TMC420 Operation Manual PDF

Operation Manual
TMC420 Controller
for
PINSTAMP® Single-pin Markers
This manual provides operating instructions for the Telesis® TMC420

Controller and its marking software as used with pneumatic PINSTAMP
single-pin marking systems.
Additional operating information for Telesis equipment used with the

TMC420 Controller is provided in marker-specific supplements
supplied with the marking system.
Document No. 30341 Rev. B
Telesis Technologies, Inc.

28181 River Drive
P.O. Box 1000
Circleville, Ohio 43113
TMC420 / Single-pin Operation
Foreword
Telesis Technologies, Inc. (hereinafter referred to as Telesis) reserves the right to change the information and
specifications contained in this document without prior notice. The reader should consult Telesis to determine
whether such changes have been made.
In no event shall Telesis be liable for any incidental, indirect, special, or consequential damages whatsoever,
including but not limited to lost profits, arising out of, or relating to this document or the information it contains, even
if Telesis has been advised, has knowledge, or should have knowledge of the possibility of such damages.
Telesis expressly warrants the equipment it manufactures as set forth in the Standard Terms and Conditions of Sale.
Telesis makes no other warranties, expressed or implied, including and without limitation, warranties as to
merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.
The information contained in this document is confidential and is proprietary to Telesis or its licensors.
Trademarks
Telesis, PINSTAMP and PS-OCR are registered trademarks of Telesis Technologies, Inc. in the United States and/or other
countries.
Adobe and Reader are registered trademarks of Adobe Systems Incorporated in the United States and/or other countries.
Windows is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and other countries.
© 2006 – 2008 Telesis Technologies, Incorporated – All Rights Reserved
30341B.DOC i
License Agreement for Telesis Software

IMPORTANT: THE SUBJECT PROGRAMS ARE LICENSED BY TELESIS TECHNOLOGIES, INC. TO
END-USERS FOR THEIR USE ONLY ON THE TERMS BELOW. ACCEPTING AND USING THESE
PROGRAMS INDICATES YOUR ACCEPTANCE OF THESE TERMS. THIS IS A LEGAL
AGREEMENT BETWEEN YOU, THE END USER, AND TELESIS TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
1) GRANT OF LICENSE. Telesis Technologies, Inc. (Telesis) agrees to grant to you a non-exclusive license to use the
Telesis software/firmware program (the program) subject to the terms and conditions of this license agreement.
2) DEFINITION OF TERMS. The term software refers to a computer program stored on electronic media that must be
loaded into computer memory to be executed. The term firmware refers to a computer program stored in
semiconductor memory (ROM, PROM, EPROM, EEPROM, NVRAM, etc.) that is an integral part of the computer memory.
Together, these forms of computer programs are referred to as the program.
3) COPYRIGHT. The program(s) and documentation is owned by Telesis and is protected by United States copyright
laws and international treaty provisions. The program(s) contain trade secrets and proprietary property of Telesis. You
may make one copy of the program(s) solely for backup or archival purposes provided that the copy clearly displays the
Telesis copyright notice. Additional copies may be made when authorized to do so in writing by Telesis. In addition to
any other right of Telesis, Telesis has the right to terminate this license if the terms of the license are violated.
4) RESTRICTION ON USE AND TRANSFER. The single-processor version(s) of the program(s) and documentation are to
be used on one computer or embedded system at any one time. The multi-processor version(s) of the program(s) and
documentation may be used over a network provided that the number of computers accessing the network
simultaneously shall not exceed the number authorized by Telesis or for which you paid the corresponding multi-
processor fee. You may not distribute the programs or documentation to a third party. You may transfer the license
and complete package (retaining nothing) if the transferee agrees to the terms of this License Agreement. Neither the
program(s) nor the documentation may be changed or translated without express written permission of Telesis. You
may not reverse engineer, de-compile or disassemble the program(s).
5) WARRANTY for the subject program(s) is covered under the Telesis Standard Terms and Conditions of Sale.
6) TERM. The license is effective until terminated. It will be terminated if you fail to comply with any term or condition
of this License Agreement. You may terminate this License Agreement at any time. In the event of termination, you
agree to destroy the program(s) and documentation together with all copies and related material.
7) YOUR USE OF THIS PROGRAM(S) acknowledges that you have read this License Agreement and agree to its terms.
This agreement is complete and supersedes any other agreement that may have related to the subject matter of this
agreement.
ii 30341B.DOC
Safety Summary
The controller uses high voltage power supplies. Accordingly, there is some danger when working with, and near,
marking machines. The following safety precautions should be observed at all times.
Wear eye protection whenever operating the marking system.
Ear protection may be required when working with or near an operating dot-matrix marker.
Keep all body parts, jewelry, and clothing clear of the system while it is operating.
Do not disconnect components while power is applied to the system.
Do not remove or defeat the safety features or protective guards.
Never use the system in any manner or for any purpose other than that for which it was designed.
Warnings, Cautions, and Notes may be placed throughout this document to alert you to important information. These
messages have the following significance.
Warnings contain information that is essential to the personal safety of the user.
Cautions contain information that is essential to avoid damage to the equipment.
Notes call attention to information of special importance at specific points within the text.
WARNING
Certain procedures may require testing electrical circuits while power is applied to the marking
system. To avoid personal injury, only experienced maintenance personnel should perform these
tests. Regardless of experience, caution should always be used when working with energized electrical
circuits.
Certain tests move the pin cartridge around the limits of its travel area. To avoid personal injury,
keep hands, clothing and jewelry clear of the marker when performing this test.
CAUTION
Never position the Z-axis tool post limit switch below the level of the carriage. Damage to the limit
switch and carriage will result if so positioned.
Do not pulse the pin without an appropriate surface in position to be marked. Repeated pulsing without
impacting a surface may cause damage to the pin cartridge.
30341B.DOC iii
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iv 30341B.DOC
Table of Contents
SUBJECT PAGE
Foreword ........................................................................................................................................... i
Trademarks........................................................................................................................................ i
License Agreement for Telesis Software ................................................................................................. ii
Safety Summary ................................................................................................................................. iii
Section 1 – Introduction
Using this Manual................................................................................................................................ 1-1
System Components ........................................................................................................................... 1-2
Using the Controller ............................................................................................................................ 1-3

Navigation Keys ........................................................................................................................ 1-3
Function Keys ........................................................................................................................... 1-4
Marker Control Keys .................................................................................................................. 1-4
Special Character Keys............................................................................................................... 1-5
Editing Keys.............................................................................................................................. 1-6
Using the Software.............................................................................................................................. 1-6

Patterns and Fields .................................................................................................................... 1-6
Starting the Software ................................................................................................................. 1-7
Modes of Operation.................................................................................................................... 1-7
Displaying System Information.................................................................................................... 1-8
Exiting the Software .................................................................................................................. 1-8
Using the Marker ................................................................................................................................ 1-9

Marking Window ........................................................................................................................ 1-9
Home Position ........................................................................................................................... 1-9
Park Position ............................................................................................................................. 1-9
Part Placement .......................................................................................................................... 1-9
Optional Vertical (Z) Axis............................................................................................................ 1-10
Optional Rotational (Theta) Axis .................................................................................................. 1-10
Marking Considerations........................................................................................................................ 1-11

Marking Depth .......................................................................................................................... 1-11
Marking Surface ........................................................................................................................ 1-12
Marking Pin............................................................................................................................... 1-12
Additional Publications ......................................................................................................................... 1-13

Marker Specifications/Information ............................................................................................... 1-13
Installation/Maintenance Information ........................................................................................... 1-13
Service/Overhaul Information ..................................................................................................... 1-13
Telesis Customer Support .................................................................................................................... 1-14
30341B.DOC v
Table of Contents
SUBJECT PAGE
Section 2 – System Overview
Sequence of Operation......................................................................................................................... 2-2
Placing the System Online/Offline.......................................................................................................... 2-3
Jogging the Marker.............................................................................................................................. 2-4
Loading a Pattern ................................................................................................................................ 2-6
Parking The Marker ............................................................................................................................. 2-7
Pre-Positioning the Marker ................................................................................................................... 2-7
Entering Text into a Pattern.................................................................................................................. 2-8

Variable Text............................................................................................................................. 2-8
Query Text................................................................................................................................ 2-8
Performing a Dry Run .......................................................................................................................... 2-10
Printing a Pattern ................................................................................................................................ 2-10

Aborting the Print Cycle .............................................................................................................. 2-11
Displaying the Print Cycle Time.................................................................................................... 2-11
Section 3 – Pattern Design
Design Considerations ......................................................................................................................... 3-1

Marking Window Size ................................................................................................................. 3-1
Marking Window Coordinates....................................................................................................... 3-1
Text Justification........................................................................................................................ 3-2
Character Dimensions ................................................................................................................ 3-2
Font Selection ........................................................................................................................... 3-3
Printing Order ........................................................................................................................... 3-4
Printing Modes........................................................................................................................... 3-4
Pin Recovery Time ..................................................................................................................... 3-4
Design Jog ................................................................................................................................ 3-5
Accessing the Design Features .............................................................................................................. 3-6
Creating a Pattern ............................................................................................................................... 3-6

Step-by-Step Example................................................................................................................ 3-6
Adding Fields to a Pattern .................................................................................................................... 3-7

Text Fields ................................................................................................................................ 3-8
Arcs ......................................................................................................................................... 3-11
General Arc Parameters..................................................................................................... 3-11
Degree Method Parameters................................................................................................ 3-12
3-Point Method Parameters................................................................................................ 3-13
vi 30341B.DOC
Table of Contents
SUBJECT PAGE
Section 3 – Pattern Design

(continued)
Adding Fields to a Pattern (continued)

Arctext Fields ............................................................................................................................ 3-14
General Arctext Parameters ............................................................................................... 3-14
Degree Method Parameters ............................................................................................... 3-16
3-Point Method Parameters ............................................................................................... 3-17
Arctext Tips ..................................................................................................................... 3-17
Data Matrix Symbols .................................................................................................................. 3-18
Matrix Limitations............................................................................................................. 3-23
QR Code Symbols ...................................................................................................................... 3-24
QR Code Symbol Limitations.............................................................................................. 3-28
MicroQR Code Symbols............................................................................................................... 3-29
MicroQR Code Symbol Limitations ...................................................................................... 3-33
Goto Commands........................................................................................................................ 3-34
Pause Commands ...................................................................................................................... 3-34
Using Codes and Real-time Data ........................................................................................................... 3-35

General Information................................................................................................................... 3-36
Operator-Entered Text ............................................................................................................... 3-36
Serial Numbers ......................................................................................................................... 3-37
Time and Date Insertion ............................................................................................................. 3-38
Coded Information..................................................................................................................... 3-38
Error Checking .......................................................................................................................... 3-38
Setting Pattern Parameters .................................................................................................................. 3-38

Park Position ............................................................................................................................. 3-39
Pattern Anchor .......................................................................................................................... 3-40
Default Text Parameters ............................................................................................................. 3-42
Pattern Serial Number................................................................................................................ 3-44
Optional Theta-axis.................................................................................................................... 3-46
Defining the Theta Print Mode ............................................................................................ 3-46
Defining the Part Diameter ................................................................................................ 3-47
Defining the Mounting Angle .............................................................................................. 3-48
Editing a Pattern ................................................................................................................................. 3-50

Changing Pattern Parameters...................................................................................................... 3-50
Changing Field Parameters ......................................................................................................... 3-50
Copying Fields........................................................................................................................... 3-50
Inserting Fields ......................................................................................................................... 3-51
Deleting Fields .......................................................................................................................... 3-51
Changing the Print Order ............................................................................................................ 3-51
Managing Patterns .............................................................................................................................. 3-52

Testing a Pattern ....................................................................................................................... 3-52
Saving/Naming a Pattern............................................................................................................ 3-52
Viewing the Pattern Library......................................................................................................... 3-53
Deleting a Pattern...................................................................................................................... 3-53
30341B.DOC vii
Table of Contents
SUBJECT PAGE
Section 4 – System Configuration
Accessing System Parameters............................................................................................................... 4-1
Defining a Password ............................................................................................................................ 4-1
Marker Parameters .............................................................................................................................. 4-2
Startup Options .................................................................................................................................. 4-6
Query Text ......................................................................................................................................... 4-7
Omni Serial Numbers........................................................................................................................... 4-8
Shift Codes......................................................................................................................................... 4-10
Month Codes ...................................................................................................................................... 4-12
Year Codes ......................................................................................................................................... 4-13
Time and Date .................................................................................................................................... 4-14
Units of Measure ................................................................................................................................. 4-15
Remote Pattern Selection ..................................................................................................................... 4-16
Host Communications .......................................................................................................................... 4-18

Programmable Protocol............................................................................................................... 4-20
Echo Output..................................................................................................................... 4-22
Extended Protocol ...................................................................................................................... 4-24
Message Format ............................................................................................................... 4-24
Response Format.............................................................................................................. 4-25
Message Types................................................................................................................. 4-26
Block Check Code ............................................................................................................. 4-30
Optional Z-axis Configuration ............................................................................................................... 4-32

Enabling the Z-axis .................................................................................................................... 4-32
Adjusting the Limit Switch .......................................................................................................... 4-33
Defining the Zero Offset ............................................................................................................. 4-34
Optional Theta-axis Configuration ......................................................................................................... 4-36
Section 5 – System Checkout
Accessing System Tests ....................................................................................................................... 5-1
Testing the Marking Pin........................................................................................................................ 5-2
Testing the Solenoids........................................................................................................................... 5-3
Testing I/O Signals.............................................................................................................................. 5-4
Testing The Range of Travel ................................................................................................................. 5-6
viii 30341B.DOC
Table of Contents
SUBJECT PAGE
Section 6 – System Messages
**** Access Denied ! **** ................................................................................................................. 6-1
Calculating the Y-Axis Table… ............................................................................................................... 6-1
Cannot Fire Solenoids While Abort Active ! ............................................................................................. 6-1
Cannot Go Online While Abort Is Active ! ............................................................................................... 6-1
Cannot Move Marker While Abort Is Active ! ........................................................................................... 6-1
Cannot Park on Load ! Marker is Offline ! .............................................................................................. 6-1
Character Index Must be 90 / 270 Degrees ! .......................................................................................... 6-2
Disallowed / Denied ! Marker is Offline ! .............................................................................................. 6-2
Error in Deleting a Pattern ! ................................................................................................................. 6-2
Error in Loading Pattern !..................................................................................................................... 6-2
Error in Loading Pattern ( HOST ) ! ....................................................................................................... 6-2
Error in Saving Pattern <pattern_name> . ............................................................................................ 6-2
Error ! Illegal Pattern Name Entered !................................................................................................... 6-2
Error ! No User Font has been Downloaded ! ......................................................................................... 6-2
Error ! Nothing is in the Paste Buffer ! .................................................................................................. 6-2
Error ! Pattern Cannot be Created Here ! .............................................................................................. 6-3
Error ! Quiet Area Violation ! ............................................................................................................... 6-3
Error ! Serial Number Range Warning ! ................................................................................................. 6-3
Error ! SN is Out of Range !................................................................................................................. 6-3
Error ! User Text Needed in Some Fields ! ............................................................................................. 6-3
Field < number >. Range Error !.......................................................................................................... 6-3
Field < number > User Font Error ! ...................................................................................................... 6-3
Home Limit Error in Axis <AXIS NAME>................................................................................................. 6-3
ID Matrix Encode Error ! ...................................................................................................................... 6-4
Marker has been ABORTED ! ................................................................................................................ 6-4
No Driver Board Connected ! ................................................................................................................ 6-4
No Items in Pattern to Adjust ! ............................................................................................................. 6-4
No Pattern is Loaded ! ......................................................................................................................... 6-4
No Pattern is Loaded ! Cannot test ! ..................................................................................................... 6-4
No Pattern is Loaded for Edit ! .............................................................................................................. 6-4
No Pattern is Loaded for Print ! ............................................................................................................. 6-4
No Pattern is Loaded ! Pre-Position What? ............................................................................................. 6-4
30341B.DOC ix
Table of Contents
SUBJECT PAGE
Section 6 – System Messages

(continued)
No Pattern to Save ! ............................................................................................................................ 6-4
No Pattern to View ! ............................................................................................................................ 6-5
No Variable Fields to Edit Here ! ............................................................................................................ 6-5
Nothing to Edit in this Field ! ................................................................................................................ 6-5
One or More Fields Could Not be Adjusted .............................................................................................. 6-5
Pattern Contains 0 Errors. .................................................................................................................... 6-5
Pattern Not Found ( HOST ): < name > ................................................................................................ 6-5
Pattern Field is Out of Range ! .............................................................................................................. 6-5
Pattern Pixel Range Error ! ................................................................................................................... 6-5
Ram Error... Default Parameters Loaded ! .............................................................................................. 6-5
Ram Error... Existing Patterns Erased ! .................................................................................................. 6-5
Text/Arctext/Matrix Field Not Found ! .................................................................................................... 6-6
Timeout... Cannot Find Home Position ! ................................................................................................. 6-6
Variable Text Not Found !..................................................................................................................... 6-6
Wrong Firmware for <MTR1 / MTR2 / SOL> ! ......................................................................................... 6-6
Appendix A – Standard Telesis Fonts
5x7 Font Character Set ........................................................................................................................ A-1
OCR Font Character Set ....................................................................................................................... A-1
11x16 Font Character Set .................................................................................................................... A-2
Appendix B – ASCII Cross Reference
Standard ASCII Characters................................................................................................................... B-1
Extended ASCII Characters .................................................................................................................. B-2
x 30341B.DOC
Section 1
Introduction
This section introduces the manual and the marking system. It provides a basic overview of marking system terminology
and concepts. This section discusses each of the following topics in detail. You should become familiar with this information
before operating the marker.
• Using this manual • Using the marker

• System components • Marking considerations
• Using the controller • Additional publications
• Using the software • Telesis customer support
USING THIS MANUAL

This manual documents the use of the TMC420 Controller to operate Telesis Technologies single-pin marking systems. The
information in this manual describes the use of the marking system software to operate the marker and to design, print,
and maintain a library of patterns.
NOTICE
The TMC420 Controller is capable of operating several Telesis PINSTAMP single-pin markers. While most
software features are universally employed in the various systems, some features are unique to
specific markers. Accordingly, some features documented in this manual may not apply to your
specific system. Where variation do exist, they will be clearly identified within the text to inform you of the
differences.
This manual is divided into the following sections:
Section 1 – Introduction provides an overview of marking system terminology and concepts. You should become
familiar with this information before operating the marker.
Section 2 – System Operation provides information for operating the marking system.
Section 3 – Pattern Design provides instructions and guidelines for designing, editing, and maintaining a library of
printable patterns.
Section 4 – System Configuration provides instructions for setting system-level options and parameters.
Section 5 – System Checkout provides instructions for running tests to ensure the marking system is operating
properly.
Appendix A – Standard Telesis Fonts illustrates the standard font selections that may be used when designing
printable text fields.
Appendix B – ASCII Cross Reference is a convenient list of the standard ASCII characters and Windows® Extended
ASCII characters with their decimal and hexadecimal equivalent values.
30341B.DOC 1-1
SYSTEM COMPONENTS
A typical marking system includes the following components, supplied by Telesis. For more information about your specific
equipment, refer to the Getting Started Supplement that was supplied with your marking system.
• TMC420 Controller
• Controller Connector Kit (includes spare fuses, mating I/O connectors and connector pins)
• Marking System Software
• Marking Head (includes marker cable, pin cartridge, and marking pin)
• Filter/Regulator Unit and Air Lines (pneumatic systems only)
• Getting Started Supplement
• Telesis Documentation CD
Controller. The controller runs the system software and generates commands to control the marking head. The
controller contains an integrated keyboard with a four-line liquid crystal display (LCD). It provides the user interface to
the marking system, allowing the operator to select commands and make choices displayed by the system software.
Function keys on the keyboard are assigned special features for marker operation.
The back panel of the controller includes a Marker port for connection to the marking head, a Host port for connection
to RS-232 or RS-485 devices (such as a host computer or bar code scanner), an I/O port for connection to a logic
controller (such as a PLC or relay-generated input/output signals), and a TTL I/O port for use with Telesis-supplied
options (such a remote push-button station). An Aux Axis port is also provided for systems that employ an optional
auxiliary axis (such as a vertical or rotational device).
Software. The system software is permanently installed in the controller. It produces the user interface screens that
are displayed to the operator. It uses operator-supplied input and its internal commands to control the marker. The
software also contains a library for storing user-defined messages. The messages, called patterns, may contain many
individual fields. The define the characteristics, content, and location of the data to be printed.
Marking Head. The marking head is an X and Y traversing mechanism that rapidly positions the pin cartridge at
coordinate-defined locations within the marking window. The marking head also includes the components to drive the
pin from and return the pin to the cartridge. Refer to the marker-specific Operation Supplement for details on your
system’s marking head.
Filter/Regulator. The filter/regulator unit controls air pressure to the marking head. For most systems, the
filter/regulator unit includes two regulators with pressure gauges to control the drive air and return air. The drive air
fires the pin from the cartridge. The return air pushes the pin back into the cartridge. The unit includes a coarse filter
and may contain a coalescing filter to remove finer particles. Refer to the marker-specific Operation Supplement for
details on your system’s filter/regulator unit.
Getting Started Supplement. A printed, system-specific Getting Started Supplement is provided with each Telesis
marking system. It is designed to introduce you to your new marker. It describes the components of a standard
marking systems, provides an overview of the installation process, and outlines the steps to create and print a simple
pattern.
Telesis Documentation CD. The Telesis Documentation CD contains all product documentation written for our
customers. It includes operation, installation, and maintenance manuals, datasheets, and manual supplements for all
optional accessories. The documents are stored in Portable Document Format (PDF) files. These files may be viewed
and printed using Adobe®Reader®. For more information accessing the product documentation, refer to the Getting
Started Supplement that was supplied with your marking system.
1-2 30341B.DOC
USING THE CONTROLLER

The controller runs the system software and generates commands to control the marker. The controller contains an
integrated keyboard with a four-line liquid crystal display (LCD). It provides the user interface to the marking system,
allowing you to select commands and make choices displayed by the system software.
Navigation Keys
Use these keys to move the cursor and to select objects on the display screen.
TAB Moves the cursor to the next displayed field or parameter
BACK TAB + Moves the cursor to the previous field or parameter
ARROW DOWN Scrolls the field list down or moves the cursor to the next parameter
ARROW UP Scrolls the field list up or moves the cursor to the previous parameter
ARROW LEFT Moves the cursor to the left; allows you to select where to edit, insert, or delete data
ARROW RIGHT Moves the cursor to the right; allows you to select where to edit, insert, or delete data
PAGE DOWN Displays the next page of the current screen if more than one page exists
PAGE UP Displays the previous page of the current screen
ESCAPE Cancels the current activity and returns to the previous screen
30341B.DOC 1-3
Function Keys
Use these keys to execute the commands listed on the Main Screen. Note that some of these commands are available only
when the system is placed in Supervisor mode.
NOTE
The function keys are context-sensitive. They are assigned various commands
depending on the current screen displayed. The following list shows the commands
available from the Main Screen.
LEVEL Operator mode: Displays the Password Entry Screen

Supervisor mode: Returns to the Main Screen in Operator mode
ON/OFF Toggles the marker online / offline
LOAD Displays the Load Pattern Screen to select and open a pattern
PARK Moves marker to the Park position (if pattern is loaded and marker online)
PRE-POSITION Moves marker to anchor point of first printable field (if pattern is loaded and marker online)
DESIGN Supervisor mode only: Displays the Design Screen to create, edit, manage patterns
SETUP Supervisor mode only: Displays the Setup Screen to configure system parameters
QUERY TEXT + Operator mode: Displays the Query Text lookup table to edit query text data
Supervisor mode: Displays the Query Text lookup table to edit query text titles and data
MAINTENANCE + Supervisor mode only: Displays the Maintenance Screen to perform system checkouts
Marker Control Keys

Use these keys to execute specific marker features.
PRINT Prints the currently loaded pattern. Note that this key is available only from the Main
Screen and only if the marker is online and a pattern is loaded.
ABORT Stops the marker and places it offline. If a print cycle is in process, the marker will
immediately stop printing. If the marker is in motion, it will immediately stop traveling.
Note that this key is available regardless of the screen displayed on the controller.
JOG Displays the Jog Screen to interactively position the marker using the system software.
Note that this key is available regardless of the screen displayed on the controller.
1-4 30341B.DOC
Special Character Keys

Use these keys to enter special characters into text strings.
Diacritics. Special keystrokes allow you to add diacritics (phonetic symbols) above characters commonly used in foreign
languages. Please note that these symbols are not available for all alphabetic characters.
NOTE
Diacritic symbols will not be displayed on
controllers that use the Katakana display.
CIRCUMFLEX Adds a circumflex ( ˆ ) above the next character you type (available: â, ê, î, ô, û)
A-RING + Adds an a-ring ( ° ) above the next character you type (available: Å)
GRAVE ACCENT Adds a grave accent ( ` ) above the next character you type (available: à, è, ì, ò, ù)
ACUTE ACCENT + Adds an acute accent ( ´ ) above the next character you type (available: á, É, é, í, ó, ú)
UMLAUT Adds an umlaut ( ¨ ) above the next character you type (available: Ä, ä, ë, ï, Ö, ö, Ü, ü)
TILDE + Adds a tilde ( ˜ ) above the next character you type (available: Ã, ã, Õ, õ, Ñ, ñ)
Control Characters. Special keystrokes allow you to include certain control characters in the text strings. These
characters are often encoded into data matrix symbols.
GS or or +G Adds a GS control character to the text string, represented in text as a bold G .
RS or or +R Adds a RS control character to the text string, represented in text as a bold R .

Note: For controllers that use the Katakana display, this is represented as: .
EOT or or +T Adds an EOT control character to the text string, represented in text as a bold E .
30341B.DOC 1-5
Editing Keys
Use these keys to edit data in the text boxes where input is permitted. Note that several of these keys execute additional
tasks when the system is placed in Supervisor mode.
NOTE
If the cursor is positioned on the first character in the text box, and the keyboard is set
to overstrike mode (see Insert, below), all characters will be deleted from the box when
you begin typing new characters.
INSERT In text boxes, toggles the keyboard to insert or overstrike mode. Insert mode adds
characters at the cursor location; overstrike mode replaces existing characters
Supervisor mode: (Pattern Editor Screen) Inserts a field at the selected location
DELETE In text boxes, deletes the character at the cursor location

Supervisor mode: (Pattern Editor Screen) Deletes the selected field from the pattern
BACKSPACE Deletes the first character to the left of the cursor location. If the keyboard is in overstrike
mode, the deleted characters will be replaced with spaces. If the keyboard is in insert
mode, the undeleted characters will move to the left with the cursor.
END OF BOX Moves the cursor to the end of the text box
START OF BOX Moves the cursor to the beginning of the text box
CAPS LOCK Toggles and locks the keyboard in uppercase or lowercase mode for alphabetic characters
SHIFT While depressed, places the keyboard to uppercase mode for alphabetic characters.
Also allows data entry of upper characters on keys that display more than one symbol.
ENTER Operator mode: Opens the User Text Editor Screen when a variable text field is selected
Supervisor mode: Toggles parameters in braces < > through the allowable selections;
Accepts current data in selected box and moves to the next box for input.
USING THE SOFTWARE

The system software is permanently installed in the TMC420 Controller. It produces the user interface screens that are
displayed to the operator. It uses operator-supplied input and its internal firmware to control the marker. The software
also provides a library for storing, loading, and editing user-defined patterns.
Patterns and Fields

The system software uses patterns to print objects. Patterns are files stored in the controller memory. The controller can
store a maximum of 75 patterns. The actual number is dependent on the content of the patterns’ fields – less patterns as
the fields increase in size or complexity.
A field defines a single object in a pattern. Fields may define text strings, arc, arc text strings, machine-readable data
matrix symbols, Go-to commands, or Pause commands. For printable objects, the field parameters also define how and
where they will be printed. Text strings may include alphanumeric characters, symbols, and special message flags. The
message flags are used to automatically insert data into the text string, such as serial numbers, times, and dates.
1-6 30341B.DOC
Starting the Software

1. Locate power switch on back panel of controller.
2. Place switch in the ON ( l ) position.
The controller will power up and briefly display the System Information Screen.
The system will perform a self-test to ensure the motor firmware and solenoid firmware are compatible with the system
software. If not, an error message will be displayed indicating a driver problem. If this occurs, contact Telesis
Customer Support for assistance in obtaining a firmware/software upgrade.
Note: Some marking systems may temporarily display a system-specific message during power-up.
After the firmware/software compatibility is confirmed, the system will display the Operator Main Screen. Electrical
power will also be provided to the marking head.
– Operator – Offline ????????:00

01–[ ]
02–[ ]
F1–LEVEL F2–ON/OFF F3–LOAD F4–PARK
Operator Main Screen (Page 1)
The top line of the screen shows the current operating mode (Operator) and the status of the marker (Offline). At the
right side of the top line, the keyboard displays “????????” to indicate that no pattern is loaded. This area will display
the pattern name when loaded. To the right of the pattern name, the system displays the number of fields in the
current pattern.
The next two lines show the first and second fields of the pattern. If more fields exists, you can press the ARROW
DOWN and ARROW UP keys to scroll through the list of fields.
Along the bottom of the screen are the operator-level commands and their function key assignments. Press the function
key on the controller keyboard (e.g., F1) to execute the associated command.
The bottom line also displays the ( ) symbol. This indicates there is another page for this screen. Press the PAGE
DOWN key to display the second page of the Operator Main Screen.

