VectorTX52 Operators Manual

Operator Manual
Vector TX52 Operator Manual

Presstek, Inc.
55 Executive Drive
Hudson, NH 03051 USA
603-594-8585
www.presstek.com
2

Vector TX52
Operator Manual
Table of Contents:
Chapter 1: Intro & Safety Information
Chapter 2: Specifications & Supplies
Chapter 3: Operation
Chapter 4: Operator Maintenance
Chapter 5: Troubleshooting
Customer Support: 1-800-422-3616

For a service call: #6
To order parts: #2
To order consumables: #1

This page intentionally left blank

Chapter 1
Introduction and Safety Information

Introduction and
Safety Information
Welcome
Congratulations on your purchase of the Vector TX52. This direct-to-metal CTP
device has combined leading edge thin drum technology with Surefire Laser
technology to provide you with this state of the art Platesetter.
About this Manual

This manual contains important information about installation, configuration
and daily use of the Vector TX 52, including working with Freedom metal
plates.
Each chapter of this manual has a specific focus. The information contained in
these chapters is organized to provide ease of use and understanding leading
you to effective use of the Vector TX52.
Chapter 1: Introduction & Safety Information

This chapter describes relevant information about safe operation of the
Vector TX52, specifications about the equipment and also how to use this manual
effectively.
Chapter 2: Specifications and Supplies

This chapter provides specifications for the Vector TX52 platesetter and
Freedom plate.
Chapter 3: Operation
This chapter explains procedures used in the daily operation of the VECTOR TX52.
Chapter 4: Operator Maintenance

This chapter describes routine maintenance tasks that must be performed on a
regular basis.
Chapter 5: Troubleshooting
This chapter explains warnings and error messages.

Introduction and
Safety Information
Chapter 6: Freedom Plates

This chapter describes the Freedom plate and includes a list of available sizes.
Chapter 7: Appendix
Specific safety information and a list of authorized support organizations
Conventions used in this manual
Certain conventions have been applied to this manual to aid in understanding the
information presented.
The following fonts and special symbols are used throughout the manual:
1 Paragraphs which are numbered contain instructions which you should follow
in the described sequence.
Text written in bold face represents a menu title, menu item or control item in a
dialog box.
Text written in bold typewriter face represents literal information,

which should be typed exactly as it appears in this manual
Text written in italics and appearing within a sentence, is important related

reference information.
Text preceded by an arrow is important information about the topic presented and
should be read carefully.
Assumptions
This manual assumes you have some familiarity with digital plate making as well as a
basic knowledge of the Microsoft Windows operating system.
Installing the VECTOR TX52
The hardware and software must be installed by an authorized service technician in

accordance with the installation instructions in the service manual and with national
and local regulations concerning electrical safety. In the event the Vector TX52 needs
to be moved, please contact Customer Support at 1-800-422-3616.

Introduction and
Safety Information
Safety Warning
The Vector TX52 is Class 4 rated electrical equipment (according to

. EN 60825-1: 1994)and must be connected to a properly grounded,
three (3) wire power supply in accordance with national and local
regulations. Failure to do so creates a potential danger of electrical shock.
The circuit to which the equipment must be current protected by

a device with suitable interruption capability as required by national
or local standards (whichever is the most stringent).
The power cord used to connect the equipment to the facility power supply
must comply with national and local standards and must have a minimum
rated current capacity of 20 Amp. (N.A.)/16 Amp. (Europe).
Standards Compliance
UL 1950 (3rd Edition)

C-UL or CSA to Std. No. C22.2 No. 950-M95 (3rd Edition)
EC Machinery Directive- 89/392/CEE
EN60950 (1992) +A1:93, +A2:93, +A3:95, +A4:97, +A11:97
EN60825-1 (1994) +A11:96
Electromagnetic Compatibility
FCC verification to part 15-B, Class A

ICES-003, Class A
EMC Directive 89/336/EEC to the following standards:
ITE Limits and Methods of Measurement EN55022: 1998 Class A

Generic Emissions Standard EN 50081-2
Generic Immunity Standard EN50082-1
Low Frequency Emissions Standards EN 6000-3-2, EN 6000-3-3
ITE Immunity Standard EN 55024 including the
following Harmonized Standards: EN 6000-4-2, -3, -4, -5, -6, -11
Caution: Adjustments or performance of procedures other than those specified

herein may result in hazardous radiating exposure.

