XPrep User Manual V11

Operation Manual
Version 11.0 (November 2017)
CNC-based milling/grinding/polishing machine

Table of Contents
Page
Warning/Safety Precaution(s) Sheet 3

Machine Details 4
Warranty 5
Dimensional Layout View 7
Installation & Facility Requirements
- Spindle Shipping Lock 8
- Placement 9
- Lifting/Moving the Machine 9
- Air 9
- Electrical 10
- Rear Service Panels 10
Collet Safety & Tool Standards 11
Powering On & Spindle Warm-Up 12
Main Menu & Start Procedure 14
System Settings & Help 25
Using the Dressing Fixture 27
Using the Bonded Diamond Tool Shaper 29
Camera Alignment 34
Maintenance 36
Collet Service Kit 37
Camera Cover Cleaning 39
Dust Extraction System 12-13
- Installation 40
- Operation
Assortment Starter Tool Kit 42
Fixtures & Accessories 43
Wiring Diagrams & Spare Parts List
Page 2 of 47 Allied High Tech Products – X-Prep User’s Guide

Safety Precaution Sheet
WARNING!
Please read carefully before operating the machine.
1. All operators should be thoroughly trained in all aspects of machine

operation, following the guidelines set forth in this manual, prior to use.
2. The machine should be placed on a stable, sturdy surface to allow for

operation without hindrance to the controls.
3. Only consumables that are compatible with the operation of this milling
machine should be used.
4. Any local machinery and occupational standards must be strictly observed.
5. The operator must ensure the samples being milled are properly secured in
the selected fixture prior to machine operation.
6. The machine should not be used by an operator with exposed long hair,
jewelry, or loose clothing that can get caught in the machine during
operation.
Safety Labels
Risk of Electric Shock

This label is located on the rear of the machine and indicates
that a person accessing the electrical panel is subject to a risk of
electric shock. Unplug the power cord when changing fuses or
when performing any service.
Allied High Tech Products – X-Prep User’s Guide Page 3 of 47

Machine Details
Model: X-Prep®
Item Numbers: #15-9550
Description: Precision Milling/Polishing Machine
Serial Number: __________________
Voltage (Single Phase): 115 V AC ___________ OR 230 V AC ____________

Frequency: Can operate at either 50 Hz or 60 Hz
Power, 115 V:
Power, 230 V:
Current, 115 V: 6 A (without Dust Extraction System)
Current, 230 V: 4 A (without Dust Extraction System)
Fuses, 115 V: (2) 10 A, 250 V AC (6 x 32 mm)
Fuses, 230 V: (2) 6 A, 250 V AC (5 x 20 mm)
Date of Manufacture: _________________ (dd/mm/yyyy)

Dimensions: 21" (533 mm) W x 29" (737 mm) D x 25" (635 mm) H
Weight: 185 lb. (84 kg)
Shipping Dimensions: 36" (914 mm) W x 30" (762 mm) D x 38.5" (978 mm) H
Shipping Weight: 310 lb. (141 kg)
Software Version: _________________
Operational Environmental Conditions:

Recommended for indoor use only
Temperature Range: 50° F (10° C) – 100° F (40° C)
Humidity Range: None established. If operated in humid climates, steel components
such as bearing and motor components can fail prematurely.
Altitude: None established
Pollution: Degree 2
Mains Supply Voltage: Not to exceed ±10% of the nominal voltage Transient
overvoltages according to overvoltage category II

Warranty
Thank you for choosing Allied High Tech!
This product is warranted by Allied High Tech Products, Inc., to be free of defects in
material and workmanship for two (2) years from date of original purchase. This
warranty does not cover damage from abuse, neglect, negligence, accidental
breakage, improper use or failure to exercise reasonable care and maintenance in
accordance with the instructions accompanying this product.
To obtain warranty support or spare parts please contact your Product Application
Specialist or Allied Technical Support at (310) 635-2466, M-F, 8:00 – 5:00 PM PT.
Please be prepared to supply the serial number for the product you are calling about;
this will help our staff confirm warranty eligibility and provide you with thorough,
timely assistance.
At your discretion, in consultation with your Allied Product Application Specialist or an

Allied Technical Services representative, we will be happy to send you replacement
parts, at no charge, or have you send the product to Allied for warranty repair. Most
Allied products are designed for ease of parts replacement, so customer repairs, with
no-charge parts from Allied, are often the quickest and easiest way to return a
product to active service.
If you wish to return a product to Allied for warranty repair, you must first obtain a
Return Equipment Authorization (REA) number. An REA may be obtained from your
Product Application Specialist, or from a member of our Technical Services staff.
Please ensure that your REA number is referenced prominently on your shipping
paperwork as outlined below. Please prepay shipping “to” Allied and provide an
address and phone number for return shipping, which is paid for by Allied during the
warranty period.
Please return your product to:
Allied High Tech Products, Inc.