01–[ ]
02–[ ]
F5–PREPOS F6– F7– SF1–QUERY
Operator Main Screen (Page 2)
The top three lines of the second page are the same as the first page. However, the bottom line shows two additional
operator-level commands (PREPOS and QUERY). Note that more pages and commands will be displayed when the system
is placed in Supervisor mode.
Notice: From the Main Screen, all function keys from all pages (e.g. F1…F7) of the Main Screen are operational
regardless of which page is currently displayed.
Modes of Operation
The marker may be operated in two modes: Operator and Supervisor. Access to the Supervisor mode may be password
protected to restrict usage by unauthorized personnel.
Operator Operator mode allows you to select patterns, enter data, and mark components.
Refer to Section 2 for details on operating the marking system.
Supervisor Supervisor mode allows you to perform all tasks available to the operator, plus allows you to design and
edit patterns, change system operating parameters, and check system performance. Refer to Sections 3,
4, and 5 for details on the Supervisor features.
30341B.DOC 1-7
Displaying System Information

In case you need to contact Telesis Customer Support with questions, you’ll need to report the version number and item
number of your system software.
1. From the Main Screen, press CTRL+Q.
The system will display a screen similar to the following.
TELESIS TECHNOLOGIES INC.

Version x.xx
xxxxxxx/xxx – xxxxx
Copyright (c) 2006 All Rights Reserved
System Information Screen
2. Record the information displayed on the second and third lines of the display.
3. Press ESC (or ENTER) return to the Main Screen.
Exiting the Software

1. Locate power switch on back panel of controller.
2. Place switch in the OFF ( O ) position.
The software program will terminate and electrical power will be removed from the marking head.
1-8 30341B.DOC
USING THE MARKER

The marking system permanently prints messages into a variety of materials such as steel, aluminum, and plastic. The
shape, size, and location of the marked message are programmed by the designer using the system software.
Marking is accomplished as a hardened pin accelerates to indent the surface at precise locations in the marking window. The
software moves the pin cartridge to precise locations within the marking window and automatically controls pin extension
and retraction to mark the message.
Marking Window
The marking window is the rectangular area where messages may be printed by the marker. The window is defined by the
movement of the marking head along its X- and Y-axes. The size of the marking window is determined by the physical
limitations of the marking head. If a field is defined such that any part of it lies outside of the marking window, the system
will issue a message when you try to print the pattern so that it may be corrected. Refer to the marker-specific Operation
Supplement for your system’s marking window dimensions.
Home Position
The X/Y Home position is set at the factory and cannot be changed. The marking head moves to the Home position whenever
the machine is placed online. It allows the marker to reset and re-establish its position relative to the marking window.
Optionally, the system can be programmed to move the marker to the Home position immediately before or after printing.
Refer to the marker-specific Operation Supplement for the coordinates of the Home position for your system.
Park Position
A Park position may be defined by the pattern designer. It is often defined to move the marking pin out of the way so that
you can easily remove or secure the parts being marked. Accordingly, a different location may be defined for each pattern.
The marking head will move to its Park position when the system finishes printing a pattern or when a Park command is
issued by the operator.
Part Placement
It’s important to understand the placement of the part to be marked relative to the marking head. Patterns are designed to
mark objects at precise locations within the marking window. If the part is incorrectly positioned relative to the marking
window, the pattern may not print on the part as expected.
Field locations are defined by X- and Y-axis coordinates relative to the marking window origin (coordinate 0,0). Since the
marker uses this reference point to locate and print the objects, and since all objects must reside within the marking
window, you can see that proper alignment of the part within the window is critical to obtaining a satisfactory mark. Refer
to the marker-specific Operation Supplement for information about part orientation.
30341B.DOC 1-9
Optional Vertical (Z) Axis

The Z-axis features work in conjunction with the Telesis Z-axis tool post. The tool post is a mounting fixture for the marking
head that includes an electromechanical carriage to position the marker along the Z-axis. Using the system software, the
marker can be manually repositioned along the axis or programmed to be repositioned as part of the pattern definition.
If your system has an optional Z-axis, it must be enabled and configured before it can be used. Refer to Optional Z-axis
Configuration (Section 4) for details.
Optional Rotational (Theta) Axis

The Theta-axis features work in conjunction with the Telesis Rotary Drive Fixture to mark cylindrical parts or to mark
multiple flats on square or hexagonal parts. The drive fixture is an electromechanical chuck that holds and rotates the part
being marked. The jaws of the chuck may be adjusted to accommodate parts of various diameters.
If your system has an optional Theta-axis, it must be enabled and configured before it can be used. Refer to Optional
Theta-axis Configuration (Section 4) for details.
1-10 30341B.DOC
MARKING CONSIDERATIONS
There is no singular equation to follow to produce a particular mark. The quality of the mark is dependent on several
factors such as the marking depth, the marking surface, and the type of marking pin. Usually, it’s best to experiment with
sample marks to obtain the best combination of settings for your application.
Marking Depth
Major variables affecting the depth of mark are pin stroke, drive air and return air pressure. Refer to the marker-specific
Operation Supplement for instructions on adjusting these variables.
General. The force required to imprint a dot is instantaneous and concentrated in a small area. This minimizes the
total force impacting the part being marked.
Pin Stroke. The distance between the retracted marking pin and the marking surface is known as the pin stroke. It is
the distance the pin travels before contacting the part being marked.
Pin stroke is the major factor in determining the depth of the mark. The pin accelerates through its entire range of
travel, achieving maximum speed at its maximum stroke. Therefore, as the pin stroke is increased, the depth of mark
and the pixel dot diameter also increase.
Increased pin stroke will also affect the print cycle time. Longer pin strokes require more time for the pin to travel to and
from the surface being marked.
Drive Air Pressure. Varying the drive pressure and, where applicable, the return air pressure can be used to increase
or decrease the pin depth penetration and the dot diameter. Obviously, the depth increases as drive air pressure
increases. However, adjusting drive air has less affect on marking depth than changing the pin stroke. In general,
increasing the drive air pressure for the same pin stroke will shorten the print cycle time, but will also increase the dot
size and the marking depth.
Return Air Pressure. Marking hard surfaces will require lower return air pressure. On softer material (e.g., plastics) a
higher return air pressure may be needed to quickly retract the pin so it does not drag in the material. (Dragging could
cause the pin to hang up and result in a loss of marker position.) For best operation, it is always advisable to maintain
the greatest differential between the drive air and the return air pressures.
30341B.DOC 1-11
Marking Surface
Marking depths vary widely depending on the finish and hardness of the material being marked.
Finish. The surface finish of a material is probably the most important consideration in pin selection. Even on very hard
material (Rockwell 40C), the marking system can obtain a very legible mark at 0.001-inch (0.0025 mm) depths if the
material has a “smooth as glass” finish. As a general rule, try to choose a pin that produces a mark that sufficiently
contrasts with the surrounding finish. In order to obtain a good contrast, you must consider the material hardness and
finish, as well as the pin cone angle, the pin stroke and the drive air pressure.
Hardness. Material hardness influences the pin size and cone angle needed to achieve a quality mark. Additionally,
any external influences on the part that may inhibit marking (such as oil, machining fluids, humidity, dust, dirt, wax,
paint, scale or rust) must be taken into account.
Marking Pin
The marker may use a variety of marking pins. Pins differ in size, material, and cone (tip) angle. Refer to the marker-
specific Installation/Maintenance Manual for a list of pins that may be used with your system.
Size. All other variables being equal (material hardness, finish, drive air pressure, etc.) larger pin sizes apply higher
impact pressures to the part being marked, resulting in larger dot diameters and greater depths of mark.
Material. Carbide (or carbide-tipped) pins are good for marking harder (Rockwell 30C-40C) materials. Powdered metal
pins are good for marking relatively soft materials such as mild steel, aluminum, copper, and brass. Carbide pins will
produce a slightly deeper mark than powdered metal pins. However, since they are heavier pins they mark at a slower
rate, so marking time may increase when carbide pins are used. See Design Considerations: Pin Recovery Time (Section
3) for information on how to compensate for marking various material.
Cone Angle. The cone angle is the angle at the tip of the pin. Smaller cone angles (30°) create shallower dots that are
larger in diameter. Conversely, larger cone angles (45°) create deeper dots that are smaller in diameter. Larger cone
angles, when used to mark very soft materials, may require you to slow the marker down and increase the return air
pressure to prevent the pin from dragging (hanging up in the soft material while marking.) See Design Considerations:
Pin Recovery Time (Section 3) for information on how to compensate for marking with various cone angles.
1-12 30341B.DOC
ADDITIONAL PUBLICATIONS
Marker Specifications/Information
Marker-specific supplements to this manual provide detailed information about the Telesis markers. They include marker
specifications as well as information for operating the marking system hardware. These supplements are provided on the
Telesis Documentation CD you should have received with your system. If not, contact Telesis Customer Support for
assistance.
Installation/Maintenance Information
The TMC420 Installation/Maintenance Manual provides specifications and instructions for installing and maintaining the
TMC420 controller. This manual, and similar marker-specific manuals for installing and maintaining the Telesis marking
heads, are provided on the Telesis Documentation CD you should have received with your system. If not, contact Telesis
Customer Support for assistance.
Service/Overhaul Information
Additional servicing, repair, and overhaul information is provided in the TMC420 Service Manual. Similar marker-specific
manuals exist for Telesis marking heads. These manuals are typically used by repair agencies that have been trained and
authorized by Telesis Technologies, Inc. To learn more about obtaining a service manual for your own reference, contact a
Telesis Sales Representative.
30341B.DOC 1-13
TELESIS CUSTOMER SUPPORT

Telesis Customer Support offers the following assistance.
Phone Support - Telesis Customer Support offers free phone support to answer questions during normal business hours.
On-Site Service - Telesis can send Customer Support professionals to your facility to perform equipment start-up, repair,
maintenance, and training.
Service Contracts - As part of your Service Contract, you receive periodic maintenance and quick on-site customer support
if a problem should occur.
Factory Service - Telesis Customer Support can repair defective parts in our factory to save you money.
If you need parts for the marking system, be sure to specify the marking head model number and serial number when
ordering.
Contact us for more information on any of these services.
Telesis Technologies, Inc. Telesis Europe B.V. Telesis MarkierSysteme GmbH

P.O. Box 1000 Innsruckweg 104 Wülfingstrasse 6
Circleville, Ohio 43113 3047 AH Rotterdam D-42477 Radevormwald
USA The Netherlands Germany
Tel: ++1 (740) 477 5000 Tel: ++31 (0)10-462 21 36 Tel: ++49 (0) 2191-60 90 8 0
++1 (800) 867 8670 (after hours) Fax: ++31 (0)10-462 38 63 Fax: ++49 (0) 2191-60 90 8 88
Fax: ++1 (740) 477 5001 E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected]
E-mail: [email protected]
E-mail: [email protected]
Telesis Systèmes de Marquage TelesisEagle

BP 438 Colyton
77 481 Provins Cedex Devon, UK EX24 6LU
France Tel: ++44 (0) 1297 551313
Tel: ++33 (0)1 60 67 12 96 Fax: ++44 (0) 1297 551319
Fax: ++33 (0)1 60 58 07 45 E-mail: [email protected]
E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected]
1-14 30341B.DOC
Section 2
System Operation
This section describes operation of the marking system while the software is in Operator mode. It explains the basic
procedures of positioning the marker, loading existing patterns, entering user-supplied text, and printing. These features
are also available when the software is in Supervisor mode. This section discusses each of the following topics in detail. You
should become familiar with this information before operating the marker.
• Sequence of operation • Entering text into a pattern
• Placing system online/offline • Performing a dry run (test print)
• Jogging the marker • Printing a pattern
• Loading a pattern • Displaying the print cycle time
• Parking the marker • Aborting a print cycle
• Pre-positioning the marker
30341B.DOC 2-1
SEQUENCE OF OPERATION
Typically, the marking system is operated in the following sequence. Optionally, the equipment may remain on from shift-
to-shift so that unnecessary startup and shutdown is avoided.
1. Turn on the controller to start the system software.
2. Position and secure the part to be marked.
3. Turn on / adjust the drive and return air pressure, as applicable.
4. Place the marker online. Press .
5. Load the pattern to be printed. Press .
6. (optional) Park the marker. Press .
7. (optional) Pre-position the marker. Press .
8. Enter text into the pattern, as applicable.
9. (optional) Perform a dry run. Press + .
10. Print the pattern to mark the part. Press .
11. Remove the marked part.

12. Repeat the printing process for all parts to be marked
13. Load new patterns, when applicable.
2-2 30341B.DOC
PLACING THE SYSTEM ONLINE/OFFLINE

The current marker status (Offline or Online) is displayed on the top line of the Operator Main Screen.
– Operator – Offline ????????:00 – Operator – Online ????????:00

01–[ ] 01–[ ]
02–[ ] 02–[ ]
F1–LEVEL F2–ON/OFF F3–LOAD F4–PARK F1–LEVEL F2–ON/OFF F3–LOAD F4–PARK
Marker Offline Marker Online
To place the marker online:

From the Main Screen, press F2 (ON/OFF).
The marker will move to its Home position.
While online, patterns may be printed and the marker may be interactively positioned using the software.
Notice: If an auxiliary axis is installed and enabled, it will also move to its Home position.
The system moves to the respective Home positions in the following order: Z-axis (vertical), Theta-axis
(rotational), then X/Y-axes (lateral). The Z-axis will travel upward until the tool post limit switch is
activated; the rotary fixture will turn counter-clockwise (as viewed from behind the fixture) until its internal
limit switch is activated.
To place the marker offline:

From the Main Screen, press F2 (ON/OFF).
The marker will be disabled.
While offline, all print, park, and position commands will be ignored.
30341B.DOC 2-3
JOGGING THE MARKER

The Jog command allows you to interactively position the marker using the system software. The Jog feature allows you to
move the marker anywhere within its travel limits.
To jog the marker:
1. Place the marker online.
2. Press the JOG key .
The system will display the Jog Screen, similar to the one shown below.
Jog Resolution = COARSE
X : [0.00000] in Y : [0.00000] in
F1–ACCEPT F2–RESOLUTION F3–GOTO
Jog Screen (X/Y Axis)
The Jog Screen provides the following parameters and options:
X:[ ] Identifies the X-axis coordinate where the marker is currently positioned.
Y:[ ] Identifies the Y-axis coordinate where the marker is currently positioned.
F2-RESOLUTION Changes the size (resolution) of the jog movement.
F3-GOTO Allows you to move directly to a specific location.
If your system uses an auxiliary axis, this indicates a second page is available.
3. To jog the marker along the X- or Y-axis:

a. Press the ARROW keys (UP, DOWN, LEFT, or RIGHT) to jog the marker. Each press of the arrow key moves the
marker in the selected direction.
b. Press F2 (RESOLUTION) to change the size of the movement. The Resolution parameter will cycle through the
various settings: COARSE, FINE, and SINGLE. The selected resolution is displayed in the top line of the screen.
4. To move the marker to a specific X/Y location:

a. Press the TAB key to place the cursor in the X box.
b. Type in the X-axis coordinate.
c. Press the TAB key to place the cursor in the Y box.
d. Type in the Y-axis coordinate.
e. Press F3 (GOTO).
The marker will move from its current location directly to the specified X/Y-axis location.
2-4 30341B.DOC
5. If your system uses the Z (vertical) axis or the Theta (rotational) axis, press the PAGE_DOWN key to display the next
page. The system will display the Jog Screen, similar to the one shown below.

Z : [0.00000] in
θ : [0.00000] degrees
Jog Screen (Auxiliary Axes)
6. To jog the marker along the Z-axis:

a. Press the TAB key until the cursor is in the Z axis box.
various settings: COARSE, FINE, and SINGLE. The selected resolution is displayed in the top line of the screen.
c. Press the ARROW UP and ARROW DOWN keys to reposition the marker along the Z-axis.
d. If you wish to move to a specific location, type in the Z-axis coordinate and press F3 (GOTO). The carriage will
move from its current location directly to the specified Z-axis location.
7. To jog the marker around the Theta-axis:

a. Press the TAB key until the cursor is in the θ axis box.
various settings: COARSE (10°), FINE (1°), and SINGLE (0.1°). The selected resolution is displayed in the top
line of the screen.
c. Use the ARROW keys to rotate the fixture:
• The ARROW RIGHT key rotates the fixture clockwise (as viewed from behind the fixture).
• The ARROW LEFT key rotates the fixture counter-clockwise (as viewed from behind the fixture).
d. If you wish to move to a specific location, type in the Theta-axis angle and press F3 (GOTO). The fixture will
rotate from its current location directly to the specified Theta-axis location.
8. If you wish to return to the X/Y Jog Screen, press the PAGE UP key.
9. When finished jogging the marker, press F1 (ACCEPT).

The system will exit the Jog Screen and return to the Main Screen.
30341B.DOC 2-5
LOADING A PATTERN
You must load a pattern before you can print.
If no pattern is loaded, the system will display “????????” in the upper right corner of the Main Screen.

01–[ ]
02–[ ]
Main Screen – No Pattern Loaded
To load a pattern:
1. From the Main Screen, press F3 (LOAD).

The system will display the Load Screen showing the available pattern names.
Load [ ]
F1–SAMPLE_ONE
F2–SAMPLE_TWO
F3–SAMPLE_THREE
Load Pattern Screen
2. Locate the desired pattern in the list of pattern names.
If the desired pattern is not shown, press the PAGE_DOWN key to scroll the list.
3. When the desired pattern is displayed, press the appropriate key (F1, F2, or F3) to load the pattern.
(In this example, pressing F1 will load the pattern named: SAMPLE_ONE.)
The system will return to the Main Screen with the selected pattern loaded. Note that if the pattern name is longer
than eight characters, the systems abbreviates the name with an asterisk ( *).
– Operator – Offline SAMPLE_*:02
01–[TEXT : STANDARD TXT FIELD ]
* 02–[TEXT : VARIABLE TXT FIELD xxxx]
Main Screen – Pattern Loaded
2-6 30341B.DOC
PARKING THE MARKER

Each pattern has a park position defined by the pattern designer. Often, the park position is defined to move the marking
head out of the way so that you can easily secure and remove the parts being marked. Although the marker may
automatically park when it completes a print cycle, the Park command allows you to move the marking head to the park
position at your convenience.
To park the marking head:

1. Load the desired pattern.
3. From the Operator Main Screen, press F4 (PARK).
The marker will move to its Park position.
Notice: If an auxiliary axis is installed and enabled, it will also move to its Park position.
The system follows a specific sequence when it parks a marker using an auxiliary axis. When the park
command requires upward movement, the system moves the equipment to its respective park positions
in the following sequence: Z-axis (vertical), Theta-axis (rotational), then X/Y-axes (lateral). When the
park command requires downward movement, the system moves the equipment to its respective park
positions in the following sequence: X/Y (lateral), Theta-axis (rotational), the Z-axis (vertical).
PRE-POSITIONING THE MARKER

The Pre-position command moves the pin cartridge to the anchor point of the first printable field in the pattern. This feature
is typically used to position the marking head for part alignment before printing. The Pre-position coordinates may be located
anywhere in the marking window since the first field of the pattern may be different for each pattern you load.
To pre-position the marking head for printing:

3. From the Operator Main Screen, press F5 (PREPOS).
30341B.DOC 2-7
ENTERING TEXT INTO A PATTERN

The pattern designer may define fields that allow you to enter text into the pattern while the system is in Operator mode.
Only fields that contain special message flags allow you to enter Variable Text and Query Text.
Variable Text
Fields that permit you to enter variable text are identified with an asterisk ( *).
* 02–[TEXT : VARIABLE TXT FIELD xxxx]
Asterisk Indicates Field 02 Contains Variable Text
To enter variable text into a pattern:

1. Select the field containing variable text.
Press the TAB key to move the cursor to the field.
Press the ARROW DOWN key to display additional fields, as applicable.
2. When the variable text field is selected, press ENTER.

The system will display the User Text Editor Screen for you to enter data.
User Text Editor For Field # 2
[xxxx ]
F1–SAVE
User Text Editor for Entering Data
3. Type in the data for the variable text field.

(In this example, assume we’ve entered: ABCD).
4. Press F1 (SAVE) to store the data in the pattern and return to the Main Screen.
The system will insert the data you entered into the pattern.

* 02–[TEXT : VARIABLE TXT FIELD ABCD]
Variable Text “ABCD” Inserted into Field 02
Notice: Variable text fields may be defined by the designer to either retain or clear the data after each print cycle.
Query Text
Patterns may be designed with special message flags that allow you to edit multiple text fields from a single location. The
query text definitions are stored in the Query Text lookup table. When you edit the text in the look-up table, the system will
insert that data into the pattern wherever these special message flags exist.
2-8 30341B.DOC

01–[TEXT : UNIT MODEL mmmmm ]
02–[TEXT : UNIT STYLE sssss ]
Sample Pattern with Query Text Fields
To enter query text definitions into the pattern:
1. From the Operator Main Screen, press SHIFT+F1 (QUERY).

The system will display the Query Text lookup table for you to enter data.
The pattern designer may define a title for each of the query text fields. These titles make it easier to determine what
data you should enter into the lookup table.
Title :Query Text F1–SAVE

MODEL :[mmmmm ]
STYLE :[sssss ]
:[ ]
Query Text Look-up Table Editor
2. Type in the data for the first Query Text field, as applicable.
(Assume for the field titled Model, we’ve entered: TMC).
3. Press the TAB key to move to the next field.
4. Type in the data for the remaining Query Text fields, as applicable.
(Assume for the field titled Style, we’ve entered: 420).
5. Press F1 (SAVE) to store the data and return to the Main Screen.
The system will insert the data you entered into the pattern, where applicable.

01–[TEXT : UNIT MODEL TMC ]
02–[TEXT : UNIT STYLE 420 ]
F5–PREPOS F6– F7– SF1–QUERY
Query Text “TMC” and “420” Inserted into Pattern
30341B.DOC 2-9
PERFORMING A DRY RUN

You can simulate printing the current pattern without actually firing the marking pin. A dry run allows you to run the marker
through the mechanical motions required to print the objects in the pattern without marking parts. This feature also allows
you to ensure the part to be marked is properly oriented for the loaded pattern.
To perform a dry run:
3. Hold down the SHIFT key and press the PRINT key .
PRINTING A PATTERN
To print a pattern:
2. Ensure the part and pattern are ready for marking:
Position and secure the object to be marked.
Enter Variable Text, as applicable.
Enter Query Text, as applicable.

4. Press the PRINT key to print the pattern.
2-10 30341B.DOC
Aborting the Print Cycle

Aborting a print cycle stops the printing operation and places the marker offline.
Notice: If you abort a pattern that contains serial numbers, you may have to contact the supervisor to reset the serial
number values before you resume printing. See Using Codes and Real-time Data (Chapter 3) for details.
1. Press the ABORT key to abort the print cycle.
The system will display a prompt for you to acknowledge that printing has been aborted.
2. Press F1 (ACKNOWLEDGE) to clear the screen.
Displaying the Print Cycle Time

To display the amount time it took the system to complete the last print cycle:
From the Main Screen, press CTRL+T.

The system will display the time on the top line of the screen (to the left of the pattern name).
Notice: The value represents the time interval between the Start Print command and completion of the mark.
It does not account for time required to park, move home, etc. The time is shown in seconds,
accurate to 0.001 sec. However, if an auxiliary axis is enabled, the time is shown in full-second
increments only.
30341B.DOC 2-11
2-12 30341B.DOC
Section 3
Pattern Design
Pattern parameters and options are stored in each pattern file. When a pattern is loaded, the parameters that define that
pattern will be used to print the pattern as you designed it. Changing pattern parameters will affect only the pattern being
created or edited. They will not affect other patterns stored in the controller.
This section provides instructions and guidelines for creating, editing, and maintaining a library of printable patterns. This
section discusses each of the following topics in detail.
• Design considerations • Defining pattern serial numbers

• Using interactive design • Defining default text parameters
• Creating a pattern • Editing a pattern
• Adding fields to a pattern • Testing a pattern
• Inserting real-time data • Saving a pattern
• Defining operator-entered text • Viewing the pattern library
• Defining the pattern anchor • Deleting a pattern
• Defining the park position
DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
Designing patterns is a subjective process. The software provides many parameters for you to define the content and
appearance of each field in your patterns. Some factors you should consider when designing your patterns include the
marking window size, character dimensions, font selection, the printing order and the printing mode.
Marking Window Size

The size of the marking window a main consideration in pattern design. Any field that is to be printed must lie, in its
entirety, within the physical boundaries of the window. If not, the system will issue an error message when you attempt to
print it. You can redefine a field location or make slight adjustments to its size or alignment parameters to reposition it
within the window. The size of the marking window is dependent on the marking head your system uses. Refer to the
marker-specific Operation Supplement for details on your particular system.
Marking Window Coordinates

The system uses axis coordinates to identify locations within the marking window. You may define these locations by
manually entering the specific coordinates in the appropriate parameter boxes. However, a simpler way to identify the
coordinates of a particular location is to move the marking pin to that position. Whenever you are required to define an axis
coordinate, you can interactively position the marker to identify the location. See Design Jog for details.
30341B.DOC 3-1
Text Justification
When the marker prints a text field, it aligns the characters along the X- and Y-axes based on the anchor location and the
justification parameters (e.g., left, center, right, top, middle, bottom). For example, let’s assume that you define a text
string anchored (located) at 9.0 mm on the Y-axis and top-justified. The system will place the top of the characters along
the Y-axis at 9.0 mm. You can optionally set the text message to print with the middle or the bottoms of the characters
along that line. See illustration.
It’s possible to define an anchor point and justification that attempts to print some of the characters outside of the marking
window (see Bottom Justified example in illustration). This will result in an error message from the system. You will need
to consider the X/Y anchor coordinates, the justification options (top, middle, bottom) and the character dimensions when
defining messages to avoid these errors.
Text Justification within the Marking Window
Character Dimensions
Three parameters that control the size and shape of your printed text are height, width, and pitch.
Height. Height is measured from the center of the mark at the
top of the character to the center of the mark at the bottom of the
character.
Width. Width is measured from the center of the mark at the left
side of the character to the center of the mark at the right side of
the character. Unless there is a specific width requirement for
your text, the width should be 66% of the character height.
Pitch. Pitch defines the distance from the start of one character
to the start of the next character. It includes the width of the
character and the space between characters. Unless there is a
specific character spacing requirement for your text, the pitch
should equal the character height.
3-2 30341B.DOC
Font Selection
The system provides several font selections for printing text fields. The character font determines the printed appearance of
the text. Each font selection provides a specific set of character. The font determines the shape and composition of each
character. Standard Telesis fonts are illustrated in Appendix A of this manual.
Custom fonts may be designed using the Telesis Logo/Font Generator Utility software. The resulting “User” font may then be
downloaded to the controller and used in printing your patterns. Contact Telesis Customer Support for more information.
Some factors you may want to consider when selecting a font are the size of the characters to be printed and any special
requirements you may have for printing speed, character identification, or character recognition.
Size. The desired size of your marked characters should be a consideration when selecting a font. Very small characters
may have a better appearance with a font containing fewer pixels (e.g., 5x7). Very large characters will benefit from
fonts with higher pixel densities (e.g., 11x16). Characters with a higher pixel density also allow for more delicate shapes.
Speed. Your required marking speed is also a consideration when selecting a font. Certain fonts may require a longer
marking time. Character size also affects the marking speed. Smaller characters may be printed faster; larger
characters, characters with higher pixel densities, and characters with more serifs may require longer printing times.
Specific marking times can be verified by a Telesis representative. You may wish to mark samples with different fonts
before deciding on the font for your particular needs.
Character Recognition. The OCR font is specially designed to be used with the Telesis PS-OCR® Optical Character
Reader. In order for the characters to be reliably read by the Reader, a special relationship should exist between the
character height, width, and pitch.
To achieve this, follow these guidelines for setting the text dimensions when you design a message to be used with the
PS-OCR Reader:
1. Decide the height of the characters you want to print. The
height parameter will be used as the basis for establishing
the width and pitch parameters.
2. Set the width equal to ½ the height.
3. Set the pitch equal to the height.
These parameter settings will provide a square character block
(height x pitch) with the actual character occupying the first half of
the character block. This relationship will provide a character
height/width ratio that permits the Reader to recognize the
characters, and enough space between characters to provide reliable
readings.
For example, if your characters need to be 0.20 in. (0.5 mm) high:
set the width to 0.10 in. (0.25 mm)
set the pitch to 0.20 in. (0.5 mm)
30341B.DOC 3-3
Printing Order
The marker prints the fields of a pattern in the order they are defined in the pattern definition. The marker will print the
first field in its entirety before moving to, and printing, the subsequent fields. Normally, this is not an issue when you create
a pattern. But, it may be beneficial to print fields in a particular order to improve print cycle efficiency, or it may be
necessary to ensure certain fields are printed before others. If the print order is important, you can always edit the pattern
to rearrange the order of the fields. See Managing Patterns for details.
Printing Modes
The software provides several modes for marking the fields of your patterns. Since the Mode parameter is defined with the
field, you can specify the printing mode on a field-by-field basis.
The system provides additional control over how the marker prints when the Theta-axis is enabled. See Setting Pattern
Parameters for details.
Dot. Dot matrix mode marks the characters as a pattern of dots as

defined by the selected font style.
Cont. Continuous mode allows you to specify the print density to mark
fully formed characters that produce an engraved appearance. Using
Continuous mode may slightly increase pin wear and may significantly
increase the marking cycle time.
Pin Recovery Time

Pin recovery is the time it takes for the marking pin to become ready from one impact to the next. Although this time may
be imperceptible, it can affect the quality of the mark. Pin recovery is affected by the marking surface and the marking pin
cone angle. Softer surfaces (e.g., plastic) may cause the marking pin to drag, or hang up, in the material. Accordingly, the
recovery time may be greater than it would be when marking a very hard surface. Larger marking pin cone angles (e.g.,
60°) tend to produce deeper marks. Again, the recovery time may be greater than it would be when using a pin with a
smaller cone angle (e.g., 30°). The marking system software allows you to compensate for the pin recovery time, based on
your particular marking needs. Refer to Marker Parameters (Section 4) for details.
3-4 30341B.DOC
Design Jog
You may use the Design Jog feature to interactively define a location within the marking window. Whenever the system
displays a screen that allows you to define an axis coordinate, you can interactively position the marker to identify that
location. Although the Design Jog feature is accessible from any of the design screens, it is most useful when adding or
editing the X/Y coordinates for the field. If you don’t know the exact coordinates in the marking window where you want to
print a field, you can use the Design Jog feature to define the location.

