
20 Hz

T60s = .0495 sec
T60s = T64 T69 T65 T60




User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Programming Reference 187


Program Comments
G20 (Interprets G-Code file as being in
inch code)
F100 (Set feedrate to 100 inches/min)
T50 (Set pulse duration ON)
T50
T64
T65
mode)
(Turn rep on)
(1.5 second dwell)
urn beam on (CW)
0 ch rectangle)

.0
.5
(Turn off beam (CW)
(Turn off gas)
(Shutter close)
T55
T50
(Set pulse duration OFF)
T69
T60
M88 (Shutter open)
G91 (Incremental
(Turn gas on) M74
M92
G4 X1.5
M93 (Turn rep off)
M94 (T
G1X1. (Cut 1.0 inch x 0.5 in
G1Y.5
G1X-1
G1Y-
M95
M75
M89
M30 (Program stop)
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M94/95 - CONTINUOUS WAVE LASER ON/LASER
OFF
The simplest way to control the laser is by turning the beam ON using M94
and OFF using M95. Place the M94 in your CNC program just before the
move that is to cut the part, and an M95 just after the move. The beam turns
on immediately after the M94 is executed and stays on, even when the table
is sto until an M95 is ex mands pped, ecuted. You can use as many M94 com
and M95 commands in a program as you need which also goes for all other
LCC-PPG functions.
Defa 95 Beam off
Exam
ult: M
ple:
Program Comments
F100. .)
ntal mode)
.0 nch rectangle)
G1 Y.5
G1 X-1.0
G1 Y-.5
M95 (Turn beam off)
M30 (Program stop (depends upon controller)
M96 - LASER ON
(Set feedrate to 100 inches/min
G91 (Set controller to increme
M94 (Turn beam on)
G1 X1 (Cut 1.0 inch x .5 i
MPLC Option Only: Turns the laser ON with the MPLC. The laser mode is
selected by using the Laser Setting L-Code of a material selection in the
database. You do not need to use M90/M91, M92/M93, or M94/M95 to
select the laser mode.
M96.1 LASER ON (ON-THE-FLY)
MPLC Option Only: Turns the laser ON on-the-fly without stopping the
motion as M96 does. The laser mode is selected by using the Laser Setting
L-Code of a material selection in the database. You do not need to use
M90/M91, M92/M93, or M94/M95 to select the laser mode. This command
works with all program modes of the MPLC, and the TRUMPF laser only with
an MPLC.
User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Programming Reference 189


M97 - LASER OFF
MPLC Option Only: Turns the laser OFF with the MPLC. The laser mode is
selected by using the Laser Setting L-Code of a material selection in the
database. You do not need to use M90/M91, M92/M93, or M94/M95 to
select the laser mode.
M97.1 LASER OFF (ON-THE-FLY)
MPLC Option Only: Turns the laser OFF on-the-fly without stopping the
motion as M97 does. The laser mode is selected by using the Laser Setting
L-Code of a material selection in the database. You do not need to use
M90/M91, M92/ 3 M9 , or M94/M95 to select the laser mode. This command
works with all pr ra og m modes of the MPLC, and the TRUMPF laser only
with an MPLC.
M98 - SUBROUTINE
When this code is executed, a subprogram is called and executed.
Syntax: M98 (c:\pls\ncfiles\hole.sub) Lxx
Where : L Loop
xx The number of times the M98
command is to be executed.
M99 - SUBROUTINE END
When this code is executed, a subprogram execution is completed and the
program ion returns to the main program. A M99 execut used in the last
block of program causes the program execution a main to stop, reset to the
first block and automatically restart the program execution.

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SETTING VARIABLES
NOTE: Typically, the Laser Pulsing Parameters are set in the Laser
Database. You can also use the S-Codes and T-Codes to set Pulsing
Parameters rovided fo , but these were p r Backward Compatibility. It is
generally recommended to use the Laser Database instead of S- and
T-Codes.
MATERIAL SELECTION CODE (P-CODES)
Material Selection Code (P-codes) let you select a material in the part
prog m the Laser Data ram fro base. Type-in the string from the Laser
Database inside the parenthesis to select the desired material. The entered
string t be an exact matc If it cannot find mus h of the string in the data base.
the s an alarm is genera tring, ted.
Synt P( ) ax:
NOT is P-code is only with LCC- E: Th available with the MPLC, not
PPG
User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Programming Reference 191


PULSE SPACING (S-CODES)
The Pulse Spacing (S-Codes) let you set the pulse spacing when you are in
incremental pulsing (M90). The spacing for the LCC-PPG can be set to any
value from .0001 inch to .4095 inch at .0001 inch increments. The MPLC
pulse spacing limits are from 0.0001 inch to 0.9999 inch.
To set the pulse spacing you need to enter two (2) S-codes in series. For
example,
Format: S00
S00
2 digits in the first S-code are in the
two upper digits and the 2 digits in the
second S-code are the 2 lower digits

S34
23 4
inches.
Example: S12 1 4 and the spacing would be 0.123
Default: S00 S10 - 0.0010 inch puls p e s acing
S-Code Range for LCC-PPG: S00, S01 - 0.0001 inch to
S40, S95 - .4095 inch
S-Code Range for MPLC: 0.0001 to 0.9999
See Also: M90, M91; M40, M41
Example:
This program scribes a LINE inside a cut-out circle.
Program Comments
F100 (Set feed rate to 100 inch/min)
M88 (Shutter open)
G91 (Incremental pulse mode)
T50 (Set .5ms pulse duration for cross)
T50
T55
T50
0 inch spacing for cross)
S60
med feed rate)
M91 (Disable incremental pulsing)
sition)

G1 Y-1.
S00 (Set .006
G0X.5
(Rapid .5 inch move)
M90 (Enable incremental pulsing)
G1X-1.0 (1.0 inch move at program
G0X.5Y.5 (Rapid move into po
M90
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Programming Reference 192

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Program Comments
M91
T50 (Set pulse duration to 1.2ms for circle)
T52
T50
G0 X.5 Y.5
in ement pulsin
G2 X0 Y0 I-.5 J0. rcle)
M91 (Disable incremental pulsing)
(Return to start position)
M89 (Shutter closed)
T51
S00 (Set pulse spacing to .0020 for circle)
S20
M90 (Enable cr al g)
(Cut 1 inch diameter ci
G0 X-.5
M30 (End of program)
User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Programming Reference 193


PULSE DURATION COMMANDS (T50S)
The Pulse Duration Commands (T50s) are used to set the pulse duration that
is ou the laser when inc pulsing tput to remental pulsing (M90), repetitive
(M92), or executing single pulse (M40, M81).
To set the pulse duration you just enter four T50 commands in series. For
exam
Form T5x T5x T5x T5x 5 indicates that it is a pulse
duration command

ple,
at:
x is the data
The x digit in the first T50 (in the series of four) is the
most significant digit in the pulse duration value.
The x digit in the fourth T50 is the least significant
digit in the pulse duration.

Example: T51 T52 T53 T54 (the pulse duration value would be
0.01234 sec)
NOT ou must have fou must be in E: Y r T50 commands and they
series with no other codes in between. Also, each T50 command
must be a separate block.
Defa T50 T50 T51 T50 - 0.00010 sec = .1 ms ult:

Rang T50, T50, T50, T51 - 0.00001 sec to e:
T59, T59, T59. T59 - .09999 sec
See , M91; M92, M9 ; M81; T60 Commands also M90 3
See 92/M93 example
Exam
also M
ple:
A typical example would be if you needed full power to cut through inch
wood at 95 inch/min feed rate. You need a smooth cut so you might set the
pulse spacing to .003 inch for a good 50% + overlap of pulses (depends on
beam spot size).
So now you have 3 of the 4 settings needed.
Feed rate 95 inch/min
Pulse spacing .0030 inch
Laser power 100% (CW Current Setting)
Duty Cycle 100% = 1, 120% = 1.2, 80% = .8
Now you need to calculate the pulse duration that gives full laser power when
the table speed reaches 95 inch/min. The following formula can be used for
this.
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Programming Reference 194

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Pulse Duration (sec.) = Pulse Spacing (in) x (60 x Duty Cycle) (%)
Feed Rate (in/min)
For our example this would give:
Pulse Duration = .0020 in x 60 sec/min
95 inch/min 75 in/min

Pulse Duration = .0019 sec (T50, T51, T59, T50)
If your part required a 2 inch hole, the program would be written as follows.

Program Comments
G20 (Interprets G-Code file as being in inch code)
rate to 95 inch/min)
(Set pulse spacing .0030 inch)
3
ulse duration .0019 sec.)
5
5
T50
ng)
M30 (End of program)

F95 (Set feed
S00
S 0
T50 (Set p
T 1
T 9
M90 (Enable incremental pulsi
G2 X0.Y0.I0.J1 (Cut circle)
M91 (Disable incremental pulsing)
User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Programming Reference 195


REP OFF-TIME COMMANDS (T60S)
The Rep Off-Time Commands (T60s) are used to set the duration of the off-
time when repetitive pulsing. The T60 commands are used in connection
with the T50 commands to give a repetitive pulse train at a desired frequency
and duty cycle.
NOTE: For setting a given frequency use the T50 commands to set
the on-time and the T60 commands to set the off-time.
To set the rep off-time you must enter four T60 commands in series. For
example,
Format: T6x T6x T6x T6x 6 indicates that it is an off-time
command
x is the data

The x digit in the first T60 (in the series of four) is the
most significant digit in the off-time value.
The x digit in the fourth T significant digit 50 is the least
in the off-time value.
Example:
4 sec)
T51 T52 T53 T54 (the pulse duration value would be
0.0123
NOTE: You must have four T60 commands and they must be in
series w es ith no other cod in between. Also, each T60 command
must be a separate block.
NOTE: The frequency in h ertz (cycles per second) is determined by
adding the T50 commands value in seconds and the T60 commands
value in en seconds and th taking the reciprocal of that result.
Default T60, T60, T61, T60 - .00010 sec = 0.1 ms :
Range: T60, T60, T60, T61 - .00001 sec to T69, T69, T69, T69 -
.09999 sec
See also

requency (Hz) = 1
M92, M93; T50 Commands
F
T50s value (sec) + T60s value (sec)
For example using the default values of .0010 sec for T50 commands and
T60 commands you would get the following frequency:

Frequency = 1
.0010 (sec) + .0010 (sec)
Frequency = 500 Hz

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The duty cycle of a given rep setting can be found by dividing the T50
Commands value in seconds by the sum of the T50 commands value in
seconds and the T60 commands value in seconds.