REA#: ___________________
2376 East Pacifica Place
Rancho Dominguez, CA 90220 USA
P: (310) 635-2466

Please Note: Damage to products during transit to/from Allied, or resulting from
improper inbound packaging, will not be the responsibility of Allied. Therefore, please
ensure that your product is securely boxed or packaged. It is further recommended
that you insure your shipment for the full value of the product. Should damage occur
during inbound shipment, we will be happy to provide you with a formal quotation
estimating the cost of materials and labor necessary to repair such damage. A
Purchase Order will be required to make these repairs.
Repairs for Products No Longer Under Warranty
Allied will be happy to make repairs to products no longer under warranty. For these
products we will be pleased to provide you with an estimate of the costs (materials
and labor) necessary to make requested repairs. For non-warranty repairs, customer
is responsible for inbound (to Allied) and outbound (from Allied to customer) shipping
and handling costs. Non-warranty repairs are made with the same attention to detail
and commitment to quality workmanship that is provided to “in” warranty customers.
What is NOT Covered Under Warranty
• Failure to remove the spindle shipping lock (page 8) prior to powering on the
machine may result in damage that will not be covered under warranty.
• Failure to regulate and control the input air pressure and purity (page 9) may
cause damage to the spindle, collet, and other components. Such damage will
not be covered under warranty.
• Damage from abuse, neglect, negligence, accidental breakage, improper use, or

failure to exercise reasonable care and maintenance in accordance with the
instructions accompanying this product will not be covered under warranty.
Thank you for choosing Allied, and please let us know if you have comments or
questions about these warranty provisions.

Dimensional Layout View

Installation
WARNING!
Before any work is done to install the X-Prep®, and before it is placed in its final installed
location, the spindle shipping lock must be physically removed. Failure to remove this lock
prior to powering on the machine may result in damage that is not covered under
warranty.
Open the front safety cover and pull the

shipping lock free from the right of the
spindle housing.
Depress the blue button in the center of

the lock and pull out.

Placement
The X-Prep® should be placed on a sturdy, clean, dry surface with the front control panel
facing toward the operator. It is recommended the machine be located close to a sink/faucet
or cleaning basin so cleaning the samples and fixtures is convenient. See the Machine Details
(page 4) and the Dimensional Layout View (page 7) for more information regarding its
dimensions, weight, electrical specifications, and other useful data for determining the ideal
location for the machine’s installation.
Lifting/Moving the Machine
This machine weighs ~210 lbs. (95 kg), and it must be lifted and moved with caution. Use 3-
4 people to lift the machine at its base according to proper practices (lift with your knees and
do not bend over with your back), and place the machine on top of the surface on which it will
be operated. The front control panel should be facing toward the operator.
Air
Air in from Air out to
Air for the machine goes through an facility machine, to be
air regulator/filter/dryer. Tubing into inputted into the
and out of the regulator is 1/4" (6 rear service panel.
mm) OD, provided for incoming
facility air and outgoing air to the
machine. The gauge on the regulator
moves when air is supplied to the
machine; make sure it is within the
range 6 – 8 bar, or 87 - 115 psi; our
recommendation is ~90 psi. Failure
to supply adequate air pressure will
affect the tool change function.
Warning: In compliance with ISO 8573-1 recommended air input requirements are:
Air Purity
Solid Impurities: Class 3 - filter grade at least 5 µm for solids
Water Content: Class 4 - Max. pressure dew point +3C
Total Oil Content: Class 3 - Max. oil content 1 mg/m3
Inlet Tubing Size (OD): 1/4" (6 mm)

Maximum Inlet Air Pressure: 8.4 bar (125 psi)
Recommended Inlet Air Pressure: 6.5 bar (~ 90 psi)

Electrical
The X-Prep® operates on single phase power at the voltage specified in the Machine Details
(page 4). Before the power cord is secured to the power socket, make sure the main power
switch on the rear service panel (below) is switched to the “Off” position. If any maintenance
is done to the machine that requires removing the cover or rear panel, the power cord MUST
be unplugged first.
The power inlet for 115 V machines contains two (2) fuse holders that each accept 10 A, 250
V AC, 6 x 32 mm fuses, and the power inlet for 230 V machines contains two (2) fuse holders
that each accept 6 A, 250 V AC, 5 x 20 mm fuses
Machines operating on 115 V AC are equipped with a hardwired power cord on the rear
service panel with a plug that fits a North American socket (Figure 7). Machines operating on
230 V AC are supplied with a removable power cord, rated for the country in which it will be
used (Figure 8).
Rear Service Panels
Figure 7: Rear Service Panel for 115 V Machines (left) 230 V Machines (right)

Collet Safety & Tool Standards
WARNING!
The X-Prep is shipped with a tool blank inserted into the collet to protect the clamping
system. This tool blank can be removed during a tool change operation and replaced with a 3
mm milling tool. However, the collet must never be left empty, and the spindle should
not be activated without a 3 mm tool or blank inserted. Operation of the spindle
without a tool or blank inserted can result in:
1. The clamping system being damaged by the rotational force.
2. The clamping system becoming displaced.
3. The balance of the spindle being adversely affected, damaging the bearing.
Any damage as a result of an empty collet is NOT covered under warranty.
3 mm Tool
Blank in Collet
Do not leave the collet empty! Insert the tool blank or a 3 mm milling tool to
protect the collet from damage.
Only use tools that are precision ground and balanced to meet DIN ISO 1940,
quality grade G2.5.