2. Display the Editor Screen where you wish to define the coordinates.
Note: The Editor Screen refers to any screen display where parameters or fields are provided for you to define
coordinates for one or more of the printer axes.
3. Move the cursor to the parameter box for the axis coordinate you wish to define (e.g., X or Y).
4. Press the JOG key .

The controller will display the Jog screen. Its features are outlined in the following paragraphs.
X : [0.00000] in Y : [0.00000] in
Note: If your system uses the Z (vertical) axis or the Theta (rotational) axis, press the PAGE_DOWN key to display the
next page. The system will display a Jog Screen for you to interactively define auxiliary axis locations, as applicable.
5. Press the directional arrow keys (LEFT, RIGHT, UP, DOWN) to jog the marker. Each press of the arrow key moves the
marker in the selected direction. The size of the movement is determined by the Resolution parameter.
6. Jog the marker so that the impact pin is over the point where you want to start printing the field.
The system will update the X/Y coordinates on the screen as you jog the marker.
7. When the impact pin is properly positioned, press F1 to accept the location coordinates.
The system will return the Editor screen with the X/Y coordinates displayed in the appropriate boxes.
8. Press F1 (ACCEPT) to enter this field definition into the pattern.

The system will return to the Design screen for you to add/define your next field.
9. Repeat Steps 3 through 8 to define locations for additional fields.
10. When you are finished defining field locations, press F2 (SAVE) to save your changes to the pattern.
30341B.DOC 3-5
ACCESSING THE DESIGN FEATURES

The software must be placed in Supervisor mode to access any of the pattern design features.
1. From the Operator Main Screen, press F1 (LEVEL).
2. Enter the password in the text box.
If a password has not been defined, leave the text box empty.
3. Press F1 (ACCEPT).
Once the system is in Supervisor mode, you may proceed to create and edit your patterns.
The following sequence outlines the pattern design process.
• Create the pattern.
• Add fields to the pattern.
• Save the pattern.
• Test the pattern.
• Edit the pattern, as required.
CREATING A PATTERN
When you create a new pattern, the system stores it in the controller’s permanent memory. Each pattern must be given a
unique name to identify it. Once saved into memory, it can be recalled (loaded) to be printed or edited whenever
necessary.
To create a new pattern:
1. From the Supervisor’s Main Screen, press F6 (DESIGN).
2. From the Design Pattern Screen, press F1 (LOAD).
3. Type in the name of the new pattern.
The pattern name may be up to 32 alphanumeric characters long and may include spaces. However, if the name is
greater than 8 characters, it will be truncated when displayed on most screens (e.g., PATTERN*).
Note: Leading spaces are prohibited; trailing spaces are discouraged.
4. Press ENTER.
5. The system will display the following prompt:
Define This New Pattern?
Press F1 (YES) to change the default pattern parameters. See Setting Pattern Parameters.
Press F2 (NO) to accept the default pattern parameters.
6. Proceed to Adding Fields to a Pattern or Setting Pattern Parameters as applicable.
Step-by-Step Example
For a step-by-step example of how to create a pattern, refer to the Getting Started Supplement that was supplied with your
marking system. The example shows the basic steps necessary to create a pattern, add a text string, save the pattern, and
print it.
Once you’re comfortable with these basic steps, you’ll find complete details in the remainder of this section to perform
additional tasks – create and edit patterns, add other fields to the patterns, modify pattern parameters, and manage the
library of patterns that you store in the controller.
3-6 30341B.DOC
ADDING FIELDS TO A PATTERN

After you create the pattern, you’ll need to add fields to define the content, format, and location of the data you want to print.
There are several types of fields you may define in a pattern. Each pattern may contain up to 99 fields. As fields are added,
they are placed in a sequential list and are printed in the order that they are defined. After adding a field, you may move it to a
different location in the pattern list to change the printing order. See Managing Patterns for details.
1. (optional) Place the marker online.

This may facilitate defining the field location in subsequent steps.
3. From the Supervisor Main Screen, press F6 (DESIGN).
Design Pattern : < TEXT >

[SAMPLE_THREE ]–0
F1–LOAD F3–EDIT F5–TEST F7–MANAGER
F2–SAVE F4–ADD F6–DEFINE
Design Pattern Screen – Adding a Field
4. Press ENTER until the desired type of field is displayed in the upper, right corner of the screen.
Note: The software will display only the types of fields available for your particular marking system.
5. From the Design Pattern Screen, press F4 (ADD).

The system will display the Editor Screen for the type of field you selected.
Parameter descriptions for each type of field are detailed on the following pages.
6. Edit the field parameters, as applicable.

Additional parameter pages may be available if , , or symbols are displayed.
Press the PAGE_DOWN or PAGE_UP keys, as applicable, to display these pages, where applicable.
7. When finished defining the field parameters, press F1 (ACCEPT).
30341B.DOC 3-7
Text Fields
Each text field defines the content, size, shape, and location of a single string of characters.
TEXT Enter the character string to be printed. The character string may contain up to 160 characters including upper-
and lowercase characters, keyboard symbols, blank spaces, and special message flags.
Real-time Data. Message flags are used to insert real-time data into the printed message (e.g., dates, time,
codes, and serial numbers. See Using Codes and Real-time Data to include message flags in the field.
Special Characters. Control characters (e.g., EOT) and language phonetic symbols (e.g., ö) may also be entered
into the text string. See Special Character Keys (Section 2) for the key combinations to enter special characters.
FONT Press ENTER to toggle through the available font selections. The software will display only the fonts
available for your particular marking system. The Font parameter defines the character set that will be used
to print the character string. See Design Considerations for details.
X The X anchor parameter defines the X-axis coordinate where the field will be placed in the marking window. The
coordinate is relative to the marking window origin (0,0). Enter the desired coordinates or use the Design Jog
feature. See Design Jog. The system will align the field at the specified X-axis coordinate based on the Align_X
parameter (see below).
ALIGN_X (shown as < L >)

Press ENTER to toggle through the available selections:
L (left edge), C (center), or R (right edge). The Align_X
parameter defines how text will be positioned at the X-axis
coordinate.
Y The Y anchor parameter defines the Y-axis coordinate where the field will be placed in the marking window. The
coordinate is relative to the marking window origin (0,0). Enter the desired coordinates or use the Design Jog
feature. See Design Jog. The system will align the field at the specified Y-axis coordinate based on the Align_Y
parameter (see below).
ALIGN_Y (shown as < T > or < M > depending on the marker model)
Press ENTER to toggle through the available selections: T (top edge), M (middle), or B (bottom edge). The Y-
alignment parameter defines how text will be positioned at the Y-axis coordinate.
If you select T (top edge) alignment and print special
characters with ascenders (e.g., “É”) the marker will use the
top of the special character as the upper limit and align the
other characters accordingly. It will not use the top of the
uppercase characters for alignment.
Similarly, if you select B (bottom edge) alignment and print
lowercase characters, the marker will use the bottom of the
lowercase descenders (e.g., “g”) as the lower limit and align
the other characters accordingly. It will not use the bottom
of the uppercase characters as the baseline.
3-8 30341B.DOC
Text Field Parameters (continued)
HT (height) Enter the desired character height (in inches or millimeters, as applicable). See Design Considerations
for more information.
If you want the system to automatically calculate the recommended width and pitch (below), type in the
desired character height, then press ENTER. The system will automatically set the width and pitch values.
If you want to set a specific width and pitch, type in the desired character height, then press the TAB key.
The system will leave the width and pitch parameters unchanged so that you may set their values.
WD (width) Enter the desired character width (in inches or millimeters, as applicable). See Design Considerations
PT (pitch) Enter the desired character pitch (in inches or millimeters, as applicable). See Design Considerations for
more information.
MODE Press ENTER to toggle through the available selections. The Mode parameter defines the printing mode that will
be used to mark the field. See Design Considerations for more information.
PX/?? If you choose Continuous printing mode (above), enter the desired pixel density (in pixels per inch or per
centimeter, as applicable). The pixel density determines how may “dots” the system will mark to form the
characters. Higher density values produce a more continuous appearance but will increase marking time and pin
wear. The system will print the characters using the specified pixel density or the minimum dots required by the
selected font, whichever is greater.
ANG (angle) Specify the angle that you wish to rotate the field about its
anchor point. The 0° reference (no rotation) is at the 3 o’clock
position, increasing in the counter-clockwise direction.
Systems that allow rotation in 1° increments display the angle

in brackets “[ ]”. Type in the desired rotation angle.
Systems that allow only specific angle selections display the

angle in braces “< >”. Press ENTER to toggle through the
available selections.
The rotation also depends on the alignment parameters. The X- and
Y-alignment parameters define the anchor point and determine which
point the marker uses to rotate the field.
30341B.DOC 3-9
Text Field Parameters (continued)
QUALITY (this parameter is not available on all marking systems) For certain types of markers, you can specify a
more precise resolution for the marker use when printing this text field. Choose Standard or Fine. Standard
resolution provides a faster marking time with acceptable quality and readability. Fine resolution produces more
accurate dot-placement for exceptional quality and readability, but requires a longer marking time.
θ (this parameter is not available on all marking systems)

This parameter is available only if the Theta-axis is enabled.
The Theta-anchor parameter defines Theta-axis coordinate where the field will be placed on the rotational axis.
The coordinate is relative to the Theta Home position (0°). Enter the desired Theta-axis coordinate (amount of
rotation) or use the Design Jog feature. See Design Jog.
PRINT MODE (this parameter is not available on all marking systems)

This parameter is available only if the Theta-axis is enabled.
The Print Mode parameter defines how the system will rotate the axis when the field is printed. Press ENTER to
toggle through the available selections: Standard or Index.
Standard will use the mode defined for the pattern. See Setting Pattern Parameters for details.
Index will override the pattern print mode and use character index printing for this text field. The system will
print one character, rotate the Theta-axis, print the next character, rotate, and so on. Character indexing is
normally faster because it results in less “rotational interruption” to the printing cycle. Since this parameter is a
field parameter, you can enable it for some or all of your text fields within the same pattern on a field-by-field
basis.
Notice: When Index is selected, the text field must be printed perpendicular to the rotational axis
(i.e., at either 90° or 270°). Refer to the Ang (Angle) parameter, above.
3-10 30341B.DOC
Arcs
Note: This feature is not available on all marking systems.

The marking system software provides two ways to create arcs: the Degrees method and the 3-point method. The Arc
Editor Screen provides several parameters for defining and formatting arc. To help explain these parameters, they have
been organized into three categories: General Arc Parameters, Degree Method Parameters, and 3-Point Method
Parameters.
General Arc Parameters
METHOD Press ENTER to select the desired arc-construction method: Degrees or 3-Point.
The Degrees method uses a center location and radius to define a circular path. It also uses a starting angle and
an ending angle to define where the arc begins and ends along that circular path.
The 3-Point method uses a start-point, a center-point, and an end-point. The system constructs a circular path
to encompass all three points. The start- and end-points determine where the arc starts and ends along the
circular path.
PX/?? Enter the desired pixel density (in pixels per inch or per centimeter, as applicable). The pixel density determines how
may “dots” the system will mark to form the characters. Higher density values produce a more continuous appearance
but will increase marking time and pin wear.
θ (If Theta-axis is enabled) The Theta-anchor parameter defines the Theta-axis coordinate where the field will be
placed on the rotational axis. The coordinate is relative to the Theta Home position (0°). Enter the desired
Theta-axis coordinate (amount of rotation) or use the Design Jog feature. See Design Jog.
30341B.DOC 3-11
Arc Field Parameters (continued)
Degree Method Parameters
CENTER The Center X- and Center Y-anchor parameters identify the

coordinates in the marking window where the center of the circular
arc will be placed. The coordinates are relative to the marking
window origin (0,0). Enter the desired coordinates or use the Design
Jog feature. See Design Jog.
RADIUS Enter radius of the circle (in inches or millimeters, as applicable).

The Radius parameter defines the size of the arc. Ensure the radius
doesn’t create an arc that extends outside the available marking
window.
ANGLE The Angle S (start) and Angle E (end) parameters define where the arc will begin and end on the circular path. The
arc begins where the start-angle intersects the circular path; the arc terminates where the end-angle intersects the
path. The 0° reference point is at the 3 o’clock position and increases in the counter-clockwise direction to 360°.
Enter the Angle Start and Angle End parameters (in degrees), as applicable.
Notice: The start- and end-angle determine whether the arc is convex or concave since the marker always
constructs arcs in a counter-clockwise direction from the start-point.
3-12 30341B.DOC
Arc Field Parameters (continued)
3-Point Method Parameters
It’s best to define the start- and end-points first to determine the span of the arc, then define the center-point. The center-
point may be any point between the start- and end-points. However, the system will generate a more accurate arc if you
specify a center-point near the actual center. The start-, center-, and end-points must not fall in the same horizontal or
vertical line since this would result in an undefined circle.
START The Start X- and Start Y-anchor parameters identify the coordinates in
the marking window where the arc will begin. The coordinates are
relative to the marking window origin (0,0). Enter the desired coordinates
or use the Design Jog feature. See Design Jog.
Notice: Remember, the marker always constructs arcs in a counter-
clockwise direction from the start point.
CENTER The Center X- and Center Y-anchor parameters identify the coordinates in
the marking window to help define the circular arc path. The coordinates
are relative to the marking window origin (0,0). Enter the desired
coordinates or use the Design Jog feature. See Design Jog.
END The End X- and End Y-anchor parameters identify the coordinates in the
marking window where the arc will terminate. The coordinates are
relative to the marking window origin (0,0). Enter the desired coordinates
or use the Design Jog feature. See Design Jog.
Notice: The relative position of the end-point with respect to the start-point determines whether the arc is
convex or concave.
30341B.DOC 3-13
Arctext Fields

The Arctext features allow you to “bend” a text string in your printed message. Arctext combines the features of the Arc
field and the Text field parameters to define the field. As with arcs, the marking system software provides two ways to
create arc text: the Degrees method and the 3-point method. Defining the curvature of the arc text is similar to defining an
arc. Most parameters for defining the text string are the same as for standard text fields.
The Arctext Editor Screen provides several parameters for defining and formatting arc text. To help explain these
parameters, they have been organized into three categories: General Arctext Parameters, Degree Method Parameters, and
3-Point Method Parameters.
General Arctext Parameters
METHOD Press ENTER to select the desired arc-construction method: Degrees or 3-Point.
The Degrees method uses a center location and radius to define a circular path. It also uses a starting angle and
an ending angle to define where the arc begins and ends along that circular path.
The 3-Point method uses a start-point, a center-point, and an end-point. The system constructs a circular path
to encompass all three points. The actual contour of the arc text, however, will be determined by its character
dimensions, font style, and selected shape (convex or concave).
TEXT Enter the character string to be printed. The character string may contain up to 160 characters including upper-
and lowercase characters, keyboard symbols, blank spaces, and special message flags.
FONT Press ENTER to toggle through the available font selections. The software will display only the fonts available
for your particular marking system. The Font parameter defines the character set that will be used to print the
character string. See Design Considerations for details.
MODE Press ENTER to toggle through the available selections. The Mode parameter defines the printing mode that will
be used to mark the field. See Design Considerations for more information.
PX/?? If you choose Continuous printing mode (above), enter the desired pixel density (in pixels per inch or per
centimeter, as applicable). The pixel density determines how may “dots” the system will mark to form the
characters. Higher density values produce a more continuous appearance but will increase marking time and pin
wear. The system will print the characters using the specified pixel density or the minimum dots required by the
selected font, whichever is greater.
HT (height) Enter the desired character height (in inches or millimeters, as applicable). See Design Considerations
If you want the system to automatically calculate the recommended width and pitch (below), type in the desired
character height, then press ENTER. The system will automatically set the width and pitch values.
If you want to set a specific width and pitch, type in the desired character height, then press the TAB key. The
system will leave the width and pitch parameters unchanged so that you may set their values.
3-14 30341B.DOC
Arctext Field Parameters (continued)
WD (width) Enter the desired character width (in inches or millimeters, as applicable). See Design Considerations
PT (pitch) Enter the desired character pitch (in inches or millimeters, as applicable). See Design Considerations for
more information.

Press ENTER to toggle through the available selections: L (left edge), C (center), or R (right edge). The X-
alignment parameter defines how the text string will be aligned at the arc start-point.
alignment parameter defines how the text string will be aligned with the curvature of the arc.
Notice:
If you select T (top edge) alignment
and print special characters with
ascenders (e.g., “É”) the marker
will use the top of the special
character as the upper limit and
aligns the other characters
accordingly. It will not use the top
of the uppercase characters for
alignment.
Similarly, if you select B (bottom
edge) alignment and print
lowercase characters, the marker
use the bottom of the lowercase
descenders (e.g., “g”) as the lower
limit and aligns the other characters
accordingly. It will not use the
bottom of the uppercase characters
as the baseline.
SHAPE Press ENTER to select the desired arc shape: Convex

or Concave. Unlike arcs, which are always
constructed in a counter-clockwise direction, the
system constructs arc text in either a clockwise or a
counter-clockwise direction, depending on the Shape
parameter and the arc text alignment parameters.
θ (If Theta-axis is enabled). The Theta-anchor parameter defines Theta-axis coordinate where the field will be placed
on the rotational axis. The coordinate is relative to the Theta Home position (0°). Enter the desired Theta-axis
coordinate (amount of rotation) or use the Design Jog feature. See Design Jog.
30341B.DOC 3-15
Degree Method Parameters
CENTER The Center X- and Center Y-anchor parameters identify the coordinates in the marking window where the center
of the circular arc will be placed. The coordinates are relative to the marking window origin (0,0). Enter the
desired coordinates or use the Design Jog feature. See Design Jog.
ANGLE The Angle S (start) parameter defines where the arc will begin on
the circular path. The arc begins where the start-angle intersects
the circular path. The 0° reference point is at the 3 o’clock position
and increases in the counter-clockwise direction to 360°. Enter the
Angle Start parameters (in degrees), as applicable.
RADIUS Enter radius of the circle (in inches or millimeters, as applicable).

The Radius parameter defines the size of the arc. Ensure the radius
doesn’t create an arc that extends outside the available marking
window.
3-16 30341B.DOC
3-Point Method Parameters
It’s best to define the start- and end-points first to determine the span of the arc, then define the center-point. The start-,
center-, and end-points must not fall in the same horizontal or vertical line since this would result in an undefined circle.
The start-point defines the anchor location for the text string. The center- and end-points help to define the circular path or
the arc, but the arc text may or may not pass through these points. It depends on whether the text string is convex or
concave. Additionally, the text may extend beyond the end-point, even overlap the start point, if the message is longer
than the defined arc.
START The Start X- and Start Y-anchor parameters define the

coordinates where the field will be placed in the marking
window. The coordinates are relative to the marking
window origin (0,0). The system will align the field at the
X/Y coordinates based on the arc text alignment
parameters. Enter the desired coordinates or use the Design
Jog feature. See Design Jog.
CENTER The Center X- and Center Y-anchor parameters identify the

coordinates in the marking window to help define the
circular arc path. The coordinates are relative to the
marking window origin (0,0). Enter the desired coordinates or
use the Design Jog feature. See Design Jog.
END The End X- and End Y-anchor parameters identify the

coordinates in the marking window where the arc will
terminate. The coordinates are relative to the marking
window origin (0,0). Enter the desired coordinates or use the
Design Jog feature. See Design Jog.
Arctext Tips
Consider the following factors when defining arc text fields.
Reduce the radius of the arc to sharpen (increase) the curvature of the text.
Increase the radius of the arc to flatten (decrease) the curvature of the text.
Experiment with the Angle parameter or Start X/Y parameters and the Align_X or Align_Y selections.
Slight adjustments of these parameters will reposition the text location along the arc path.
If an arc text string is positioned slightly outside of the marking window, try changing the alignment:
– If the arc text is convex, try top or center alignment.
– If the arc text is concave, try bottom or center alignment.
30341B.DOC 3-17
Data Matrix Symbols
A Matrix field allows you to define a text message, encode it as a two-dimensional, machine-readable matrix symbol, and print
it as part of your pattern. The Matrix field uses an encoding algorithm based on the Data Matrix Library. The Matrix Editor
provides several parameters for defining and formatting the encoded message.
Notice: Successful reading of the matrix symbol is critically dependent on its printed construction. Optimally, the dots
that comprise the matrix should almost touch. Proper construction requires a special relationship between the
diameter of the printed dot and the spacing between the printed dots.
TEXT The Text parameter defines what information will be encoded into the matrix. It may including upper- and
lowercase characters, keyboard symbols, blank spaces, and special message flags. The content of the text string
will determine your Format parameter selection (see below). Additionally, the combination of your Format
selection and the length of the text string will affect the geometric shape of the resulting matrix (square or
rectangular). The maximum number of characters that may be encoded in any Telesis matrix symbol is 160. See
Matrix Limitations for details.
X The X anchor parameter defines the X-axis coordinate where the symbol will be placed in the marking window.
The coordinate is relative to the marking window origin (0,0). Enter the desired coordinates or use the Design
Jog feature. See Design Jog. The system will align the symbol at the specified X-axis coordinate based on the
Align_X parameter (see below).

Press ENTER to toggle through the available selections: L (left edge),
C (center), or R (right edge). The X-alignment parameter defines how the
matrix symbol will be positioned at the X-axis coordinate.
Y The Y anchor parameter defines the Y-axis coordinate where the symbol
will be placed in the marking window. The coordinate is relative to the
marking window origin (0,0). Enter the desired coordinates or use the
Design Jog feature. See Design Jog. The system will align the symbol at
the specified Y-axis coordinate based on the Align_Y parameter (see
below).
alignment parameter defines how matrix symbol will be positioned at the Y-axis coordinate.
I M P O R T A N T: Avoid placing the data matrix symbol too close to the marking window boundary. To
improve the quality of the mark, the marker typically extends beyond the edge of the symbol before it returns to
print the next column of dots in the matrix. If the symbol is located such that the marker must move outside the
marking window, the system will issue the message: ERROR! QUIET AREA VIOLATION ! Usually two pixel spaces
(about 2½ times the dot diameter) between the window boundary and the top or bottom edge of the symbol is
sufficient to avoid errors. Refer to the Spacing parameter for details on pixel spacing. If applicable for your
marking system, refer also to the Overshoot parameter.
3-18 30341B.DOC
Matrix Symbol Parameters (continued)
FORMAT Press ENTER to toggle through the available selections. The Format parameter identifies the type of characters
contained in the text string. The formats and their allowable characters are:
ALPHANUMERIC+ .....uppercase alphanumeric and punctuation (A-Z, 0-9, space, comma, period, slash, hyphen)
ALPHANUMERIC .......uppercase alphanumeric (A-Z, 0-9, spaces)
ASCII............................full 128 ASCII character set (full keyboard)
8_BIT ...........................(user defined) This format must be selected to encode Extended ASCII characters
NUMERIC ....................numeric data (0-9, spaces)
ALPHABETIC..............uppercase alphabetic (A-Z, spaces)
ECC Press ENTER to toggle through the available selections. The ECC parameter allows you to select from six levels
of error correction. The different levels of error correction add varying amounts of redundancy to the matrix.
Redundancy data is randomly encoded with the text string to increase the system’s ability to recover from
damage. As you increase the level of error correction, the amount of redundancy is increased, as well as the
error correction overhead. The physical area required to print the matrix increases proportionally as the level of
redundancy increases.
The ECC selections and their corresponding overhead values are:
0 for square matrix symbols (no overhead)
50 for square matrix symbols ( +33% overhead)
200 for square or rectangular symbols (overhead varies with size of matrix)
Refer to the Code parameter for more information on square/rectangular matrix symbols.
CODE Press ENTER to toggle through the available selections. The Code parameter defines the geometric shape of the
matrix. Square matrix symbols have an equal number of rows and columns. Rectangular matrix symbols are
constructed in one of six pre-defined formats:
SQUARE Equal number of rows and columns
8 X 18 8 rows, 18 columns
30341B.DOC 3-19
ANG (angle) Specify the angle that you wish to rotate the
symbol about its anchor point. The 0° reference (no
rotation) is at the 3 o’clock position, increasing in the
counter-clockwise direction.
Systems that allow rotation in 1° increments

display the angle in brackets “[ ]”. Type in the
desired rotation angle.
Systems that allow only specific angle selections

display the angle in braces “< >”. Press ENTER to
toggle through the available selections.
The rotation also depends on the alignment parameters.
The X- and Y-alignment parameters define the anchor
point and determine which point the marker uses to
rotate the field.
METHOD Press ENTER to select the desired construction method: Spacing or Size. The system will use the either the
Spacing parameter value or the Size parameter value, as applicable (see below).
SPACING Enter the spacing dimension (in inches or millimeters) as

applicable). The Spacing parameter lets you control the
specific pixel spacing of the dots that make up the matrix. If
you know the diameter of the printed dot, set the spacing
equal to 125% of the dot diameter. The system will round off
the actual spacing value, based on the resolution of the
marker.
SIZE Enter the size dimension (in inches or millimeters, as

applicable). The Size parameter allows you to specify the
desired height of the printed matrix. The system
automatically calculates the pixel spacing of the dots and the
width of the printed symbol, rounding off the actual values,
based on the resolution of the marker. Note that the Size
parameter measures the distance between the center of the
lowest pixel and the center of the highest pixel.
3-20 30341B.DOC

FORCE SQUARE DIM
Enter: 0, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, or 32 (as applicable).
Notice: This parameter is used with square matrix symbols only (i.e., Code parameter set to SQUARE). If the
Code parameter specifies a rectangular matrix, the Force Square parameter value will be ignored.
The system always creates the smallest possible square matrix based on the number and type of characters in
the text string. The Force Square Dimension parameter allows you to increase the number of rows and columns
of the square matrix. You can only use the Force Square Dimension to increase the size of the matrix.
For example, suppose the system determines your message should print as an 18x18 matrix.
• You could set the Force Square to 20, 22, 24, 26, or 32. The system will force the same encoded
information to print at the larger matrix you specified (i.e., 20x20, 22x22, 24x24, 26x26, or 32x32).
• If you set the Force Square parameter to 0, the system will use the default size (in this case, 18x18).
SPEED (TMP3100 markers) The Speed bar controls the printing speed of the matrix symbol only. The selected speed
is relative to the overall marker speed. (see Marker Parameters) For example, setting the matrix speed to 100%
will print the matrix symbol at the same speed that it prints all other fields in the pattern; setting the matrix
speed to 50% will print the matrix symbol at ½ the specified marker speed. The asterisk (*) indicates the
selected speed from 10 to 100%. Press ENTER to increase the percentage or press CTRL/ENTER to decrease the
percentage. Higher rates will result in faster marking times. Slower rates will result in slower marking times,
but will improve the quality of the printed matrix symbol.
SPEED (all other markers) The Speed bar controls both the printing speed and the maximum (large move) speed for
the matrix symbol. This parameter setting does not affect any other printable field in the pattern, including other
matrix symbols. This speed setting is independent for each matrix symbol.
IMPORTANT! Remember that the selected speed for the matrix symbol is relative to the overall marker speed
settings. See Setting Marker Parameters. For example, if you set the matrix speed to 100%, it will use the same
printing speed and the same maximum speed as defined for the marker. If you set the matrix speed to 50%, it
will print the matrix symbol at ½ the marker-defined printing speed and execute large moves for the matrix at ½
the marker-defined maximum speed.
The asterisk (*) indicates the selected speed from 10 to 100%. Press ENTER to increase the percentage or press
CTRL/ENTER to decrease the percentage. Higher rates result in faster marking times; slower rates result in
slower marking times, but will improve the quality of the printed symbol.
QUALITY (this parameter is not available on all marking systems) For certain types of markers, you can specify a
more precise resolution for the marker use when printing this data matrix symbol. Choose Standard or Fine.
Standard resolution provides a faster marking time with acceptable quality and readability. Fine resolution
produces more accurate dot-placement for exceptional quality and readability, but requires a longer marking
time.
30341B.DOC 3-21

OVERSHOOT (this parameter is not available on all marking systems) The Overshoot parameter defines how far the
marker will extend beyond the edge of the symbol before it returns to print the next column of dots in the
matrix. Overshooting allows for more accurate dot placement, but requires more time to mark the symbol.
The parameter specifies an overshoot factor based on the constructed size of the symbol. Enter the desired
overshoot value (0 through 10).
Notice: If the value of the Overshoot parameter would cause the marker to move beyond the limits of
the marking window, the system will issue an error message when you test the pattern or
attempt to print the pattern.
BIDIRECTIONAL (this parameter is not available on all marking systems) Press ENTER to select the method of matrix
printing: (bidirectional) OFF or ON. When bidirectional printing is OFF (the default), the system prints the
matrix in one direction only. This is a much more accurate, but slower, method of printing the symbol. When
bidirectional printing is ON, the system prints the matrix in two directions, just as it would for any other
object. This is a faster, but less accurate, method of printing the symbol.
θ (If Theta-axis is enabled) The Theta-anchor parameter defines Theta-axis coordinate where the field will be placed
on the rotational axis. The coordinate is relative to the Theta Home position (0°). Enter the desired Theta-axis
coordinate (amount of rotation) or use the Design Jog feature. See Design Jog.
3-22 30341B.DOC
Matrix Limitations
The number of characters and the type of characters in the text string determine the minimum size of the matrix. If you
choose a square matrix, the system will automatically create the smallest possible square matrix. Refer to Table 3-1.
Refer to the Force Square Dimension parameter for more information on square matrix options. If you choose a rectangular
matrix, you must decide which size matrix the system creates. The Code parameter (rectangular composition of the matrix)
and the Format parameter (content of the text string) determine the maximum number of characters in the rectangular
matrix symbols. Refer to Table 3-2.
Table 3-1. Maximum Characters – Square Matrices
Code Parameter = Maximum Number of Characters in Matrix *