Duty Cycle = T50s value (sec) X 100
T50s value (sec) + T60s value (sec)

An example of calculating duty cycle is as follows:
Given: T50, T50, T57, T50 = .0007 sec
T60, T60, T65, T60 = .00050 sec

Duty Cycle = .0007 (sec) x 100
.0007 (sec) + .00050 (sec)

y Cycle =

Dut 58.3%
This would mean that the laser beam is on 58.3% of the time.
Example:
The typical example would b e if you were cutting metal and needed to peck
through before making a cut out in CW mode. To peck through you typically
need to output a train of short pulses for a short period of time to drill a hole
through the metal before cutting. To do this you may use settings and a
program similar to the ones shown below.
If you wanted a peck through pulse duration of .5 ms at a frequency of 20 Hz
you can rearrange the formula given above to find the off time (T60
comman is as fo ds) required llows:
Giv comma en: T50 nds val = .5 ms = .0005 sec
Freq. = 20 Hz

T60s val (sec) = 1 - T50s val (sec)
Frequency (Hz)

- T60s = 1 .0005 sec
20 Hz
T60s = .0495 sec (T64, T69, T65, T60)




User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Programming Reference 197


Program Comments
G20
F100
T50
T50
T55
T50
T64 (Set pulse off-time to 49.5 ms)
T69
T65
T60
G90 (Absolute positioning mode)
G0 X.2 Y.2 (Move .2 inch diagonal for lead in)
M92 (Turn repetitive pulsing on 20 Hz .5 ms)
G4 X1.0 (Delay for 1 second for peck through)
M93 (Turn repetitive pulsing off)
M94 (Turn beam on CW)
G1 X0 Y0 (Cut lead in)
G1 Y1 (Cut 1 inch square)
G1 X1
G1 Y0
G1 X0
M95 (Turn beam off)
M30 (Program end)
(Interprets G-Code file as being in inch
code)
(Set feedrate to 100 inches/min.)
(Set pulse duration to .5 ms)

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Programming Reference 198

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MPLC LASER PROCESSING MODES
The MPLC Laser Processing Modes that are available in the laser database
are described in this section. Refer to the MULTI-AXIS PROGRAMMABLE LASER
CONTROLLER (MPLC) MANUAL for more detailed information. The following
modes are available:
Continuous Wave
Incremental Pulse
Power Proportional to Velocity
Duty Cycle Proportional to Velocity
Analog Power Ramp on Position
Duty Cycle Ramp on Position
Repetitive Pulsing
amp Analog Power R on Time
Duty Cycle Ramp on Time
Single Pulse
Dieboard Increment
ONTINUOUS WAV
al
C E (CW) (MPLC)
In the C o y ontinuous Wave m de, the laser is ON at programmed or set (b
operato h r) power or OFF. T is mode does not use the axis inputs, therefore
table motion or position does not effect the laser.

Parameter Range Description
Feedrate 0 to 400 in/min Converted to an F-code in CNC.
Power 0 to 100000
watts
Laser power, typically for reference only.
Optionally sets an analogue level on the
PRC Laser System.

User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Programming Reference 199


STANDARD INCREMENTAL PULSE (MPLC)
Incremental Pulse provides a frequency proportional to velocity at a fixed
pulse duration. In other words, the MPLC pulses the laser for a programmed
length of time every time the table moves the programmed distance or
spacing. The beam is on only when the table is moving.
The MPLC sends an initial pulse and then waits for the table to move before
outputting additional pulses. When the table stops the MPLC stops out
putting pulses.
When the table speed reaches a point where the frequency of the pulses
times the pulse duration equals one, then the laser is on continuous wave
(CW) until the table speed slows down again. With settings of 0.001 in
spacing and 1 ms pulse duration this speed is 1 in/sec or 60 in/min.
To get the best cut from the incremental pulsed mode you must set the pulse
duration, pulse spacing, and feed rate to the proper settings for the type of
material being processed and laser power available.

Parameter Range Description
Feedrate 0 to 400 in/min Converted to an F-code in CNC.
Spacing 0.00001 to
1.0000 in
Pulse spacing.
Pulse On (time) .00001 to .15000
sec
The amount of time the pulse is On after each
spacing increment is reached.
Duty Cycle
limits of
Feedrate, Pulse
On T
Spac
eters
Pulse On Time and Spacing parameters. If
this value is altered, it changes the Pulse On
Time value.
0 to Based on Automatically calculated based on Feedrate,
ime and
ing
param
Power 0 to 100000 watts Laser Power

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POWER (PROPORTIONAL TO) VELOCITY (MPLC)
Power Proportional to Velocity varies the analog power output signal
depending on speed of motion or feed rate. The laser is turned on similar to
continuous wave operation, except power does not remain constant. As
velocity increases, the power output of the laser increases. As velocity
decreases, the power output of the laser decreases. An optional repetitive
pulse mode, instead of the CW mode, can be used with this mode.
The analog power output is a linear function of velocity. The two endpoints
of this line are determined by (Minimum Velocity, Minimum Power)
parameters and (Velocity, Set Point, Power Set Point) parameters. If the
velocity is half way between the Minimum Velocity and the Velocity Set Point,
the power is half way between Minimum Power and Power Set Point. The
only constraint is that power can not drop below the Minimum Power or rise
above the Maximum Power.

Parameter Range Description
CW/Rep Se PETITIVE PULSE or CONTINUOUS WAVE lect NA See RE
modes for their descriptions.
Feedrate
(velocity se
point)

t.
t
0 to 400 in/min This parameter sets the F-code in the CNC
and also sets the velocity set point that
corresponds to the power set point. So, when
this feedrate is achieved, the laser power is at
the value programmed in the Power Set Poin
Pulse On (t
PULSE mode for a description.
ime) 0.00001 to
.15000 sec
Available only in Repetitive Pulse mode. See
REPETITIVE
Pu 0.00
.150
Available only in Repetitive Pulse mode. See
REPETITIVE PULSE scription.
lse Off (time) 001 to
00 sec mode for a de
Duty Cycle 0 to 100% Automatically calculated based on the pulse
time on and pulse time off parameters. If this
n value is altered, it changes both the pulse o
time and pulse off time values.
Power Set Point 0 to 100000 watts The power that is output when the velocity set
point is reached.
Minimum Power 0 to 100000 watts Minimum power sets the absolute minimum
laser power that can be output.
Maximum Power 0 to 100000 watts
laser power that can be output.
Maximum power sets the absolute maximum
User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Programming Reference 201


Parameter Range Description
Minimum
Feedrate
(velocity)
in
or below
lue, the laser drops to
programmed minimum power and remain at
reases
0 to 400 in/m The velocity at which the minimum power
parameter is output. If velocity is at
this programmed va
that value until the table velocity inc
again.
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DUTY CYCLE (PROPORTIONAL TO) VELOCITY
(MPLC)
Duty Cycle Proportional to Velocity varies the duty cycle of the laser trigger
signal depending on speed of motion or feed rate. The laser trigger is pulse
width modulated at a constant frequency, which is set by a parameter.
The duty cycle output is a linear function of velocity. The two endpoints of
this line are determined by (Minimum Velocity Set Point, Minimum Duty
Cycle) parameters and (Velocity, Duty Cycle) parameters. If the velocity is
half way between the Minimum Velocity and the Velocity Set Point, the duty
cycle is half way between the Minimum Duty Cycle and the Duty Cycle set
point. The on aint is that the duty cycle cannot drop below the ly constr
Minimum Du r rise above the Maximum Duty Cycle. ty Cycle o

Parameter Range Description
Feedrate
(velocity set

in in the CNC
and also sets the velocity set point that

laser power is at
the value programmed in the power set point.
point)
0 to 400 in/m This parameter sets the F-code
corresponds to the power set point. So, when
this feedrate is achieved, the
Duty cycle
(set point)
0 to 100 % Duty cycle is the duty cycle that is output
when the desired velocity set point is reached.
Power 0 to 100000 watts
Optionally sets an analogue level on the PRC
Laser power, typically for reference only.
Laser System.
Pulse
Frequency
1 to 100000 Hz t which the laser trigger is
modulated.
The frequency a
Minimum D ty
Cycle
0 to 100 % Minimum duty cycle sets the absolute
minimum laser duty cycle that can be output.
u
Maximum D ty
Cycle
0 to 100 % Maximum duty cycle sets the absolute
maximum laser duty cycle that can be output.
u
Minimum
Feedrate
(velocity)
0 to 400 in/min The velocity at which the minimum duty cycle
parameter is output. If velocity is at or below
this programmed value the laser drops to
programmed minimum duty cycle and remain
at that value until the table velocity increases
again.

User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Programming Reference 203


ANALOG POWER RAMP ON POSITION (MPLC)
Analog Power Ramp on Position allows the laser power to vary according to
a user programmed profile. The profile consists of a minimum of 2 points
and a maximum of 26 points. Each point has a power value and distance
value. Power values range from 0 to 100,000 watts depending on the lasers
capabilities. Distances are total distances traveled since the start of the cut.
Therefore, distance is always increasing. As the cut continues, distance
accumulates, and power follows the profile from point to point linearly
interpolating between points.
By using the G112 command, you can select which axes are to be used to
calculate the distance traveled. If only a single axis is being used for
ramping, for best accuracy, select only that axis by using the G112 command
for distance traveled. An optional Repetitive Pulse mode, instead of CW
mode, can be used with this mode.
A sensor input is optional which forces a jump to the last ramp segment. For
example, an overheating condition can force the MPLC to ignore the other
ramp points and jump right to the last segment, which would ramp down the
laser power. An optional Repetitive Pulse Enable mode, instead of CW
mode, can be used with this mode.
Profile points consists of up to 26 points with a power level, and a distance
parameter associated to each point. Power remains at zero until the first
programmed distance is reached. When this distance is reached, the power
jumps to the programmed power at the first point. Power then linearly ramps
to the programmed value at the second point, as distance increases to the
distance associated to the second point. Linear ramping between points
continues until the last point is reached. Power then remains at that last
programmed value. Generally, the power value for the last point will be zero
(0).

Parameter Range Description
CW/REP Select N/A See REPETITIVE PULSE or CONTINUOUS WAVE
modes for their descriptions.
Feedrate

0 to 400 in/min Converted to an F-code in the CNC.
Point Number 2 to 26 points Point number representing a point on the
ramp profile.
Power 0 to 100000 watts Power that corresponds to the associated
distance value at each programmed point.
Distance 0 to 100 in Distance values for the profile that
corresponds to the associated power value at
each point.