Introduction and
Safety Information
Note to Users:
. Protect yourself, others, and your equipment by observing all safety warnings
contained in this manual. Before attempting to operate the Vector TX52, be
certain that each operator has read this manual and is thoroughly familiar with
the operating instructions and safety warnings.
Read and heed all warning labels.
Do not modify the unit, remove guards, covers, etc. and/or attempt to defeat
any interlock switches. Under no circumstances attempt to operate the machine
without all safety covers, interlocks and other safety devices in their original,
factory-installed condition.
Presstek recommends that repair and servicing of your machine be performed only
by a qualified Presstek service representative or an authorized dealer/distributor.
repair or servicing of this equipment by owners, operators, or unauthorized service
personnel is not advised due to the safety risks posed and the possibility of
voiding applicable warranty coverage.
Do not overfill the washer tank (see filling instructions). Be careful to avoid
spillage of water when filling and when sliding the washer unit in and out of
the machine.
Under no circumstances are the door or cover interlocks to be defeated.

Introduction and
Safety Information
Vector TX52 Electrical Warning Labels
There are several mandatory safety

and warning labels located on the
back of the Vector TX52:
Ground Symbol label: located inside the rear panel

near the ground stud.
Laser Safety Symbol label: located _____________________
High Voltage Warning label: located ________________
Fuse Replacement Warning label located on rear panel of

unit near near fuse indicator panel
Installation Instructions located near power cord outlet

On rear panel
10

Introduction and
Safety Information
On/Off and Safety Interlock Switches
Safety Devices: Please refer to the illustration which identifies and describes
the function of the safety devices used on the Vector TX 2.
Do not operate the unit without all covers, interlocks, and safety devices in their
original, factory-installed positions
LEFT SIDE COVER CENTER-TOP COVER RIGHT SIDE COVER

INTERLOCK SWITCHES (Mechanically secured by INTERLOCK SWITCHES
One motor and one baseframe with hardware One Motor and one
Laser Interlock Switch for access by authorized Laser Interlock Switch
located under this cover. Service Technician) located under this cover
ON/OFF Switch/Circuit WASHER ACCESS DRAWER

Breaker (15A) INTERLOCK SWITCHES
located on the rear panel Two interlock switches are activated
when drawer is opened. Heater, pump
and AC drive motors are disabled.
11

This page intentionally left blank
12

Chapter 2
Specifications and Supplies
13

Specifications
and Supplies
Vector TX52 Specifications
Imaging Technology Internal drum, five rib
Laser Technology Presstek SureFire – Class 4 laser product
Media Presstek Freedom thermal plates
Media Supply Single sheet, semi-automated feed
Plate Lengths Selectable over the range

14.375˝ to 19.875˝ (365 to 505 mm)
Plate Widths 13˝ to 13.375˝ (330 to 340 mm)

20.063˝ to 20.87˝ (510 to 525 mm)
Maximum Image
Area 20.87˝ W x 19.165˝ L (530 x 487 mm)
Plate Thickness .006˝ and .008˝ (.15 and .20 mm)
Resolution / Screening 2400 dpi / Up to 200 line screen
Speed Up to 20 plates an hour
Plate Washer Integrated water wash with scrub rollers
Register System Dual internal register pin system
Operating Daylight-safe, 60 - 80˚F (15.5 - 26.6˚C)

Environment 30 - 70% relative humidity (non-
condensing); prepress or pressroom area
Electrical 200 to 240 VAC, 50/60 Hz, 20 amp,

Requirements single phase; NEMA L6-20R receptacle
Weight 1,000 lbs (454 kgs)
Dimensions (LxWxH) 58˝ x 29˝ x 52˝ (147 cm x 74 cm x 132 cm)
14

Specifications
and Supplies
Freedom Plate Specifications
Plate Type Chemistry-free, thermal positive writing
Plate Substrate Aluminum
Printing Mechanism Wet offset
Resolution 3%-97% @ 200 LPI
Length of Run Up to 25,000 impressions
Light Sensitivity 100% daylight safe – no safelight required
Plate Thickness .006˝ and .008˝ (.15mm and .20mm)
Plate Size Standard 2-page formats, 52 cm and below
Processing Simple rinsing with only water; no

baking or gumming required
15

Specifications
and Supplies
6 Mil Freedom Thermal Plates
VTX80604 13 x 19-11/64 (330 x 487 mm) 100/Box