Powering On/Spindle Warm-Up
To power on the X-Prep®, use either the On/Off switch located on the back of the machine
and/or twist the red emergency button (lower right front of X-Prep®) in the direction of the
arrows (clockwise).
• The depending on the X-Prep® model

purchased, the start screen may look slightly
different. To begin using the system, press the
logo in the middle of the screen.
Press
Spindle Warm Up
• Press both buttons simultaneously
• This will start the stage initialization and

spindle warm up process which takes
approximately three (3) minutes to complete.
• The spindle should be warmed-up after being
off for more than 24 hours.
o If it has been less than 24 hours, a user may
“bypass” the warm-up operation by pressing
the bypass button (Red button top right).
• Note: The spindle warm-up ensures long service
life of the spindle and prevents premature wear
to the bearings.

• Once spindle warm-up is complete, “Origin
Search and Spindle Warm Up Complete”
will be flashing on the screen, and the Main
Menu button will appear.
Press

Main Menu
The Main Menu displays the options for all of the X-Prep’s capabilities. Depending on the
buttons pressed, the operator will be guided through a series of screens where he/she will
be prompted for specific information that will help establish a set of parameters and then
execute the parameters to perform sample preparation on a device. The "?" button will
provide the operator with information and instruction should there be any questions about
system functionality. Two things occur when executing this procedure:
Press
• NOTE: If your system is 3D configured, a

“Contouring (3D) Workflow” button will be
present.
• Prior to installing the fixture onto the X-Prep

- place the glass slide with mounted sample
in the fixture and secure it by tightening the
screws on each side of the fixture.
• Install the fixture on the platform and tighten
the thumb screw. (Circled in yellow)
Press

New Part Setup
• If working with a new device, pressing the

level button will take the user through an
automatic/prompted tool change flow for
leveling the device.
• IF leveling has been completed on the part,
pressing the blue arrow will work through a
similar flow, but will not prompt for tool
changes or go through the leveling workflow.
Press
Insert Ruby Tipped Probe
• With the safety cover open, hold the tool in

the collet before pressing and HOLDING the
Tool Change button to release the tool.
Press and hold
• You will hear and/or feel a “click” which is the

collet opening.
o If the tool does not release, check that
there is 90 PSI being supplied to the
system.
• Insert the Ruby Tip Probe in the same
manner being careful not to touch the ruby
tip or let the tool fall.
Press

Verify Tool Length
• The X-Prep has been designed with safety

features to help prevent the tool from
damaging the fixture; this screen shows the
verification of tool length.
• If the tool length is incorrect, the change tool

screen (previous screen) will re-appear.
o Make sure tool is appropriate length; verify
tool was properly installed in the collet.

Mode Selection (Milling Region Selection)
The X-Prep must be instructed where to mill. These are referred to as milling modes of
which there are four types: Visible Region / Object, Non-visible Region – Centered, Non-
visible Region – Non-centered, and Four-sided Trench. Choosing a milling mode will
determine the milling boundary, and screens that will be used to guide the operator
through the milling operation.
Visible Region/Object: Use where the area to be milled is visible and the tool cross
hairs can be directly aligned to the upper left and lower right corners of the object. The
camera cross hair placement will define the position and size of the milled area.
Example: Milling an exposed heatsink in a QFP.
Non-Visible Region/Centered: Use when the area to be milled is centered with

relation to a visible feature. The camera cross hairs will be placed on the upper left and
lower right corners of the visible feature and the milled region X and Y dimensions will be
manually entered. Example: Exposing a die in an SOIC.
Non-Visible Region/Non-Centered: Use when the area to be milled can only be

referenced to a single visible point. The cross hair is placed on the point and an X and Y
offset distance from that point to the upper left corner of the milled area is entered.
Additionally, the X and Y size of the milled box must be entered. Example: Exposing a die
in a multi-die package.
Four (4) Sided Trench: Used to make a rectangular or square trench (outline) the
width of the bit. This operation mode is useful removal of heat spreaders, or for making
recessed.
Select Mode Screen
Visible Region / Object Screen

• For use when target area is visible with the
machine’s camera and Top Left and Bottom
Right can be aligned using the tool’s cross
hairs.
Press

Define X/Y Screen (Visible Region / Object
Screen)
• If camera image appears fuzzy, it may be

focused by pressing the camera focus buttons
up or down to sharpen the image.
Focus the Image by pressing or
When in focus Press to save focus

position
• The light on the collet may be turned on or

off to aid in seeing the sample edges.
Press to toggle the camera light on/off
Define/Align Top Left (TL) corner
• Use the arrow keys to move the sample to

the top left corner.
• Stage speed can be changed by pressing the
button in the center of the arrow keys. There
are three stage speeds.
Fast Medium Slow
• Once the top left corner is aligned to the

cross-hairs as shown in the image to the left:
Press to store the top left position.
• It is important to note that the milling tool

will not mill outside this stored point.