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DUTY CYCLE RAMP ON POSITION (MPLC)
Duty cycle ramp on position allows the duty cycle to vary according to a user
programmed profile. The laser turns on at a constant frequency and duty
cycle varies with the profile. The profile consists of a minimum of 2 points
and a maximum of 26 points. Each point has a duty cycle value and distance
value. Duty cycle values range from 0 to 100 %. Distances are total
distances traveled since the start of the cut. Therefore, distance is always
increasing. As the cut continues distance accumulates, and duty cycle
follows the profile from point to point linearly interpolating between points.
By using the G112 command, you can select which axes are to be used to
calculate the distance traveled. If only a single axis is being used for
ramping, for best accuracy, select only that axis by using the G112 command
for distance traveled. An optional Repetitive Pulse mode, instead of CW
mode, can be used with this mode.
A sensor input is optional which forces a jump to the last ramp segment. For
example, an overheating condition can force the MPLC to ignore the other
ramp points and jump right to the last segment, which would ramp down the
laser power. An optional Repetitive Pulse Enable mode, instead of CW
mode, can be used with this mode.
Profile points then consists of up to 26 points with a duty cycle level and a
distance parameter associated to each programmed point. Duty cycle
remains at zero until the first programmed distance has passed. When this
distance is reached, the duty cycle jumps to the programmed power at the
first point. Power then linearly ramps to programmed value at the second
point as distance increases to the time associated to the second point.
Linear ramping between points continues until last point is reached. Duty
cycle then remains at that last programmed value. Generally, the duty cycle
value for the last point will be zero (0).

Parameter Range Description
Feedrate 0 to 400 in/min Converted to an F-code in the CNC.

Power 0 to 100000 watts pically for reference only.
Optionally sets an analogue level on the PRC
Laser power, ty
Laser System.
Pulse 0 to 100000 Hz The frequency at which the laser trigger is
Frequency modulated.
Point Number 2 to 26 points Point number representing a point on the
ramp profile.
User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Programming Reference 205


Parameter Range Description
Duty Cycle
value at each
programmed point.
0 to 100 % Duty cycle values that correspond to the
associated distance
Di 0 to Distance values for the profile that
corresponds to the associated power value at
stance 100 in
each point.
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Programming Reference 206

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REPETITIVE PULSING (MPLC)
Repetitive Pulsing is one of the simplest modes of operation. Like
continuous wave it operates independent of table motion. In this mode, the
laser simply switches on and off with programmable on and off times.
Two parameters control how the laser pulses, Pulse On Time and Pulse Off
Time, together these two parameters control frequency and duty cycle of
laser pulsing.
One par e This ameter controls th power of the laser when it switches on.
power is t the equivalent con inuous wave power.

Parameter Range Description
Feedrate 0 to 400 in/min Converted to an F-code in CNC.
Pulse On (Time) 0.00001 to
.15000 sec time it pulses.
Pulse On (Time) controls how long the laser
stays ON each
Pulse Off (Time)
0 sec

.
0.00001 to
.1500
Pulse Off (Time) controls how long the laser
stays OFF between pulses
Duty cycle 0 to 100 % Automatically calculated based on Pulse Time
On and Pulse Time Off parameters. If the

value is altered, both the Pulse Time On and
are changed,
thus keeping the pulse frequency constant.
the Pulse Time Off parameters
Power 0 to 100000 watts nce only.
Optionally sets an analogue level on the PRC
Laser System.
Laser power, typically for refere



User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Programming Reference 207


ANALOG POWER RAMP ON TI ) ME (MPLC
Analog Tim a Power Ramp on e allows the laser power to vary according to
user programmed profile. T ts he profile consists of a minimum of two (2) poin
and a maximum of 26 points. Each point has a power value and a time
value. P ge rs ower values ran from 0 to 100,000 watts depending on the lase
capabilities. Time values ar t e measured since the start of the cut. As the cu
continues time passes, and power follows the profile from point to point
linearly interpolating between points.
By using the G112 command, you can select which axes are to be used to
calculate the distance traveled. If only a single axis is being used for
ramping, for best accuracy, select only that axis by using the G112 command
for distance traveled. An optional Repetitive Pulse mode, instead of CW
mode, can be used with this mode.
A sensor input is optional, which forces a jump to the last ramp segment. For
example, an overheating condition can force the MPLC to ignore the other
ramp points and jump right to the last segment, which would ramp down the
laser power. An optional repetitive pulse enable mode, instead of CW mode,
can be used with this mode.
Profile points then consists of up to 26 points with a power level and a time
parameter associated to each programmed point. Power remains at zero
until the first programmed time has passed. When this time is reached, the
power jumps to the programmed power at the first point. Power then linearly
ramps to programmed value at the second point as time increases to the
time associated to the second point. Linear ramping between points
continues until last point is reached. Power then remains at that last
programmed value. Generally, the power value for the last point will be zero
(0).

Parameter Range Description
CW/REP Select N/A See REPETITIVE PULSE or CONTINUOUS WAVE
modes for their descriptions.
Feedrate 0 to 400 in/min Converted to an F-code in CNC.
Point Number 2 to 26 points Point number representing a point on the
ramp profile.
Power 0 to 100000 watts Power that corresponds to the associated
distance value at each programmed point.
Time 0 to 600 sec Time values for the profile that corresponds to
the associated power value at each point.



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DUTY CYCLE RAMP ON TIME (MPLC)
Duty Cycle Ramp on Time allows the duty cycle to vary according to a user
programmed profile. The laser turns on at a constant frequency and duty
cycle varies with the profile. The profile consists of a minimum of 2 points
and a maximum of 26 points. Each point has a duty cycle value and time
value. Duty cycle values range from 0 to 100 %. Time values are measured
since the start of the cut. As the cut continues, time passes, and duty cycle
follows the profile from point to point linearly interpolating between points.
By using the G112 command, you can select which axes are to be used to
calculate the distance traveled. If only a single axis is being used for
ramping, for best accuracy, select only that axis by using the G112 command
for distance traveled. An optional Repetitive Pulse mode, instead of CW
mode, can be used with this mode.
A sensor input is optional which forces a jump to the last ramp segment. For
example, an overheating condition can force the MPLC to ignore the other
ramp points and jump right to the last segment, which would ramp down the
laser duty cycle. An optional repetitive pulse enable mode, instead of CW
mode, can be used with this mode.
Profile points then consists of up to 26 points with a duty cycle level and a
time parameter associated to each programmed point. Duty cycle remains at
zero until the first programmed time has passed. When this time is reached,
the duty cycle the programmed pow int. Power then jumps to er at the first po
linearly ramps to programmed value at the second point as time increases to
the time associated to the second point. Linear ramping between points
continues until last point is reached. Duty cycle then remains at that last
program a ll be med value. Gener lly, the duty cycle value for the last point wi
zero (0).

Parameter Range Description
Feedrate 0 to 400 in/min Converted to an F-code in CNC.
Power 0 to 100000 watts Laser power, typically for reference only.
Optionally sets an analogue level on the PRC
Laser System.
Frequency 0 to 100000 Hz The frequency at which the laser trigger is
modulated.
Point Number 2 to 26 points Point number representing a point on the
ramp profile.
Duty cycle

0 to 100 % Duty cycle is the duty cycle that is output
when the desired velocity set point is reached.
Time 0 to 600 sec Time values for the profile that corresponds to
the associated duty cycle value at each point.
User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Programming Reference 209


SINGLE PULSE (MPLC)
In this mode, each time the laser is turned ON a single pulse is output. The
laser pulses for a programmed amount of time.

Parameter Range Description
Feedrate 0 to 400 in/min Converted to an F-code in CNC.
Pulse On (Time) .00001 to .15000 Pulse On (Time) sets the pulse duration for
sec each beam on command (M90).
Power 0 to 100000 watts Laser power, typically for reference only.
Optionally sets an analogue level on the PRC
Laser System.

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DIEBOARD INCREMENTAL (MPLC)
This mode is the same as Incremental Pulse with one additional feature. At
the end of every cut, a timed burst of repetitive pulsing is inserted. The burst
length is programmable from 0 to 5 seconds.

Parameter Range Description
Pulse on time .00001 to .15000
sec
Pulse on Time sets the pulse duration.
Spacing 0 to 1.000 in The pulse spacing can be set to any value
between 0 and 1 in.
Power (at CW) 0 to 100000 watts Laser power, typically for reference only.
Optionally sets an analogue level on the PRC
Laser System.
Pulse Off Time .00001 to .15000
sec
Pulse Off Time controls how long the laser
stays off between pulses.
Catch Up Timer 0 to 5.000 sec Catch Up Timer sets the time interval for the
beam trail to catch up at the end of a move.
Positive SX
(speed)
0 to 400 in/min Speed in positive X direction.
Negative SX
(speed)
0 to 400 in/min Speed in negative X direction.
Positive SY
(speed)
0 to 400 in/min Speed in positive Y direction.
Negative SY
(speed)
0 to 400 in/min Speed in negative Y direction.
Positive HX
(height)
0 to 0.2 inches Focus height in positive X direction.
Negative HX
(height)
0 to 0.2 inches Focus height in negative X direction.
Positive HY
(height)
0 to 0.2 inches Focus height in positive Y direction.
Negative HY
(height)
0 to 0.2 inches Focus height in negative Y direction.
User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Programming Reference 211


Parameter Range Description
Off Axis Speed 0 to 400 in/min If selected on Dieboard screen, speed in off-
axis direction with combined with X-Y moves.
Off Axis Height 0 to 0.2 inches If selected on Dieboard screen, speed in off-
axis direction with combined with X-Y moves.
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AcuNav Laser Control Software
Programming Reference 212

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LCC-PPG LASER PROCESSING MODES
The LCC-PPG Laser Processing Modes that are available in the Laser
Database are described in this section. Refer to the LCC-PPG
PROGRAMMABLE LASER CONTROLLER MANUAL for more detailed information.
The following modes are available:
Continuous Wave
Standard Incremental Pulse
Repetitive Pulsing
Single Pulse Variable
Dieboard Incremental
CONTINUOUS WAVE (CW) (LCC-PPG)
In the Continuous Wave mode, the laser is ON at programmed power or
OFF. This mode does not use the axis inputs; therefore table motion or
position does not effect the laser.

Parameter Range Description
Feedrate 0 to 400 in/min Converted to an F-code in CNC.
Power 0 to 100000 watts Laser power, typically for reference only.
Optionally sets an analogue level on the PRC
Laser System.



User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Programming Reference 213


STANDARD INCREMENTAL PULSE
(LCC-PPG)
Standard Incremental pulse provides a frequency proportional to velocity at a
fixed pulse duration. In other words, the MPLC pulses the laser for a
programmed length of time every time the table moves the programmed
distance or spacing. The beam is on only when the table is moving.