VTX80605 13 x 19-3/8 (330 x 492 mm) 100/Box
VTX80607 13-3/16 x 19-3/32 (335 x 485 mm) 100/Box
VTX80608 13-3/8 x 19-7/8 (340 x 505 mm) 100/Box
VTX80628 20-1/2 x 15-1/2 (521 x 394 mm) 100/Box
VTX80630 20-1/16 x 15-3/4 (510 x 400 mm) 100/Box
VTX80631 20 x 15-3/4 (508 x 400 mm) 100/Box
VTX80634 20-15/32 x 15-3/4 (520 x 400 mm) 100/Box
VTX80636 20-7/8 x 15-3/4 (530 x 400 mm) 100/Box
VTX80638 20-5/8 x 18-1/16 (524 x 459 mm) 100/Box
VTX80643 20-9/32 x 16-1/8 (515 x 410 mm) 100/Box
8 Mil Freedom Thermal Plates
VTX80810 13 x 19-11/64 (330 x 487 mm) 100/Box
VTX80805 13 x 19-3/8 (330 x 492 mm) 100/Box
VTX80807 13-3/16 x 19-3/32 (335 x 485 mm) 100/Box
VTX80808 13-3/8 x 19-7/8 (340 x 505 mm) 100/Box
VTX80828 20-1/2 x 15-1/2 (521 x 394 mm) 100/Box
VTX80830 20-1/16 x 15-3/4 (510 x 400 mm) 100/Box
VTX80831 20 x 15-3/4 (508 x 400 mm) 100/Box
VTX80834 20-15/32 x 15-3/4 (520 x 400 mm) 100/Box
VTX80836 20-7/8 x 15-3/4 (530 x 400 mm) 100/Box
VTX80838 20-5/8 x 18-1/16 (524 x 459 mm) 100/Box
VTX80843 20-9/32 x 16-1/8 (515 x 410 mm) 100/Box
Plate Punch
PTEK-2330-AB 220/425 mm Combo Plate Punch Each
Filters
VECFILTER-6C Washer Unit Filter Kit (contains 6) 6/Kit
Additional Items / Shop On-Line

Visit us on-line at www.shop.abdick.com 24/7 for additional supplies and
pressroom necessities. Browse our conveniently organized catalog and place orders.
At www.shop.abdick.com you can access customer-specific pricing, view current
product promotions, build a custom “my supply list”, track order status and
shipments and much more!
Specifications are subject to change without notice.

16

Chapter 3
Operation
17

Getting Started
Overview
This chapter provides useful information about your Vector TX52 and your RIP
workstation. It will guide you to a basic understanding of the main areas of the
equipment and highlight those things that are important in obtaining consistent
quality results in a convenient manner.
Locating the Major Areas
Plate Input Tray
Wash Unit Plate Exit Tray
Status Panel
“Landing lights”
to guide plate
into machine
Plate in Exit Tray
18

Getting Started
Locating the Major Areas
Wash Unit drawer

shown in open position
Water
reservoir
Brushes (2)
Filters
Rear of machine:
Power
On/Off
button
19

Loading a Plate
Turning on the VectorTX 52
1. Press the power on button on the back of the machine

to turn on the CTP device.
2. Power on the RIP work station.
3. Log in to the workstation if auto logon is not enabled.
4. Click the Windows Start menu and select the

VectorTX52 tab to start the software Programs.
5. The computer screen will launch the RIP and the

Vector TX52 status panel as shown:
NOTE: If you need to power on the CTP device immediately after

powering it off, you must wait at least 30 seconds
to prevent damage and to make sure that it reconnects
properly with the RIP workstation
20

Loading a Plate
System Shutdown
1. Press the power off button on the back of the machine to turn off the CTP device.
2. Click the Windows Start menu and select Logoff to close the software programs.
3. Optional: Power off the RIP workstation.
Restarting the System
If you need to restart the CTP system because of an error, follow the restart sequence
exactly:
21

Getting Started
Vector TX 52 Status Panel
The panel messages indicate the operational status of the Vector TX 52.
Message Function
On On: machine is powered on