Define/Align Bottom Right (BR) corner
• Use the arrow keys to move the sample to

the bottom right corner.
• Stage speed can be changed by pressing the
button in the center of the arrow keys. There
are three stage speeds.
Fast Medium Slow
• Once the bottom right corner is aligned to the

cross-hairs as shown in the image to the left:
Press to store the bottom right

position.
• Once the Top Left and Bottom Right corners

have been defined verify the positions:
Press
• If adjustments are necessary, repeat the

alignment process, then when finished:
Press
Did you know? The default speed settings can be changed in the ? menu

Level Sample
The X-Prep is designed with a tip-tilt stage that, when used, will allow the user to
correctly adjust the sample to be perpendicular to the spindle. Leveling is an option that
would be used to correct for uneven mounting of the sample to the glass in the fixture,
or even used to set a custom tilt.
The leveling process is automatic and involves touching a ruby

probe (preferred) or other tool directly on the surface of the
sample. After verifying the height of the part (Z-origin),
contact is made at three (3) points within the milling region as
shown to the right. The three contact points are fixed - 80%
in from the edge of the defined region, based on tool diameter
(the smaller the tool diameter, the closer to the edge the
leveling points.)
For a ruby tipped probe leveling option, the default tool size is
1 mm.
• The leveling process is an iterative process

that will run automatically (once the start
button has been pressed) until the specified
tolerance has been met.
• The determination of level is the difference in

height between points for each axis (X and
Y). The system will perform iterative
adjustments until a condition equal to or less
than the set tolerance has been achieved.
For X, the calculation is P2 (Z height) – P1 (Z
height), and for Y, the calculation is P3 (Z height) –
P1 (Z height).

• Enter desired leveling tolerance (press the
blue field under leveling Tolerance)
• On the ten key that pops up, type in the

desired tolerance (must be between 0.5 and
100 µm), then press enter.
• The tolerance will depend on the sample size

and material, and the process you are
running. Anywhere from a 0.5 to 10 micron
tolerance is typical.
Press
• The leveling process is an iterative process

that will run automatically until the specified
tolerance has been met.
• When leveling is complete the screen will
flash:
Press

Milling/Grinding/Polishing
The X-Prep® has three basic modes of Z-Axis control: Position, Position Force, and
Floating Force modes; the selection of the tool type defines the Z-Axis control mode and
the screen workflow.
• Position Mode: Tool position is controlled incrementally based on the total

amount of material to be removed based and number of passes (increments)
defined by the user. This mode should be used if using an end-mill or diamond
bonded or diamond plated tool.
• Position Force: The tool position is controlled by an applied force limited to a
depth. As the tool approaches the targeted depth, the force decreases. This
mode should be used if using a grinding disc, or polishing cloths.
• Floating Force: The tool position is controlled by a constant applied force. This
mode should be used if polishing, especially if polishing to a contour.
Tool Selection/Tool Change
• For bulk milling of material, an end mill

(removal of metal material, or PCB) or
diamond tool (removal of silicon material or
glass) is typically used.
• For polishing select either position force, or
floating force.
• Press the desired milling tool button, and

you will see a green dot appear on the
selected tool.
Example:
• While the tool size might be listed on the

box, for more accuracy, it is better to
measure the tool diameter with a caliper
and enter the measured diameter into the
tool diameter field.
Press

Tool Origin
Referred to as Z-Origin, this is an automatic touch down in the center of the defined
region, used to determine where the surface of the part is located (or how far the spindle
needs to move in order to touch the surface of the part). Once established, this Z-Origin
becomes the reference for material removed until the origin has been redefined by the
user, or another tool has been inserted into the collet.
Establishing Z-Origin
• The X-Prep should automatically touch down

to the surface of the sample, setting the
height of the sample in relation to the Z
home position.
• IF the Z-Origin is NOT automatically set:
Press
• Once Z-Origin has been established
Press
Material Removal & Tool RPM Screen

(Milling)
• Enter the desired amount of material to

remove.
• Enter number of passes in which to remove
the total material.
• The removal per pass will pop up
automatically.
o It is best to keep this between 20 and 30
microns per pass.
• Enter desired Tool RMP
Press

X/Y Feed Rate and Patterns
Choose desired Pattern, Overlap, and X/Y Feed

Rate.
Press
Final Review/Start Screen

• Review selections before starting process.
• Press BACK to make any desired
changes.
• Fill fixture with X-Lube to a level just
above the screws holding the sample in
the fixture. This will provide cooling to the
process.
• Press START to run the process.
After the process has completed running,

remove the fixture from the X-Prep®, rinse
sample and fixture, dry, visually inspect the
work done, take remaining silicon thickness,
(RST), measurements if desired, and determine
the next step.