Parameter Range Description
Feedrate 0 to 400 in/min Converted to an F-code in CNC.
Spacing .0001 to .4095 in Pulse spacing.
Pulse On (time) .00001 to .09999
sec
The amount of time the pulse is On after each
spacing increment is reached.
Duty Cycle 0 to Based on
limits of
Feedrate, Pulse
On Time and
Spacing
parameters
Automatically calculated based on Feedrate,
Pulse On Time and Spacing parameters. If
this value is altered, it changes the Pulse On
Time value.
Power 0 to 100000 watts Laser Power

Issued: 9/22/2004 2003 Preco Laser Systems, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Product No.: 01001-224

User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Programming Reference 214

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REPETITIVE PULSING (LCC-PPG)
Repetitive Pulsing is one of the simplest modes of operation. Like
continuous wave it operates independent of table motion. In this mode, the
laser simply switches on and off with programmable on and off times.
Two parameters control how the laser pulses, Pulse On Time and Pulse Off
Time, together these two parameters control frequency and duty cycle of
laser pulsing.
One parameter controls the power of the laser when it switches on. This
power is the equivalent continuous wave power.

Parameter Range Description
Feedrate 0 to 400 in/min Converted to an F-code in CNC.
Pulse On (Time) .00001 to .09999
sec
Pulse On (Time) controls how long the laser
stays ON each time it pulses.
Pulse Off (Time) .00001 to .09999
sec
Pulse Off (Time) controls how long the laser
stays OFF between pulses.
Duty cycle 0 to 100 % Automatically calculated based on Pulse
Tome On and Pulse Tome Off parameters. If
the value is altered, both the Pulse Time On
and the Pulse Time Off parameters are
changed, thus keeping the pulse frequency
constant.
Power 0 to 100000 watts Laser power, typically for reference only.
Optionally sets an analogue level on the PRC
Laser System.

User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Programming Reference 215


SINGLE PULSE VARIABLE (LCC-PPG)
In this mode, each time the laser is turned ON a single pulse is output. The
laser pulses for a programmed amount of time.

Parameter Range Description
Feedrate 0 to 400 in/min Converted to an F-code in CNC.
Pulse On (Time) .00001 to .09999
sec
Pulse On (Time) sets the pulse duration for
each beam on command (M90).
Power 0 to 100000 watts Laser power, typically for reference only.
Optionally sets an analogue level on the
PRC Laser System.

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User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Programming Reference 216

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DIEBOARD INCREMENTAL (LCC-PPG)
This mode is the same as Incremental Pulse with one additional feature. At
the end of every cut, a timed burst of repetitive pulsing is inserted. The burst
length is programmable from 0 to 5 seconds.

Parameter Range Description
Pulse on time .00001 to .09999
sec
Pulse on Time sets the pulse duration.
Spacing 0 to .4095 in The pulse spacing can be set to any value
between 0 and 1 in.
Power (at CW) 0 to 100000 watts Laser power, typically for reference only.
Optionally sets an analogue level on the PRC
Laser System.
Pulse Off Time .00001 to .09999
sec
Pulse Off Time controls how long the laser
stays off between pulses.
Positive SX
(speed)
0 to 400 in/min Speed in positive X direction.
Negative SX
(speed)
0 to 400 in/min Speed in negative X direction.
Positive SY
(speed)
0 to 400 in/min Speed in positive Y direction.
Negative SY
(speed)
0 to 400 in/min Speed in negative Y direction.
Positive HX
(height)
0 to 0.2 inches Focus height in positive X direction.
Negative HX
(height)
0 to 0.2 inches Focus height in negative X direction.
Positive HY
(height)
0 to 0.2 inches Focus height in positive Y direction.
Negative HY
(height)
0 to 0.2 inches Focus height in negative Y direction.
Off Axis Speed 0 to 400 in/min If selected on Dieboard screen, speed in off-
axis direction with combined with X-Y moves.
Off Axis Height 0 to 0.2 inches If selected on Dieboard screen, speed in off-
axis direction with combined with X-Y moves.
User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Appendix A: Sample Programs 217


APPENDIX A: SAMPLE PROGRAMS
OVERVIEW
This appendix contains sample programs. The G and M commands used in these sample
programs are described in the PROGRAMMING REFERENCE section. The following samples are
provided:
Square program in Absolute Mode
Square program in Incremental Mode
Large program
Small program
SQUARE PROGRAM IN ABSOLUTE MODE

Program Comments
F100
G92 X0. Y0
M88 (Shutter open)
G90 (Absolute Mode)
G0 X-.1 Y-.1
M92
G4 X1.0
M93
M94
G1 X0.0 Y0.0
G1 X1.0 Y0.0
G1 X1.0 Y1.0
G1 X0.0 Y1.0
G1 X0.0 Y0.0
M95
M89 (Shutter Close)
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User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Appendix A: Sample Programs 218

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Program Comments
G0X0Y01.2
M30 (Program end)
SQUARE PROGRAM IN INCREMENTAL MODE

Program Comments
F100
G91 (Incremental Mode)
M88 (Shutter open)
G0X-.1Y-.1
M92
G4X1.0
M93
M94
G1X.1Y.1
G1X1.0
G1Y1.0
G1X-1.0
G1Y-1.0
M95
M89 (Shutter Close)
G0Y1.2
M30 (Program end)

User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Appendix A: Sample Programs 219


LARGE PROGRAM
This is a sample program that may be used to cut a six (6) inch square, then perforate the
same six (6) inch square by using Cutter Compensation to the inside. These parameter must
be set in the laser database first,
L1 = Std-Inc Pulse, Feedrate 200, .001 Spacing, .0006 On Time
L2 = Rep Pulse, Feedrate 300, .005 On Time, .005 Off Time

Program Comments
G61 (Exact Stop)
F100 (Feedrate)
G90 (Absolute Positioning)
G53X4Y4 (Move to Machine
Position X4Y4)
G92X0Y0 (Reset Work Coordinate
Position)
M60 (Autofocus Down)
M88 (Shutter Open)
M74 (Assist Gas #1 On)
G0X0Y0 (Rapid Move to Start
Position)
L1 (Select Laser Setting
from Laser Database)
M94 (Laser On CW Mode)
G1X6Y0 (Cut a square)
G1X6Y6
G1X0Y6
G1X0Y0
M95 (Laser Off CW Mode)
G0X-.25Y-.25 (Rapid Move to Start
Position)
L2 (Select Laser Setting
from Laser Database)
M92 (Laser On Rep Mode)
Issued: 9/22/2004 2003 Preco Laser Systems, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Product No.: 01001-224

User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Appendix A: Sample Programs 220

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Program Comments
G41D20 (Cutter Compensation
On)
G1X0Y0 (Lead In)
G1X6Y0 (Cut a square)
G1X6Y6
G1X0Y6
G1X0Y0
G1X-.25Y-.25 (Lead Out)
G40 (Cutter Compensation
Off)
M93 (Laser Off Rep Mode)
M75 (Assist Gas #1 Off)
M89 (Shutter Close)
M61 (Autofocus Up)
M30 (Program end)

User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Appendix A: Sample Programs 221


SMALL PROGRAM
Program Comments
F200
T50
T50
T51
T50
S00
S10
M88 (Shutter open)
G90 (Absolute Mode)
G92X0Y0
G0 X0.2957 Y0.7433
M90 (Laser ON)
G2 X0.2957 Y0.7433 I-0.0500 J0.0000
M91 (Laser OFF)
G0 X2.0621 Y1.9127
M90 (Laser ON)
G2 X1.9949 Y1.7361 I-0.2048 J-0.0232
G1 X1.8529 Y1.5954
G2 X2.3837 Y1.8123 I1.0114 J-1.7175
G2 X2.8013 Y1.8512 I0.3035 J-0.9988
G2 X3.3571 Y1.3744 I-0.1257 J-0.7090
G2 X3.2027 Y0.6761 I-0.7707 J-0.1957
G2 X1.7460 Y0.0385 I-1.5431 J1.5423
G2 X0.8203 Y0.1906 I-0.2358 J1.4579
G2 X0.6552 Y0.0546 I-0.2557 J0.1422
G2 X0.3109 Y0.0387 I-0.1934 J0.4527
G2 X0.1519 Y0.2028 I0.0744 J0.2311
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User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Appendix A: Sample Programs 222

Issued: 9/22/2004 2004 Preco Laser Systems, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Product No.: 01001-224
Program Comments
G2 X0.0254 Y1.2457 I3.1910 J0.9164
G2 X0.1404 Y1.4430 I0.2426 J-0.0092
G2 X0.4786 Y1.5099 I0.2586 J-0.4189
G2 X0.6714 Y1.4174 I-0.0214 J-0.2918
G1 X0.7944 Y1.5695
G2 X1.2314 Y2.0195 I2.4054 J-1.8990
G2 X1.7612 Y2.1859 I0.5120 J-0.7033
G2 X2.0621 Y1.9127 I-0.0157 J-0.3196
M91 (Laser OFF)
M89 (Close the shutter)
G0X0Y0
M30 (Program end)
User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Appendix B. AcuNav with Manual Vision Rotary / Translation Offset 223


APPENDIX B. ACUNAV WITH MANUAL VISION
ROTARY / TRANSLATION OFFSET
The AcuNav Laser Control Software screen shown in the following figure is
an example of the screen used for the optional Manual Vision Rotary /
Translation Offset program. Take note of the CNC I/O control panel buttons.

Figure 9. AcuNav System Main Screen
Issued: 9/22/2004 2004 Preco Laser Systems, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Product No.: 01001-224

User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Appendix B. AcuNav with Manual Vision Rotary / Translation Offset 224

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MISCELLANEOUS CONTROL FUNCTIONS
The following tables list the G-codes and M-codes that are specific to the
Manual Vision Rotary/Translation Offset program.
G-CODES
G-codes are preparatory word data blocks that define the mode of operation
for the controller. The preparatory word consists of a preparatory address
(G) followed by a function code. They are used to define how the system is
to operate. The following table lists the G-Codes specific to the Manual
Vision Translation Offset program

Code Description
G68.5 Translates and rotates the part program.
G69 Cancels the G68.5 command.

M-CODES
M-Codes are miscellaneous word data block command actions such as
turning the laser ON or OFF. The miscellaneous word data block is a
miscellaneous address (M) followed by a numeric function code.
Miscellaneous words may be modal or non-modal. The following table lists
the M-Codes specific to the Manual Vision Rotary/Translation Offset
program.