Off: machine is powered off
Online On : machine is in normal plate making mode
Off: machine is in diagnostics mode
Flashing: machine is not communicating with computer (or
computer/software not running)
Busy On: There is a plate in the machine. Do not open the covers or
drawers
Off: It is safe to open the washer drawer (e.g. to replenish the
water)
Load On: Ready to accept new plate
Off: The drum is not ready to accept a plate
Flashing: Loading a plate
Unload On: the unload function is available via the panel push button
Off: the panel push button is not active
Registered On: a plate is registered on the input tray
Off: no plate or not registered properly
22

Getting Started
How the System Works:

MAC PC Proffer
Print jobs are created on Macs

and PCs using popular desktop
publishing applications.
Files can be digitally proofed

for color and layout prior to Vector tx52
plate imaging.
Files are printed to the

Vector TX52 RIP into
a Page Setup.
The Page Setups contain

parameters for line screen
uling, dot shape, calibration,
and plate size.
Please refer to the

Momentum RIP Sample list of Page Setups
Quickstart Guide for
more detailed
Information.
Sample Page Setup screen
23

Getting Started
How the System Works:
The Page Setup

contains the plate
layout information: Roam screen here
At the Vector TX52,

the operator can view
the job before
plate imaging.
The Vector TX52

Status panel prompts the
operator to insert a plate,
and provides feedback
throughout the imaging
process.
The operator punches

the plate aind inserts it
into the VectorTX 52.
24

Plate Size Indicators
The plate size indicators will guide you for the proper plate size and location.
Insert the plate between the lit bars by holding the corners of the plate
and pushing in until it stops. The plate will then continue to load itself in.
Please do not load a plate in unless the software tells you to, and that the
Load light in ON
Plate Size Indicators Flashing: Job is waiting for a plate

Lights On: Plate is registered or loaded in the drum
Off : No plate in the drum
25

Unload Push Button
The ‘Unload’ push button is active whenever the “Unload” message is lit.
Push this button if you want to cancel the job in progress.
If the plate has not started to image, it will be returned to the feed tray.
If the plate is already marked, it will be fed forward through the washer.
26

RIP Workstation Description
The RIP Workstation consists of 6 major parts:
Computer Keyboard RIP dongle

Monitor Mouse Machine dongle
NOTE: The RIP dongle is the security key that enables your RIP program.
If the dongle is lost, a new one must be purchased at full price.
Three major software programs combine to operate your CTP:
The RIP:
used to process
your printing
jobs.
The Vector TX 52 Status bar: The Launch bar:

used to control the equipment displays icons that
can be used to start
the Vector TX 52
status bar, the RIP
queue and access
online manuals
27

Launch Bar Description
Starts the RIP program.

Click here to see the Vector TX 52status bar.
Opens a copy of your operator manual
Vector TX 52 Status Panel Description
The Vector TX52 Status bar contains status information and controls used to
operate the platesetter. From this status bar you can:
• Monitor the status of the CTP device
• Set preferences
• Customize the media data base
• Monitor the plate usage
System Media Washer Imaging Menu Button
Media Indicators Media size/thickness
28

The System panel
This panel displays the general CTP state and the number of plates (or images) in
progress. In addition, the “media progress indicators” will let you know where the
current plates are.
Media Indicators
Drum Conveyor in/out Washer in/out
Media panel
The media panel displays the plate status (Clamped, Loading, etc). The last
selected media code is also displayed. Click on the media panel to open the
media data base window. See “Working with the Database;” pg. _________
Washer panel
Displays the Washer state, the water level and temperature. Water level
displayed in aqua indicates proper level, red indicates low levels. If the
level is too low, the plate will not be allowed to process. The temperature
is displayed in black if within operating range, blue if it is below the
required set point and red if it is too high.
Click on temperature
to see the set point
29

Imaging panel
The imaging panel displays the state of the imaging unit.
The temperatures of the imaging components are displayed in black when

within operating range, blue when below set point and red when above set
point.
Click on any temperature

to see the set point
Vector TX 52 Menu button
Click for additional

menus.
Setting Preferences
Use this menu button to select preferences. You can change the system units,
your login preferences or the RIP zoom options. Please see next page.
30

General Preferences
Units: Imperial (inches) or Metric will describe the plate size.