SQUARE
Format Parameter = Format Parameter = Format Parameter =
NUMERIC ALPHANUMERIC 8-BIT
10 x 10 6 3 1
12 x 12 10 6 3
14 x 14 16 10 6
16 x 16 24 16 10
18 x 18 36 25 16
20 x 20 44 31 20
22 x 22 60 43 28
24 x 24 72 52 34
26 x 26 88 64 42
32 x 32 124 91 60
36 x 36 172** 127 84
40 x 40 228** 169** 112
* ECC parameter set to 200

** maximum allowable Telesis text string is 160 characters
Table 3-2. Maximum Character – Rectangular Matrices
Code Parameter = Maximum Number of Characters in Matrix *

(see below)
Format Parameter = Format Parameter = Format Parameter =
NUMERIC ALPHANUMERIC 8-BIT
8 x 18 10 6 3
8 x 32 20 13 8
12 x 26 32 22 14
12 x 36 44 31 20
16 x 36 64 46 30
16 x 48 98 72 47
* ECC parameter set to 200
30341B.DOC 3-23
QR Code Symbols

A QR Code object allows you to define a text message, encode it as a two-dimensional, machine-readable symbol, and print it
as part of your pattern. The QR Code symbol is created using encoding algorithms based on the International Standard
ISO/IEC 18004. The QR Code Editor Screen provides several parameters for defining and formatting the encoded message.
Notice: Successful reading of the QR Code symbol is critically dependent on its printed construction. Optimally, the dots
that comprise the symbol should almost touch. Proper construction requires a special relationship between the
diameter of the printed dot and the spacing between the printed dots.
TEXT The Text parameter defines what information will be encoded into the symbol. It may including uppercase
characters, certain keyboard symbols, blank spaces, and special message flags. The content of the text string will
require you to set the Mode parameter (below) to match the type of characters in the string. Additionally, the
combination of the Mode parameter selection and the length of the text string will affect the geometric
construction of the resulting symbol (e.g., 21x21, 25x25, 29x29, etc.). The maximum number of characters that
may be encoded in any Telesis QR Code symbol is 160. See QR Code Limitations for details.

symbol will be positioned at the X-axis coordinate.
below).
ALIGN_Y (shown as < T >)

Press ENTER to toggle through the available selections: T (top edge), M (middle), or B (bottom edge). The
Y-alignment parameter defines how the symbol will be positioned at the Y-axis coordinate.
I M P O R T A N T: Avoid placing the QR Code symbol too close to the marking window boundary. To
print the next column of dots. If the symbol is located such that the marker must move outside the marking
window, the system will issue the message: ERROR! QUIET AREA VIOLATION ! Usually two pixel spaces (about
2½ times the dot diameter) between the window boundary and the top or bottom edge of the symbol is sufficient
to avoid errors. Refer to the Spacing parameter for details on pixel spacing. Refer also to the Overshoot parameter.
3-24 30341B.DOC
QR Code Symbol Parameters (continued)
MODE Press ENTER to toggle through the available selections. The Mode parameter identifies the type of characters
8_BIT ...........................(user defined) The data is encoded at 8-bits per characters.
Note: This mode must be selected to encode Extended ASCII characters
NUMERIC ....................numeric data: 0-9
ALPHANUMERIC .......uppercase alphanumeric data: A-Z 0-9 space $ * % + – . / :
EcLEVEL Press ENTER to toggle through the available selections. The EcLevel (error correction) parameter lets you select
one of four error correction levels. Each level provides a specific degree of recovery that allows the symbol to
withstand damage without the loss of data. The system generates error correction code words that are
embedded in the symbol. The code words can correct erasures (invalid code words at known locations) and
errors (invalid code words at unknown locations). Higher error correction levels generate more code words. This
creates more overhead for the symbol and may require a larger symbol format to encode the data.
The EcLevel selections and their corresponding recovery capacities are listed below:
L 7% recovery capacity
M 15% recovery capacity
Q 25% recovery capacity
H 30% recovery capacity
Type in the desired rotation angle.

rotate the field.
30341B.DOC 3-25
QR Code Symbol Parameters (continued)

specific pixel spacing of the dots that make up the symbol. If
marker.

desired height of the printed symbol. The system
SPEED The Speed bar controls both the printing speed and the maximum (large move) speed for the QR Code symbol.
This parameter setting does not affect any other printable field in the pattern, including other QR Code symbols.
This speed setting is independent for each symbol.
IMPORTANT! Remember that the selected speed for the symbol is relative to the overall marker speed
settings. See Setting Marker Parameters. For example, if you set the symbol printing speed to 100%, it will use
the same printing speed and the same maximum speed as defined for the marker. If you set the symbol printing
speed to 50%, it will print the symbol at ½ the marker-defined printing speed and execute large moves for the
symbol at ½ the marker-defined maximum speed.
3-26 30341B.DOC
FORCE VERSION
Enter: 0, 1, 2, 3… 40 (as applicable).
The Force Version parameter allows you to define the physical construction of the symbol. Each selection
corresponds to a specific QR Code version that determines the number of rows and columns in the symbol,
where:
1 = 21x21 9 = 53x53 17 = 85x85 25 = 117x117 33 = 149x149

2 = 25x25 10 = 57x57 18 = 89x89 26 = 121x121 34 = 153x153
3 = 29x29 11 = 61x61 19 = 93x93 27 = 125x125 35 = 157x157
4 = 33x33 12 = 65x65 20 = 97x97 28 = 129x129 36 = 165x165
5 = 37x37 13 = 69x69 21 = 101x101 29 = 133x133 37 = 165x165
6 = 41x41 14 = 73x73 22 = 105x105 30 = 137x137 38 = 169x169
7 = 45x45 15 = 77x77 23 = 109x109 31 = 141x141 39 = 173x173
8 = 49x49 16 = 81x81 24 = 113x113 32 = 145x145 40 = 177x177
If the Force Version parameter is set to 0 (zero), the system will create the smallest possible symbol based on
the type of characters and the number if characters in the text string.
The Force Version parameter only allows you to increase the number of rows and columns of the symbol. If you
select a version that is too small to properly encode the string, the system will automatically override your
selection and create the smallest possible symbol based on the given data.
For example, suppose the system determines your message should print as an 29x29 symbol.
• If you set the Force Version parameter to 0, the system will use smallest possible size (in this case, 29x29).
• You could set the Force Version to any value greater than 3. The system will force the same encoded
information to print at the larger version you specified (i.e., 33x33, 37x37, 41x41, 45x45… etc.).
• If you set the Force Version parameter to 1 or 2, the system will override your selection since it would be too
small to encode the date. Instead, it would use smallest possible size (in this case, 29x29).
Refer to QR Code Limitations for the maximum number of characters each version may encode.
BIDIRECTIONAL Press ENTER to select toggle bidirectional printing ON or OFF for the QR Code symbol. When bidirectional
printing is OFF (the default), the system prints the symbol in one direction only. This is a much more
accurate, but slower, method of printing the symbol. When bidirectional printing is ON, the system prints the
symbol in two directions, just as it would for any other object. This is a faster, but less accurate, method of
printing the symbol.
OVERSHOOT The Overshoot parameter defines how far the marker will extend beyond the edge of the symbol before it
returns to print the next column of dots. Overshooting allows for more accurate dot placement, but requires
more time to mark the symbol. The parameter specifies an overshoot factor based on the constructed size of
the symbol. Enter the desired overshoot value (0 through 10).
θ (If Theta-axis is enabled) The Theta-anchor parameter defines Theta-axis coordinate where the QR Code symbol
will be placed on the rotational axis. The coordinate is relative to the Theta Home position (0°). Enter the desired
30341B.DOC 3-27
QR Code Symbol Limitations

The maximum number of characters that a QR Code symbol may encode is limited by the following factors.
• the physical construction of the symbol (see Force Version parameter)
• the type of characters encoded (see Mode parameter)
• the level of error correction (see EcLevel parameter).
The following table lists the maximum number of characters each QR Code version may encode for each character set
(Numeric, Alphanumeric, and 8_Bit).
NOTICE
Data in this chart is based on symbols using the lowest error correction level (L) which
allows the maximum amount of encoded data. For each symbol version, the encoded
data capacity decreases as the error correction level increases.
Table 3-3. Maximum Characters – QR Code Symbols

Maximum Number of Encoded Characters
Version Rows x Columns Numeric Alphanumeric 8_Bit
0 * 160** 160** 160**
1 21 x 21 41 25 17
2 25 x 25 77 47 32
3 29 x 29 127 77 53
4 33 x 33 187 114 78
5 37 x 37 255 154 106
6 41 x 41 322 195 134
7 45 x 45 370 224 154
8 49 x 49 461 279 192
9 53 x 53 552 335 230
10 57 x 57 652 395 271
11 61 x 61 772 468 321
12 65 x 65 883 535 367
13 69 x 69 1,022 619 425
14 73 x 73 1,101 667 458
15 77 x 77 1,250 758 520
16 81 x 81 1,408 854 586
17 85 x 85 1,548 938 644
18 89 x 89 1,725 1,046 718
19 93 x 93 1,903 1,153 792
20 97 x 97 2,061 1,249 858
21 101 x 101 2,232 1,352 929
22 105 x 105 2,409 1,460 1,003
23 109 x 109 2,620 1,588 1,091
24 113 x 113 2,812 1,704 1,171
25 117 x 117 3,057 1,853 1,273
26 121 x 121 3,283 1,990 1,367
27 125 x 125 3,517 2,132 1,465
28 129 x 129 3,669 2,223 1,528
29 133 x 133 3,909 2,369 1,628
30 137 x 137 4,158 2,520 1,732
31 141 x 141 4,417 2,677 1,840
32 145 x 145 4,686 2,840 1,952
33 149 x 149 4,965 3,009 2,068
34 153 x 153 5,253 3,183 2,188
35 157 x 157 5,529 3,351 2,303
36 161 x 161 5,836 3,537 2,431
37 165 x 165 6,153 3,729 2,563
38 169 x 169 6,479 3,927 2,699
39 173 x 173 6,743 4,087 2,809
40 177 x 177 7,089 4,269 2,953
** The system automatically creates the smallest possible symbol based on mode and content.
** The maximum number of characters that may be encoded in any Telesis QR Code symbol is 160.
3-28 30341B.DOC
MicroQR Code Symbols

A MicroQR Code object allows you to define a text message, encode it as a two-dimensional, machine-readable symbol, and
print it as part of your pattern. The MicroQR Code symbol is created using encoding algorithms based on the International
Standard ISO/IEC 18004. The MicroQR Code Editor Screen provides several parameters for defining and formatting the
encoded message.
Notice: Successful reading of the MicroQR Code symbol is critically dependent on its printed construction. Optimally, the
dots that comprise the symbol should almost touch. Proper construction requires a special relationship between
the diameter of the printed dot and the spacing between the printed dots.
TEXT The Text parameter defines what information will be encoded into the symbol. It may including uppercase
characters, certain keyboard symbols, blank spaces, and special message flags. The content of the text string will
require you to set the Mode parameter (below) to match the type of characters in the string. Additionally, the
combination of the Mode parameter selection and the length of the text string will affect the geometric
construction of the resulting symbol (e.g., 11x11, 13x13, 15x15, or 17x17). The maximum number of characters
that may be encoded in any Telesis MicroQR Code symbol is 35. See MicroQR Code Limitations for details.

symbol will be positioned at the X-axis coordinate.
below).
ALIGN_Y (shown as < T >)

Press ENTER to toggle through the available selections: T (top edge), M (middle), or B (bottom edge). The
Y-alignment parameter defines how the symbol will be positioned at the Y-axis coordinate.
I M P O R T A N T: Avoid placing the MicroQR Code symbol too close to the marking window boundary. To
print the next column of dots. If the symbol is located such that the marker must move outside the marking
window, the system will issue the message: ERROR! QUIET AREA VIOLATION ! Usually two pixel spaces (about
2½ times the dot diameter) between the window boundary and the top or bottom edge of the symbol is sufficient
to avoid errors. Refer to the Spacing parameter for details on pixel spacing. Refer also to the Overshoot parameter.
30341B.DOC 3-29
MicroQR Code Symbol Parameters (continued)
MODE Press ENTER to toggle through the available selections. The Mode parameter identifies the type of characters
NUMERIC.................... numeric data: 0-9
ALPHANUMERIC....... uppercase alphanumeric data: A-Z 0-9 space $ * % + – . / :
8_BIT ........................... (user defined) The data is encoded at 8-bits per characters.
Note: This mode must be selected to encode Extended ASCII characters
EcLEVEL Press ENTER to toggle through the available selections. The EcLevel (error correction) parameter lets you select
one of four error correction levels. Each level provides a specific degree of recovery that allows the symbol to
withstand damage without the loss of data. The system generates error correction code words that are
embedded in the symbol. The code words can correct erasures (invalid code words at known locations) and
errors (invalid code words at unknown locations). Higher error correction levels generate more code words. This
creates more overhead for the symbol and may require a larger symbol format to encode the data.
The EcLevel selections and their corresponding recovery capacities are listed below:
L 7% recovery capacity
M 15% recovery capacity
Q 25% recovery capacity
Type in the desired rotation angle.

rotate the field.
3-30 30341B.DOC
MicroQR Code Symbol Parameters (continued)

specific pixel spacing of the dots that make up the symbol. If
marker.

desired height of the printed symbol. The system
SPEED The Speed bar controls both the printing speed and the maximum (large move) speed for the MicroQR Code
symbol. This parameter setting does not affect any other printable field in the pattern, including other MicroQR
Code symbols. This speed setting is independent for each symbol.
IMPORTANT! Remember that the selected speed for the symbol is relative to the overall marker speed
settings. See Setting Marker Parameters. For example, if you set the symbol printing speed to 100%, it will use
the same printing speed and the same maximum speed as defined for the marker. If you set the symbol printing
speed to 50%, it will print the symbol at ½ the marker-defined printing speed and execute large moves for the
symbol at ½ the marker-defined maximum speed.
30341B.DOC 3-31
FORCE VERSION
Enter: 0, 1, 2, 3, or 4 (as applicable).
The Force Version parameter allows you to define the physical construction of the symbol. Each selection
corresponds to a specific MicroQR Code version that determines the number of rows and columns in the symbol,
where:
1 = 11x11
2 = 13x13
3 = 15x15
4 = 17x17
If the Force Version parameter is set to 0 (zero), the system will create the smallest possible symbol based on
the type of characters and the number if characters in the text string.
The Force Version parameter only allows you to increase the number of rows and columns of the symbol. If you
select a version that is too small to properly encode the string, the system will automatically override your
selection and create the smallest possible symbol based on the given data.
For example, suppose the system determines your message should print as an 13x13 symbol.
• If you set the Force Version parameter to 0, the system will use smallest possible size (in this case, 13x13).
• You could set the Force Version to any value greater than 2. The system will force the same encoded
information to print at the larger version you specified (i.e., 15x15 or 17x17).
• If you set the Force Version parameter to 1, the system will override your selection since it would be too small
to encode the date. Instead, it would use smallest possible size (in this case, 13x13).
Refer to MicroQR Code Limitations for the maximum number of characters each version may encode.
BIDIRECTIONAL Press ENTER to select toggle bidirectional printing ON or OFF for the MicroQR Code symbol. When bidirectional
printing is OFF (the default), the system prints the symbol in one direction only. This is a much more
accurate, but slower, method of printing the symbol. When bidirectional printing is ON, the system prints the
symbol in two directions, just as it would for any other object. This is a faster, but less accurate, method of
printing the symbol.
OVERSHOOT The Overshoot parameter defines how far the marker will extend beyond the edge of the symbol before it
returns to print the next column of dots. Overshooting allows for more accurate dot placement, but requires
more time to mark the symbol. The parameter specifies an overshoot factor based on the constructed size of
the symbol. Enter the desired overshoot value (0 through 10).
θ If the Theta-axis is enabled, the this parameter defines the Theta-axis coordinate where the MicroQR Code symbol
will be placed on the rotational axis. The coordinate is relative to the Theta Home position (0°). Enter the desired
3-32 30341B.DOC
MicroQR Code Symbol Limitations

The maximum number of characters that a MicroQR Code symbol may encode is limited by the following factors.
• the physical construction of the symbol (see Force Version parameter)
• the type of characters encoded (see Mode parameter)
• the level of error correction (see EcLevel parameter).
The following table lists the maximum number of characters each MicroQR Code version may encode for each character set
(Numeric, Alphanumeric, and 8_Bit).
NOTICE
Data in this chart is based on symbols using the lowest error correction level (L) which
allows the maximum amount of encoded data. For each symbol version, the encoded
data capacity decreases as the error correction level increases.
Table 3-4. Maximum Characters – MicroQR Code Symbols

Maximum Number of Encoded Characters
Version Rows x Columns Numeric Alphanumeric 8_Bit
0 * 35** 21 15
1*** 11 x 11 5 – –
2 13 x 13 10 6 –
3 15 x 15 23 14 9
4 17 x 17 35 21 15
*** The system automatically creates the smallest possible symbol based on mode and content.
*** The maximum number of characters that may be encoded in any MicroQR Code symbol is 35.
*** EcLevel (error correction level) = Error Detection only.
30341B.DOC 3-33
Goto Commands
You can design your patterns to include a Go-To field. When a Go-To field is encountered, the marker will move from its
current location to the new location defined by the field. This is useful when you need to move the marker around obstacles
in the marking window. No marking is performed by the Go-To field — only movement.
X The X parameter defines the X-axis coordinate where the marker will move when the Go-To field is encountered.
The X-axis coordinate is relative to the marking window origin (0,0). Enter the desired X-axis coordinate or use
the Design Jog feature. See Design Jog.
Y The Y parameter defines the Y-axis coordinate where the marker will move when the Go-To field is encountered.
The Y-axis coordinate is relative to the marking window origin (0,0). Enter the desired Y-axis coordinate or use
the Design Jog feature. See Design Jog.
Z (this parameter is not available on all marking systems) (If Z-axis is enabled) The Z parameter defines the
Z-axis (vertical) coordinate where the marker will move when the Go-To field is encountered. The Z-axis
coordinate is relative to the vertical axis origin (0.00). Enter the desired Z-axis coordinate or use the Design Jog
feature. See Design Jog.
θ (this parameter is not available on all marking systems) (If Theta-axis is enabled) The θ parameter defines
the Theta-axis (rotational) coordinate where the marker will move when the Go-To field is encountered. The
Theta-axis coordinate is relative to the rotational Home position (0°). Enter the desired Theta-axis coordinate or
use the Design Jog feature. See Design Jog.
X/Y, Z, θ PRIORITY (this parameter is not available on all marking systems) (If Z-axis or Theta-axis is enabled)
Select the Priority parameter box for each axis and enter the applicable priority number: 1, 2, or 3. The Priority
parameters allow you to assign priorities to the movements that make up the Go-To field. These priorities
determine which axis moves first, then second, and so on. The priorities apply to the specific Go-To field in
which they are defined. You can set different priorities for each Go-To field in the pattern to properly position
the marker and its integrated accessories for that particular move.
Notice: If two (or more) axes are assigned the same priority, the system will move those devices in the
following sequence: Z, Theta, X/Y.
Pause Commands
You can program the marking system to pause during the printing cycle by including a Pause field in the pattern. The Pause
field will suspend marking operation until the system receives another Start Print command.
When you add a Pause field to the pattern, the system automatically places it at the end of the list of fields already defined.
Although a Pause field contains no parameters, you may wish to move it to a different location in the pattern. Reposition
the Pause field to a location in the list where it will be most effective. See Managing Patterns for details.
3-34 30341B.DOC
USING CODES AND REAL-TIME DATA

The system allows you to include special message flags in your text strings to insert real-time data into the printed pattern.
The system provides a wide variety of message flags to insert such things as times, dates, and serial numbers. Certain
flags allow operators to supply data during the print cycle; others allow you to encode the year, month, or work shift in the
printed text.
The message flags consists of the % sign followed the flag character. The flag character is case-sensitive, so be sure to use
upper- or lowercase characters, as appropriate. Serial number and variable text message flags allow you to specify an
integer value (e.g., %5S). The integer indicates the maximum number of characters the inserted data may occupy. Query
text message flags also use an integer (1, 2, or 3) to identify the query text buffer.
Table 3-5 lists the various flags that may be used. Special message flags are explained in the following paragraphs.
Table 3-5. Message Flags
FLAG DATA INSERTED INTO MESSAGE FOR PRINTING

%A Abbreviated Weekday (Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun)
%B Abbreviated Month (Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec)
%C Date and Time (MM/DD/YY HH:MM)
%D Day of the Month (01 - 31)
%E User Year Code (see Coded Information)
%F Single Character Check Digit for PS-OCR (see Error Checking)
%G Double Character Check Digit for PS-OCR (see Error Checking)
%H Hour of the Day (00 - 23)
%I Hour of the Day (00 - 12)
%J Julian Day of the Year (001 - 366)
%K Month Code (1 - 9, O, N, D)
%L Last Digit of the Year (0 - 9)
%M Month (01 - 12)
%N Minutes of the Hour (00 – 59)
%#O Omni Serial Number (see Serial Numbers)
%#o Omni Serial Number (see Serial Numbers)
%P AM or PM
%#Q Inserts text from the Query Text look-up table (see Operator-entered Text)
%#q Inserts titles from the Query Text look-up table (see Operator-entered Text)
%R Week Number (01 - 53) [ week 01 is week containing January 1]
%r Week Number (01 - 53) [ week 01 is week containing first Thursday of new year ]
%#S Pattern Serial Number (see Serial Numbers)
%#s Pattern Serial Number (see Serial Numbers)
%T Time (HH:MM)
%U User Month Code (see Coded Information)
%#V Variable Text (see Operator-entered Text)
%#v Variable Text (see Operator-entered Text)
%W Weekday (where: 1 = Sunday... 7 = Saturday)
%w Weekday (where: 1 = Monday... 7 = Sunday)
%X Date (MM/DD/YY)
%Y Year (00 - 99)
%Z User Shift Code (see Coded Information)
%% Prints the percent (%) sign
%#= Inserts the current text string from the specified field number (#) into the field containing this flag
%#@ Prints the ASCII character specified by the # sign (e.g., 65=A). Typically used with custom fonts.
30341B.DOC 3-35
General Information
The total field length, which includes the data to be inserted by the flag, is limited to 160 characters. Be sure to account for
the expanded length as the system software inserts the data into the field. Don’t forget to include appropriate spaces
before or after the message flag if you want to separate the inserted from the data adjacent text.
Operator-Entered Text
The system provides two ways for operators to enter data into a pattern: query text flags and variable text flags.
Query Text. A system-level feature since its use may affect more than one pattern.
See Query Text (Section 4) for details.
Variable Text. A pattern-level feature since its use affects only the field in which it is defined.
The variable text flag may be placed in the text string by itself, or may be included as part of text string. Variable text
flags may use the following formats: %#V or %#v
where:
# is an integer that defines the maximum number of characters that may be entered
Notice: Variable text fields are limited to 160 characters. (i.e., %160V or %160v)
V uppercase variable text flag. The field will be padded with blanks if the operator enters fewer characters
than the maximum defined for the field.
v lowercase variable text flag. The field will not be padded with blanks if the operator enters fewer characters
than the maximum defined for the field.
Examples. Consider the following variable text flags, the operator input, and the resulting output:
Field Defined As: Operator Enters: Marker Prints:

SAMPLE_%5VABC 12345 SAMPLE_12345ABC
SAMPLE_%5VABC 123 SAMPLE_123 ABC
SAMPLE_%5vABC 12345 SAMPLE_12345ABC
SAMPLE_%5vABC 123 SAMPLE_123ABC
Instructions. To add variable text to your pattern:

1. Create or edit a text field, arc text field, or matrix field (as applicable).
2. From the Editor Screen, move the cursor to the Text field parameter.
3. Type the appropriate variable text flag into the field where you want to insert the operator-entered text.
4. When finished editing the other field parameters, press F1 (ACCEPT) to store the parameters settings.
The system will display a screen similar to the following:
Initial User Text For Field # 1
[xxxx ]
F1–SAVE Clear:<OFF>
Defining a Variable Text Flag
3-36 30341B.DOC
5. In the center text box, [xxxx ], type the initial text for the variable text flag (or leave blank if you prefer).
6. Press TAB to select the Clear parameter and press ENTER to toggle this option ON or OFF.
On will erase (clear) the operator-entered text after the pattern prints.
Off will retain the operator-entered text until manually cleared or edited.
7. Press F1 (SAVE) to store the variable text data and return to the Editor Screen.
Serial Numbers
The system provides two types of serial numbers: omni serial numbers and pattern serial numbers.
Omni Serial Number. A system-level feature since its use may affect more than one pattern.
See Omni Serial Numbers (Section 4) for more information and additional options.
Pattern Serial Number. A pattern-level feature since its use affects only the pattern in which it’s defined.
See Setting Pattern Parameters for more information and additional options.
The serial number flags may be placed in the text string by itself, or may be included as part of text string.
Omni serial number flags may use the following formats: %#O, %O, %#o, or %o
Pattern serial number flags may use the following formats: %#S, %S, %#s, or %s
where:
# is an optional integer (1 through 9). If an integer is used, the system prints the specified number of
characters and will pad the serial number with spaces or zeros as applicable (see below). If an integer is
omitted, the system will not pad the serial number
O or S uppercase Omni (O) or Pattern (S) serial number flag. The system will pad the serial number with zeros if
an integer value is specified.
o or s lowercase Omni (o) or Pattern (s) serial number flag. The system will pad the serial number with spaces if
an integer value is specified.
Examples. Consider the following serial number flags and the resulting output for serial number “1”:
Field Defined As: Marker Prints: Field Defined As: Marker Prints:
OMNI_%5O OMNI_00001 PATTERN_%5S PATTERN_00001
OMNI_%5o OMNI_ 1 PATTERN_%5s PATTERN_ 1
OMNI_%O OMNI_1 PATTERN_%S PATTERN_1
OMNI_%o OMNI_1 PATTERN_%s PATTERN_1
Instructions. To add a serial number to your pattern:

1. Create or edit a text field, arc text field, or matrix field (as applicable).
2. From the Editor Screen, move the cursor to the Text field parameter.
3. Type the appropriate serial number flag into the field where you want to insert the serial number.
4. Save the field parameters settings and save the pattern.
30341B.DOC 3-37
Time and Date Insertion

The various time and date flags provide the ability to include the current time, date, or shift in the marked message. The
controller’s internal clock is the source of the date and time information. Simply include the desired flag in your text string,
where appropriate.
Coded Information
Certain flags allow you to define code characters that represent the current year, current month, or current work shift. The
system uses the controller’s internal clock and the appropriate look-up table to insert the code characters into the text
string. For details, see:
• Shift Codes (Section 4)
• Month Codes (Section 4)
• Year Codes (Section 4)
Error Checking
Special flags can be used to assist in error checking when your marked message will be read by a Telesis PS-OCR optical
character reader. The check character flags may be used to append a one- or two-digit character at the end of the text
field. The check characters are calculated by the system based on the hexadecimal sum of the characters in the text string.
The resulting checksum character is then inserted into the message. The PS-OCR can then read the text string, perform its
own checksum calculation, and verify that the check characters in the message match its calculated checksum results. The
%F and %G flags, if used, must be placed at the end of the text field. The %F flag inserts a single check character at the
end of the message. The %G flag inserts two check characters at the end of the message. The single check digit should be
used only when space constraints prohibit the use of two check characters.
SETTING PATTERN PARAMETERS

Certain parameters and options may be defined and stored with the pattern. Unlike system parameters that affect all
patterns and all operations, the pattern parameters affect only the currently loaded pattern. They do not affect other
patterns stored in the controller. The pattern parameters may be defined when the pattern is first created, or you may
change them afterward, as necessary.
Pattern Parameters are used to:
• define the pattern park position
• define the pattern anchor
• set the pattern serial number
• define default text parameters
• define Theta-axis parameters (printing mode, part diameter, mounting angle) as applicable
3-38 30341B.DOC
Park Position
Each pattern has a Park position that defines where the marker will move when the print cycle completes or when a Park
command is issued by the operator. The Park position may be different for each pattern and may include X-,Y-, Z-, and
Theta-axis coordinates, as applicable.
Note: If the Pattern Definition Screen is already displayed, begin at Step #4.
3. From the Design Pattern Screen, press F6 (DEFINE).
Pattern Definition SAMPLE_*

Park X : [0.000]in Y : [0.000]in
Anchor X : [0.000]in Y : [0.000]in
F1–ACCEPT F2–SN F3–TEXT DEF F4–ADJUST
Defining the X/Y-Park Position
4. Edit the Park X and Park Y parameters, as applicable.

Park X and Park Y parameters define the axis coordinates where the marking head will move when it finishes
printing the pattern. The coordinates are relative to the marking window origin (0,0). Enter the desired
coordinates or use the Design Jog feature. See Design Jog.
5. If your system has an optional Z- or Theta-axis enabled, press the PAGE DOWN key to display the next page.

Park Z:[0.000]in
Park θ:[0.000]degrees Mode θ:<Perp. >
Defining the Z- and Theta-Park Positions
Edit the Park Z and Park θ parameters, as applicable .