Code Description
M38.5 Captures the ideal location of fiducial #1
M38.6 Captures the ideal location of fiducial #2
M39.5 Captures the actual location of fiducial #1
M39.6 Captures the actual location of fiducial #2
M50 XY Handwheel Enable (Auto and MDI modes
ONLY-Optional usage)
M51 XY Handwheel Disable (Auto and MDI modes
ONLY-Optional usage)

User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Appendix B. AcuNav with Manual Vision Rotary / Translation Offset 225


NOTE: If the system is in M50 (Handwheel enable), any motion
commands in a program will not execute. An M51 (Handwheel
disable) must be executed to disable this mode.
RULES FOR RUNNING THE MANUAL VISION
ROTARY / TRANSLATION OFFSET PROGRAM
The Manual Vision Rotary / Translation Offset program with closed circuit
television (CCTV) requires that certain conditions must be in place. To
prepare for these conditions, follow these rules:
AcuNav must be in Absolute Position Mode [G90]
Operator must enter commands for both Axis Positions
[G1X1Y1]
Example:
Correct command G1X1Y1
Incorrect command G1X1

Issued: 9/22/2004 2004 Preco Laser Systems, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Product No.: 01001-224

User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Appendix B. AcuNav with Manual Vision Rotary / Translation Offset 226

Issued: 9/22/2004 2004 Preco Laser Systems, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Product No.: 01001-224
MANUAL VISION ROTARY / TRANSLATION
OFFSET SAMPLE PROGRAM
The following example is a sample program (sample.nc) of how to code for
the manual vision translation offset program on the with closed circuit
television (CCTV).

Code/Command Description
F100 (Feedrate)
G90 (Absolute Positioning)
G53X0.5Y0.5 (Go to Machine Position)
G92X0Y0 (Set Absolute Position to 0)
G1X1.0Y1.0 (Go to 1st Fiducial)
M38.5 (Capture Ideal Fid #1 Location)
M50 (Enable Handwheel to go to Actual
fiducial #1 Location) Operator
handwheels to desired location.
M51 (Disable Handwheel)
M39.5 (Capture Actual Fid #1 Location)
G1X5.0Y5.0 (Go to 2nd Fiducial)
M38.6 (Capture Ideal Fid #2 Location)
M50 (Enable Handwheel to go to Act Fid #2
Location) Operator handwheels to
desired location.
M51 (Disable Handwheel)
M39.6 (Capture Actual Fid #2 Location)
G68.5 (Translate and Rotate Part)
L1 (Select Laser Settings)
M74 (Assist Gas #1 ON)
M88 (Open Shutter)
M96 (Enable Laser Beam)
G1X0Y0 (Make a six (6) inch square to test
Rotary/Translation Offset)
User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Appendix B. AcuNav with Manual Vision Rotary / Translation Offset 227


Code/Command Description
G1X6Y0
G1X6Y6
G1X0Y6
G1X0Y0
M97 (Disable Laser Beam)
M88 (Close Shutter)
M75 (Assist Gas #1 OFF)
M30 (Program End)


Issued: 9/22/2004 2004 Preco Laser Systems, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Product No.: 01001-224
User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Appendix C. AcuNav Alarm Messages 229


APPENDIX C. ACUNAV ALARM MESSAGES
The Alarms window displays the AcuNav alarm messages. Click on the
Alarms quick key button to display the Alarms window.

AcuNav alarm information is displayed by the alarm number, type and a brief
description of the alarm. The following subsections list the AcuNav alarms
according to the type of alarm.
System Alarms
Motor Alarms
PLC Fatal Alarms
PLC Stop Alarms
PLC Warning Alarms
PLC Messages
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User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Appendix C. AcuNav Alarm Messages 230

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SYSTEM ALARMS
AcuNav System Alarms are fatal since they disable all of the servos in the system. These alarms
generate Axis ? open loop alarms and Axis ? amplifier not enabled alarms for all axes. The
Alarm button on the AcuNav main screen turns red.

Alarm Type Alarm Message Description Resolution
0001 System Fatal following error Generated by one or
more motors having a
fatal following error
greater than the
amount specified in
one of the axes in the
Fatal Following Error
Limit parameter. If
the parameter is set
to zero (0), this alarm
is disabled for that
specific axis.

0003 System Servo error PMAC did not
complete servo
routines in allotted
time.
Power must be cycled on
the PC to reset PMAC.
0005 System Memory checksum error Checksum Error in
PMAC firmware or
PLCs Programs
Power must be cycled on
the PC to reset PMAC. If
this does not reset it, the
PMAC memory is
corrupted and the
configuration must be
reloaded. This error can
occur during a severe
power failure/spike.
0006 System Prom checksum error Checksum Error in
PMAC memory.
Power must be cycled on
the PC to reset PMAC. If
this does not reset it, the
PMAC memory is
corrupted and the
configuration must be
reloaded. This error can
occur during a severe
power failure/spike.
0007 System Runtime error Insufficient
calculation time
during program
execution.
This error can be caused
by excessively high
feedrate override. The
feedrate override would
need to be decreased.
User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Appendix C. AcuNav Alarm Messages 231


Alarm Type Alarm Message Description Resolution
Additionally, it can be
caused by using block
deletes. If this error
occurs, put a blank line
in the program before or
after the block where this
error occurs to give the
PMAC sufficient
calculation time.
0008 System Circle radius error Arc move where the
distance is greater
than twice the
specified radius by
the amount in the
Circle Error Limit
parameter. This is
only used if the R
parameter is used
with circular
interpolation
(G02/G03). If the I, J,
specification is used
for circular
interpolation, this
parameter is ignored.
Change the
programming to be within
tolerance.
0009 System Amplifier fault error Generated by one or
more of the axes
having an amplifier
fault. This error can
only be generated by
Yaskawa amplifiers
on the X-Y axes
(sometimes Z-axis) of
TM series tables.
Baldor amplifiers do
not have amplifier
fault outputs so this
alarm cannot be
generated by these
amplifiers.
Check on which axes
this error has occurred.
If it is on only one axis,
see the MOTOR ALARMS.
If the alarm is on both
axes, there is a common
problem on both
amplifiers. Typically, an
incoming voltage
problem (either control
voltage, single phase
230 VAC or motor
voltage, 3 phase 230
VAC
Check amplifiers with
Servo Monitor
(Svmon.exe) program.

Issued: 9/22/2004 2004 Preco Laser Systems, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Product No.: 01001-224

User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Appendix C. AcuNav Alarm Messages 232

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MOTOR ALARMS
AcuNav Motor Alarms stop all motors but does not put them in open loop mode. The Alarm button on
the AcuNav main screen turns red.

Alarm Type Alarm Message Description Resolution
0010 Motor Axis ? not enabled This alarm should never
be generated. It is
associated with the Ix00
PMAC parameters which
are set to 1 for each axis
activated.
There is software problem
in either the PLCs or in
AcuNav.
Contact PLS developers.
0012 Motor Axis ? fatal following
error
Generated by an axis
having a fatal following
error greater than the
amount specified in the
Fatal Following Error
Limit parameter
associated with this axis.
If the parameter is zero
(0), this alarm is
disabled.
Typically the DAC Limit
Exceeded on Motor ?
alarm will be generated
instead of this alarm.

This alarm is caused by
a number of items:


The axis has hit an
obstacle. This frequently
occurs during Z-axis
homing where the positive
limit switch is not adjusted
properly and the Z-axis
hits a positive stop during
homing.
Remove obstacle or adjust
limit switch.


The axis is mechanically
binding.
Repair axis to prevent
binding.

The amplifier has a fault.
This occurs with the
Baldor amplifiers since
there is no amplifier fault
available to be wired to the
PMAC. Check for a red
light on the Baldor
amplifier.
Power down the system, or
only the amplifier if the TSD
series, wait 10 seconds, and
restart it. If the red light
remains.
User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Appendix C. AcuNav Alarm Messages 233


Alarm Type Alarm Message Description Resolution

Too high of a feedrate is
specified in the program.
Reduce programmed
feedrate.

There is an open circuit in
the motor or motor wiring.
Typically, this alarm would
not generate a red light on
the Baldor amplifier. The
system should be positioning
incorrectly, which would be
noticeable in the part
geometry.
0013 Motor Axis ? not home
referenced
Occurs anytime power is
cycled on the PC. The
system must be homed
to locate its zero (home)
position. The limit
switches and the index
pulse on the encoders
are used to establish the
home position during the
homing sequence.
Home the system.
0014 Motor Axis ? on limit This alarm is triggered by
an axis being on a
hardware limit switch or if
the axis has exceeded
the software limit set in
either the Negative
Software Limit or
Positive Software Limit
parameter.
See the Axis ? on
negative hard limit and
Axis ? on positive hard
limit messages.
This alarm will stay set
even if the condition that
caused the stop has
been cleared. For
example, if you trigger a
limit by putting a coin on
one of the proximity limit
switches and remove it,
this alarm will stay set.
If the condition that caused
this alarm has been
cleared, reset this alarm by
jogging the axis (move it).
Issued: 9/22/2004 2004 Preco Laser Systems, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Product No.: 01001-224

User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Appendix C. AcuNav Alarm Messages 234

Issued: 9/22/2004 2004 Preco Laser Systems, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Product No.: 01001-224
Alarm Type Alarm Message Description Resolution
0015 Motor Axis ? on negative
hard limit
This alarm is triggered by
an axis being on the
negative hardware limit
switch or if the axis has
exceeded the software
limit set in the Negative
Software Limit
parameter. If this
parameter is set to zero
(0), the software limit is
disabled.
Jog the axis off the
negative (software or
hardware) limit.
This alarms can also be
caused by a broken wire
to/from the limit switch or
a damaged limit switch.
Repair the broken wire or
the damaged limit switch.
For troubleshooting, use
the Diag, Axis I/O screen
to determine the state of
the switch. It should be
normally closed (green)
when not ON the limit
switch. If ON, the limit it
should be red.
0016 Motor Axis ? on positive hard
limit
This alarm is triggered by
an axis being on the
positive hardware limit
switch or if the axis has
exceeded the software
limit set in the Positive
Software Limit
parameter. If this
parameter is set to zero
(0), the software limit is
disabled.
Jog the axis off the positive
(software or hardware)
limit.
This alarm can also be
caused by a broken wire
to/from the limit switch or
a damaged limit switch.
Repair the broken wire or
the damaged limit switch.

For troubleshooting, use
the Diag, Axis I/O screen
to determine the state of
the switch. It should be
normally closed (green)
when not ON the limit
switch. If ON, the limit it
should be red.
User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Appendix C. AcuNav Alarm Messages 235


Alarm Type Alarm Message Description Resolution
0017 Motor Axis ? open loop This alarm is always
triggered by another
alarm, never by itself.
The only alarms that can
trigger these alarms are
PLC Fatal Alarms, the
Axis ? amplifier fault
alarm and System
Alarms.
Determine what other
alarm has triggered this
condition.
0018 Motor Axis ? amplifier fault Generated by the axis
having an amplifier fault.
This can only be
generated by Yaskawa
amplifiers on the X-Y
axes (sometimes Z-axis)
of TM series tables.
Baldor amplifiers do not
have amplifier fault
outputs so this alarm
cannot be generated by
these amplifiers
There will be a red light ON
the Yaskawa amplifier
instead of a green light.
Power down the system,
wait 10 seconds, and
restart it. If the red light on
the Yaskawa amplifier
remains ON, connect the
serial cable to this amplifier
and launch the Servo
Monitor (Svmon.exe)
program. Check the alarm
code with this program.
0019 Motor Axis ? amplifier not
enabled
This alarm is always
triggered by another
alarm, never by itself.
The only alarms that can
trigger this alarm are
PLC Fatal Alarms, the
Axis ? amplifier fault
alarm and System
Alarms.
Determine what other
alarm has triggered this
condition.
0020 Motor Axis ? data block error Insufficient calculation
time during program
execution. Typically, the
Runtime Error from
System Alarms will be
generated instead of this
alarm.
See the Runtime Error in
System Alarms.

