How to Troubleshoot a Gerber Plotter

Because your Gerber plotter prints certain media differently, check the printing process first when things go wrong. For example, right angle Graphtec Type 2 targets must be sent to the Gerber Edge, while other jobs can be sent to the Gerber Tempo 600 or other Gerber plotter. The cutting conditions matter, too. The cutter-blade may need an adjustment if the plotter doesn't cut or cuts too deeply. The cutting force, speed settings and media placement should also be added to your troubleshooting strategy for the fastest repair.

Instructions

Graphtec Type 2 Jobs

1. Verify that your right angle Graphtec Type 2 print process is correct. Open the cut-only job in GSPPlot, then click "Setup."

2. Click "Print Options."

3. Click "Targets."

4. Select "Graphtec Type 2" under Target Configuration.

5. Check the "Graphtec Intermediate Targets" box if you want the edges of the graphic to have additional targets.

6. Click "OK."

Cut-Only and Cut/Print Jobs

1. Verify that your cut-only and cut/print process is correct. Open the cut-only job in GSPPlot, then click "Setup."

2. Click "Device Select."

3. Select the "Gerber Tempo 600" printer, then click "OK."

4. Click "Cut/Pounce."

Cutter Blade, Media Loading and Cutting Condition Settings

1. Adjust the cutter blade length if the blade doesn't cut the media correctly. The blade should not cut through the liner, however, a cutting trace should appear on the media liner. Turn the cutter blade adjustment knob clockwise to lengthen the blade, or counterclockwise to shorten it.

2. Confirm that the media covers the media sensor in the plotter. Give roll media enough slack between the roll and the push rollers that secure the media inside the plotter.

3. Check that the "Roll 1 Press Entr" setting is used when the origin point for roll media is to be set at the top of it. Check that the "Roll 2 Press Entr" setting is used when the origin point for roll media is to be set at the current setting position. The current setting position is the position closest to the media sensor.

4. Check that the condition settings are correct for the material you want to cut. For example, outdoor vinyl with a 0.05 to 0.08 mm thickness, using a CB09UA blade should have a cutting force of between 10 and 14. Set the cutting speed between one and 30, with a number two quality level. Refer to your equipment owner's manual on the recommended condition settings for other types of media. Press the "Cond" key to change the condition settings. Use the up/down/left/right arrows to make your selections for the condition number, force, tool, quality and cutting speed settings. Wait and adjust the offset later, if needed. When finished, press the "Test" key on the plotter. Check the corners of the triangle graphic on the printed test. Press the "Cond" key and adjust the offset setting condition if the triangle does not print completely.

Tips & Warnings

• Read and heed all safety warnings displayed on the plotter and in your equipment owner's manual.

• The plotter's cutter blades are sharp, so keep your hair, face and hands out of way of the plotter while it is moving.