Temperature Display: will display the water temperature in the Washer
Auto Logon: default is Auto logon enabled. Do not change the password.
RIP Preferences
Roam Window – Reduced Roam: This will display the image
at a reduced zoom level. For a job that is 11” x 17”, the 1:64 zoom
is recommended. For 8 ½ x 11, 1:32 works well.
31

Washer Preferences
Plates in washer: 1 Plate is the default (recommended). If 2 plates is

selected, it will enable two plates to stack up on the exit tray (not recommended
due to the plate emulsion and possibility of plate scratching).
Eject Option: used by service personnel. Washer is the default. If tray

is selected, the machine will eject the plate back onto the loading tray and
not through the washer. The plate would then need to be washed by hand.
Future implementation
Imaging Engine: Spinner Off can be selected to reduce machine sound.

Spinner on is the default.
32

Select here to change
preferences
Working with the media database

The media database displays a list of all Freedom plate roduct codes.
Opening the Database

Open the database window by using one of the following two methods
• Click on the media panel
Click here to open

the media data base
window
OR
• Click on the VectorTx menu and select Media Setup
The Media Settings window appears:
33

Working with the media database
The Media Settings Window allows you to perform plate operations and
customize media codes.
Plate Operations:
Load: Loads a plate into the drum. It will prompt you to insert a plate if
not already clamped
Unload: Returns the plate from the drum to the input tray.
Eject: If a plate is in the drum, it is feed to the washer
34

Customizing the media database
This will allow you to select a plate product and change its name for convenience.
For example, if you have a Ryobi press, you can change 330mm x 492 6 mil
to show as “Ryobi 6 mil.”
1. Check the Show All box
2. Select a plate from the list by clicking on the product code
3. Double-click in the Show column to set it to YES
4. Double-click in the Product Name column to enter a name of your

choosing.
5. Enter a name in the Edit Name window, then click OK.
2 4
Repeat steps 1-5 for each Plate type that you use.
Uncheck the Show all check box to only display the plates you are using .
35

Displaying the Media Usage
To display the Media Usage window, click on the VectorTx52 menu>Utilities

and select Media Usage. Click Reset if you wish to reset either of the counters.
36

Chapter 4
Operator Maintenance
37

Operator Maintenance
The Vector TX52 platesetter is easy to maintain. The main activities involve
• maintaining adequate water supply for the washer and

• periodic cleaning of the washing system to prevent buildup
• changing the water filters
CAUTION: Do not perform any maintenance while the Vector TX52 is

imaging or unloading a plate
1. Adding water:
a. Pull open the washer unit. Fill to the level shown by the line in the container.
You may need to replenish water twice daily. Do not overfill.
Water tank
38

2. Changing the water filters (every 200 plates):
a. Pull open the washer unit. Using the supplied tool, loosen the filter housings.
b. Twist the filter housings off by hand.
c. Remove filters and dispose. Replace with filters p/n – VECFILTER-6C
3. Drain the water tank (every 400 plates)
a. Pull open the washer unit. Detach plastic hose and twist the disconnect.
b. Empty wash tank water into a floor drain, bucket or other suitable
container.
A Material Safety Data Sheet has been provided which provides information on
waste water analysis and disposal.
Need picture of draining

the wash tank
39

4. Changing the brush rollers (every 400 plates):
a. On each side, detach the roller clip
b. Remove both rollers. Rinse under running water to remove any debris.
c. Re-insert into the Vector TX 52. It is not necessary to dry first.
40

4. Clean trays and rubber rollers
a. Detach the three gray spray bars at the left side of the Vector TX 52.
b. Position the spray bars as shown for access to the rubber rollers.
41

4. Clean trays and rubber rollers
a. Remove metal tray by lifting at each side.
b. Clean rubber rollers using water, and alcohol. For the hard water
build up, it may be necessary to use CLR or Limeaway.
Rinse thoroughly with water.
c. Return the metal trays to their location.
d. Return the spray bars to their location.
42

43

Chapter 5
Troubleshooting
44

Troubleshooting
The Vector TX52 platesetter uses proven imaging design, media path and
reliable software. In the unlikely event that a malfunction occurs or you need
to take action before plate making can proceed, you will be alerted in one of
three ways.
1. Message Handler Information
2. Status Bar Information
3. Device Dialog Errors