Issued: 9/22/2004 2004 Preco Laser Systems, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Product No.: 01001-224

User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Appendix C. AcuNav Alarm Messages 236

Issued: 9/22/2004 2004 Preco Laser Systems, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Product No.: 01001-224
PLC FATAL ALARMS
AcuNav PLC Fatal alarms are fatal since they disable all of the servos in the system. The Alarm
button on the AcuNav main screen turns red. These alarms generate Axis ? open loop alarms and
Axis ? amplifier not enabled alarms for all axes.
NOTE: Except for the Emergency-Stop alarm, the operator will be able to jog the machine
after these alarms without an Abort/Reset in order to recover from them, that is, Auto-
Focus/Laser-Saver Crash.

NOTE: There may be additional alarms, and it is possible some of these alarms may be
assigned to a different number.

Alarm Type Alarm Message Description Resolution
F001

F008
PLC
Fatal
DAC Limit Exceeded on
Motor 1 thru Motor 8
Generated by an axis
exceeding its maximum
DAC Limit for a period of
time longer than the time
limit specified in the DAC
Error Limit Timer
parameter (default value is
100msec).
This feature is
incorporated as a safety
feature to prevent a
runaway condition.
See the Axis ? fatal
following error in
Motor Alarms.
F009 PLC
Fatal
Emergency-Stop
(switch is normally
closed (NC))
For SL8200s, SL6200s
and ST Series, if the PC is
ON and the machine is
OFF, this alarm will still be
generated without an E-
Stop button depressed
since the +24Vdc power
supply for the E-Stop
circuit is off.
This alarm will not be
generated on standard
SL4200s since there is no
I/O wired to the PMAC.

User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Appendix C. AcuNav Alarm Messages 237


Alarm Type Alarm Message Description Resolution
F010 PLC
Fatal
Auto-Focus/Laser-Saver
Crash (switch is
normally closed (NC))
On SL8200s, SL6200s
and ST Series, if the PC is
ON and the machine is
OFF, this alarm will still be
generated without an
Auto-Focus/Laser-Saver
Crash since the +24Vdc
power supply for this
circuit is OFF.

If it appears that the auto-
focus did not crash, there
is a possibility of a broken
wire in the auto-focus
circuit.

F011 PLC
Fatal
Vacuum Box Over-
Temperature
(switch is normally
closed (NC))
On SL8200s, SL6200s
and ST Series, if the PC is
ON and the machine is
OFF, this alarm will still be
generated without a
Vacuum Box Over-
Temperature condition
since the +24Vdc power
supply for the Vacuum
Box Over-Temperature
circuit is OFF.
This alarm will not be
generated on standard
SL4200s since there is no
I/O wired to the PMAC.









The vacuum box over-
temperature sensors may
trip inconsistently.
Let the sensors cool
down and reset the
alarms using an
abort/reset.
F012 PLC
Fatal
Optics Chiller Flow
Inhibited
(switch is normally
closed (NC))
Implemented in systems
with an optics chiller for
cooling the beam delivery.


Frequently, this alarm is
caused by the flow sensor
not being adjusted
correctly or being
defective.
The flow sensor has
an adjustment pot on
the back side, check
this pot first.
Issued: 9/22/2004 2004 Preco Laser Systems, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Product No.: 01001-224

User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Appendix C. AcuNav Alarm Messages 238

Issued: 9/22/2004 2004 Preco Laser Systems, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Product No.: 01001-224
Alarm Type Alarm Message Description Resolution
The other condition that
causes this alarm is either
a pinched cooling hose or
a coolant leak.
Check the cooling
hoses for leaks,
kinking or pinching.
F014 PLC
Fatal
Tables Collided Implemented in systems
with twin or dual tables.

F015 PLC
Fatal
Light Curtain
Obstruction
Implemented in systems
with light curtains.

F016 PLC
Fatal
Safety Mat Intrusion Implemented in systems
with safety mats.

F017 PLC
Fatal
Left Auto-Focus/Laser-
Saver Crash
(switch is normally
closed (NC))
If it appears that the auto-
focus did not crash, there
is a possibility of a broken
wire in the auto-focus
circuit.
Check for a broken
wire in the auto-
focus circuit.
F018 PLC
Fatal
Right Auto-Focus/Laser-
Saver Crash
(switch is normally
closed (NC))
If it appears that the auto-
focus did not crash, there
is a possibility of a broken
wire in the auto-focus
circuit.
Check for a broken
wire in the auto-
focus circuit.



User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Appendix C. AcuNav Alarm Messages 239


PLC STOP ALARMS
AcuNav PLC Stop alarms stop all motors but does not put them in open loop mode. The Alarm
button in the AcuNav main screen turns red.
NOTE: There may be additional alarms, and it is possible some of these alarms may be
assigned to a different number.

Alarm Type Alarm Message Description Resolution
S001
PLC
Stop
Undefined D-Code, H-
Code, L-Code
D-code is out of range of
the Cutter Compensation
Table. Valid range is D0
through D20.
Check the range
entered for the D-Code
field and adjust it as
required.
H-code is out of range of
the Auto-focus Height
Table. Valid range is H0
through H20.
Check the range
entered for the H-Code
field and adjust it as
required.
Either a material from the
Laser Database has not
been selected or the L-
code specified in the part
program is not entered in
the Laser Database for
the material specified.
Check the Laser
Database.
S002 PLC
Stop
Laser Beam Requested
Without Assist or
Shield Gas
Most systems do not have
sensors to detect gas
pressure. This alarm only
checks to determine if the
solenoid for the
assist/shield gas has
been turned on. If the
assist/shield gas
container is empty, this
alarm will not be
generated.
If a system only has a
lens air blower, this alarm
may be disabled.

S003 PLC
Stop
Optics Chiller Coolant
Flow Inhibited
(switch is normally
closed (NC))
Implemented in systems
with an optics chiller for
cooling the beam delivery

Issued: 9/22/2004 2004 Preco Laser Systems, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Product No.: 01001-224

User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Appendix C. AcuNav Alarm Messages 240

Issued: 9/22/2004 2004 Preco Laser Systems, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Product No.: 01001-224
Alarm Type Alarm Message Description Resolution
Frequently, this alarm is
caused by the flow sensor
not being adjusted
correctly or being
defective.
The flow sensor has an
adjustment pot on the
back side, check this
pot first.
The other condition that
causes this alarm is either
a pinched cooling hose or
a coolant leak.
Check the cooling
hoses for leaks,
kinking or pinching.
S004 PLC
Stop
Tables Collided Implemented in systems
with twin or dual tables.

S005 PLC
Stop
Vacuum Box Over-
Temperature
(switch is normally
closed (NC))
On SL8200s, SL6200s
and ST Series, if the PC
is ON and the machine is
OFF, this alarm will still be
generated without a
Vacuum Box Over-
Temperature condition
since the +24Vdc power
supply for the Vacuum
Box Over-Temperature
circuit is OFF.
This alarm will not be
generated on standard
SL4200s since there is no
I/O wired to the PMAC.

The vacuum box over-
temperature sensors may
trip inconsistently.
Let the sensors cool
down and reset the
alarms using an
abort/reset.
User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Appendix C. AcuNav Alarm Messages 241


Alarm Type Alarm Message Description Resolution
S006 PLC
Stop
Door Interlock Fault Typically used in systems
with Class 1 enclosures.
Otherwise, systems do
not incorporate this
feature.
Typically, with the type of
safety relays used, the
door may be shut but this
alarm can still be
generated. This fault can
occur since the door
typically has two switches
and must be shut within a
certain amount of time
(both switches made in
the allotted time limit),
otherwise the safety relay
still generates this alarm.

S007 PLC
Stop
Other Table Intrusion
into Load Zone
Implemented in systems
with dual tables and a
single loading zone.

S008 PLC
Stop
Lubrication Level Low Implemented in systems
with automated lubrication
systems.

S009 PLC
Stop
Shield Gas Pressure
Low
Implemented in systems
with shield gas pressure
sensors.

S010 PLC
Stop
Air Pressure High Implemented in systems
with air pressure sensors.

S011 PLC
Stop
Air Pressure Low Implemented in systems
with air pressure sensors.

S012 PLC
Stop
Coolant Temperature
High
Implemented in systems
with Opti-temp chillers.

S013 PLC
Stop
Coolant Flow Low Implemented in systems
with Opti-temp chillers.

S014 PLC
Stop
Coolant Level Low Implemented in systems
with Opti-temp chillers.

S015 PLC
Stop
Curtain Timeout Implemented in systems
with safety curtains.

Issued: 9/22/2004 2004 Preco Laser Systems, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Product No.: 01001-224

User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Appendix C. AcuNav Alarm Messages 242

Issued: 9/22/2004 2004 Preco Laser Systems, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Product No.: 01001-224
Alarm Type Alarm Message Description Resolution
S016 PLC
Stop
Beam Switch Timeout Implemented in systems
that share a laser utilizing
a beam switch.
Check LEDs on the
sensors attached to
the pneumatic cylinder
that controls the beam
switch.
S017 PLC
Stop
Beam Switch Not In-
position
Implemented in systems
that share a laser utilizing
a beam switch.
Check LEDs on the
sensors attached to
the pneumatic cylinder
that controls the beam
switch.
S018 PLC
Stop
Shutter Open Timeout Implemented only on
systems with Trumpf
lasers.

S019 PLC
Stop
Laser Beam On
Timeout
Implemented only on
systems with Trumpf
lasers.

S020 PLC
Stop
Clamping Timeout Implemented in systems
with clamping fixtures.

S021 PLC
Stop
Laser Not in Auto
Mode
Implemented only on
systems with Trumpf
lasers.

S022 PLC
Stop
Laser Not Ready Implemented only on
systems with Trumpf
lasers.

S023 PLC
Stop
Auto-focus Height
Change Not Allowed in
Dieboard Mode
Operator issued an H-
code in Dieboard mode.
In dieboard mode the
height is controlled
automatically by the
direction of travel
Issue a non-dieboard
L-code to get out of
dieboard mode.
S024 PLC
Stop
Light Curtain
Obstruction in Home
Mode
Implemented in systems
with light curtains.