System Settings
Press
The System Settings should ONLY be accessed

by trained and qualified personnel. Access to
system settings is password protected.
The Technical Screen contains the following
functions:
1. X/Y Parameters
2. Spindle
3. Z-Axis Parameters
4. PID Settings
Passwords
Enter the password, if necessary by pressing

in the blue field (factory default is 0).
Press

Help
Navigation and operation of the machine is
explained, for most steps, via Help "?" screens.
When a "?" appears on a button, the operator
may access the HELP screen for assistance with
the current function and screen. Much of the
information contained in this Operation Manual
may be found in the Help screens; additional
detailed information not contained in this
Operation Manual can also be found in these
screens.

Using the Dressing Fixture
(Item #15-9155)
Press
• Secure the dressing fixture in place.

o The indicator on the Secure Fixture screen
will display "Dressing Fixture."
• Press "Next" to enter into the Diamond Tool
Dressing Screen.
Press
Select "Change Tool" if the tool needs to be

changed. Make sure the tool that is to be
dressed is installed in the X-Prep at the
time, along with the dressing fixture. The X-
Prep will detect if the dressing fixture is not
installed properly, and it will not begin the
dressing process until the fixture is secure.
Note: If a diamond tool is not installed, the

X-Prep will not allow a dressing operation to
be performed.
4) Measure the tool diameter and enter it into the Tool Change dialog; this will ensure the X-
Prep will properly calculate the area to be used on the dressing stick.

5) Once a diamond tool is installed, the screen will change to include "Start" and “Stop”
buttons.
6) Follow the directions on-screen, or use the following as a guideline:
a. Fill/submerge the dressing stick in X-Lube

b. Press "Start"
When the process ends, remove the tool and inspect for effectiveness. Repeat the dressing
process if necessary
7) When the process is complete, press back to return to normal operation.

The X-Prep will keep track of the amount of remaining dressing stick, as well as its location
in the future. Replacement dressing sticks can be purchased from Allied using item number
60-20106

Bonded Diamond
Tool Shaper
For X-Prep® System
Metal bond tools feature a chisel/angle face (end cutting edge angle) to enable
grinding of material with the end of the tool. As the tip wears across the diameter,
the facet reaches the middle axis where further use is not advised. The tool shaper
will restore the tool to the original shape, reducing the usable diamond on the tip
each time shaping is performed. Eventually, the support shank will become
exposed indicating the end of tool life.
Image above shows facet formation after

Image above shows a new tool with no
normal use (white arrow highlights
facet formation.
facet).
NOTE: Image to the left shows

complete wear and exposure of
support shank. (red arrow highlights
support shank). The useful life of the
tool has been exceeded; further use
will result in excessive pitting and
possible damage to the device being
milled.
The tool should be discarded.

Bonded Diamond Tool Shaper Kit Contents:
• Tool Shaper, 4-position - #15-9105

• Height Gauge Pin - #28-3119
• 5/64" Hex Tool - #26-5497A24
• 70 µm Metal Plated Dia-Grid Diamond
Disc, 8" Adhesive Back - #50-50010
• 6 µm Metal Plated Dia-Grid Diamond
Disc, 8" Adhesive Back - #50-50040
Using the Tool Shaper
When inserted into the Tool Shaper, the

height gauge pin will set the appropriate
reshaping height for the metal bonded
tools to achieve the desired end cutting
edge angle.
1. Insert the Height Gauge Pin (Image

top right) into any one of the four
positions of the tool shaper until
flush, then tighten the set screw with
the 5/64" hex tool to secure it in
place.
NOTE: If the height gauge pin is not

available, a 3 mm polishing mount
could be used to create the proper
standoff height. Using calipers or a
ruler position the polishing mount, so
it is protruding ~6.2 mm from the 6.2 mm
back of the tool shaper and then
tighten the set screw. (Image bottom
right)

2. Rest the fixture on a flat surface and
insert the worn diamond bonded tool.
(Image right)
Before tightening the set screw, the

diamond tool should be rotated to
match the existing facet angle to
minimize the amount of material
removal. (See images below for
proper alignment of the facet to the
flat surface)
NOTE: Failure to align the tool facet

with the flat surface will result in
excessive material removal during the
reshaping process shortening tool life.
Incorrect Rotation: Image above

shows the an improperly rotated tool.
Correct Rotation: Image above shows the
Flush alignment with the flat surface
tool rotated so that the original facet is
will ensure the reshaping process
flush with the flat surface.
removes as little excess material as
possible which will prolong tool life.