Park Z defines the Z-axis (vertical) coordinate where the marker will move when the marker parks. The Z-axis
coordinate is relative to the vertical axis origin (0.00). Enter the desired Z-axis coordinate or use the Design Jog
feature. See Design Jog.
Park θ defines the Theta-axis (rotational) coordinate where the marker will move when the Go-To field is
encountered. The Theta-axis coordinate is relative to the rotational Home position (0°). Enter the desired Theta-
axis coordinate or use the Design Jog feature. See Design Jog.
6. Press F1 (ACCEPT) to store the changes.

7. Press F2 (SAVE) to save the changes to the pattern, then press F1 (ACCEPT) to confirm.
30341B.DOC 3-39
Pattern Anchor
Each pattern has a defined anchor location that establishes its base reference point relative to the marking window. When
you create a pattern, the system uses factory default values to define the anchor coordinates. Normally, the pattern anchor
location never needs to be changed. However, by changing the pattern anchor, you can effectively reposition all fields in
the pattern at the same time.
Suppose you’ve already defined the fields in your pattern and discover they all need to be adjusted. Maybe you are satisfied
with their relative layout, but they all need to be shifted (up, down, left, or right) by the same amount. You could edit each
field to redefine its X- and Y-axis coordinates, or you could simply adjust the pattern anchor and let the system software do
the work for you.
When you redefine and adjust the pattern anchor, the system will move the first field of the pattern to the new anchor
location. It will also move all other fields by the same amount. This effectively lets you treat all of the fields as a group so
that when they are moved (adjusted), they maintain their relative position to each other.
3-40 30341B.DOC

Park X : [0.000]in Y : [0.000]in
Anchor X : [0.000]in Y : [0.000]in
Defining the Pattern Anchor
4. Edit the Anchor X and Anchor Y parameters, as applicable.

The X and Y parameters define the axis coordinates of the pattern anchor within the marking window. The coordinates
are relative to the marking window origin (0,0). Enter the desired coordinates or use the Design Jog feature. See
Design Jog.
5. Press F4 (ADJUST).
The system will display the following prompt:
Adjust Anchor for this pattern?
Press F1 (YES) to adjust all fields in the current pattern.
Press F2 (NO) to leave all fields in the current pattern unchanged.
The system will return to the Pattern Definition Screen.

7. Test the pattern to ensure all fields remain within the marking window. See Managing Patterns.
30341B.DOC 3-41
Default Text Parameters

When you create a text field, the system automatically supplies certain default parameter values. These parameters control
the size, shape, and appearance of the printed text. You can change the defaults values for these parameters so that new
text fields will automatically use your specific settings when they are created.
Changing the default text parameters does not automatically affect existing text fields -- only newly created ones.
Optionally, however, you can adjust the existing text fields to use the new default values.
4. From the Pattern Definition Screen, press F3 (TEXT DEF).
Default SAMPLE_* –Height : [0.125]in

Font < 5x7 > Width : [0.083]in
Mode <DOT > [100] Pitch : [0.125]in
F1–ACCEPT F2–ADJUST Spacing: [0.187]in
Defining Default Text Parameters
5. Edit the text parameters, as applicable.
HEIGHT Enter the desired character height (in inches or millimeters, as applicable). See Design Considerations for
more information.
If you want the system to automatically calculate the recommended width and pitch (below), type in the
desired character height, then press ENTER. The system will automatically set the width and pitch
values.
If you want to set a specific width and pitch, type in the desired character height, then press the TAB
key. The system will leave the width and pitch parameters unchanged so that you may set their values.
WIDTH Enter the desired character width (in inches or millimeters, as applicable). See Design Considerations for more
information.
3-42 30341B.DOC
PITCH Enter the desired character pitch (in inches or millimeters, as applicable). Pitch defines the distance from the
start of one character to the start of the next character. See Design Considerations for more information.
SPACING Enter the desired vertical space (line spacing) between the fields when the pattern is printed.
FONT Press ENTER to toggle through the available font selections. The software will display only the fonts
available for your particular marking system. The Font parameter defines the character set that will be
used to print the character string. See Design Considerations for details.
MODE Press ENTER to toggle through the available selections. The Mode parameter defines the printing mode that
will be used to mark the field. See Design Considerations for more information.
[100 ] (density) If you choose Continuous printing mode (above), enter the desired pixel density (in pixels per inch
or per centimeter, as applicable). The pixel density determines how may “dots” the system will mark to form
the characters. Higher density values produce a more continuous appearance but will increase marking time
and pin wear. The system will print the characters using the specified pixel density or the minimum dots
required by the selected font, whichever is greater.
6. If you wish to apply the new text parameter values to existing fields in the current pattern, press F2 (ADJUST).
The system will display the following prompt:
Adjust text items for this pattern?
Press F1 (YES) to update the text fields in the current pattern.
Press F2 (NO) to leave text fields in the current pattern unchanged.

The system will return to the Default Text Screen.
7. Press F1 (ACCEPT) to exit the Default Text Screen.
30341B.DOC 3-43
Pattern Serial Number

A pattern serial number is stored in the pattern definition and applies only to the pattern in which it resides. Unlike the
omni serial number which is a system feature stored in permanent memory, the pattern serial number is independent of
other patterns’ serialization.
The pattern serial number is marked each time a field containing the %S flag is printed. The pattern serial number may be
set to increment each time the pattern is printed, or increment after each field containing a pattern serial number is printed.
When the serial number upper limit is reached, pattern serial numbers may be set to wrap (reset) to the lower limit or may
be set to halt printing operation until you take action to reset the number.
Notice: Remember to include the pattern serial number flag (%S) in your pattern’s text string(s), where appropriate.
See Using Codes and Real-time Data for details and additional serial number options.
To set the pattern serial number:
4. From the Pattern Definition Screen, press F2 (SN).
Pattern : SAMPLE_* Lower : [1 ]

Sn Mode : < WRAP > Upper : [999999 ]
Sn Incr : <PATTERN> Sn : [1 ]
F1–ACCEPT
Setting Pattern Serial Number Parameters
5. Edit the parameters, as applicable.
LOWER The minimum serial number value. Edit this parameter to define the lowest allowable serial number. The
system will use this value whenever the serial number is automatically reset.
UPPER The maximum serial number value. Edit this parameter to define the highest allowable serial number. When
the marker prints this serial number, the system will either suspend printing operation or automatically reset
the serial number to the lower limit, depending on the SN Mode parameter (below).
3-44 30341B.DOC
SN The current serial number value. Indicates the next serial number to be marked in fields that contain an
pattern serial number flag. Note that you can manually reset the pattern serial number at any time by
editing this parameter.
SN MODE (serial number mode) Press ENTER to toggle the available selections: Wrap or Halt. This parameter specifies
what action the system should take after printing the serial number upper limit.
Wrap. Select Wrap if you want the system to automatically reset the serial number to the lower limit. The
serial number will “wrap around” to the lower limit value and the system will continue printing.
Halt. Select Halt if you want the system to temporarily suspend printing operations. After the marker halts,
you must either load a new pattern or manually reset the serial number. See SN parameter, above.
SN INCR (serial number increment) Press ENTER to toggle the available selections: Pattern or Field. This parameter
specifies when the system should increment the pattern serial number.
Pattern. Choose Pattern to increase the serial number after the marker prints the pattern containing serial
number flags. This allows a pattern containing multiple serial number flags (in multiple text strings) to print
the same serial number in each field.
Field. Choose Field to increase the serial number after the marker prints the field containing a serial
number flag. This allows a pattern containing multiple serial number flags (in multiple text strings) to print
different serial numbers in each field.
6. Press F1 (ACCEPT) to exit the Pattern Serial Number Screen.
30341B.DOC 3-45
Optional Theta-axis

The Theta-axis Print Mode, Part Diameter, and Mounting Angle parameter settings are stored with the pattern. The
parameter values may be different for each pattern and apply only to the currently loaded pattern. They do not affect other
patterns stored in the controller. The Theta-axis pattern parameters may be defined when the pattern is first created, or you may
change them afterward, as necessary.
The following procedures assume the Telesis Rotary Drive Fixture and all related equipment has been properly installed,
connected, and enabled. Refer to the Auxiliary Axis Installation Supplement for details. Further, these procedures assume the
Theta-axis has been enabled for the marking system. Refer to Optional Theta-axis Configuration (Section 4) for details.
Defining the Theta Print Mode

The Theta mode parameter defines how the system will rotate the Theta-axis when the pattern is printed. Because this is a
pattern parameter, the selected method will apply to all objects printed by the pattern. However, you can override the
Theta mode selection when you print text fields. See Adding Fields to a Pattern for details.
4. From the Pattern Definition Screen, press the PAGE DOWN key.

Park Z:[0.000]in
Park θ:[0.000]degrees Mode θ:<Perp. >
Defining the Z- and Theta-Park Positions
5. Select the Mode θ parameter and toggle it to the desired selection: Perp, Index, or Off.
Perpendicular Mode (available only with Theta One RD5 drive unit) This is typically used to mark cylindrical
parts (e.g., pipe or tubing). The system substitutes normal movement along the Y-axis with rotational movement
about the Theta-axis. In Perpendicular Mode, the system rotates the Theta-axis while the marker is printing fields
(and may even rotate between printing pixels). This may result in slower marking times, but provides a high
quality mark since the impact pin is always perpendicular to the marking surface.
Index Mode is typically used to mark flat surfaces on square or hexagonal parts (e.g., sides of bolt heads). The
system rotates the Theta-axis a specific number of degrees to index the side of the part, marks the part, then
rotates (indexes) to the next side, and so on. In Index Mode, the system does not rotate the Theta-axis while the
marker is printing a field. It may, however, rotate between printing fields.
Off disables the Theta-axis features for this pattern. However, the system will still rotate the fixture to its Theta-
axis Home position when the machine is placed online.
6. Press F1 (ACCEPT) to store the parameter setting.

3-46 30341B.DOC
Defining the Part Diameter

The part diameter defines the size of the part being marked. Based on the diameter, the system calculates the rotational
distances necessary to mark the pattern around the circumference of the part. The part diameter is used with the
Perpendicular Marking Mode and, for text fields, with the Character Index Mode. It is not used with the Index Marking Mode
unless a text field is designed to override it. See Design Considerations for details.
1. From the Supervisor Main Screen, press F7 (SETUP).
2. From the Setup Screen, press SHIFT+F1 (AUX).
3. Press F2 (THETA) to access the rotational axis parameters.
Theta Type : < One > <Enable >

Part Diameter : [1.000 ]
Mounting Angle : [0.000 ]
F1–SAVE F2–DEFAULTS
Defining the Part Diameter
4. Press TAB to select the Part Diameter parameter and enter the appropriate diameter of the part to be marked.
Notice: If the part is irregular, measure the diameter nearest the area where it will be marked.
5. Press F1 (SAVE) to store the settings.
6. Press ESC, as required, to return to the Main Screen.
30341B.DOC 3-47
Defining the Mounting Angle

The mounting angle is determined by the installation of the rotary drive fixture. Typically, the fixture is mounted such that
the rotational axis is parallel to the X-axis of the marking window (0° mounting). The fixture may be mounted at other
angles to provide the best positioning of the part within the marking window. If so mounted, the Theta-axis parameters can
be configured to recognize a different angle.
Do not perform this procedure if the mounting angle is 0.000° (standard).
1. Place the marker online. (This will facilitate defining the mounting angle in subsequent steps.)

Defining the Mounting Angle
5. Press TAB to select the Mounting Angle parameter:
3-48 30341B.DOC
6. If you know the actual angular measurement, enter the value for the Mounting Angle parameter.
If you don’t know the mounting angle, use the following procedure to interactively define it.
Press the JOG key to interactively define two X/Y locations (Point A and Point B) along the length of the part to be
marked. See illustration.
a. Define Point A:
Jog the marker to position the impact pin
directly over the centerline of the part,
close to the chuck. (See illustration.)
Record the X-coordinate as X1.
Record the Y-coordinate as Y1.
b. Define Point B:
Jog the marker to position the impact pin
directly over the centerline of the part,
furthest from the chuck. (See
illustration.).
Record the X-coordinate as X2.
Record the Y-coordinate as Y2.
c. Press ESC to return to the Theta-axis Screen.
d. Substitute the X/Y coordinate values (recorded
above) into the equation (below):
tan = (Y2 - Y1) ÷ (X2 - X1)
The resulting value represents the tangent of
the Mounting Angle.
Using a trigonometric table or a scientific calculator, look up the exact angular measurement.
e. Enter the value of the mounting angle into the Mounting Angle parameter box.
30341B.DOC 3-49
EDITING A PATTERN
You can edit a pattern by changing the pattern parameters or by changing individual fields within the pattern. Additionally,
you can add, copy, insert, and delete fields from the pattern.
Changing Pattern Parameters

Certain parameters and options are stored with the pattern. The pattern parameters affect only the currently loaded
pattern. They do not affect other patterns stored in the controller. The pattern parameters may be defined when the pattern
is first created, or you may change them afterward, as necessary. See Setting Pattern Parameters for details.
Changing Field Parameters

Each field in the pattern is defined by a variety of parameters that control its printed location, appearance, and content. You
can change these parameters to redefine the field and its characteristics whenever necessary.

3. From the Design Pattern Screen, press F3 (EDIT).
4. Press the TAB key to move the cursor to the list of fields.
5. Press the ARROW DOWN or ARROW UP key to select the desired field.
6. With the field is selected, press ENTER.
7. Edit the field parameters, as applicable.
Refer to Adding Fields to a Pattern for parameter descriptions.
8. When finished editing the field, press F1 (ACCEPT).
9. Exit the Pattern Editor Screen and save the pattern.
Copying Fields
You may copy an existing field in a pattern, then edit the resulting (new) field to make it unique. At a minimum, you will
need to edit the new field’s X/Y-axis coordinates. Otherwise it will print in the same location as the field from which it was
copied.

6. Press CTRL+C to copy the field.
7. Press the ARROW DOWN or ARROW UP key to select the new location in the list of fields.
8. Press CTRL+V to paste the field.
9. Edit the new field parameters, as applicable.
10. When finished editing the new field, press F1 (ACCEPT).
3-50 30341B.DOC
Inserting Fields
Normally, the system adds fields to the end of the pattern list as they are defined. If you prefer, you can specify where the
new field will reside in the list by inserting it at the desired location.

4. Press ENTER to select the type of field you wish to insert.
6. Press the ARROW DOWN or ARROW UP key to select the desired field location.
7. Press the INS key.
8. Edit the new field parameters, as applicable.
9. When finished editing the field, press F1 (ACCEPT).
Deleting Fields
If you want to remove a field from the pattern:
6. Press the DEL key.
Changing the Print Order

The system prints a pattern, one field at a time, in the order listed on the Main Screen (or on the Pattern Editor Screen).
You can change the order of printing by rearranging the fields within the list.

6. Press CTRL+X to cut (remove) the field.
7. Press the ARROW DOWN or ARROW UP key to select the new location.
8. Press CTRL+V to paste the field.
30341B.DOC 3-51
MANAGING PATTERNS
The software provides many features for managing your patterns once they are defined. Once stored in the controller, you
may load them, test for errors, edit their content and layout, copy them (to create duplicates), or delete them if no longer
needed.
Testing a Pattern
You can test patterns to ensure all of the fields will print within the boundaries of the marking window. The system software
examines each field in the order they are defined. Error messages will be displayed if the system encounters a problem.
3. From the Design Pattern Screen, press F5 (TEST).
The system will check the fields in the pattern and display a screen similar to one of the following:
Pattern contains 0 errors. Field 01 – Range Error!
F1–ACCEPT F1–ACCEPT
4. Press F1 (ACCEPT) to return to the Design Pattern Screen.

5. If an error was discovered:
a. Edit the reported field, as required, to position it within the marking window. Slight changes to its location,
alignment, rotation, or character size may correct the problem.
b. Re-run the test to ensure there are no additional problems with this field, or other fields.
Saving/Naming a Pattern
New patterns and changes that you make to the pattern parameters or to fields of an existing pattern are not stored in
controller memory until you save them. You must save the pattern being edited before loading another pattern. Otherwise,
you will lose any changes you’ve made since it was last saved. You should make it a standard practice to periodically save
your pattern, especially during an extended period of editing.
Note… If a pattern will be remotely loaded using I/O signals, it must be named one of the reserved
pattern names. Refer to Remote Pattern Selection for details. Refer to the TMC420
Installation/Maintenance Manual for more information about this feature.
1. From the Design Pattern Screen, press F2 (SAVE).

2. When prompted to save the pattern:
Press F1 (SAVE) to save the pattern under its current name.
If you want to save the pattern under a different name:

a. Type the name of the new pattern into the text box.
b. Press F1 (SAVE) to save the pattern.
c. Press F1 (SAVE) to confirm.
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Viewing the Pattern Library

The Pattern Manager feature allows you to view the pattern library and check available memory in the controller.
2. From the Design Pattern Screen, press F7 (MANAGER).
Pattern Manager Mem Left : 44251

F1–SAMPLE_ONE 310
F2–SAMPLE_TWO 290
F3–SAMPLE_THREE 400
Pattern Manager Screen
The top line shows the amount of memory available (in bytes) for new patterns. The controller can store a
maximum of 75 patterns. The actual number is dependent on the content of the patterns -- less patterns as the
fields increase in size or complexity. Subsequent lines show the existing pattern names and, to their right, the
amount of memory they occupy.
If more than three patterns exist, press the PAGE DOWN key to view additional pattern names.
Use the PAGE DOWN and PAGE UP keys to scroll through the list of existing patterns.
3. Press ESC to exit the Pattern Manager Screen.

4. Press ESC to return to the Supervisor Main Screen.
Deleting a Pattern
The Pattern Manager feature allows you to delete patterns from the controller.
2. From the Design Pattern Screen, press F7 (MANAGER).
Pattern Manager Mem Left : 46000

F1–SAMPLE_ONE 310
F2–SAMPLE_TWO 290
F3–SAMPLE_THREE 400
Deleting a Pattern
3. Locate the desired pattern in the list of pattern names.

If the desired pattern is not shown, press the PAGE DOWN key to scroll the list.
4. When the desired pattern is displayed, press the appropriate key (F1, F2, or F3) to delete the pattern.
5. When prompted to delete the pattern, press F1 (YES).
6. Press ESC to exit the Pattern Manager Screen.
7. Press ESC to return to the Supervisor Main Screen.
30341B.DOC 3-53
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Section 4
System Configuration
Parameters and options that control the system configuration are universally applied during system operation. Unlike some
parameters that are stored with the pattern definition and apply only to a particular pattern, the system parameters apply
to all patterns and to all marker operations. This section provides instructions for setting the following system-level options
and parameters.
• Defining a password • Setting the time/date

• Defining query text • Setting units of measure
• Defining omni serial numbers • Setting startup parameters
• Defining shift codes • Setting host communications
• Defining month codes • Enabling remote pattern selection
• Defining year codes • Enabling/configuring the Z-axis
• Setting Marker Parameters • Enabling/configuring the Theta-axis
ACCESSING SYSTEM PARAMETERS

The software must be placed in Supervisor mode to change any of the system configuration settings.
DEFINING A PASSWORD
The Password feature allows you to define (or change) the access password for the Supervisor mode. This feature provides
a measure of security for commands and options that should not be accessed by operator-level personnel. Without the
proper password, access to the Supervisor Main Screen and its subsequent features will be denied.
2. From the Setup Screen, press F7 (PASS).
Passwords
Supervisor : [ ]
Defining a Password
3. Type the new password in the text box. Note that the password parameter is not case-sensitive.
or
Press F2 (DEFAULTS) to reset the password to its factory default setting (i.e., no password).
4. Press F1 (SAVE) to save the password.
30341B.DOC 4-1
MARKER PARAMETERS
The marker parameters allow you to set the software to match the physical configuration of your marking head.
Additionally, the marker parameters provide some control options for marker printing and movement.
2. From the Setup Screen, press F1 (MARKER).

Note: If you wish to reset the parameters to their factory settings, press F2 (DEFAULTS).
Marker Pin Type : < 25 >: 3.5

Pressure (psi ): < 80> / < 20>
Standoff (in) : [0.125 ]
Marker Parameters – Page 1
The first page marker parameters are described in the following paragraphs.
PRESSURE The Pressure parameters allow you to specify both the drive air and the return air pressure you
wish to use for your marking system.
Important ! Set the actual air pressures on the filter/regulator unit to match the chosen
parameter values. If the actual pressure cannot be set to the chosen parameter value, set the
parameter value to the next lower selection and print a sample. Then, change the parameter to
the next higher selection and print another sample. Examine both samples and use the
parameter settings that produce the most satisfactory result.
The first parameter (e.g., < 80>) defines the drive air pressure.
Press ENTER to toggle through the selections.
Choose: 40, 60, 80, or 100 psi. (2.8, 4.1, 5.5, 6.9 bars)
The second parameter (e.g., < 20>) defines the return air pressure.
Press TAB to select the parameter, then press ENTER to toggle through the selections.
Choose: 15, 20, 25, or 30 psi. (1, 1.4, 1.7, 2.1 bars)
4-2 30341B.DOC
STANDOFF Set this value to match the actual distance from the tip of the retracted pin to the surface to be
marked. This distance, also known as the pin stroke, should be set as close as possible to the
actual distance (within 10%). If set too close, the quality of the mark will be degraded; set too
far away, the marking time will be increased.
PIN TYPE Press ENTER to toggle through the available selections. The software will display only the pin
types available for your particular marking system. The Pin Type parameter identifies the
type of pin installed in your marker.
The Pin Type selection codes represent the following pin/pin cartridge configurations:
SELECTION PIN MATERIAL CARTRIDGE SIZE

25 25L Powdered Metal Standard
25C 25L Carbide Standard
25C-X 25L Carbide Extended
25CXL 25XL Carbide Standard
25CXL-X 25XL Carbide Extended
25L 25L Powdered Metal Standard
25LC 25L Carbide Standard
25LC-X 25L Carbide Extended
25L-X 25L Powdered Metal Extended
25S 25S Powdered Metal Standard
25SC 25S Carbide Standard
25-X 25L Powdered Metal Extended
25XL 25XL Powdered Metal Standard
25XLC 25XL Carbide Standard
25XLC-X 25XL Carbide Extended
25XL-X 25XL Powdered Metal Extended
Powdered Metal or
150S 150S Standard
Tool Steel with Carbide Tip
Powdered Metal or
150SA 150SA Standard
Tool Steel with Carbide Tip
MICRO 10MP Carbide Standard
Note: The integer to the right of the pin type is the On Time value calculated by the system. It
specifies the number of milliseconds the solenoid is energized to fire the impact pin. This value is for
reference only. It can not be edited.
30341B.DOC 4-3
4. Press the PAGE_DOWN key to display the next screen.
Marker Pulse Delay(ms): [50 ]

Home Print: <None > Abort Select: < >
Speed:<----* > Load Park: < >
Max :<---------* > F1-SAVE F2-DEFAULTS
The second page marker parameters are described below.
PULSE DELAY Set this value to define the delay (in milliseconds) between pin firings when you pulse the
marking pin (Maintenance Test). Normally, the pulse delay is set at 50 ms. However, if faster or
slower pulsing is desired, it may be reset (from 1 to 999 ms).
HOME PRINT Press ENTER to toggle through the available selections: Before, After, or None. Home Print
parameter defines when, during the print cycle, the marker will move to Home. If there is a
chance the pin cartridge can be jarred, the Home Print feature allows you to reset the marker as
part of the print cycle so it may re-establish its correct position.
Before moves the marker from the Park position to the Home position, then prints.
After moves the marker to Home after printing and before returning to the Park position.
None prevents the marker from seeking Home as part of the print cycle.
ABORT SELECT For markers that use a remote start print switch (e.g., push button, foot switch, discrete input, or
TTL input), this parameter controls the action of that switch. Press ENTER to toggle through the
available selections: <*> (enabled) or < > (disabled).
When enabled, the operator will be required to press and hold the switch to print the pattern.
If the switch is released during the print cycle, the system will stop printing and reset the
marker to the pattern park position. The marker will remain online after this type of abort.
When disabled , the operator may simply press and release the switch to print the pattern.
Once activated, the switch has no further affect on the print cycle.
LOAD PARK Press ENTER to toggle through the available selections: <*> (enabled) or < > (disabled). When
enabled, this feature will automatically move the marker to its Park location when a pattern is
loaded. If the system is unable to park the marker (e.g., if it is offline when the pattern is
loaded), the software will issue an appropriate message to the operator.
SPEED To ensure precise character formation, the system software defines a range of acceptable speeds
at which the system can mark. Within that range, you can adjust the speed of the marker in
10% increments. Higher rates will result in faster marking times. Slower rates will result in
slower marking times, but will improve the quality of the printed mark. Press ENTER to increase
marking speed or press CTRL/ENTER to decrease speed. The asterisk (*) indicates the selected
speed from 10 to 100%.
MAX (this parameter is not available on all marking systems) Maximum speed is the fastest rate
(in steps per second) that the marker will use while executing large moves. Large moves are
those that typically require 200 or more steps. Press ENTER to increase the maximum speed or
press CTRL/ENTER to decrease speed. The asterisk (*) indicates the selected speed from 10 to
100%.
4-4 30341B.DOC
5. Where applicable, press PAGE_DOWN key to display the next screen.
Marker
Pin Recovery Time : <–––* >
The third page marker parameters are described below.
PIN RECOVERY The Pin Recovery parameter allows you to specify the type of recovery condition you expect to
encounter so that the marking system software can automatically compensate for it. Select a
lower pin recovery time for harder marking surfaces (e.g., Rockwell 40C) or for smaller pin cone
angles (e.g., 30°). Select a higher pin recovery for softer marking surfaces (e.g., plastic) or for
larger pin cone angles (e.g., 60°). Press ENTER to increase the pin recovery time or press
CTRL/ENTER to decrease the recovery time. The asterisk (*) indicates the selected recovery rate
from 10 to 100%. Note: Higher recovery times will result in a longer print cycles.
6. Note: This feature is not available on all marking systems.

Press the PAGE_DOWN key to display the next screen. The fourth page marker parameters for the TMP3200 are
described below.
Marker
Marker Tube Size : <NORMAL >
TMP3200 Marker Parameters – Page 4
MARKER TUBE SIZE The Marker Tube Size specifies the size of the air tubing inside the TMP3200 marking head
between the external air fittings and the cartridge base. The tubing size affects operational
parameters in the software that control the firing of the impact pin. Depending on the selection
(NORMAL or SMALL), the software will display a different set of available selections for the Pin
Type parameter..
NORMAL designates 4mm OD, 2.5mm ID retractable tubing (usually yellow).
SMALL designates 1/8" OD, 1/16" ID retractable tubing (usually blue).
7. Press F1 (SAVE) to save the parameter changes.
30341B.DOC 4-5
STARTUP OPTIONS
The Startup parameters control tasks that the system performs automatically when the software starts.
2. From the Setup Screen, press F6 (STARTUP).
Startup Parameters
Marker : <Offline> Display : <Enable >
IO Selection Debounce (ms): [100 ]
Setting Startup Parameters – Page 1
3. Edit the startup parameters, as applicable (see below).

4. Press the PAGE_DOWN key to display the next page.
Startup Parameters
Pattern:[ ]
Select 3 Input : < Select>
Setting Startup Parameters – Page 2
5. Edit the additional parameters, as applicable.
MARKER Toggle this option to Online or Offline, as applicable. If Online is selected, the system will automatically
place the marker online during software startup.
DISPLAY Toggle this option to Enable or Disable, as applicable. For most applications, the display should always
remain enabled. When the display is enabled, messages that require operator intervention will be displayed
on the keyboard. When disabled, the system prevents error messages from being displayed to the operator.
IO SELECTION DEBOUNCE
This parameter is used when patterns are remotely selected from an I/O device. It defines the timing
interval (in milliseconds) for pattern selection. When activity is sensed on any of the four dedicated input
signals, the Debounce parameter defines the length of time the system waits before actually reading the
inputs. You may set the Debounce interval from 10 to 2000 ms. (See Remote Pattern Selection for more
information.)
PATTERN If you wish to automatically load a pattern during startup, enter its name in this box.
Leave this box empty to disable automatic pattern loading.
SELECT 3 INPUT
Toggle this option to Select or Online, as applicable. If you choose Online, the SEL_3 input signal may be
used to remotely place the marker online. If you choose Select, the SEL_3 input signal may be used to
remotely load patterns. (See Remote Pattern Selection for more information.)
4-6 30341B.DOC
QUERY TEXT
The Query Text feature provides a way for operators to edit several text strings in a pattern at the same time. This feature
requires the %#Q flag or %#q flag to be included in one or more of your text strings. The flags represent the text and
titles of the entries you define in the Query Text lookup table. The system will use the lookup table to insert the appropriate
data into your text strings wherever the flags are used. Up to three entries may be defined.
• Lowercase flags %1q, %2q, and %3q will be replaced with the titles of entries 1, 2, and 3 respectively.
• Uppercase flags %1Q, %2Q, and %3Q will be replaced with the text of entries 1, 2, and 3 respectively.
To define the query text entries:

1. From the Supervisor Main Screen, press SHIFT+F1 (QUERY).
The system will display a Query Text lookup table similar to the one shown below.
Title :Query Text F1–SAVE

[1 ]:[ONE ]
[2 ]:[TWO ]
[3 ]:[THREE ]
Defining Query Text and Titles
2. Define the Title and Query Text for the %1q and %1Q flags:
Enter a title in the first Title box.
Enter the default data in the first Query Text box.
Enter a title in the second Title box.
Enter the default data in the second Query Text box.
Enter a title in the third Title box.
Enter the default data in the third Query Text box.
5. When the lookup table is complete, press F1 (SAVE) to store the entry definitions.
Notice: Remember to include the query text flags (%#Q and %#q) in your pattern’s text strings, where appropriate.
30341B.DOC 4-7
OMNI SERIAL NUMBERS

The Omni Serial Number feature allows you to continue a serial number sequence throughout the marking of several
patterns. Unlike pattern serial numbers which are stored in their pattern definitions, the omni serial number is stored in
permanent memory. It applies to all patterns that contain an omni serial number flag (%O).
The omni serial number is incremented each time a pattern containing the %O flag is printed. The omni serial number
automatically resets to the lower limit when the upper limit is reached. Optionally, you can program the omni serial number
to reset at a specific time of the day.
To configure the omni serial number:

2. From the Setup Screen, press F4 (USER).
3. From the User Screen, press the PAGE_DOWN key to display the next page.
User Times [08:00 ] Omni

[16:00 ] Lower [000000001]
[00:00 ] Upper [000999999]
F1–SAVE F2–DEFAULTS Sn [000000001]
Defining Omni Serial Numbers – Page 1
LOWER The minimum serial number value. Edit this parameter to define the lowest allowable serial number. The
system will use this value whenever the serial number is automatically reset.
UPPER The maximum serial number value. Edit this parameter to define the highest allowable serial number. When
the marker prints this serial number, the system will automatically reset the value to the lower limit.
SN The current serial number value. Indicates the next serial number to be marked in fields that contain an
omni serial number flag. Note that you can manually reset the omni serial number at any time by editing
this parameter.
6. Edit the reset parameters, as applicable.
4-8 30341B.DOC
OMNI SN RESET (TMP3100 markers)
User
Omni SN Reset: <OFF > at: [00:00 ]
Toggle this option to ON or OFF, as applicable.