S026 PLC
Stop
Light Curtain
Obstruction
Implemented in systems
with light curtains.

S027 PLC
Stop
Safety Mat Intrusion Implemented in systems
with safety mats.

User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Appendix C. AcuNav Alarm Messages 243


Alarm Type Alarm Message Description Resolution
S048 PLC
Stop
G62 Not Available with
Dieboard Option
G62 does an angle check
on corners an if the angle
is smaller than
programmed, a stop
check is automatically
implemented.
For dieboard, the
cutting mode must be
either G61 or G64.
S049 PLC
Stop
Invalid D-Code (Cutter
Comp Error)
D-code is out of range of
the Cutter Compensation
Table. Valid range is D0
thru D20.
Check the range
entered for the D-Code
field and adjust it as
required.
S050 PLC
Stop
Invalid H-Code
(Autofocus Height
Error)
H-code is out of range of
the Auto-focus Height
Table. Valid range is H0
thru H20.
Check the range
entered for the H-Code
field and adjust it as
required.
S051 PLC
Stop
Invalid L-Code (Laser
Code)
Either a material from the
Laser Database has not
been selected or the L-
code specified in the part
program is not entered in
the Laser Database for
the material specified.
Check the Laser
Database.
S052 PLC
Stop
Invalid DieBoard
Setting
Invalid Dieboard Point
type selected for Type of
Cut in the Laser Data
Base.
Check the Laser
Database.
S053 PLC
Stop
Invalid P-Code
(Material Code)
The material specified in
the part program was not
found in the Laser
Database.
Check the material
specified in the part
program for syntax
errors.
S054 PLC
Stop
Invalid M-Code An invalid M-Code was
passed to the PMAC.
Check the part
program for invalid M-
Codes.
S055 PLC
Stop
Fiduciary #1 Not
Captured
This message is
associated with the
AcuNav Vision.
Check the part to
determine if the
fiduciary is marred.

AcuNav Vision could not
capture the fiduciary.
Check lighting
conditions.
Check the threshold
setting.
Issued: 9/22/2004 2004 Preco Laser Systems, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Product No.: 01001-224

User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Appendix C. AcuNav Alarm Messages 244

Issued: 9/22/2004 2004 Preco Laser Systems, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Product No.: 01001-224
Alarm Type Alarm Message Description Resolution
S056 PLC
Stop
Fiduciary #2 Not
Captured
This message is
associated with the
AcuNav Vision.
Check the part to
determine if the
fiduciary is marred.
AcuNav Vision could not
capture the fiduciary.
Check lighting
conditions.
Check the threshold
setting.
S057 PLC
Stop
Autofocus Disengaged If the auto-focus has
crashed, this message
informs the operator that
the auto-focus has been
disengaged.

S058 PLC
Stop
Input/Output Serial
Parity Error
This error only applies to
systems with accessory
ACC34aa.
Check/replace cable
between the PMAC
and the ACC34aa.
There was a
communication error
between the PMAC and
this accessory.
Replace ACC34aa.
Replace PMAC.
S059 PLC
Stop
Autofocus Up/Down
Timeout
Auto-focus has not
disengaged or engaged in
the time allotted.
Typically there is a
problem with the Baldor
amplifier or LVDT.
Refer to the Auto-focus
troubleshooting
section.

S060 PLC
Stop
Left Autofocus
Up/Down Timeout
The left auto-focus has
not disengaged or
engaged in the time
allotted. Typically, here is
a problem with the Baldor
amplifier or LVDT.
Refer to the Auto-focus
troubleshooting
section.
S061 PLC
Stop
Right Autofocus
Up/Down Timeout
The right auto-focus has
not disengaged or
engaged in the time
allotted. Typically, ere is
a problem with the Baldor
amplifier or LVDT.
Refer to the Auto-focus
troubleshooting
section.
User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Appendix C. AcuNav Alarm Messages 245


Alarm Type Alarm Message Description Resolution
S062 PLC
Stop
MPLC Error or Not
Ready
MPLC has an error or is
not ready. An error is
caused by sending non-
valid data to the MPLC.
Check for an error code
on the MPLC LED
display and resend the
MPLC valid data.
The MPLC ERROR LED
is high when the MPLC is
ready and goes low when
there is an error.
Shut down AcuNav
and relaunch it to reset
the MPLC.
S063 PLC
Stop
MPLC Handshake
Timeout
MPLC did not return a
handshake during the last
transmission between the
PMAC and the MPLC.
The MPLC HDSK LED is
high if a proper
handshake took place,
otherwise it is low.
Check for an error
code on the MPLC
LED display.

S064 PLC
Stop
Upcoming Subroutine
File Not Found
File or path to file is not
found for an upcoming
subroutine.
NOTE: Long path names
are not supported at this
time.
Check carefully the
spelling of the file
name and path.

Issued: 9/22/2004 2004 Preco Laser Systems, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Product No.: 01001-224

User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Appendix C. AcuNav Alarm Messages 246

Issued: 9/22/2004 2004 Preco Laser Systems, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Product No.: 01001-224
PLC WARNING ALARMS
AcuNav PLC Warning alarms prevent a cycle start, but keep the current program running. The
Alarm button in the AcuNav main screen turns red.
NOTE: There may be additional alarms, and it is possible some of these alarms may be
assigned to a different number.

Alarm Type Alarm Message Description Resolution
W001
PLC
Warning
System Cannot Be
Homed With
Autofocus Engaged
Attempting to home the
system with the Auto-
Focus engaged.
Raise (disengage) the
auto-focus before
attempting to home.
W002 PLC
Warning
Optics Chiller Flow
Inhibited
This alarm is used in a
PLC instead of the fatal
or stop alarm in
automated cells where it
is desired to complete a
sheet of parts before
stopping the system as
opposed to stopping the
system immediately.
Refer to Optics Chiller
Coolant Flow
Inhibited PLC Stop
alarm for
troubleshooting
information.
W003 PLC
Warning
Laser Auto-
Calibration Not
Completed
This warning is
associated with the
MPLC. During the Auto-
Calibration Mode, if the
operator switches
modes or closed the
screen before Auto-
Calibration is completed,
this warning will appear.
Allow the Auto-
Calibration to
complete.

User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Appendix C. AcuNav Alarm Messages 247


PLC MESSAGES
AcuNav PLC messages are usually user information only; the system continues to operate and a
Cycle Start command can be issued. The Alarm button on the AcuNav main screen turns yellow.
NOTE: There may be additional alarms, and it is possible some of these alarms may be
assigned to a different number.

Alarm Type Alarm Message Description Resolution
M001 PLC Laser Auto-
Calibration In-
Progress
This message is associated with
the MPLC. During the Auto-
Calibration Mode, if the operator
begins Auto-Calibration this
message will appear.
NA
M055 PLC Fiduciary #1 Not
Captured
This message is associated with
the AcuNav Vision. During Step
and Repeat, if a Fiduciary #1 is
not captured for a given part, that
part is skipped over and this
message appears to let the
operator know that a part has not
been cut.
NA
M056 PLC Fiduciary #2 Not
Captured
This message is associated with
the AcuNav Vision. During Step
and Repeat, if a Fiduciary #2 is
not captured for a given part, that
part is skipped over and this
message appears to let the
operator know that a part has not
been cut.
NA

Issued: 9/22/2004 2004 Preco Laser Systems, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Product No.: 01001-224
User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Appendix D. ProCAM 249


APPENDIX D. PROCAM
This appendix provides a flowchart that describes the step-by-step process
of using ProCAM for drawing generation. For more information, click on
the Help button on the menu tool bar of the ProCAM main screen.

Figure 10. Sample ProCAM Main Screen


Issued: 9/22/2004 2004 Preco Laser Systems, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Document No.: 01001-224

User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Appendix D. ProCAM 250

Product No.: 01001-224 2004 Preco Laser Systems, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Issued: 9/22/2004
Open Entity / Text
Divide Entities into Tool
Types (Laser L-Codes)
if desired
Closed Entities
Divide Entities into Tool
Types (Laser L-Codes)
if desired
Complex
Part
Closed Entities
Inside Tool Path
Divide Entities into Tool
Types (Laser L-Codes)
if desired
Closed Entities
Outside Tool Path
Divide Entities into Tool
Types (Laser L-Codes)
if desired
Open File in Procam
(If file not generated
in Procam)
Beam
Comp
Yes
Yes
Divide Entities into Layers
Based on Type
Tool 1
Layer
Tool 2
Layer
Tool
ETC..
Tool 1
Layer
Tool 2
Layer
Tool
ETC.
Tool 1
Layer
Tool 2
Layer
Tool
ETC.
Tool 1
Layer
Tool 2
Layer
Tool
ETC.
No
No
No Comp or Machine Comp
(Beam Comp done in AcuNav)
Single
Layer
(A)
Entities
Not Closed
Drawing Generation
(Complex is defined as
difficult to Window Select
the different types of Entities)
(F)
System Comp
(Beam Comp done in Procam)



User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Appendix D. ProCAM 251


Set Sheet Size
Select - Cam Menu
Select - Setup Information
Select Controller
Enable Stock and Over travel Display
Select - Setup
Select - Fabrication Display
Select - Stock Display ON
Select - Over travel Display ON
Select Cam
Select Layer to be Processed
(if desired)
Select - View
Select - Set Layers
(A)
(B)
Single Layer
(C)
Multiple
Layers
No
Yes
Automated Beam / Tool Path
Select - Toolfit
Remove Doubles
Select - Erase
Select - Erase Doubles
(Window Select Entities)
Select Tool File
Select - Cam
Select - Tool Files
Select - Open
Select - ***.ltf
(*** = machine specific)

Issued: 9/22/2004 2004 Preco Laser Systems, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Document No.: 01001-224

User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Appendix D. ProCAM 252

Product No.: 01001-224 2004 Preco Laser Systems, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Issued: 9/22/2004
Closed Entities
Inside Layer(s)
Window Select
Entities
for Tool Path
Laser Toolfit
Parameter Menu
Set Tool Path
Parameters
Select Each Entity for
Toolpath
Note: Start Point is the
location where the
entity is selected
Closed Entities
Outside Layer(s)
Select - Tool
Laser Toolfit
Parameter Menu
Set Tool Path
Parameters
Select Each Entity
for Toolpath
Note: Start Point is the
location where the
entity is selected
Closed Entities
No Machine Comp
Layer(s)
Laser Toolfit
Parameter Menu
Set Tool Path
Parameters
Select Each Entity for
Toolpath
Note: Start Point is the
location where the
entity is selected
Open Entities
Layer(s)
Window Select Entities
for Tool Path or
Manually Select
Select Modifiers
Closed Entity
Internal
Corner Conditions
Select Tool Bar
Select - CTR
Select - NoComp
(B)
(D)
Select Modifiers
Closed Entity
External
Corner Conditions
Select Modifiers
Closed Entity
Internal / External
Corner Conditions
Select - Tool
Select Modifiers
Open Entity
(C)
Select Tool
(Only first time)
Window Select
Entities
for Tool Path
Select Tool
(Only first time)
Window Select
Entities
for Tool Path
Select Tool
(Only first time)
User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Appendix D. ProCAM 253