3. Once the worn diamond tool as
been properly rotated, and the set
screw tightened, REMOVE the height
gauge pin.
Note: For convenience, the height

gauge pin can be stored in the
holder as shown in the image on the
right.
4. The tool shaper accommodates up to four (4) tools. Once the height gauge
pin has been removed, load any additional tools for reshaping, properly
rotate and secure them as previously instructed.
5. By hand, place the tool shaper on

the 70 µm Metal Plated Dia-Grid
Diamond Disc resting on a flat
surface. Slide the tool shaper in the
direction indicated by the arrow
(Image right) while applying low to
moderate force.
NOTE: Applying gentle pressure

with your finger behind the tool
being shaped will insure constant,
flush contact with the Dia-Grid and
minimize any excessive material
removal.
Figure 4: Tool shaping by hand

6. Inspect the face of each diamond
tool to determine if additional
grinding is necessary. Repeat the
process enough times to ensure the
facet extends fully across the
diameter of the tool. The image on
the right shows what the tool will
look like when the facet is fully
extended.
7. Once the facet is fully extended,

switch to the 6 µm Metal Plated Dia-
Grid diamond disc to “smooth” the
roughness of the tool. Image on
the right shows desired the surface
finish.
Note: The primary purpose of this

step is to help improve the quality
of the milling. With a rough
diamond tool, there is the possibility
of having more pitting, which would
result in more polishing.
8. Image on the right shows the

before/after side profile.

Camera Alignment
During normal operation, the camera (next to the spindle) is used to identify and define
the milling region on a sample. If the camera is misaligned relative to the spindle, then
the tool may not mill the desired region correctly. To check the camera alignment, follow
these steps
• From the Main Menu, press the “System

Settings” Button.
Press
Enter the password, if necessary by pressing

in the blue field
Press

Press the "Camera Offset" button.
Press
To align the camera, a 1.5 mm end mill needs to

be inserted into the spindle. Press and hold the
"Tool Change" button if the tool needs to be
changed. Secure the 2" fixture fitted with a
blank aluminum carrier into the X-Prep
Press the green "Camera Offset" button. The

X-Prep® will automatically drill a hole into the
aluminum at a preset position, 150 microns
deep
Using the 4-way arrow buttons, position the

cross-hair over the hole and center it to the
hole as close as possible.
Press the blue "Load Offset Value" button and

a new hole in a new location will be made. The
cross-hair will automatically be positioned over
the new hole. Verify that the cross-hair is
aligned with the center of the hole.
If the placement of the cross-hair is accurate,

press the "Back" button to save changes and
exit. If the accuracy is not satisfactory, repeat
steps 6 through 9. If the camera offset has not
been corrected after repeating this process,
contact Allied for further assistance.

Maintenance
Component Recommended Maintenance
1) Machine DO:
Wipe all surfaces, including the safety shield, with a soft cloth
using warm water. Avoid solvent-based cleaners and alcohol to
prevent damage. A mild detergent may be used, but should be
removed with a moistened soft cloth or paper towel to dry and
remove residual moisture.
DO NOT:
1) Spill liquid on the machine
2) Leave debris & dirt sitting on the machine surfaces
3) Leave the safety cover uncleaned after use
2) Spindle/Collet To ensure that the spindle functions safely and accurately, all
contact surfaces of the spindle, the tool mount, and the tool
holder must be clean. Before using the X-Prep each day, check
that all surfaces of the spindle/collet have been thoroughly
cleaned and are free of dust, grease, coolant, residue, and
debris, and that there is no visible damage.
When cleaning, use only a clean, soft cloth/brush. Do not use

compressed air, ultrasound or steam jets to clean the spindle/
collet. This can allow dirt to get into the bearings.
Note: For a more thorough cleaning, please use the collet

service kit as described on the following pages (25-26).
The spindle bearings have lifetime grease lubrication; they are

maintenance-free. Do not lubricate the ball bearings.
The underside of the spindle carriage, where the camera lens is,
3) Camera may get dirty and require cleaning. Use the same method
described above to clean the lens.
Note: For a more thorough cleaning, please see the

instructions on page 27.
4) LED Lights Clean the LED lights surrounding the spindle using a moist,
soft cloth. Do not use solvent-based cleaners to avoid damage.
A mild detergent can be used, but it should be removed
thoroughly.
5) LCD Display Wipe the LCD Display using a moistened soft cloth. Dry it
using a dry cloth of the same type.

Inspect the HEPA filter for the vacuum at regular intervals, based
6) Vacuum
on frequency of use. Clean the filter as needed, to ensure
(if purchased) effective operation and removal of airborne particulate matter.
Collet Service Kit
Item #28-1302
A. Felt Cleaning Taper