OFF The system will reset the omni serial number only when it reaches its upper limit or when you reset it
manually.
ON If you set this option to ON, the system will reset the omni serial number each day at the time
specified in the text box. See Reset Time parameter (below).
Note: Changing the Omni SN Reset mode will cause the omni serial number to reset.
OMNI SN RESET (all other markers)
User
Omni SN Reset: <None >
Time if Daily at: [00:00 ]
Toggle this option to NONE, DAILY, SHIFT, HOURLY, or MONTHLY, as applicable.

The omni serial number will reset to its lower limit as follows:
None. Resets only when it reaches its upper limit or when you reset it manually.
Daily. Resets each day at the time specified by the Reset Time parameter (below).
Shift. Resets at the start of each shift, as defined by the Shift Table parameters.
Refer to Shift Codes for details on assigning the time of day to each shift.
Hourly. Resets at the start of each hour, based on controller’s internal clock.
Refer to Time/Date for details on setting the internal clock.
Monthly. Resets at the start of each month, based on controller’s internal clock.
Refer to Time/Date for details on setting the internal clock.
Note: Changing the Omni SN Reset mode will cause the omni serial number to reset.
RESET TIME If the omni serial number is configured to reset daily, the system will reset the number at the time
specified in the text box. Enter the time using 24-hour clock designations.
(e.g., 01:00 = 1 a.m.; 13:00 = 1 p.m.; 00:00 = midnight; 12:00 = noon).
7. If you wish to reset the omni serial number to its factory settings, press F2 (DEFAULTS).
Note: Resetting the omni serial number to its default values will also reset the Shift, Month, and Year
Tables to their default values.
Notice: Remember to include the omni serial number flag (%O) in your pattern’s text string(s), where appropriate. See
Using Codes and Real-time Data (Chapter 3) for details and additional serial number option
30341B.DOC 4-9
SHIFT CODES
The Shift Code feature allows you to encode the current work shift within your printed message. This feature requires the
%Z flag to be included in one or more of your text strings. When the system encounters one of these flags, it uses its
internal clock, the Shift Table, and the User Times parameters to insert the appropriate coded character into the text string.
The Shift Table allows you to assign a single-character code for each shift. The User Times parameters let you define the
starting time of each work shift.
Example. You might define the Shift Table as “FST” (representing First, Second, Third). If the pattern is printed during the
1st shift, the system automatically inserts the letter “F” into the pattern wherever a Shift flag (%Z) exists.
Special Consideration #1: If your 3rd shift starts at or after midnight (e.g., 00:00. to 08:00) you would want to
define the Shift Table in the example above as “TFS”. Why? Because starting at midnight, the chronological order of the
shifts is actually Third, First, Second.
Special Consideration #2: If your facility runs less than three shifts each day, you should set the Shift Table to
“ignore” those shifts that don’t exist. For example, if you only run two shifts, define the Shift Table in the example
above as “FSS” (representing First, Second, Second). This way, the system inserts an “F” into the pattern during the 1st
shift only. It will insert an “S” into the pattern at all other times.
To configure the Shift Table and User Times parameters:

User Shift Table : [123 ]

Month Table : [123456789OND ]
Year Table : [0123456789 ]
Defining Shift Codes – Page 1
4-10 30341B.DOC
3. Edit the Shift Table, as applicable.

The Shift Table allows you to enter up to three characters. Each character position corresponds to one of three shifts
during a chronological workday. Note that the first position represents the first shift that starts at or after midnight.
You may enter any printable, keyboard character into the Shift Table.
User Times [08:00 ] Omni

[16:00 ] Lower [000000001]
[00:00 ] Upper [000999999]
F1–SAVE F2–DEFAULTS Sn [000000001]
Defining Shift Codes – Page 2
5. Edit the User Times parameters, as applicable.

The User Times parameters consist of three boxes. Each box defines the time of day the shift begins. Use the first box
for the first shift that begins at or after midnight. Edit these times to define your specific shift schedule. Note that 00:00
designates midnight; 01:00 is 1:00 a.m.; 12:00 is noon; 13:00 is 1:00 p.m. etc.
6. If you wish to reset the Shift Table to its factory settings, press F2 (DEFAULTS).
NOTICE: Resetting the Shift Table to its default values will also reset the
Month Table, Year Table , and Omni Serial Number to their default values.
Notice: Remember to include the Shift flag (%Z) in your pattern’s string fields, where appropriate.
See Using Codes and Real-time Data (Section 3) for details.
30341B.DOC 4-11
MONTH CODES
The Month Code feature allows you to encode the current month within your printed message. This feature requires the %U
flag to be included in one or more of your text strings. When the system encounters one of these flags, it uses its internal
clock and the Month Table parameters to insert the appropriate coded month into the text string. The Month Table allows you
to assign a single-character code for each month of the year.
Example. You might define the Month Table as “A B C D E F G H I J K L ”. If the pattern is printed during March (the third month
of the year), the system automatically inserts the third table entry (the letter C) into the pattern wherever a Month flag (%U)
exists.
To configure the Month Table parameters:


Year Table : [0123456789 ]
Defining Month Codes
3. Edit the Month Table, as applicable.

The Month Table allows you to enter 12 characters. Each character position corresponds to one of the 12 months of the
year. You may enter any printable, keyboard character into the Month Table.
4. If you wish to reset the Month Table to its factory settings, press F2 (DEFAULTS).
Notice: Resetting the Month Table to its default values will also reset the
Shift Table, Year Table , and Omni Serial Number to their default values.
Notice: Remember to include the Month flag (%U) in your pattern’s text strings, where appropriate.
4-12 30341B.DOC
YEAR CODES
The Year Code feature allows you to encode the current year within your printed message. This feature requires the %E
flag to be included in one or more of your text strings. When the system encounters one of these flags, it uses its internal
clock and the Year Table parameters to insert the appropriate coded year into the text string. The Year Table allows you to
assign a single-character code for the last digit of each year in the current decade.
Example. You might define the Year Table as “A B C D E F G H I J ”. If the pattern is printed during 2000 (the first year of the
decade), the system automatically inserts the first table entry (the letter A) into the pattern wherever a Year flag (%E) exists.
To configure the Year Table parameters:


Year Table : [0123456789 ]
Defining Year Codes
3. Edit the Year Table, as applicable.

The Year Table allows you to enter 10 characters. Each character position corresponds to one of the 10 years in the
current decade. Note that the first table entry represents the first year of the decade (0). You may enter any
printable, keyboard character into the Year Table.
4. If you wish to reset the Year Table to its factory settings, press F2 (DEFAULTS).
Notice: Resetting the Year Table to its default values will also reset the
Shift Table, Month Table , and Omni Serial Number to their default values.
Notice: Remember to include the Year flag (%E) in your pattern’s text strings, where appropriate.
30341B.DOC 4-13
TIME AND DATE

Although the time and date parameters were set at the factory, you can adjust the time and date, as required. The
Time/Date feature is the source of information the system uses to insert real-time data into your printed message. When
the system encounters a time or date flag in the pattern, it uses its internal clock/calendar to insert the real-time data into
the text string.

2. From the Setup Screen, press F2 (TIME/DATE).
Time & Date

Month : [01] Day : [25] Year : [2006]
Hour : [10] Minute : [39] Second : [44]
F1–SAVE
Setting the Time and Date
3. Edit the time and date parameters, as applicable. Note that the Hour parameter is based on a 24-hour clock (e.g., 00
designates midnight; 01 is 1:00 a.m.; 12 is noon; 13 is 1:00 p.m., etc.).
Notice: Remember to include the time and date flags in your pattern’s text strings, where appropriate.
4-14 30341B.DOC
UNITS OF MEASURE
The Units parameter allows you to select which units of measure (English or Metric) the system uses to define location
coordinates, size, distance, and air pressure.
If you prefer, you can change the units to either English or Metric as follows:.
2. From the Setup Screen, press F5 (UNITS).
Units
<ENGLISH>
Setting the Units of Measure
3. Press ENTER until the desired system of measurement is displayed (ENGLISH or METRIC).
• When English units are selected, the system uses inches and pounds per square inch (psi).
• When Metric units are selected, the system uses millimeters and bars.
4. Press F1 (SAVE) to your selection.
30341B.DOC 4-15
REMOTE PATTERN SELECTION

The Remote Pattern Selection feature allows the system to monitor four dedicated input signals transmitted from a remote,
customer-supplied I/O device. These signals (SEL_3, SEL_2, SEL_1, and SEL_0) are received at the controller’s I/O port. Based
on the input signals, the system will load the appropriate pattern name stored in the controller.
The SEL_3 signal may be configured for pattern selection or for placing the marker online. If configured for online usage, its
ON/OFF state will be ignored during remote pattern selection. See Startup Options for details.
To enable remote pattern selection:
1. Ensure the interface is properly configured. Refer to the TMC420 Installation/Maintenance Manual for details.
2. Ensure the IO Selection Debounce parameter is properly defined. See Startup Options.
3. Ensure the patterns you wish to make available for remote selection are defined and stored in the controller with one of
the following reserved pattern names (see below).
4-16 30341B.DOC
Reserved Pattern Names

The ON/OFF combinations of the four input signals generate binary codes ranging from 0000 through 1111. Fifteen (15)
possible codes correspond to reserved pattern names. As the four input signals are received, the system interprets their
codes then loads the pattern with the reserved pattern name associated with that code.
Note that if all four input signals are OFF, the resulting code is 0000. This effectively disables the Remote Pattern Selection
feature so the pattern may be loaded by the operator from the controller.
NOTE
To use this feature, all patterns that will remotely selected and loaded must be stored in
the controller using the following specific pattern names as listed below.
Reserved Pattern Names for Remote Pattern Selection
RESERVED MONITORED I/O SIGNALS RESULTING

PATTERN NAMES SEL_3 * SEL_2 SEL_1 SEL_0 CODE
PAT01 off off off ON 0001

PAT02 off off ON off 0010
PAT03 off off ON ON 0011
PAT04 off ON off off 0100
PAT05 off ON off ON 0101
PAT06 off ON ON off 0110
PAT07 off ON ON ON 0111
PAT08 *see note ON off off off 1000
PAT09 *see note ON off off ON 1001
PAT10 *see note ON off ON off 1010
PAT11 *see note ON off ON ON 1011
PAT12 *see note ON ON off off 1100
PAT13 *see note ON ON off ON 1101
PAT14 *see note ON ON ON off 1110
PAT15 *see note ON ON ON ON 1111
* Patterns named PAT08 through PAT15 may only be remotely selected if the SEL_3 input
signal is configured for pattern selection. See Startup Options for details.
30341B.DOC 4-17
HOST COMMUNICATIONS
You will need to configure the communications parameters if your controller is connected to a host computer. Refer to the
TMC420 Installation/Maintenance Manual for complete interface details.
To configure or change the communication parameters.
2. From the Setup Screen, press F3 (HOST).
Host Baud<9600 > Parity<NONE> Bits<8>

Stop Bits<1> Type<232> Id: [0 ]
Protocol <PROGRAM >
Setting Communication Parameters
3. Edit the communication parameters, as applicable.
BAUD Toggle this parameter to the appropriate selection. Baud Rate is the number of data bits transferred
per second. The baud rate must be set to match the communicating device. If given a choice, the
highest possible value should be used. However, transmission distances greater than 50 ft. (25 ft. for
19200 baud) may require a modem or a lower baud rate selection.
PARITY Toggle this parameter to the appropriate selection. Parity identifies an extra bit at the end of a
message that checks for problems in the transmission of data. The Parity selection must match the
setting required by the host computer.
4-18 30341B.DOC
BITS Toggle this parameter to the appropriate selection. The Data Bits selection must match the number of
bits required by the host computer.
STOP BITS Toggle this parameter to the appropriate selection. Stop Bits represent the space between characters
as they are sent during a transmission. The Stop Bits selection must match the number of bits
required by the host computer.
TYPE Toggle this parameter to the appropriate selection. Type designates the serial format.
You must choose RS-485 if several markers are connected in a multi-drop network.
(See ID parameter)
ID This parameter is only used with Extended Protocol. It allows the use of multiple markers in a
network application. Each marker has a unique station number. Enter a value (0 through 31). You
must specify ID “0” when only one marker is used. When the host downloads a message, it may
direct the message to a particular marker. The station ID is sent at the beginning of a message and
only the marker with that ID number receives the message.
PROTOCOL Toggle this parameter to the appropriate selection. Designates the type of communication protocol. The
protocol selection defines how your marker will pass information to and from other serial devices.
Choose EXTEND (extended) or PROGRAM (programmable).
Extended Protocol provides two-way communication with error checking.
Programmable Protocol provides “receive only” communication without error checking.
4. If you select Programmable Protocol, proceed to Programmable Protocol for additional parameters.
5. If you select Extended Protocol, refer to Extended Protocol for complete operational details.
6. Press F1 (SAVE) to save the parameter values.
30341B.DOC 4-19
Programmable Protocol
Programmable Protocol is used to communicate with devices where one-way communication is required, such as with bar
code scanners. It provides no error checking or acknowledgment of the transmitted data. The Programmable Protocol
parameters define which characters to extract from the data transmission and how to employ them during the marking
operation.
Perform the following to configure or change the Programmable Protocol parameters.

1. If the Host Communication Screen is already displayed, begin at Step 5.
4. Select the Protocol parameter and toggle it to PROGRAM.
5. Press the PAGE_DOWN key to display the Programmable Protocol parameters.
Host Start Char:[0 ] Terminator:[13 ]

Position :[1 ] Length :[0 ]
Ignore :[10 ] Msg Type :[ ]
Setting Programmable Protocol Parameters
6. Edit the Programmable Protocol parameters, as applicable.
NOTE
The host message may contain ASCII characters that define the Start, Terminating, and
Ignore characters within the transmitted data. To identify these ASCII characters, you must
specify their decimal equivalents when setting up the following parameters. Refer to the
ASCII Cross Reference table in Appendix B to view decimal and hexadecimal equivalents of
ASCII characters.
START CHAR (optional) Enter the decimal value of the ASCII character in the host message where the marking
system should begin to count character positions.
TERMINATOR Enter the decimal value of the ASCII character in the host message that represents the end of the
transmitted string. The terminator is usually the ASCII carriage return character (CR, decimal 13).
4-20 30341B.DOC
POSITION Enter the character position in the data string where the marking system will begin to extract
data from the host message.
LENGTH (optional, if Terminator is used) Enter the number of characters to extract from the host
message. The Position parameter and Length parameter work together to extract characters
from the host message.
IGNORE Enter the decimal value of the ASCII character in the host message that the marking system
should ignore. For example, ASCII Line Feed character (LF, decimal 10).
MSG TYPE Enter: P, V, 1, Q, or 0 (zero). This allows message-type recognition for Programmable Protocol
which defines how the marking system will use the data it receives from the host.
P loads a specific pattern, identified by data extracted from the host message.
V updates the first variable text field of the pattern with data extracted from the host message.
1 overwrites the content of the first text field in the pattern with data extracted from the host
message. Note that fields containing message flags will be overwritten, not updated.
Q updates the text in the first query text buffer with data extracted from the host message.
0 (zero) indicates that the host message will provide the message type, field number (if
applicable), and data. This option allows more flexibility by delegating the message type
selection to the host on a message-by-message basis.
The host message must use the format Tnn<string> where:
T = P, V, 1, or Q to indicate the message type.
nn = two-digit number to indicate the field number or query text buffer where the data
will be placed. Note that a number is not used with Message Type P.
<string> = pattern name (Message Type P) or field data (Message Types V, 1, or Q), as
applicable.
7. If you wish to use the Echo feature, proceed to Enabling Echo Output for additional parameters.
8. If you’re finished setting Programmable Protocol parameters, press F1 (SAVE) to save the parameter values.
30341B.DOC 4-21
Echo Output

The Echo feature allows you to send (echo) a message string out of the controller Host port after the pattern is printed. The
feature uses special parse flags to extract data from the pattern or to output ASCII characters.
To use the Echo feature, you must have Programmable Protocol selected and the Echo feature enabled.
Perform the following to enable or configure the Echo feature.

1. If the Programmable Protocol Screen is already displayed, begin at Step 6.
4. Select the Protocol parameter and toggle it to PROGRAM.
5. Press the PAGE_DOWN key to display the Programmable Protocol parameters.
6. Press the PAGE_DOWN key (again) to display the Echo parameters.
Host
Echo <*>
String: [ ]
Setting the Echo Output Parameters
7. Select the Echo parameter and press ENTER to toggle the feature ON <*> or OFF < > (as applicable).
4-22 30341B.DOC
8. Select the String parameter and specify the data you wish to echo to the Host port.
Use parse flag %##Q to echo a specific field in the pattern, where ## represents the field number 01 through 99.
(see example, below)
Use parse flag %###C to echo a single ASCII character, where ### represents the decimal value of the ASCII
character. Refer to Appendix B for a cross reference of ASCII characters and their decimal equivalents. (see
example, below)
Use the switch \n or \N to echo an ASCII carriage return character and an ASCII line feed character.
Use the switch \r or \R to echo an ASCII carriage return character only.
Examples: Suppose the pattern printed field 01, field 02, and field 03 as:
SN:2004 247-14:06 TELESIS
If the String parameter is defined as: [DATA=%1Q;%2Q%13C%10C ]

The data echoed out of the Host port would be: DATA=SN:2004;247-14:06 <CR> <LF>
If the String parameter is defined as: [DATA=%2Q;%3Q%\R ]

The data echoed out of the Host port would be: DATA=247-14:06; TELESIS <CR>
The String parameter can hold up to 34 characters (data characters, format characters, literals, and parse flags). The
echoed string can contain up to 100 characters after formatting and text substitution (including control characters like
ASCII carriage returns and line feeds).
9. Press F1 (SAVE) to save the parameter values.
30341B.DOC 4-23
Extended Protocol
Extended Protocol provides two-way communication with error checking. It is designed to provide secure communications
with an intelligent host device using pre-defined message formats, response formats, and message types. It also provides
hand-shaking to detect faults in the transmitted messages, effectively verifying that the data is properly received.
Extended Protocol allows for multi-drop communications so that the multiple markers may be networked through a host
computer. If Extended Protocol is chosen, you may use up to 31 markers controlled by one host computer using RS-485
communications. All communications are carried out in a master/slave relationship. Only the host has the ability to initiate
communications. The marker communicates only in response.
The following paragraphs explain Message Format, Response Format, Message Types, and the Block Check Code (BCC)
calculations.
Message Format
Messages from the host computer to the marker are transmitted in the following format:
SOH TYPE [##] STX [DATA_TEXT] ETX [BCC] CR
where:
SOH ASCII Start of Header character (001H). The marking system ignores all characters received prior to
the SOH.
TYPE A single printable ASCII character that defines the message type of the current message.
See Message Types for details.
[##] Two, optional, ASCII decimal digits that specify the Station ID number. If only one marker is used,
the ID field may be eliminated and "00" will be assumed. For multi-drop network applications that use
more than one marker, the Station ID identifies the individual markers. For multiple-marker
applications, the ID may range from 01 to 31.
STX ASCII Start of Text character (002H).
[DATA_TEXT] An optional field that may be required for certain message types. This field contains the actual data of
the message. See Message Types for more information.
ETX ASCII End of Text character (003H).
[BCC] A Block Check Code (BCC) generated and sent to improve link reliability by providing fault detection.
CR ASCII Carriage Return character (00DH).
4-24 30341B.DOC
Response Format
The marker may respond to the host computer in one of two ways.
• If the host transmission is error free, the marker responds with an acknowledge (ACK) message in the form:
SOH TYPE [##] ACK STX [DATA_TEXT] ETX BCC CR
• If an error is encountered, the marker responds with a negative-acknowledge (NAK) message in the form:
SOH TYPE [##] NAK STX [DATA_TEXT] ETX BCC CR
where:
SOH ASCII Start of Header character (001H).
TYPE The Type returned is the same message type as sent by the host computer.
[##] The Station ID number of the responding marker. The ID should match the ID of the host message. If
the Station ID is "00", it is not sent.
ACK ASCII Acknowledge character (006H). Sent if the message was received in the correct format with no
errors.
Note: This only acknowledges that the communication link was successful. This does not indicate
that the requested action was completed successfully.
NAK ASCII Negative-Acknowledge character (015H). Sent if the message was received with an error.
STX ASCII Start of Text character (002H).
[DATA_TEXT] A conditional text string that may be returned for certain message types that request a response
(e.g., Message Type I or S).
ETX ASCII End of Text character (003H).
[BCC] A Block Check Code (BCC) generated and sent to improve link reliability by providing fault detection.
CR ASCII Carriage Return character (00DH).
If the host computer does not receive a response from the marking system within three seconds, the host computer should
transmit the original message again. If no response is received after three tries, the host computer should abort the
sequence and declare the link to be down.
30341B.DOC 4-25
Message Types
The following message types are recognized by the marking system when using Extended Protocol:
Type 1 This type of message can be used to supply data to the system or to poll the system for information.
Supplying Data. When used to supply data, this message type overwrites the content of the specified field
with the data sent from the host. Note that if the field contains message flags, they will be overwritten, not
updated.
To supply data to a specific field, use the format:
SOH 1 STX nn<string> ETX [BCC] CR
where:
1 = message type
nn = field number in pattern (leading zero required for 01 through 09)
<string> = data that will be inserted into the specified field
Polling Data. (this feature is not available on all marking systems) When used to poll for data, this
message type requests the content of the specified field. You may request the actual content of the field (as
defined by the pattern designer) or you may request the parsed (real-time) data in the field. For example, if
the field contains a date/time flag, the actual content might be “%C”, but the parsed (real-time) data might
be “03/08/06 12:45”.
To poll the data in a specific field, use one of these formats:
SOH 1 STX ?nn ETX [BCC] CR or
SOH 1 STX <nn ETX [BCC] CR
where:
1 = message type
? = request for actual data (e.g., %C)
< = request for parsed (real-time) data (e.g., 03/08/06 16:43)
nn = field number in pattern (leading zero required for 01 through 09)
Type G This type of message allows the host to initiate a print cycle. Use the format:
SOH G STX ETX [BCC] CR
Type I This message type requests the output status of the marker. Use the format:
SOH I STX ETX [BCC] CR
The marker will return a single-digit hexadecimal value to report the state of the READY and DONE signals.
The returned value is dependent on the following signal states:
Returned
Value DONE READY
0 off off
1 off ON
2 ON off
3 ON ON
4-26 30341B.DOC
Type O This type of message places the marker online. This allows a marking system that is unattended to recover
from a power outage by supplying the online command from the host. Use the format:
SOH O STX ETX [BCC] CR
Type P This type of message can be used to supply data to the system or to poll the system for information.
Supplying Data. When used to supply data, the host sends the name of the pattern to be loaded.
To supply a pattern name for loading, use the format:
SOH P STX <string> ETX [BCC] CR
where:
P = message type
<string> = name of the pattern to be loaded (pattern must already exist in controller)
message type requests the name of the pattern currently loaded in the controller.
To poll the controller for the current pattern name, use one of these formats
SOH P STX ? ETX [BCC] CR or
SOH P STX ETX [BCC] CR
where:
P = message type
? = (optional) request for current pattern name
Type Q This type of message updates text in the specified query text buffer with the data sent from the host.
To supply data to a specific query text buffer, use the format
SOH Q STX nn<string> ETX [BCC] CR
where:
Q = message type
nn = buffer number in query text lookup table (leading zero required for 01 through 09)
30341B.DOC 4-27
Type S This message type requests the error status of the marking system. Use the format:
SOH S STX ETX [BCC] CR
The system will return a value that represents a particular type of error. Each error type has one or more
messages that may be displayed on the controller when an error occurs. Refer to the following table. For
more information on error messages, their possible causes and resolutions refer to Section 6: System
Messages.
Returned TYPE OF ERROR

Value Displayed Error Message(s)
0x0000 (no error)
0x0001 ONLINE_ERROR
Timeout… Cannot Find Home Position!
0x0002 PATTERN_LOAD_ERROR
Error Loading Pattern (Host)!
Pattern Not Found (Host) : <pattern_name>
0x0004 DISALLOWED_NO_PATTERN
No Pattern is Loaded!
No Pattern is Loaded for Print!
No Pattern Loaded. Pre-position What?
0x0008 DISALLOWED_OFFLINE
Disallowed! Marker is Offline!
Denied! Marker is Offline!
Cannot Park on Load! Marker is Offline!
0x0010 PATTERN_FIELD_ERROR
Variable Text Not Found!
Text / ArcText / Matrix Field Not Found!
0x0020 MARKER_ABORTED_ERROR
Marker Has Been Aborted!
0x0040 (not used)
0x0080 PIX_OUT_OF_RANGE_ERROR
Pattern Pixel Range Error!
Field <number> – Range Error!
0x0100 RAM_ERROR
Ram Error… Default Parameters Loaded!
Ram Error… Existing Patterns Erased!
0x0200 SN_RANGE_ERROR
Error! Serial Number Range Warning!
0x0400 (not used)
4-28 30341B.DOC
Type V This type of message can be used to supply data to the system or to poll the system for information.
Supplying Data. When used to supply data, this message type updates the variable text in the specified field
with the data sent from the host. The specified field must contain a variable text flag (%#V or %#v). You
may supply data to a single variable text field or to multiple variable text fields. Note that if you attempt to
supply data to more variable text fields than exist in the pattern, the extra data will be ignored. If you supply
data for fewer variable text fields than exist in the pattern, the extra variable text fields will be cleared of
their data (but will retain their variable text flags). Note also that to avoid data truncation, the data supplied
to each field must be compatible with the maximum number of characters allowed for that field.
Single Field. To supply data to a single variable text field, use the format
SOH V STX nn<string> ETX [BCC] CR
where:
V = message type
nn = field number in pattern (leading zero required fields 01 through 09)
Multiple Fields. To supply data to multiple variable text fields, use the format
SOH V STX !<string>|<string> ETX [BCC] CR
where:
V = message type
! = command for multiple fields
<string1> = data that will be inserted into the 1st field containing variable text flag
| = field data separator
<string2> = data that will be inserted into the 2nd field containing variable text flag
message type requests the user-supplied text that is contained in a specific variable text field. Suppose a field
contains both fixed text and variable text (e.g., MODEL %5V), and the user has supplied the text “12345”.
This message type will return only the value of the user-supplied text “12345”.
To poll the data in a specific field, use the format
SOH V STX ?nn ETX [BCC] CR
where:
V = message type
? = request for user-supplied text
nn = field number in pattern (a leading zero is required for fields 01 through 09)
30341B.DOC 4-29
Block Check Code

A Block Check Code (BCC) is calculated by performing eight bit-addition of the Type and Data_Text characters, then
transmitting them as a three-digit ASCII decimal number (000 to 255). If the sum is greater than 255, the most significant
bit overflows and is discarded. If the host system is incapable of generating the BCC, it may be omitted at the risk of
undetected transmission errors.
The following example is an example of a typical transmission, including the Block Check Code calculation:
To download the character string "ABC123" for marking in the first field on the next item, you must wait until the current
marking cycle is complete.
The host sends the following message. (Note that all data is shown in hexadecimal).
SOH 1 STX 01ABC123 ETX 238 CR
where:
1 is the Message Type
01 is the field number
ABC123 is the text string
238 is the Block Check Code (BCC)
The BCC is calculated as follows:
1. Add Message Type character + Data_Text characters (1+01+ABC123):
Character Hex Value Description

1 031H Message Type
0 030H First digit of field number
1 031H Second digit of field number
A 041H First character of Data_Text
B 042H Second character of Data_Text
C 043H Third character of Data_Text
1 031H Fourth character of Data_Text
2 032H Fifth character of Data_Text
3 033H Sixth character of Data_Text
1EEH BCC Sum
4-30 30341B.DOC
2. The system is only interested in the lower eight bits, so it discards the first digit of the sum and keeps the lower two,
resulting in a BCC of EE. It then converts the hexadecimal value to decimal:
EE hexadecimal = 238 decimal
3. The decimal value is then converted into its equivalent ASCII representation (where 2=032H, 3=033H, and 8=038H).
This is the transmitted BCC. The actual data transmitted by the host for the entire message is (in hexadecimal):
001H 031H 002H 030H 031H 041H 042H 043H 031H 032H 033H 003H 032H 033H 038H 00DH
4. The marking system will respond with a transmission of:

001H 031H 006H 002H 003H 030H 034H 039H 00DH
which equates to the following ASCII message:

SOH 1 ACK STX ETX 049 CR
Note that if the system had detected an error in receiving the message from the host, it would respond with a NAK (015H)
character in place of the ACK. However, the BCC would be unaffected by this since the ACK/NAK character is not included in
the BCC calculation. Note also that this example does not include requested response data that would be returned with certain
message types (e.g., Type I or S).
30341B.DOC 4-31
OPTIONAL Z-AXIS CONFIGURATION
If your system has an optional Z (vertical) axis, it must be enabled and configured before it can be used.
The Z-axis features work in conjunction with the Telesis Z-axis tool post. The tool post is a mounting fixture for the marking
head that includes an electromechanical carriage to position the marker along the Z-axis. Using the system software, the
marker can be manually repositioned along the axis or programmed to be repositioned as part of the pattern definition.
Two factors control the vertical travel limits of the carriage on the tool post. An adjustable limit switch mounted on the tool
post determines the upper travel limit. This location is the Home position for the Z-axis. The lower travel limit is controlled
by a parameter setting in the software: the Zero Offset.
• Never manually push or pull the carriage to reposition it on the tool post. Use the Jog feature or the hand crank
(if equipped) to reposition the carriage up/down the tool post.
• If your tool post is equipped with a hand crank, never use the crank to position the carriage while power is
applied to the system. This will result in a loss of position for the system software.
• Always use the Jog feature to move the carriage when power is applied, or remove power before using the hand
crank.
These procedures assume your marking head has been installed on the Telesis Z-axis tool post and that all related equipment
has been properly installed and connected. Refer to the Auxiliary Axis Installation Supplement for details.
Enabling the Z-axis

1. Place the marker online. (This will facilitate configuring the axis in subsequent steps.)
4. Press F1 (Z) to access the vertical axis parameters.
Z <Enable >
Zero Offset :[0.000 ]
Enabling the Z-axis
5. Press ENTER until Enable is displayed in the upper, right corner of the screen
Notice: If you select Disable, none of the Z-axis features will be displayed or available for use.
6. If the Z-axis needs to be configured or adjusted, proceed to Adjusting the Limit Switch.
7. If the Z-axis is already properly configured, press F1 (SAVE) to store the parameter settings.
4-32 30341B.DOC
Adjusting the Limit Switch

The limit switch may be adjusted to establish the Home position for the Z-axis. This feature allows you to redefine the
Home position closer to the part being marked. Doing so will reduce the amount of vertical travel when the marker is
placed online or is reset.
Although the switch location is adjustable, its position should not need to be changed once it is established for your
particular application.
Notice: Each time you change the location of the upper limit switch, you must redefine the Zero Offset parameter.
Typical Z-axis Tool Post Mounting
1. With the Z-axis enabled (above) and the marker online, press the JOG key .
2. Jog the Z-axis until the carriage is lower than the desired location of the limit switch.
3. Press ESC, as required, to return to the Main Screen and place the machine offline.
4. Loosen the set screw in the limit switch housing to allow the switch to move freely.
5. Slide the limit switch to the desired location.
CAUTION
Never position the limit switch below the level of the carriage.
Damage to the limit switch and carriage will result if so positioned.
6. Tighten the set screw to secure the limit switch in the new position.
7. Proceed to Defining the Zero Offset to establish the Z-axis reference baseline.
30341B.DOC 4-33
Defining the Zero Offset

Zero Offset is the distance down from the top. It represents the lowest point the carriage will be allowed to travel
downward from the upper limit switch. More importantly, it establishes the 0.0 reference point for the Z-axis. Once this
point is defined, all Z-axis coordinates will be represented as positive values upward from 0.0.
By defining the Z-axis Home position close to the part to be marked, you will minimize the required vertical movement
which will help to reduce the marking cycle time. However, if you set the lower limit too low, the marker may “bottom out”
and will not have enough room for the pin to properly fire. You should consider the desired pin stroke before establishing
the zero offset. Refer to the marker-specific Operation Supplement for details.
4-34 30341B.DOC
To set the zero offset parameter and define the lower limit (0.0) for the Z-axis:
1. Ensure the limit switch location is established and secure before proceeding.
5. Press F1 (Z) to access the vertical axis parameters.
Z <Enable >
Zero Offset :[0.000 ]
6. Press the TAB key to select the Zero Offset parameter.