Part
Optimization
Yes
Manual
Ordering
Interaction
as required
Tool Path
Generated
Entities Not
Closed, Return
to Drawing Generation
No (F)
Yes
No
(D)
(G)
Change Direction
(Note: Open Objects Only)
Manually Change Direction as Needed
Select - Edit
Select - Direction
Select Entities
Reorder
Manually Change Order as N
Select - Order
Select - Re-Order
Select Entity Order
eeded
Optimize
(Turn On Layers as needed)
Select - Optimize
Select - Single Part Optimization
Deselect - Double Check
Deselect - Next Closest Hit/Pairing
Window Select Entities
Toolfit
Completed
(D)
Yes
No
Yes
No
(B)
Issued: 9/22/2004 2004 Preco Laser Systems, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Document No.: 01001-224

User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Appendix D. ProCAM 254

Product No.: 01001-224 2004 Preco Laser Systems, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Issued: 9/22/2004
Multiple
Parts
Subroutine
Macros
Yes
Macro Subroutines
Undefine Macro
(Part Must be
Removed From
Drawing)
Call Macro
Inserts a Single
Macro Part
Define Macro
Window Select Part
Define Name
Yes
Multiple Macros
Set Parameters
Part in Single Subroutine File
Part in Same File
(J)
(K)
No
No
(I)
Attachable Attributes
Select - Attachable Attributes
(G)
(H)
Before
Inserts Before
Select Entity
After
Inserts After
Select Entity
User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Appendix D. ProCAM 255


Multiple Copies
Select - Move
Select - Move/Copy/Repeat
Grid Layout
Select - Move
Select - Grid Layout
System Set Up
Select - Cam
Select - Setup Information
Select - Post Parameters
(J) (K)
(I)
Post File
Select Post Mode
Highlight Cut
View Code
Step Mode
Run

Issued: 9/22/2004 2004 Preco Laser Systems, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Document No.: 01001-224

User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Appendix D. ProCAM 256

Product No.: 01001-224 2004 Preco Laser Systems, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Issued: 9/22/2004





User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Index 257


INDEX

A
Accelerations 29
AcuNav
Edit commands 5
Hot keys 5
Main Screen 10
Overview 7
AcuNav Control Software
P-Variables 34
P-Variables Table 34
AcuNav main features 7
Alarm count logs
See also Logger 66
Alarm Log Options 68
Alarms key window 93
Auto Mode 99
Auto-focus height 37
Auto-Focus Height Table
Entering new settings 116
Automatic reference point 139
Axes movement 134
Axis I/O diagnostics option 58
B
Blk Delete 98
C
Changing a parameter 33
Changing your password 41
Check key window 92
CNC
commands 133
I\O Control Panel 96
programming functions 133
Status Display 78
CNC Programming
Conditional Branching 140
Conditional Branching
CNC coding 140
Coordinate systems 137
Machine coordinates 137
Machine home 103
Program coordinates 138
Reference point 139
Coordinate values
Absolute coordinate values 139
Incremental coordinate values 139
Cutter compensation 38
Cutter Compensation Table
Entering new settings 117
D
Diag Menu
Diag menu options 58
Diag menu windows 59
Diag Menu Windows
Auxiliary Inputs window 59
Auxiliary Outputs window 60
Following error window 63
MPLC Active Axes window 64
Rotary Buffer Status window 63
Standard I/O window 62
Dieboard 89
LCC-PPG laser processing mode 216
MPLC laser processing mode 210
Rules for adjustment 129
Issued: 9/22/2004 2004 Preco Laser Systems, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Document No.: 01001-224

User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Index 258

Product No.: 01001-220 Copyright 2001 Preco Laser Systems, LLC. All Rights Reserved Issued: 9/22/2004
Set up 123
Setting up for a Dieboard application 123
Dieboard Control 89
Off-Axis Enable 89, 90
Display Menu
Display menu windows 21
Display Menu Windows
CNC Font window 22
Edit Font window 21
Dry Run 98
E
Edit Menu
Edit menu options 15
Edit menu windows 18
Edit Menu Windows
Search and Replace window 18
Search window 18
Editing commands 15
Ending an AcuNav session 115
F
Feedrate Override
Cutting Override 105
Rapid Override 105
Feedrate settings 27
File menu
Exit 115
Opening a recently closed file 110
Opening an existing file 111
Saving a copy of the active document 114
Saving a new, unnamed file 113
Saving an existing file 112
File Menu Windows
Open file window 13
Save As window 14
File Menu Windows
New file window 13
Following error diagnostics option 63
G
G Codes
Description 143
G Codes list 143
H
Handwheel Operation 101
Hold 98
Home Mode 103
Homing 26
Homing the workstation 107
J
Jog Mode 100
Jog mode screen 100
Jog type select 100
L
Laser
Menu 49
Setting 49
Laser Menu
Laser menu options 49
Tools menu options 69
Vision menu options 70
Vision menu windows 71
Laser Menu
Setup for new material 130
Laser Menu Windows
Automatic Power Calibration window 57
Dieboard window 56
Laser Setting Selection window 49
User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Index 259


Ramp Points window 53
Laser processing modes
LCC-PPG 212
MPLC 198
LCC-PPG Laser processing modes
Dieboard incremental 216
LCC-PPG Laser processing modes
Continuous wave 212
Incremental pulse 213
Repetitive pulse 214
Single pulse variable 215
Logger
Alarm log options 68
Logged alarms 67
Logger for alarms 65
Logger Menu 65
Logger Menu
Logger menu options 65
Logger menu windows 66
Logger Menu
Alarm log options 68
Alarm count log 66
Logged alarms 67
Logger Menu Windows
Alarm Count Log window 66
Alarm Log Options window 68
Logged Alarms window 67
M
M Codes
Description 173
List 173
M50 Command 224
M50 Command 224
M51 Command 224
Machine Control Menu
Laser menu options 74
Machine Control Panel
Control buttons 97
Handwheel Operation 101
Operator Control Modes 99
Program Cycle Control 97
Machine home 103
Manual reference point 139
Menu Tool Bar
Diag Menu 58
Display Menu 19
Help Menu 77
Laser Menu 49
Logger Menu 65
Machine Control Menu 74
Parameters Menu 23
Settings Menu 35
Tools Menu 69
Utilities Menu 41
Vision Menu 70
Window Menu 76
Menu Tool Bar 11
Edit Menu 15
File Menu 11
File Menu windows 13
Midi Mode
Midi mode screen 103
Operating procedures 108
Miscellaneous Control Functions 224
Mouse Conventions 4
MPLC Active Axes option 64
MPLC Laser processing modes
Analog power ramp on position 203
Analog power ramp on time 207
Continuous wave 198
Dieboard incremental 210
Duty cycle proportional to velocity 202
Issued: 9/22/2004 2004 Preco Laser Systems, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Document No.: 01001-224

User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Index 260

Product No.: 01001-220 Copyright 2001 Preco Laser Systems, LLC. All Rights Reserved Issued: 9/22/2004
Duty cycle ramp on position 204
Duty cycle ramp on time 208
Incremental pulse 199
Power proportional to velocity 200
Power velocity 200, 202
Repetitive pulse 206
single pulse 209
O
Operator Control Modes
Home 103
Jog 100
Midi 103
Program 104
Retrace 104
Teach 104
Operator Control Modes
Auto 99
Operator Messages 122
Opt. Stop 98
P
Parameters Menu
Parameters menu options 23
Parameters menu windows 24
Parameters Menu 23
Acceleration 29
Feedrate settings 27
Homing 26
Parameters Menu Windows
Acceleration window 29
Auto-Focus Setup window 24
Axis Definitions window 25
Feedrate Settings window 27
Homing window 26
Software Limits window 31
Tolerances window 32
Part count 35
Password 41
Positions key window 94
Processing status display
CNC status display 78, 79
Quick key control buttons 79
Program cycle control
Abort 97
Blk Delete 98
Dry Run 98
Hold 98
Opt. Stop 98
Reset 98
Single Blk 99
Start 97
Program Mode 104
Programming
Conditional Branching 140
G-codes list 143
M Codes list 173
Programming: 133
P-Variables 34
Q
Quick key controls
Alarms 93
Check 92
Dieboard load 89
positions 94
R
Reference positions 40
Reset 98
Retrace Mode 104
Rotary buffers diagnostics option 63
User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Index 261


S
Sample programs
Large program 219
Small program 221
Square program in absolute 217
Square program in incremental 218
Selecting step and repeat 118
Setting
Coordinate systems 137
Menu 35, 37
user level 41
Setting variables
P-codes 190
S-codes 191
T50s 193
T60s 195
Settings Menu
Settings menu options 35
Settings menu windows 37
Settings Menu Windows
Auto-focus height window 37
Cutter Compensation window 38
Part count/Runtime Maintenance window 39
Reference Positions window 40
Workpiece Coordinate System window 40
Setup for new material 130
Single Blk 99
Standard
I/O diagnostics option 62
Standard Conventions 3
Start 97
T
Table motion
Axes movement 134
Axes movement considerations 136
Axis position specifications 135
Feed specifications 135
Table motion 134
Teach Mode 104
Tolerances 32
U
Using operator messages 122
Utilities
Menu 41
Utilities Menu
Utilities menu options 41
Utilities menu windows 43
Utilities Menu
Operator message 122
Step and repeat selection 118
Utilities Menu Windows
Operator Message window 44
Serialization window 45
Step and Repeat window 43
V
Vision Menu Windows
Coordinate Calibrate window 72
Coordinate System Offset window 72
Part Offsets window 73
Vision Cut Adjustment window 71
W
Window Menu 76
Windows Menu 69


Issued: 9/22/2004 2004 Preco Laser Systems, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Document No.: 01001-224
User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
Bibliography 263


Issued: 9/22/2004 2004 Preco Laser Systems, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Document No.: 01001-224
BIBLIOGRAPHY


ACUVISION II LASER CONTROL SOFTWARE USER GUIDE, UPreco Laser
Systems, LLC.U(Software Version 1.10). 2004.
User Guide
AcuNav Laser Control Software
265


Issued: 9/22/2004 2002 Laser Machining, Inc. All Rights Reserved Document No.: 01001-224

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