B. Ejector Pin
C. Cylinder Brush w/Eyelet
D. Collet Grease
E. Collet Screw-In Tool

Collet Cleaning Instructions:
1) Place the Collet Screw-In Tool (E) around the collet and hold onto it.
2) Hold the Tool Change button in the Tool Selection/Setup Screen. Release
the current tool, but do not add a new one. This will allow the collet to
expand outwards and make contact with the Collet Screw-In Tool.
3) Still holding the tool change button, unscrew the collet by turning it
counterclockwise, and remove the collet from the spindle. The tool change
button must be held to open the collet and allow it to be unscrewed.
Loosen: Clockwise / Tighten: Counterclockwise
4) Release the tool change button when the collet is clear of the spindle.
5) Clean the inner taper with the Felt Cleaning Taper (A) and clean the collet
with the Cylinder Brush with Eyelet (C).
6) Clean the tool taper with a clean, soft cloth or brush.
7) Clean the collet and collet mount with a clean, soft cloth or brush.
8) After everything is cleaned, apply a light film of Collet Grease (D) to the taper of
the collet. This improves the slippage and increases the clamping force of the
collet. Only use the Collet Grease provided with the service kit; no other
grease or oil should be used.
9) Hold the tool change button down and insert the collet. Place the Collet Screw-In
Tool around the collet and screw in the collet by turning it clockwise. Hand-
tighten the collet; no additional tools should be used.
10) Insert a 3 mm diameter tool or tool blank. Release the tool change button to
allow the collet to secure the tool or tool blank. Perform this tool change
operation 2-3 times to check the fit of the collet. If necessary, tighten the
collet slightly using the Collet Screw-In Tool.

Camera Cover Cleaning
The camera is located next to the spindle; its location is engraved with the word "CAMERA"
and an arrow pointing down towards the camera cover. If the camera cover and lens
protection glass get dirty during operation, they can be removed and cleaned to improve the
view and focus.
1) Locate the camera cover next to the

spindle.
2) The camera cover is secured in place by

strong magnets. Gently grasp the lens
hood and pull the camera cover forward.
3) Carefully remove the camera cover. The
glass disc that protects the lens should pop
out from the camera cover by turning it
over.
4) The camera cover and glass disc can be
cleaned with a moist, soft cloth. A mild
detergent can be used, but it should be
removed thoroughly.
5) After they are clean and dry, insert the

glass disc into the camera cover and slide
the camera cover back into the slot until
the magnets engage.
Replacement Items:
Glass Disc: Item #28-2154
Camera Cover: Item #28-2152

Dust Extraction System (optional accessory)
Installation
The dust extraction system must be plugged into the power outlet on the rear service panel of
the machine, and the hose connects to the vacuum port above the main cover of the
machine.
By plugging this system into the machine, its operation will then be synchronized through the
machine commands. If plugged in externally, no remote commands will activate the vacuum,
and the operator will be responsible for its operation manually.
Be sure to tighten the clamp of the hose to the fitting firmly, so there is no loss in vacuum
strength. An 8 foot long hose is provided with the vacuum.
A separate Service Instruction manual is included with the purchase of the Dust Extraction
System for more information regarding its installation and use.
X-Prep™ Rear
Dust Extraction System

Operation
1.) Plug the Dust Extraction System into the rear of the X-Prep® (page 12).
2.) Switch the toggle to the “ON” position. Vary the speed from “MIN” to “MAX” according to
the sample type, settings, operation conditions, and user preference.
3.) To use the Dust Extraction System during a

dry milling operation, access the X/Y Feed
Rate and Patterns Screen (figure to right).
4.) Press the “?” button (red circle) to access

the Help menu.
5.) Press the “Dry” button (Yellow circle) on the

right side of the screen. When “Dry” is
selected and the Dust Extraction System is
connected to the X-Prep®, the vacuum will
automatically operate in sync with the X-
Prep® to remove airborne debris.
6.) To deactivate the Dust Extraction System

during an operation, press the “Wet” button
on the screen (figure to right).

Assortment Starter Tool Kit
A general assortment of tools can be purchased with the X-Prep® to help get started. It is a
small sampling of items that should prove to be useful.
The following is a list of those items and item numbers for reference and re-ordering
convenience. For a complete list of consumables, please contact an Allied representative or
see our latest catalog.
End Mill – Solid Carbide

- #15-924F1.0 1 mm Ø 4-Flute (Al/Cu) (Pk/4)
- #15-924F1.5 1.5 mm Ø 4-Flute (Al/Cu) (Pk/4)
- #15-924F3.0 3.0 mm Ø 4-Flute (Al/Cu) (Pk/4)
- #15-924FP3.0 3.0 mm Ø 4-Flue (PCB) (Pk/4)
Diamond Tools, Metal Bond – Solid Carbide

- #15-92FMB0.7 0.7 mm Ø Fine (Pk/2)
- #15-92FMB1.0 1.0 mm Ø Fine (Pk/2)
- #15-92FMB1.5 1.5 mm Ø Fine (Pk/2)
- #15-92FMB3.0 3.0 mm Ø Fine (Pk/2)
Plated Diamond Tool

- #15-92CP3.0 3.0mm Ø Coarse (Pk/4)
Diamond Grinding Discs

- #15-92FGD5 Fine, 5 mm Ø (Pk/100)
Polishing Tools
- Five (5) each of 1, 1.5, 2, 3 and 5 mm Ø polishing mounts
- Five (5) each of 1, 1.5, 2, 3 mm disposable punches
- One (1) 5 mm reusable punch, disc-punch mat, cloth tool making guide
- Sample Pads – 2 x 2 –inch plain back for the following:
ChemPol, Diamat, Final-Pol, Planar Pad, X-Pad II
- LocTite 460® Super Glue, 20-gram wt.
- Diamond Compound, Polycrystalline, 5-Gram Syringes: 30, 15, 9, 6, 3 and 1 µm

- (4) #15-92XL32, X-Lube, Cutting-Grinding-Polishing Fluid, 32 oz.
- (1) #180-20015, 0.05 µm Colloidal Silica Polishing Suspension, 16 oz. (480 mL)
This tool kit can be ordered from Allied using item number 15-92ASSORT.