7. Specify the Zero Offset distance:
a. If known, type the exact value in the Zero Offset box.
Note: You must enter a negative value (e.g., –3.00). This identifies the distance down from the upper limit switch.
or
b. If unknown, press the JOG key to interactively reposition the marking head to the desired location on the tool
post.
Press the PAGE_DOWN key to place the cursor on the Z-axis parameter.
Place a sheet of paper between the impact pin and the marking surface. As you lower the marker, move the
paper around under the impact pin. When you feel resistance between the paper and the impact pin, stop
jogging the marker.
Use the ARROW_UP and ARROW_DOWN keys to jog the Z-axis and carriage to the desired position.
Note: If the carriage is at the upper limit, you can only jog downward.
You may want to set the resolution to Coarse until the carriage is close to the desired position, then
reduce the resolution to Fine or Single to precisely define the location.
When you are satisfied with the location of the carriage, press F1 (ACCEPT).
The system will display the Z-axis Setup screen and show the newly calculated zero offset in the text box. This will be
displayed as a negative value which represents the distance down from the upper limit switch.
8. When you are satisfied with the Zero Offset value, press F1 (SAVE) to store the setting.
10. Place the marker offline, then online.

This allows the system to calibrate the Z-axis 0.0 reference point based on the zero offset you’ve just defined.
30341B.DOC 4-35
OPTIONAL THETA-AXIS CONFIGURATION

If your system has an optional Theta (rotational) axis, it must be enabled and configured before it can be used.
The Theta-axis, named for the eighth letter of the Greek alphabet, is used in geometry to represent angular measurement.
The Theta-axis features work in conjunction with the Telesis Rotary Drive Fixture to mark cylindrical parts or to mark
multiple flats on square or hexagonal parts.
The drive fixture is an electromechanical chuck that holds and rotates the part being marked. The jaws of the chuck may be
adjusted to accommodate parts of various diameters. Refer to the Auxiliary Axis Installation Supplement for information on
changing the jaw configuration and securing parts in the fixture.
These procedures assume the Telesis Rotary Drive Fixture and all related equipment has been properly installed and
connected. Refer to the Auxiliary Axis Installation Supplement for details.


Enabling the Theta-axis
4. Confirm that the Type parameter correctly identifies the type of rotary fixture installed with your system.
Press ENTER to toggle the selection to One or Two, as applicable.
• Theta One (RD5) is the larger of the two available rotary fixtures for larger diameter parts.
• Theta Two (RD3) is used for smaller diameter parts.

Refer to the Auxiliary Axis Installation Supplement for details.
5. Press TAB to select the Enable/Disable parameter.

Press ENTER to toggle the selection to Enable or Disable, as applicable.
Notice: If you select Disable, none of the Theta-axis features will be displayed or available for use.
6. You may set the Part Diameter and Mounting Angle parameters if you wish.
However, these parameters are pattern-specific and may need to be changed from pattern-to-pattern.
Refer to Defining Theta-axis Parameters (Section 3) for details.

4-36 30341B.DOC
Section 5
System Checkout
This section provides instructions for performing the following system-level tests and checkout procedures.
• Testing the impact pin

• Testing the solenoids
• Testing the range of motion
• Testing I/O signals
ACCESSING SYSTEM TESTS

The software must be placed in Supervisor mode to change any of the system test features.
30341B.DOC 5-1
TESTING THE MARKING PIN

The Pulse Test allows you to check marking pins to ensure they extend and retract properly.
CAUTION
Do not pulse the pin without an appropriate surface in position to be marked. Repeated
pulsing without impacting a surface may cause damage to the pin cartridge.
1. From the Supervisor Main Screen, press SHIFT+F2 (MAINT).

2. From the Maintenance Screen, press F2 (PULSE).
Pulse Pin State : IDLE

Pins : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
<X>< >< >< >< >< >< >< >
F1–PULSE F2–STOP F3–ONE SHOT
Pulse Test Screen
3. Select the pin(s) to be pulsed.

Press the corresponding number key on the keyboard to select or deselect the desired pin(s).
An <X> indicates the pin is selected; < > indicates the pin is deselected.
Note that Pin #1 is the only valid selection.
4. To pulse the selected pin(s) one time, press F3 (ONE SHOT).

The marker will fire the pin(s) once, then stop.
5. To repeatedly pulse the selected pin(s), press F1 (PULSE).

The marker will begin pulsing the pin(s) and continue until you stop it.
6. To stop pulsing the pin(s), press F2 (STOP).
7. Press ESC to return to the Maintenance Screen.
8. Press ESC to return to the Main Screen.
5-2 30341B.DOC
TESTING THE SOLENOIDS

The Solenoid Test allows you to check solenoid(s) for proper operation.
2. From the Maintenance Screen, press F3 (TEST).
NOTE
Test F1 (SERIAL) is a Telesis Service Function Only. The test checks the Host port in
both the RS-232 and RS-485 modes. It requires a special loop-back box. Without the
box properly connected, the test will fail.
Test X :0.000 Y :0.000

Serial [????] Exer [????] –XYRZ–
Solenoids [ ] Home[ ]
F1–SERIAL F2–EXER F3–SOL.
Solenoid Test Screen
3. Press F3 (SOL).
The system will energize (and hold) the first solenoid. The Solenoids status box will show a slash (/) in the appropriate
position of the energized solenoids.
4. Check the marker for proper operation of the activated solenoid.
NOTE
Standard, single-pin marking systems use only one solenoid (#1)
5. If your system uses additional solenoids, press F3 (SOL) to energize the next solenoid. Repeat as applicable.
The system will update the display as each solenoid is energized.

If you accidentally leave a solenoid energized, the system will de-activate it when you exit the Test Screen.
30341B.DOC 5-3
TESTING I/O SIGNALS

The Signal Tests allow you to check the transmission of I/O signals to and from the controller.
WARNING
These procedures may require testing electrical circuits while power is applied to the
marking system. To avoid personal injury, only experienced maintenance personnel
should perform these tests. Regardless of experience, caution should always be used
when working with energized electrical circuits.
1. Place the system online to set move the marker to its Home position.
Test X :0.000 Y :0.000

Main Test Screen
4. Verify the HOME signal is ON (displays a slash) under each enabled axis.
Notice: The “R” and “Z” Home signal columns are displayed only if the rotary (R) and vertical (Z) axes are available
options for your marking system. Additionally, you can test the Home signal for these axes only if they are
enabled.
5. Press the JOG key and jog the marker away from the Home position (for each enabled axis).
6. Verify the HOME signal is OFF (displays no slash) under each enabled axis.
5-4 30341B.DOC
Test Done <*>

Interlock [OFF] –0123– Ready < >
Sense [OFF] Sel [ ] Spare < >
Print [OFF] Abort [0 ] < >< >< >
I/O Signal Test Screen
8. Test the PRINT, ABORT, and SEL (0, 1, 2, and 3) input signals, as applicable:
a. Transmit an input signal from the remote device (e.g., Programmable Logic Controller).
b. For PRINT signals, verify the signal status (OFF or ON) is properly displayed.
c. For ABORT signals, verify the counter increments each time the signal is transmitted.
d. For SEL signals, verify a slash (/) appears in the appropriate column when the signal is ON.
9. Test the output signals (READY and DONE) as applicable:

a. Press TAB until the desired signal is selected.
b. Press ENTER to toggle the signal ON or OFF.
c. Check for appropriate response at the remote device (e.g., Programmable Logic Controller).
10. The SPARE output signals are typically used for custom applications. To test these signals:
a. Press TAB until the desired signal is selected.
b. Press ENTER to toggle the signal ON or OFF.
c. Check for appropriate response at the remote device (e.g., Programmable Logic Controller).
30341B.DOC 5-5
TESTING THE RANGE OF TRAVEL

The Exercise Test checks the marker’s motors and its range of travel. During the test, the system runs the marker to its X-
and Y-axis limits. The system must be able to verify the Home location at the end of the exercise.
WARNING
This test moves the pin cartridge around the limits of its travel area. To avoid personal
injury, keep hands, clothing and jewelry clear of the marker when performing this test.

NOTE
Test F1 (SERIAL) is a Telesis Service Function Only. The test checks the Host port in
both the RS-232 and RS-485 modes. It requires a special loop-back box. Without the
box properly connected, the test will fail.
Test X :0.000 Y :0.000

Exercise Test Screen
3. From the Test Screen, press F2 (EXER).

The test will move the marker to check its range of travel.
4. Observe the test results in the Exer status box.
If the test is successful, PASS will be displayed in the Exer status box.
If the test is unsuccessful, FAIL will be displayed in the Exer status box.
5-6 30341B.DOC
Section 6
System Messages
This section provides an alphabetized list of the various messages that may be displayed during system operation. Refer to
this list for explanation of the messages and to help clarify or resolve the situation.
**** ACCESS DENIED ! ****

You entered an invalid password while attempting to access the Supervisor mode. Enter the correct password and try
again. Contact the system supervisor for further assistance.
CALCULATING THE Y-AXIS TABLE…

For certain types of markers, the controller will briefly display this message during power up. It may also display this
message if the marker parameters are changed. The system calculates the Y-axis values for proper operation of the
marker’s unique rack and pinion design.
CANNOT FIRE SOLENOIDS WHILE ABORT ACTIVE !

You attempted to activate the marker solenoids while the Abort signal was still active. The marker will remain offline
and ignore commands to fire the solenoids while an Abort signal is present. After the Abort signal is de-activated, you
can place the marker online and continue operations.
CANNOT GO ONLINE WHILE ABORT IS ACTIVE !

You attempted to place the marker online while the Abort signal was still active. The marker will remain offline and
ignore commands to go online while an Abort signal is present. After the Abort signal is de-activated, you can place the
marker online and continue operations.
CANNOT MOVE MARKER WHILE ABORT IS ACTIVE !

You attempted to jog the marker while the Abort signal was still active. The marker will remain offline and ignore
commands to move while an Abort signal is present. After the Abort signal is de-activated, you can place the marker
online and continue operations.
CANNOT PARK ON LOAD ! MARKER IS OFFLINE !

If the Load Park parameter is enabled (on the Setup Marker Screen), the system attempts to park the marker whenever
a pattern is loaded. If the marker is offline when the pattern is loaded, the marker cannot move to the park position.
Place the marker online and reload the pattern.
30341B.DOC 6-1
CHARACTER INDEX MUST BE 90 / 270 DEGREES !

(Theta-axis) If you define a Text field and select Index Print Mode, you must print the field at a right angle to the
rotational axis. Edit the Text field and set the Angle parameter to 90° or 270°, as applicable.
DISALLOWED / DENIED ! MARKER IS OFFLINE !

Certain features require the marker to be online before they can be executed. Place the marker online and try again.
ERROR IN DELETING A PATTERN !

System Error. The system was unable to delete the specified pattern. Try deleting the pattern again. If the error
continues, contact Telesis Customer Support.
ERROR IN LOADING PATTERN !

System Error. The system was unable to load the specified pattern. Try loading the pattern again. If the error
continues, contact Telesis Customer Support.
ERROR IN LOADING PATTERN ( HOST ) !

The host computer issued a load pattern command for a pattern that the marking system cannot load. Either the
pattern no longer exists or it is corrupted.
ERROR IN SAVING PATTERN <PATTERN_NAME> .

This message indicates the system was unable to save this pattern in permanent memory. Try saving the pattern
again. (There may be too many patterns stored in memory.) If the error continues, contact Telesis Customer Support.
ERROR ! ILLEGAL PATTERN NAME ENTERED !

Pattern names may not contain more than 32 characters. Most characters that are acceptable for Windows® filenames are
also valid for pattern names. However, pattern names must begin with an alphanumeric character.
ERROR ! NO USER FONT HAS BEEN DOWNLOADED !

If you define a text or arc text field to be printed with a custom User font, the User font must reside in the controller
before you print the pattern. If not, the system will not print the field and it will issue this message when the print cycle
completes. If you’ve created a custom font using the Telesis Logo/Font Generator software, ensure it is downloaded to
the controller so it may be used in your patterns.
ERROR ! NOTHING IS IN THE PASTE BUFFER !

You have attempted to paste data without having copied (or cut) data from another source. Cut (or copy) the desired
data from the original location, then try pasting again.
6-2 30341B.DOC
ERROR ! PATTERN CANNOT BE CREATED HERE !

You have typed in a pattern name to be loaded that does not exist. The system interprets this as an attempt to create
a new pattern, which is not permitted at the Operator level. Either enter the correct pattern name, or place the system
in Supervisor mode to create the new pattern.
ERROR ! QUIET AREA VIOLATION !

This message may be displayed while you are creating or editing a data matrix field. It indicates that you have defined
the symbol too close to the marking window boundary. To improve the quality of the mark, the marker may need to
extend beyond the edge of the symbol before it returns to print the next column of dots in the matrix. If the data
matrix field is located such that the marker has to move outside the marking window, the system will issue this
message for you to correct the problem. You must relocate the a data matrix symbol (away from the edge of the
marking window) in order to continue.
ERROR ! SERIAL NUMBER RANGE WARNING !

This message will be displayed when the serial number reaches its defined limit and the halt printing option is enabled.
Reset the serial number or change the printing option from HALT to WRAP.
ERROR ! SN IS OUT OF RANGE !

When you edit the SN parameter, the value you enter must be within the range specified by the Lower and Upper serial
number parameters. See Setting Pattern Parameters (Section 3) for details.
ERROR ! USER TEXT NEEDED IN SOME FIELDS !

You have attempted to print a pattern that contains one of more blank fields that require operator input. Locate the
field (or fields) that display an asterisk (*) at the left side of the Main Screen. See Entering Text into a Pattern (Section
2) for details.
FIELD < NUMBER >. RANGE ERROR !

This message is displayed if the Design Test feature was performed on the pattern and a specific field was found to be
outside of the printable area of the marking window. Relocate the field, as required, then re-run the Design Test to
ensure no additional errors exist.
FIELD < NUMBER > USER FONT ERROR !

If you define a text or arc text field to be printed with a custom User font, the User font must reside in the controller. If
not, the system will issue this message when you test the pattern. See Testing a Pattern (Section 3). If you’ve created
a custom font using the Telesis Logo/Font Generator software, ensure it is downloaded to the controller so it may be
used in your patterns.
HOME LIMIT ERROR IN AXIS <AXIS NAME>

This error may indicate a faulty home limit switch in the X-axis, Y-axis, or both. Contact Telesis Customer Support for
assistance.
30341B.DOC 6-3
ID MATRIX ENCODE ERROR !

This message may be displayed when you are defining a matrix field. Ensure the Format parameter selection matches
the type of characters contained in the text string. Ensure the number of characters to not exceed the maximum
number allowed for the type of matrix you are attempting to create. See Matrix Fields (Section 3) for details.
MARKER HAS BEEN ABORTED !

This message is displayed after the ABORT button on the keyboard is pressed, or after receiving an Abort command
from the host computer or from remote I/O controller.
NO DRIVER BOARD CONNECTED !

System Error. The system was unable to establish communication with the driver board which controls the marker
motors and solenoids. The software will not run without a valid driver board connection. Contact Telesis Customer
Support.
NO ITEMS IN PATTERN TO ADJUST !

You have attempted to adjust a pattern that contains no defined fields. Define fields for the pattern first, then adjust
them (as required).
NO PATTERN IS LOADED !
You have attempted to scroll through the text field of a pattern without specifying a pattern name. Select the pattern
you wish to view, then try again.
NO PATTERN IS LOADED ! CANNOT TEST !

You have attempted to test a pattern without specifying a pattern name. Select the pattern you wish to test, then try
again.
NO PATTERN IS LOADED FOR EDIT !

You have attempted to edit a pattern without specifying a pattern name. Select the pattern you wish to edit, then try
again.
NO PATTERN IS LOADED FOR PRINT !

You have attempted to print a pattern without specifying a pattern name. Select the pattern you wish to print, then try
again.
NO PATTERN IS LOADED ! PRE-POSITION WHAT?

A pattern must be loaded for the marker to execute a Pre-position command (F5 from the Main Screen). Load a
pattern and try again.
NO PATTERN TO SAVE !
You have attempted to save a pattern without specifying a pattern name. Select the pattern you wish to save, then try
again.
6-4 30341B.DOC
NO PATTERN TO VIEW !
You have attempted to display the pattern definition without specifying a pattern name. Specify the pattern you wish
to view, then try again.
NO VARIABLE FIELDS TO EDIT HERE !

You have pressed ENTER while the cursor was positioned on a field that does not accept input. Move the cursor to a
field that does accept operator-input. See Entering Text into a Pattern (Section 2).
NOTHING TO EDIT IN THIS FIELD !

You have attempted to edit a field that cannot be edited. The cursor was either positioned on a Pause field or a blank line
when you selected edit from the Pattern Editor Screen. Move the cursor to a valid field and try again.
ONE OR MORE FIELDS COULD NOT BE ADJUSTED

You attempted to adjust (move) fields in the pattern that would result a field (or fields) being placed outside of the
marking window. Either identify and relocate the offending field or change the adjustment parameters, then try again.
PATTERN CONTAINS 0 ERRORS.

This message is displayed if the Design/Test feature was performed on the pattern and all of the fields were found to be
within the printable area of the marking window.
PATTERN NOT FOUND ( HOST ): < NAME >

The host computer issued a load pattern command for a pattern that the marking system cannot load. Either the
requested pattern name is invalid or it is no longer stored in the controller’s memory.
PATTERN FIELD IS OUT OF RANGE !

This message is displayed if the Design/Test feature was performed on the pattern and a field was found to be outside
of the printable area of the window. Determine which field is out of range, relocate the field as required, then re-run
the Design Test.
PATTERN PIXEL RANGE ERROR !

This message is displayed if the Design/Test feature was performed on the pattern and a portion of one of the fields
was found to be outside of the printable area of the marking window. Determine which field is out of range, relocate
the field as required, then re-run the Design Test.
RAM ERROR... DEFAULT PARAMETERS LOADED !

This message will be displayed during power-up if an error is detected with the Random Access Memory. This may be
caused by failure of the backup battery. The system was unable to load the user-defined parameters, so the system
(factory) default parameters were loaded instead.
RAM ERROR... EXISTING PATTERNS ERASED !

This message will be displayed during power-up if an error is detected with the Random Access Memory that resulted in
the loss of data. Patterns stored in the controller’s RAM were deleted.
30341B.DOC 6-5
TEXT/ARCTEXT/MATRIX FIELD NOT FOUND !

The Host has attempted to use a Message Type 1 transmission to replace text in the pattern, but was unable to find a
valid field. The pattern must contain a field capable of receiving text from the Host. Ensure the pattern contains at
least one Text, Arctext, or Matrix field, as applicable.
TIMEOUT... CANNOT FIND HOME POSITION !

The marker attempted to move to Home but was unable to verify the Home position. Place the marker online. If the
error continues, contact Telesis Customer Support.
VARIABLE TEXT NOT FOUND !

The host attempted to download data to a field that does not contain a variable text flag. Verify the requested field number
contains the appropriate message flag(s). See Using Codes and Real-time Data (Section 3).
WRONG FIRMWARE FOR <MTR1 / MTR2 / SOL> !

The system does not have the correct firmware for one of the motor drivers or for the solenoid driver. Contact Telesis
Customer Support for the correct version.
6-6 30341B.DOC
Appendix A
Standard Telesis Fonts
The following pages illustrate the standard Telesis fonts and their complete character sets.
5X7 FONT CHARACTER SET
OCR FONT CHARACTER SET
30341B.DOC A-1
11X16 FONT CHARACTER SET
A-2 30341B.DOC
Appendix B
ASCII Cross Reference
STANDARD ASCII CHARACTERS

This table may be convenient when devising communications between the controller and a host computer.
ASCII DEC HEX ASCII DEC HEX ASCII DEC HEX ASCII DEC HEX
NULL 0 00 SPACE 32 20 @ 64 40 ' 96 60
ctrl A SOH 1 01 ! 33 21 A 65 41 a 97 61
ctrl B STX 2 02 " 34 22 B 66 42 b 98 62
ctrl C ETX 3 03 # 35 23 C 67 43 c 99 63
ctrl D EOT 4 04 $ 36 24 D 68 44 d 100 64
ctrl E ENQ 5 05 % 37 25 E 69 45 e 101 65
ctrl F ACK 6 06 & 38 26 F 70 46 f 102 66
ctrl G BEL 7 07 ' 39 27 G 71 47 g 103 67
ctrl H BS 8 08 ( 40 28 H 72 48 h 104 68
ctrl I HT 9 09 ) 41 29 I 73 49 i 105 69
ctrl J LF 10 0A * 42 2A J 74 4A j 106 6A
ctrl K VT 11 0B + 43 2B K 75 4B k 107 6B
ctrl L FF 12 0C , 44 2C L 76 4C l 108 6C
ctrl M CR 13 0D - 45 2D M 77 4D m 109 6D
ctrl N SO 14 0E . 46 2E N 78 4E n 110 6E
ctrl O SI 15 0F / 47 2F O 79 4F o 111 6F
ctrl P DLE 16 10 0 48 30 P 80 50 p 112 70
ctrl Q DC1 17 11 1 49 31 Q 81 51 q 113 71
ctrl R DC2 18 12 2 50 32 R 82 52 r 114 72
ctrl S DC3 19 13 3 51 33 S 83 53 s 115 73
ctrl T DC4 20 14 4 52 34 T 84 54 t 116 74
ctrl U NAK 21 15 5 53 35 U 85 55 u 117 75
ctrl V SYN 22 16 6 54 36 V 86 56 v 118 76
ctrl W ETB 23 17 7 55 37 W 87 57 w 119 77
ctrl X CAN 24 18 8 56 38 X 88 58 x 120 78
ctrl Y EM 25 19 9 57 39 Y 89 59 y 121 79
ctrl Z SUB 26 1A : 58 3A Z 90 5A z 122 7A
ctrl [ ESC 27 1B ; 59 3B [ 91 5B { 123 7B
ctrl \ FS 28 1C < 60 3C \ 92 5C | 124 7C
ctrl ] GS 29 1D = 61 3D ] 93 5D } 125 7D
ctrl ^ RS 30 1E > 62 3E ^ 94 5E ~ 126 7E
ctrl _ US 31 1F ? 63 3F _ 95 5F DEL 127 7F
30341B.DOC B-1
EXTENDED ASCII CHARACTERS