There are three categories of messages:
[Icon] – Informational messages let you know that plates are waiting but
no action is required. The system will automatically resume when the
required conditions are reached.
[Icon] – Alert messages let you know that you need to take a certain
action before plate making can proceed
[Icon] – Error messages let you know that you that a malfunction has
occurred. You need to take a certain action before plate making can
proceed. Please see next page for a description.
45

Explanation here?
Type Code Cause Recommended Action

Error 7003 Invalid Job Information Check the plate size, image size and margins of your plate
Error 7011 Data Underrun Check your plates and re-run the failed job
Alert 7013 Job waiting for plate Load the required plate
Error 7017 Loss of power Turn off the machine, wait 30 seconds, turn on the machine
Alert 7018 Washer drawer Open Close the washer drawer
Alert 7019 Washer Liquid Low Replenish water in the washer
Error 7020 Machine malfunction Turn off the machine, wait 30 seconds, turn on the machine
If problem recurs, call service
Info 7024 Plate is waiting for the None – machine will resume automatically
washer to reach required
temperature
Error 7027 Wrong plate size loaded Check your plate size and load it again
or registration lost
during load
Error 7028 Washer Jam Open the washer drawer and clear all plates in the washer.
Close the washer drawer
Error 7034 Dongle missing or Check the back of the computer. Make sure the machine
invalid dongle is secure on the parallel port. Restart the system
Alert 7038 Plate in washer exit Remove your finished plate from the exit tray
Error 7042 Conveyor plate jam Open the washer drawer, open the conveyor drawer, remove
any plate in the conveyor. Close all drawers
Info 7045 Laser not ready (one or None – machine will resume automatically
more components too
cold or too warm)
Alert 7046 The left cover is open or Align and replace the left cover
motor switch not
making contact
Alert 7047 The right cover is open Align and replace the right cover
or motor switch not
making contact
46

Type Code Cause Recommended Action
Alert 7048 The left cover is open Align and replace the left cover
or laser switch not
making contact
Alert 7049 The right cover is open Align and replace the right cover
or laser switch not
making contact
Error 7050 Laser temperature out Click OK on the error message window. Machine will
of range resume when laser temperature returns to nominal.
Alert 7051 Conveyor drawer open Please close the conveyor drawer (inside the washer drawer)
Alert 7052 Power loss during Please restart the CTP and computer:
operation 1.Turn off machine
2.Log off on computer
3.Log on again
4.Turn on machine
5.Start the VectorTx software from the start menu
47

Status Bar Indicators
Icons and text displayed on the status bar indicate status and required
action, if any, as follows
Display Cause Required Action

Washer Liquid level is low Replenish the washer water
bottle
See “Filling the Washer with
water”
Washer water has not Wait for the water to warm

reached the required up
temperature
The imaging module is Wait for the imaging module

adjusting one or more of the to reach the desired state.
components’ temperature.
The temperature display
indicates whether the
component is too warm
(Red), too cold (blue) or in
range (black)
48

Imaging Dialog Errors
These messages will inform you why a particular job cannot be output to plate
Display Cause Required Action

Scriptworks Print The PrintersRIP is not From the PrintersRIP menu select
Buffer must be at least configured properly ConfigureRIP. Adjust the Printer
xxx bytes. Current Buffer Size. Restart the RIP
Size is yyy
Top Margin xx < Min The user has entered an Enter a margin value greater than
yy invalid margin. Note the the specified minimum
top margin corresponds to
the gripper margin
Image Length xx > The image dimensions •The image may need to be
Max exceed the imageable area rotated: Select Cancel to proceed
Image Width xx > of this plate to the next plate or Disable to stop
Min the RIP queue. Correct the job at
the desktop
or
•Adjust the margins or select
clipping and click OK to output
the plate with the new parameters
Requested Resolution The VectorTx only Adjust the resolution in the RIP
is not supported supports 2400 DPI output
49

Chapter 6
Freedom Plate
50

Characteristics
Freedom is a thermally imaged aluminum printing plate. The top surface is the ink
receptive layer, which is heated by laser energy during imaging. This layer and
some of the water receptive layer below are made water soluble by the heat of
imaging. Subsequent cleaning reveals the water receptive layer, and leaves the
non-imaged print areas on the plate. Because the laser writes the non-image area
of the plate, Freedom is a positive writing plate.
Plate Design
Freedom is composed of layered compounds coated on an anodized aluminum
substrate. The black colored layer is designed to aid in imaging and serve as the
ink receptive surface. The thin film beneath is the non-image area of the plate.
Ink Receptive Image Area
Thin Film Non-Image Area
Anodized Aluminum Plate
During the imaging process, thermal energy from the laser is absorbed by the
black image layer. Freedom is a sub-ablative plate. There is almost no image visible
on the plate after exposure. The unwanted ink receptive layer is not removed by the
laser, it is washed off in the plate cleaner with heated tap water.
51

Basic Properties
Reproduction capability (TX52):

2400 dpi 2% - 98% up to 200 lpi
Average durability of the plates:

Coated paper: up to 25,000 impressions
Uncoated paper: up to 12,000 impressions
Available plate thickness:
.006 in. (.150mm)
.008 in. (.203mm)
The durability of the plate is dependent on the amount of paper debris, roller
condition, amount of spray powder used and condition of the printing press.
Storage
Store plates in a cool, dry and chemically free environment. Temperatures should
not exceed 55-85 F with 30-60% RH. It is best to keep the plates on a flat surface
after removing them from the packaging. This will protect the plates from damage
and/or kinks. After opening the package, cut and remove the plastic packaging
straps from around the plates. Remove the protective wrapping from the around
the plates and discard the packaging. Remember to remove the outside labeling
that contains the lot number information. Keep this information with the plates for
reference if needed.
When storing the plates for re-use, apply a dilute storage gum or finisher to the
plate and buff dry with a cloth. This will allow the plate to be store and re-used at a
later date.
Handling
The Freedom plate does not require extreme handling precautions. Care should be
taken so that the plates do not have bent corners, kinks or scratches as these will
interfere with its performance. Fingerprints will not affect the imaging
characteristics of the plate. Handle the plate as you would normal graphics arts
products.
52

Cleaning
Freedom requires a water rinse to remove the non-image, ablated material. This
rinse is done within the Vector TX52 utilizing a rotating brush cleaning device and
ordinary tap water. The plate requires no gumming after cleaning prior to printing.
Fountain Solutions
Freedom can be used with virtually all commercially available fountain solutions.
The recommended pH range is between 4.0 - 6.0. Very strong, acidic or alkaline
fountain solutions should be avoided as they may cause damage to the non-image
area of the plate. The conductivity of the fountain solution should be above 1300 ms
to insure the best printing results. The concentration of the fountain solutions should
be based on the manufacturer’s recommendation, but it may be necessary to optimize
them to the press, paper and ink being used. Alcohol and alcohol substitutes may be
used with Freedom.
Recommended fountain solutions and mixtures
Fountain Mixture IPA substitute Mixture IPA

%
ABDick 38773 4 oz/gal N/A N/A N/A
ABDick Formula 300 4 oz/gal N/A N/A N/A
ABDick 4-1185 2.5 N/A N/A 2%
oz/gal
Anchor Emerald JRZ 4 oz/gal Anchor ARS-JP 3 oz/gal NA
Prisco 2451 3 oz/gal Prisco Alkaless 2 oz/gal NA
R
Prisco 2451 3 oz N/A N/A 10%
Varn Crystal 2500 3 oz/gal Varn Jetwet 1 oz/gal NA
Varn Total 3% N/A N/A 10%
VarnSupreme 4% N/A N/A 8%
Varn Fount 2000 4% N/A N/A 6%
Combifix 6% N/A N/A 10%
These fountain solutions and mixtures are representative of a small portion of fountain
solutions that will work with Freedom.
53