Extended ASCII characters may be created using the Telesis Logo/Font Generator software.
ASCII DEC HEX ASCII DEC HEX ASCII DEC HEX ASCII DEC HEX
€ 128 80 none 160 A0 À 192 C0 à 224 E0

none 129 81 ¡ 161 A1 Á 193 C1 á 225 E1
‚ 130 82 ¢ 162 A2 Â 194 C2 â 226 E2
ƒ 131 83 £ 163 A3 Ã 195 C3 ã 227 E3
„ 132 84 ¤ 164 A4 Ä 196 C4 ä 228 E4
… 133 85 ¥ 165 A5 Å 197 C5 å 229 E5
† 134 86 ¦ 166 A6 Æ 198 C6 æ 230 E6
‡ 135 87 § 167 A7 Ç 199 C7 ç 231 E7
ˆ 136 88 ¨ 168 A8 È 200 C8 è 232 E8
‰ 137 89 © 169 A9 É 201 C9 é 233 E9
Š 138 8A ª 170 AA Ê 202 CA ê 234 EA
‹ 139 8B « 171 AB Ë 203 CB ë 235 EB
Œ 140 8C ¬ 172 AC Ì 204 CC ì 236 EC
None 141 8D - 173 AD Í 205 CD í 237 ED
None 142 8E ® 174 AE Î 206 CE î 238 EE
none 143 8F ¯ 175 AF Ï 207 CF ï 239 EF
none 144 90 ° 176 B0 Ð 208 D0 ð 240 F0
‘ 145 91 ± 177 B1 Ñ 209 D1 ñ 241 F1
’ 146 92 ² 178 B2 Ò 210 D2 ò 242 F2
“ 147 93 ³ 179 B3 Ó 211 D3 ó 243 F3
” 148 94 ´ 180 B4 Ô 212 D4 ô 244 F4
• 149 95 µ 181 B5 Õ 213 D5 õ 245 F5
– 150 96 ¶ 182 B6 Ö 214 D6 ö 246 F6
— 151 97 · 183 B7 × 215 D7 ÷ 247 F7
˜ 152 98 ¸ 184 B8 0 216 D8 0 248 F8
™ 153 99 ¹ 185 B9 Ù 217 D9 ù 249 F9
š 154 9A º 186 BA Ú 218 DA ú 250 FA
› 155 9B » 187 BB Û 219 DB û 251 FB
œ 156 9C ¼ 188 BC Ü 220 DC ü 252 FC
none 157 9D ½ 189 BD Ý 221 DD ý 253 FD
None 158 9E ¾ 190 BE Þ 222 DE þ 254 FE
Ÿ 159 9F ¿ 191 BF ß 223 DF ÿ 255 FF
B-2 30341B.DOC
Index
1
11x16 character set.............................................A-2 arcs (continued)
parameters ...................................................3-11
pixel density .................................................3-11
2 radius construction ........................................3-12
2D code start and end angles ......................................3-12
see MicroQR code symbols start point.....................................................3-13
see QR code symbols theta anchor .................................................3-11
see matrix symbols arctext
3-point construction .......................................3-17
adding..........................................................3-14
5 alignment .....................................................3-15
5x7 character set ................................................A-1 center point ..................................................3-17
center ..........................................................3-16
construction method ......................................3-14
A density of print ..............................................3-14
abort select (remote switch) .................................4-4 ending point..................................................3-17
aborting the print cycle ...................................... 2-11 general.........................................................3-14
access height ..........................................................3-14
restriction.......................................................4-1 justification ...................................................3-15
supervisor mode .............................................3-6 pitch ............................................................3-15
system parameters..........................................4-1 print mode ....................................................3-14
system tests ...................................................5-1 radius construction ........................................3-16
adding shape of curve...............................................3-15
arcs ............................................................. 3-11 spacing.........................................................3-15
arctext ......................................................... 3-14 start angle ....................................................3-16
goto commands ............................................ 3-34 start point.....................................................3-17
matrix symbols ............................................. 3-18 theta anchor .................................................3-15
microQR code symbols ................................... 3-29 tips ..............................................................3-17
pause commands .......................................... 3-34 width ...........................................................3-15
QR code symbols........................................... 3-24 ASCII character cross reference ........................... B-1
real-time data ............................................... 3-35 assistance ........................................................1-14
text fields .......................................................3-7 auto-load pattern ............................................... 4-6
additional publications ....................................... 1-13 auto-supplied data.............................................3-35
adjusting pattern anchor .................................... 3-40
air pressure B
description ................................................... 1-11
parameter ......................................................4-2 baud rate .........................................................4-18
air tubing parameter............................................4-5 BCC .................................................................4-30
aligning bidirectional printing
arctext ......................................................... 3-15 matrix symbols..............................................3-22
matrix symbols ............................................. 3-18 microQR code symbols ...................................3-32
microQR code symbols ................................... 3-29 QR code symbols ...........................................3-27
part placement................................................1-9 bits parameter ..................................................4-19
pre-positioning the marker ...............................2-7
QR code symbols........................................... 3-24 C
text ........................................................... 3-2, 8
anchor position ................................................. 3-40 center
angle of arc ...........................................................3-12
arc start and end........................................... 3-12 of arctext......................................................3-16
arctext start ................................................. 3-16 center point
angled mounting, theta-axis ............................... 3-48 arc...............................................................3-13
arcs arctext .........................................................3-17
3-pt. construction.......................................... 3-13 changing
adding ......................................................... 3-11 arc parameters ..............................................3-11
center point .................................................. 3-13 arctext parameters ........................................3-14
center .......................................................... 3-12 field parameters ............................................3-50
construction method ...................................... 3-11 goto parameters ............................................3-34
density of print ............................................. 3-11 I/O debounce setting....................................... 4-6
ending point ................................................. 3-13 marker parameters ......................................... 4-2
30341B.DOC Index-1
changing (continued) controller

matrix symbols parameters.............................3-18 description ..................................................... 1-2
microQR code symbols parameters ..................3-29 overview ........................................................ 1-3
omni serial number ......................................... 4-8 station ID..................................................... 4-19
operating mode - designer ............................... 3-6 convex/concave arctext ..................................... 3-15
operating mode - supervisor ............................ 4-1 copying fields ................................................... 3-50
order of print ................................................3-51 copyright information ............................................. i
pattern information........................................3-50 creating patterns ................................................ 3-6
pattern parameters ........................................3-50 customer support.............................................. 1-14
pattern serial number.....................................3-44
pause parameters..........................................3-34
QR code symbols parameters ..........................3-24
D
system parameters ......................................... 4-1 data
system password ............................................ 4-1 bits ............................................................. 4-19
system startup options .................................... 4-6 matrix symbols ............................................. 3-18
system time and date.....................................4-14 microQR code symbols................................... 3-29
text during print ............................................3-36 QR code symbols .......................................... 3-24
text field parameters....................................... 3-8 text fields..................................................3-8, 14
units of measure ...........................................4-15 data matrix
character see microQR code symbols
cross reference............................................... B-1 see QR code symbols
dimensions .................................................... 3-2 see matrix symbols
font sets ........................................................ A-1 date and time insertion...................................... 3-38
fully-formed ................................................... 3-4 date setting for system...................................... 4-14
ignore ..........................................................4-21 debounce setting ................................................ 4-6
length ..........................................................4-21 decimal cross reference ....................................... B-1
position ........................................................4-21 default
recognition .................................................... 3-3 pattern load at startup..................................... 4-6
spacing ......................................................... 3-2 text parameters ............................................ 3-42
start ............................................................4-20 defining
terminator ....................................................4-20 arcs............................................................. 3-11
check code .......................................................4-30 arctext......................................................... 3-14
checksum default text parameters ................................. 3-42
message flag.................................................3-38 goto commands ............................................ 3-34
message verification ......................................4-30 goto priorities ............................................... 3-34
closing the software............................................ 1-8 host communications..................................... 4-18
coded marker parameters ......................................... 4-2
information ...................................................3-38 month codes ................................................ 4-12
month data ...................................................4-12 omni reset options .......................................... 4-9
shift data ......................................................4-10 omni serial numbers........................................ 4-8
year data......................................................4-13 operator-entered text .................................... 3-36
communication part diameter ............................................... 3-47
checksum .....................................................4-30 pattern anchor position.................................. 3-40
one-way .......................................................4-20 pattern parameters ....................................... 3-38
parameters ...................................................4-18 pattern park position ..................................... 3-39
two-way .......................................................4-24 pattern serial number .................................... 3-44
cone angle........................................................1-12 patterns......................................................... 3-6
configuring pause commands .......................................... 3-34
host communications .....................................4-18 query text - overview .................................... 3-36
marker parameters ......................................... 4-2 query text - parameters................................... 4-7
month codes .................................................4-12 remote pattern selection ................................ 4-16
protocol........................................................4-19 serial numbers.............................................. 3-37
query text...................................................... 4-7 shift codes ................................................... 4-10
remote pattern selection.................................4-16 system password ............................................ 4-1
select_3 signal ............................................... 4-6 system startup options .................................... 4-6
shift codes ....................................................4-10 text fields....................................................... 3-7
system parameters ......................................... 4-1 theta mounting angle .................................... 3-48
system startup options .................................... 4-6 theta-axis – pattern parameters ..................... 3-46
theta-axis .....................................................4-36 theta-axis – system parameters...................... 4-36
units of measure ...........................................4-15 theta-axis print mode .................................... 3-46
year codes ....................................................4-13 variable text ................................................. 3-36
z-axis...........................................................4-32 window coordinates......................................... 3-1
continuous mode printing .................................... 3-4 year codes ................................................... 4-13
control z-axis baseline.............................................. 4-34
characters ..................................................... 1-5 z-axis parameters ......................................... 4-32
keys.............................................................. 1-4 delay pulse parameter ......................................... 4-4
Index-2 30341B.DOC
deleting filter/regulator ................................................... 1-2

fields ........................................................... 3-51 finish ...............................................................1-12
patterns ....................................................... 3-53 font
depth of mark................................................... 1-11 character sets ................................................ A-1
design considerations character size................................................. 3-2
interactive design ............................................3-5 selection ........................................................ 3-3
overview ........................................................3-1 size............................................................... 3-3
text justification ..............................................3-2 force square dimensions
design features ...................................................3-1 matrix symbols..............................................3-21
diameter of part marked .................................... 3-47 microQR code symbols ...................................3-32
dimensioning characters ......................................3-2 QR code symbols ...........................................3-27
direct move commands ...................................... 3-34 foreign language characters ................................. 1-5
disabling foreword............................................................... i
display on startup............................................4-6 format
marker...........................................................2-3 extended protocol messages ...........................4-24
displaying system information...............................1-8 extended protocol responses ...........................4-25
documentation....................................................1-2 matrix symbols..............................................3-19
dot matrix printing ..............................................3-4 microQR code symbols ...................................3-30
drive air pressure QR code symbols ...........................................3-25
description ................................................... 1-11 function keys ..................................................... 1-4
parameter ......................................................4-2
dry run ............................................................ 2-10
duplicating fields ............................................... 3-50
G
general information ............................................ 1-9
getting started ................................................... 1-2
E goto commands.................................................3-34
echo out feature ............................................... 4-22 goto priorities ...................................................3-34
editing
keys for .........................................................1-6
patterns ....................................................... 3-50
H
enabling hardness ..........................................................1-12
display on startup............................................4-6 height of characters
echo output feature ....................................... 4-22 arctext .........................................................3-14
marker...........................................................2-3 overview........................................................ 3-2
remote pattern selection ................................ 4-16 text fields ...................................................... 3-9
theta-axis..................................................... 4-36 hexadecimal character cross reference .................. B-1
z-axis .......................................................... 4-32 hiding display on controller .................................. 4-6
ending point home
arc .............................................................. 3-13 before/after print ............................................ 4-4
arctext ......................................................... 3-17 position ......................................................... 1-9
entering text into patterns....................................2-8 homing the marker ............................................. 2-3
equipment overview ............................................1-2 host communications .........................................4-18
error
check codes .................................................. 3-38
correction, matrix symbols ............................. 3-19 I
correction, microQR code symbols ................... 3-30 I/O
correction, QR code symbols ........................... 3-25 debounce setting ............................................ 4-6
messages .......................................................6-1 signal testing ................................................. 5-4
exiting the software.............................................1-8 ignore character ................................................4-21
extended ASCII characters ...................................B-2 impact pin
extended protocol characteristics ...............................................1-12
check code ................................................... 4-30 cone angle ....................................................1-12
message format ............................................ 4-24 material........................................................1-12
response format ............................................ 4-25 pulsing .......................................................... 5-2
using ........................................................... 4-24 recovery time ................................................. 3-4
selection ........................................................ 4-3
size..............................................................1-12
F testing........................................................... 5-2
field placement ...................................................3-1 index print mode ...............................................3-46
fields inserting
changing order of print................................... 3-51 error check codes ..........................................3-38
changing parameters ..................................... 3-50 fields............................................................3-51
copying ........................................................ 3-50 real-time data ...............................................3-35
deleting........................................................ 3-51 time and dates ..............................................3-38
inserting into patterns.................................... 3-51 interactive design ............................................... 3-5
overview ........................................................1-6 interrupting the print cycle .................................2-11
30341B.DOC Index-3
J
jog feature marking (continued)
interactive design ........................................... 3-5 surface ........................................................ 1-12
theta-axis ...................................................... 2-5 window size.................................................... 3-1
using ............................................................ 2-4 window .......................................................... 1-9
z-axis............................................................ 2-5 marking pin
justifying text .................................................3-2, 8 cone angle ................................................... 1-12
material ....................................................... 1-12
K pulsing .......................................................... 5-2
recovery time ................................................. 3-4
keyboard overview ............................................. 1-3 selection ........................................................ 4-3
keys size ............................................................. 1-12
control characters ........................................... 1-5 testing ........................................................... 5-2
editing .......................................................... 1-6 marking system
function......................................................... 1-4 equipment ..................................................... 1-2
marker control ............................................... 1-4 overview ........................................................ 1-9
navigation ..................................................... 1-3 material
special characters ........................................... 1-5 finish ........................................................... 1-12
hardness...................................................... 1-12
surface ........................................................ 1-12
L matrix symbols
length of character string ...................................4-21 accuracy ...................................................... 3-22
license agreement ................................................. ii alignment .................................................... 3-18
limit switch, z-axis.............................................4-33 bidirectional printing...................................... 3-22
limitations of matrix content ...............................3-23 coding ......................................................... 3-19
limitations of microQR code content .....................3-33 construction method...................................... 3-20
limitations of QR code content.............................3-28 content ........................................................ 3-18
listing pattern names .........................................3-53 damage recovery .......................................... 3-19
loading a pattern ................................................ 2-6 error correction............................................. 3-19
lookup table....................................................... 4-7 forced square ............................................... 3-21
format ......................................................... 3-19
justification .................................................. 3-18
M limitations .................................................... 3-23
machine-readable font ........................................ 3-3 maximum characters ..................................... 3-23
main screen (operator mode)............................... 1-7 overshoot .................................................... 3-22
managing patterns ............................................3-52 parameters .................................................. 3-18
manual rotating ....................................................... 3-20
additional publications....................................1-13 shape .......................................................... 3-19
layout and content.......................................... 1-1 size method ................................................. 3-20
marker spacing method ............................................ 3-20
auto-online/offline .......................................... 4-6 speed control................................................ 3-21
control keys ................................................... 1-4 theta anchor................................................. 3-22
goto commands.............................................3-34 max speed parameter ......................................... 4-4
home position ................................................ 1-9 maximum speed
homing.......................................................... 2-3 matrix symbols ............................................. 3-21
jogging.......................................................... 2-4 microQR code symbols................................... 3-31
moving.......................................................... 2-4 QR code symbols .......................................... 3-26
parameter settings ......................................... 4-2 measurement units ........................................... 4-15
park position .................................................. 1-9 message
parking ......................................................... 2-7 error ............................................................. 6-1
pause commands...........................................3-34 flags............................................................ 3-35
pre-position ................................................... 2-7 format ......................................................... 4-24
repositioning .................................................. 2-4 system .......................................................... 6-1
resetting........................................................ 2-3 message types
software ........................................................ 1-6 extended protocol ......................................... 4-26
tube size parameter ........................................ 4-5 programmable protocol.................................. 4-21
marking messages .......................................................... 6-1
considerations ...............................................1-11 microQR code symbols
depth of mark ...............................................1-11 accuracy ...................................................... 3-32
head ............................................................. 1-2 alignment .................................................... 3-29
patterns .......................................................2-10 bidirectional printing...................................... 3-32
pin characteristics..........................................1-12 construction method...................................... 3-31
speed............................................................ 3-3 content ........................................................ 3-29
Index-4 30341B.DOC
microQR code symbols (continued) P

damage recovery .......................................... 3-30
error correction ............................................. 3-30 parameters
forced square................................................ 3-32 marker-specific............................................... 4-2
format ......................................................... 3-30 pattern .........................................................3-38
justification................................................... 3-29 pattern-specific .............................................. 3-1
limitations .................................................... 3-33 system-specific............................................... 4-1
maximum characters ..................................... 3-33 parity setting ....................................................4-18
overshoot ..................................................... 3-32 park position
parameters................................................... 3-29 defining ........................................................3-39
rotating........................................................ 3-30 overview........................................................ 1-9
size method .................................................. 3-31 park-during-load feature ..................................... 4-4
spacing method............................................. 3-31 parking the marker ............................................. 2-7
modes part
of operation ....................................................1-7 alignment with marker .................................... 2-7
of printing ......................................................3-4 diameter.......................................................3-47
month codes..................................................... 4-12 placement...................................................... 1-9
mounting angle (theta-axis) ............................... 3-48 password protections .......................................... 4-1
move speed pattern
matrix symbols ............................................. 3-21 anchor position..............................................3-40
microQR code symbols ................................... 3-31 auto-load at startup ........................................ 4-6
QR code symbols........................................... 3-26 changing parameters......................................3-50
moving the marker..............................................2-4 creation ......................................................... 3-6
multiple controller identification .......................... 4-19 deleting fields................................................3-51
deleting ........................................................3-53
design considerations ...................................... 3-1
N design features............................................... 3-1
naming patterns................................................ 3-52 editing..........................................................3-50
navigation keys...................................................1-3 entering text .................................................. 2-8
networked controllers ........................................ 4-19 home before/after print ................................... 4-4
inserting fields...............................................3-51
interactive design ........................................... 3-5
O loading .......................................................... 2-6
OCR (optical character recognition) .......................3-3 managing .....................................................3-52
OCR character set ...............................................A-1 naming.........................................................3-52
omni reset options ..............................................4-9 overview........................................................ 1-6
omni serial number .............................................4-8 park position .................................................3-39
one-way communications ................................... 4-20 park-during-load............................................. 4-4
online/offline printing ........................................................2-10
at startup .......................................................4-6 remotely selecting .........................................4-16
enabling/disabling system ................................2-3 reserved names.............................................4-17
opening a pattern................................................2-6 saving ..........................................................3-52
operational serial number ................................................3-44
mode .............................................................1-7 testing..........................................................3-52
overview ........................................................2-1 viewing library...............................................3-53
sequence........................................................2-2 pause during print .............................................3-34
operator main screen...........................................1-7 perpendicular print mode....................................3-46
operator mode features .......................................2-1 pin
operator-entered text characteristics ...............................................1-12
enabling ....................................................... 3-36 cone angle ....................................................1-12
entering .........................................................2-8 material........................................................1-12
order of printing..................................................3-4 pulsing .......................................................... 5-2
overshoot parameter recovery parameter ........................................ 4-5
microQR code symbols ................................... 3-32 recovery time ................................................. 3-4
QR code symbols........................................... 3-27 size..............................................................1-12
overshoot parameter ......................................... 3-22 specifying ...................................................... 4-3
overview stroke description ..........................................1-11
controller usage ..............................................1-3 stroke parameter ............................................ 4-3
marking system ..............................................1-9 testing........................................................... 5-2
marking window..............................................1-9 travel ...........................................................1-11
patterns and fields...........................................1-6 pitch ................................................................. 3-2
theta-axis operation ...................................... 1-10 pixel accuracy
theta-axis parameters.................................... 4-36 matrix symbols..............................................3-22
z-axis operation ............................................ 1-10 microQR code symbols ...................................3-32
z-axis parameters ......................................... 4-32 QR code symbols ...........................................3-27
30341B.DOC Index-5
pixel density QR code symbols (continued)

arcs .............................................................3-11 damage recovery .......................................... 3-25
arctext .........................................................3-14 error correction............................................. 3-25
text fields ...................................................... 3-9 forced square ............................................... 3-27
placing parts ...................................................... 1-9 format ......................................................... 3-25
position character..............................................4-21 justification .................................................. 3-24
positioning limitations .................................................... 3-28
arctext .........................................................3-15 maximum characters ..................................... 3-28
matrix symbols..............................................3-18 overshoot .................................................... 3-27
microQR code symbols ...................................3-29 parameters .................................................. 3-24
QR code symbols ...........................................3-24 rotating ....................................................... 3-25
pre-position the marker....................................... 2-7 size method ................................................. 3-26
pressure spacing method ............................................ 3-26
air 1-11 theta anchor................................................. 3-27
parameter ..................................................... 4-2 quality of print
print mode matrix symbols ............................................. 3-21
arctext .........................................................3-14 text fields..................................................... 3-10
text fields ...................................................... 3-9 query text
theta-axis .....................................................3-46 defining ......................................................... 4-7
print order ........................................................3-51 entry ............................................................. 2-8
printable area .................................................... 3-1 using ........................................................... 3-36
printing quitting the software ........................................... 1-8
aborting the print cycle ..................................2-11
continuous mode ............................................ 3-4
displaying print time ......................................2-11
R
dot-matrix mode ............................................ 3-4 radius
dry run (simulation) .......................................2-10 of arc .......................................................... 3-12
duration .......................................................2-11 of arctext ..................................................... 3-16
edit text during print ......................................3-36 range of travel (testing) ...................................... 5-6
home before/after print ................................... 4-4 real-time data .................................................. 3-35
index mode...................................................3-46 recognizing characters......................................... 3-3
matrix symbols, bidirectional...........................3-22 recovery time
matrix symbols, unidirectional.........................3-22 overview ........................................................ 3-4
microQR code symbols, bidirectional ................3-32 parameter setting ........................................... 4-5
microQR code symbols, unidirectional ..............3-32 rectangular matrix symbols ................................ 3-19
order............................................................. 3-4 regulator ........................................................... 1-2
patterns .......................................................2-10 remote pattern
pause during print .........................................3-34 input ............................................................. 4-6
perpendicular mode .......................................3-46 selection ...................................................... 4-16
QR code symbols, bidirectional ........................3-27 removing patterns ............................................ 3-53
QR code symbols, unidirectional ......................3-27 repositioning the marker...................................... 2-4
quality of matrix symbols ...............................3-21 reserved pattern names..................................... 3-52
quality of text fields .......................................3-10 reserved pattern names..................................... 4-17
sequence ......................................................3-51 reset
speed of matrix symbols.................................3-21 omni serial number ......................................... 4-9
without marking ............................................2-10 position ......................................................... 1-9
priority of goto moves ........................................3-34 response format ............................................... 4-25
product documentation ....................................... 1-2 restricting access ................................................ 4-1
product usage ....................................................... i return air pressure ............................................ 1-11
programmable protocol ......................................4-20 rotary axis. see theta-axis
protocol rotating
extended ......................................................4-24 matrix symbols ............................................. 3-20
programmable...............................................4-20 microQR code symbols................................... 3-30
selections .....................................................4-19 QR code symbols .......................................... 3-25
PS-OCR character set.......................................... A-1 text fields....................................................... 3-9
pulse delay parameter ........................................ 4-4 RS-232 selection............................................... 4-19
pulsing the marking pin....................................... 5-2 RS-485 selection............................................... 4-19
Q S
QR code symbols safety information................................................. iii
accuracy.......................................................3-27 saving patterns................................................. 3-52
alignment .....................................................3-24 select_3 signal configuration ................................ 4-6
bidirectional printing ......................................3-27 selecting fonts .................................................... 3-3
construction method ......................................3-26 sequence of operation ......................................... 2-2
content ........................................................3-24
Index-6 30341B.DOC
serial number start

omni ..............................................................4-8 character ......................................................4-20
pattern......................................................... 3-44 printing ........................................................2-10
types ........................................................... 3-37 the software................................................... 1-7
services ........................................................... 1-14 starting point
setting arc...............................................................3-13
goto priorities ............................................... 3-34 arctext .........................................................3-17
host communications ..................................... 4-18 startup options................................................... 4-6
marker parameters..........................................4-2 station ID parameter..........................................4-19
omni reset options...........................................4-9 stop bits ...........................................................4-19
omni serial number..........................................4-8 stopping the print cycle ......................................2-11
pattern parameters........................................ 3-38 stroke distance..................................................1-11
pattern serial number .................................... 3-44 supervisor
protocol ...................................................... 4-19 features......................................................... 4-1
startup options................................................4-6 mode ............................................................ 3-6
system parameters..........................................4-1 support ............................................................1-14
system password.............................................4-1 surface of mark .................................................1-12
system time and date .................................... 4-14 system
theta-axis parameters.................................... 4-36 auto-supplied data .........................................3-35
units of measure ........................................... 4-15 information .................................................... 1-8
z-axis baseline .............................................. 4-34 messages ...................................................... 6-1
z-axis parameters ......................................... 4-32 online/offline .................................................. 2-3
shape of matrix symbols .................................... 3-19 operation ....................................................... 2-1
shaping arctext ................................................. 3-15 overview........................................................ 1-9
shift codes........................................................ 4-10 parameters .................................................... 4-1
shutting down the controller .................................1-8 serial number ................................................. 4-8
signal testing ......................................................5-4 software ........................................................ 1-6
simulate printing ............................................... 2-10 tests ............................................................. 5-1
sizing time and date setting .....................................4-14
characters ......................................................3-2
fonts..............................................................3-3
matrix symbols ............................................. 3-20
T
microQR code symbols ................................... 3-31 Telesis
QR code symbols........................................... 3-26 assistance.....................................................1-14
software fonts ............................................................. A-1
description .....................................................1-2 terminator character ..........................................4-20
exiting ...........................................................1-8 test printing ......................................................2-10
license agreement ............................................. ii testing
overview ........................................................1-6 abort signal.................................................... 5-4
starting up .....................................................1-7 I/O signals ..................................................... 5-4
version number ...............................................1-8 pattern design ...............................................3-52
solenoids testing .................................................5-3 range of travel ............................................... 5-6
spacing the marking pin .............................................. 5-2
arctext ......................................................... 3-15 the solenoids.................................................. 5-3
matrix symbols ............................................. 3-20 the system..................................................... 5-1
microQR code symbols symbols....................... 3-31 text
QR code symbols symbols .............................. 3-26 alignment ...................................................3-2, 8
text fields .......................................................3-9 default parameters ........................................3-42
special character keys..........................................1-5 entering data in patterns ................................. 2-8
speed justification .................................................3-2, 8
control for matrix symbols .............................. 3-21 text fields
control of marking ...........................................3-3 adding........................................................... 3-7
matrix symbols max. large moves ................... 3-21 allowing operator-entered text ........................3-35
max, large moves............................................4-4 containing serial numbers ...............................3-37
microQR code max. large moves ..................... 3-31 containing variable text ..................................3-36
printing ..........................................................4-4 content.....................................................3-8, 14
QR code max. large moves ............................. 3-26 data on-the-fly ..............................................3-36
square symbol, forced density of print ............................................... 3-9
data matrix................................................... 3-21 height ........................................................... 3-9
microQR code ............................................... 3-32 parameters .................................................... 3-8
QR code ....................................................... 3-27 pitch ............................................................. 3-9
standard ASCII characters....................................B-1 print mode override .......................................3-10
standard fonts ....................................................A-1 print mode ..................................................... 3-9
standoff parameter..............................................4-3
30341B.DOC Index-7
text fields (continued) using

real-time data ...............................................3-35 the controller.................................................. 1-3
rotating ......................................................... 3-9 the product ....................................................... i
spacing ......................................................... 3-9 the software ..................................................... ii
theta anchor .................................................3-10 this manual .................................................... 1-1
width ............................................................ 3-9
theta anchor
arcs .............................................................3-11
V
arctext .........................................................3-15 variable text
matrix symbols..............................................3-22 defining ....................................................... 3-36
QR code symbols ...........................................3-27 using ............................................................. 2-8
text fields .....................................................3-10 version number .................................................. 1-8
theta-axis viewing
configuring ...................................................4-36 pattern names .............................................. 3-53
enabling .......................................................4-36 system information ......................................... 1-8
jogging.......................................................... 2-5
overview - operation ......................................1-10
overview parameters .....................................4-36 W
parameters ...................................................3-46 where do I begin? ............................................... 1-2
print mode....................................................3-46 where’s my documentation? ................................. 1-2
time and date insertion ......................................3-38 width of characters
time setting for system ......................................4-14 arctext......................................................... 3-15
time to print .....................................................2-11 overview ........................................................ 3-2
tip angle...........................................................1-12 text fields....................................................... 3-9
tips for using arctext..........................................3-17 window
trademark information ........................................... i coordinates .................................................... 3-1
travel (testing)................................................... 5-6 size ............................................................... 3-1
tube size parameter............................................ 4-5 work codes
two-way communications ...................................4-24 defining ....................................................... 4-10
types of messages using ........................................................... 3-38
extended protocol ..........................................4-26
programmable protocol ..................................4-21
typing data into patterns ..................................... 2-8 Y
year codes ....................................................... 4-13
U Z
unidirectional printing z-axis
matrix symbols..............................................3-22 baseline ....................................................... 4-34
microQR code symbols ...................................3-32 configuring................................................... 4-32
QR code symbols ...........................................3-27 enabling ...................................................... 4-32
units of measure ...............................................4-15 jogging .......................................................... 2-5
updating limit switch .................................................. 4-33
field parameters ............................................3-50 overview - operation ..................................... 1-10
marker parameters ......................................... 4-2 overview - parameters................................... 4-32
pattern parameters ........................................3-50 zero offset.................................................... 4-34
query text ..................................................... 4-7
Index-8 30341B.DOC

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Operation Manual

This manual provides operating instructions for the Telesis® TMC420

Additional operating information for Telesis equipment used with the

Document No. 30341 Rev. B

Telesis Technologies, Inc.

© 2006 – 2008 Telesis Technologies, Incorporated – All Rights Reserved

License Agreement for Telesis Software

 Wear eye protection whenever operating the marking system.

 Do not disconnect components while power is applied to the system.

 Do not remove or defeat the safety features or protective guards.

Cautions contain information that is essential to avoid damage to the equipment.

This page intentionally left blank.

License Agreement for Telesis Software ................................................................................................. ii

Safety Summary ................................................................................................................................. iii

Using this Manual................................................................................................................................ 1-1

System Components ........................................................................................................................... 1-2

Using the Controller ............................................................................................................................ 1-3

Using the Software.............................................................................................................................. 1-6

Using the Marker ................................................................................................................................ 1-9

Marking Considerations........................................................................................................................ 1-11

Additional Publications ......................................................................................................................... 1-13

Telesis Customer Support .................................................................................................................... 1-14

Section 2 – System Overview

Sequence of Operation......................................................................................................................... 2-2

Placing the System Online/Offline.......................................................................................................... 2-3

Jogging the Marker.............................................................................................................................. 2-4

Loading a Pattern ................................................................................................................................ 2-6

Parking The Marker ............................................................................................................................. 2-7

Pre-Positioning the Marker ................................................................................................................... 2-7

Entering Text into a Pattern.................................................................................................................. 2-8

Performing a Dry Run .......................................................................................................................... 2-10

Printing a Pattern ................................................................................................................................ 2-10

Section 3 – Pattern Design

Design Considerations ......................................................................................................................... 3-1

Accessing the Design Features .............................................................................................................. 3-6

Creating a Pattern ............................................................................................................................... 3-6

Adding Fields to a Pattern .................................................................................................................... 3-7

Section 3 – Pattern Design

Adding Fields to a Pattern (continued)

Using Codes and Real-time Data ........................................................................................................... 3-35

Setting Pattern Parameters .................................................................................................................. 3-38

Editing a Pattern ................................................................................................................................. 3-50

Managing Patterns .............................................................................................................................. 3-52

Section 4 – System Configuration

Accessing System Parameters............................................................................................................... 4-1

Defining a Password ............................................................................................................................ 4-1

Marker Parameters .............................................................................................................................. 4-2

Startup Options .................................................................................................................................. 4-6

Query Text ......................................................................................................................................... 4-7

Omni Serial Numbers........................................................................................................................... 4-8

Shift Codes......................................................................................................................................... 4-10

Month Codes ...................................................................................................................................... 4-12

Year Codes ......................................................................................................................................... 4-13

Time and Date .................................................................................................................................... 4-14

Units of Measure ................................................................................................................................. 4-15

Wear eye protection whenever operating the marking system.

Do not disconnect components while power is applied to the system.

Do not remove or defeat the safety features or protective guards.

Access Denied ! ................................................................................................................. 6-1