Inks
Freedom can be used with all commercially available inks including UV. In rare
instances, there may be an ink/fountain solution incompatibility, which will require
the changing of either the ink or fountain solution.
Press Settings
The press should be set to the press manufacturer’s recommendations. There are
no additional adjustments that are required for the printing of the Freedom plate.
Excessive ink form roller settings will cause scumming in the non-image area of
the plate. This is due to the forcing of the ink into the non-image area, not
allowing the fountain solution to repel the ink.
Over packing of the blanket can cause premature wear of the non-image layer of
the plate, resulting in an unwanted image.
Proper roller maintenance is required to insure that unwanted debris will not
come in contact with the non-image surface of the plate. Debris that is trapped in
the roller surface, will cause scratches during printing. Excessive roller pressure
may also cause premature plate wear. Proper roller maintenance to eliminate
these contaminants (paper dust, calcium and dried ink) will increase the durability
of the plate.
Make Ready
Mount the imaged plates on the press. Freedom can be used in manual, semi-
automatic and fully automatic plate loaders. Make sure that the loaders are free
of dried ink or other debris, as this will cause scratches. Freedom rolls up quickly
with no predampening required
Plate Cleaning
Freedom may require cleaning during printing. There are several excellent plate
cleaners that can be used with Freedom. Test any plate cleaners in a non-printing
area of the plate prior to use on the entire plate. Below are several recommended
cleaners:
Allied PC93
Enco FPC
Fuji Plate Scratch remover
Varn Quick Blue/True Blue
Plate-Sav-UR
54

Additions & Deletions
Deleting an image from the plate surface is done using several types of deletion
pens. A preserver such as gum must be used to the after deleting an image or that
area will accept ink. The deleted area must be desensitized. Listed are several
deletion pens that will work with the Freedom plate.
Allied NNP
Base Line
Kodak Aqua
KPG 229
Nikken Etching
55

VectorTX52 Operators Manual

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Description:

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

VectorTX52 Operators Manual

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Operator Manual

Vector TX52 Operator Manual

Vector TX52 Operator Manual

Chapter 1: Intro & Safety Information

Chapter 2: Specifications & Supplies

Chapter 4: Operator Maintenance

Customer Support: 1-800-422-3616

Vector TX52 Operator Manual

Vector TX52 Operator Manual

Introduction and Safety Information

Vector TX52 Operator Manual

About this Manual

Chapter 1: Introduction & Safety Information

Chapter 2: Specifications and Supplies

Chapter 4: Operator Maintenance

Vector TX52 Operator Manual

Chapter 6: Freedom Plates

Conventions used in this manual

Text written in bold typewriter face represents literal information,

Text written in italics and appearing within a sentence, is important related

Installing the VECTOR TX52

The hardware and software must be installed by an authorized service technician in

Vector TX52 Operator Manual

The Vector TX52 is Class 4 rated electrical equipment (according to

The circuit to which the equipment must be current protected by

UL 1950 (3rd Edition)

FCC verification to part 15-B, Class A

EMC Directive 89/336/EEC to the following standards:

ITE Limits and Methods of Measurement EN55022: 1998 Class A

Caution: Adjustments or performance of procedures other than those specified

Vector TX52 Operator Manual

Read and heed all warning labels.

Under no circumstances are the door or cover interlocks to be defeated.

Vector TX52 Operator Manual

Vector TX52 Electrical Warning Labels

There are several mandatory safety

Ground Symbol label: located inside the rear panel

Laser Safety Symbol label: located _____________________

High Voltage Warning label: located ________________

Fuse Replacement Warning label located on rear panel of

Installation Instructions located near power cord outlet

Vector TX52 Operator Manual

On/Off and Safety Interlock Switches

LEFT SIDE COVER CENTER-TOP COVER RIGHT SIDE COVER

ON/OFF Switch/Circuit WASHER ACCESS DRAWER

Vector TX52 Operator Manual

Vector TX52 Operator Manual

Specifications and Supplies

Vector TX52 Operator Manual

Vector TX52 Specifications

Imaging Technology Internal drum, five rib

Laser Technology Presstek SureFire – Class 4 laser product

Media Presstek Freedom thermal plates

Media Supply Single sheet, semi-automated feed

Plate Lengths Selectable over the range

Plate Widths 13˝ to 13.375˝ (330 to 340 mm)

Plate Thickness .006˝ and .008˝ (.15 and .20 mm)

Resolution / Screening 2400 dpi / Up to 200 line screen

Speed Up to 20 plates an hour

Plate Washer Integrated water wash with scrub rollers

Register System Dual internal register pin system

Operating Daylight-safe, 60 - 80˚F (15.5 - 26.6˚C)

Electrical 200 to 240 VAC, 50/60 Hz, 20 amp,