X-Prep Fixtures & Accessories
#15-9125
Fixture with 2" x 2" Capacity
Includes: 2" x 2" x 1/8" Glass Inserts (pk/20)
#15-9135
#15-9140
#15-9147

X-Prep Fixtures & Accessories Cont’d
Borosilicate Glass Inserts

#15-9126 - 2" x 2" x 1/8" Glass Inserts (pk/20)
#15-9160 Fixture Clamp Set (pk/4)

Includes: (4) Socket Shoulder Screws, (4)
Compression Springs, (4) Delrin inserts, (4)
washers
#71-10040 - Mounting Wax, Clear 50 gram

stick #71-10400 - Mounting Wax, 4" diameter
disc on release paper (pk/50)
#71-10110 - Wax Dissolver for #71-10400, 32
oz.
#15-9155
Tool Dressing System Module
Includes: (4) Silicon Carbide Dressing Sticks
Recommended for diamond plated tools only
#60-20106 - Silicon Carbide Dressing Stick, 21/2" x

1/2" x 1/2" (pk/4)

X-Prep Fixtures & Accessories Cont’d
Dust Extraction System

#15-9180 - Dust Extraction System, 115 V
#15-9185 - Dust Extraction System, 230 V
This quiet, dry vacuum removes airborne

particulates and provides protection from
exposure to contaminants generated from dry
milling processes.
It has a two-stage filtering system that

captures larger particulates in the primary
stage (28-AG113); followed with a HEPA filter
that removes particulates down to sub-micron
levels (28-F160).
Available Filters
28-F160 Hepa Vacuum Filter

28-AG113 Anti-microbial Vacuum Filter (pk/5)

Wiring Diagrams
Please contact Allied High Tech Products’ Technical Services

if you require wiring diagrams.
Spare Parts List
Please contact Allied High Tech Products’ Technical Services

if you require spare parts.

2376 East Pacifica Place, Rancho Dominguez, CA 90220
(800) 675-1118 (US & Canada) * (310) 635-2466 (Worldwide) * (310)
762-6808 FAX
www.alliedhightech.com

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Operation Manual

Version 11.0 (November 2017)

CNC-based milling/grinding/polishing machine

Warning/Safety Precaution(s) Sheet 3

Page 2 of 47 Allied High Tech Products – X-Prep User’s Guide

Please read carefully before operating the machine.

1. All operators should be thoroughly trained in all aspects of machine

2. The machine should be placed on a stable, sturdy surface to allow for

4. Any local machinery and occupational standards must be strictly observed.

Risk of Electric Shock

Allied High Tech Products – X-Prep User’s Guide Page 3 of 47

Serial Number: __________________

Voltage (Single Phase): 115 V AC ___________ OR 230 V AC ____________

Date of Manufacture: _________________ (dd/mm/yyyy)

Software Version: _________________

Operational Environmental Conditions:

Page 4 of 47 Allied High Tech Products – X-Prep User’s Guide

At your discretion, in consultation with your Allied Product Application Specialist or an

Please return your product to:

Allied High Tech Products, Inc.

Allied High Tech Products – X-Prep User’s Guide Page 5 of 47

Repairs for Products No Longer Under Warranty

What is NOT Covered Under Warranty

• Damage from abuse, neglect, negligence, accidental breakage, improper use, or

Page 6 of 47 Allied High Tech Products – X-Prep User’s Guide

Allied High Tech Products – X-Prep User’s Guide Page 7 of 47

Open the front safety cover and pull the

Depress the blue button in the center of

Page 8 of 47 Allied High Tech Products – X-Prep User’s Guide

Lifting/Moving the Machine

Inlet Tubing Size (OD): 1/4" (6 mm)

Allied High Tech Products – X-Prep User’s Guide Page 9 of 47

Rear Service Panels

Page 10 of 47 Allied High Tech Products – X-Prep User’s Guide

1. The clamping system being damaged by the rotational force.

2. The clamping system becoming displaced.

Any damage as a result of an empty collet is NOT covered under warranty.

Allied High Tech Products – X-Prep User’s Guide Page 11 of 47

• The depending on the X-Prep® model

• Press both buttons simultaneously

• This will start the stage initialization and

Page 12 of 47 Allied High Tech Products – X-Prep User’s Guide

Allied High Tech Products – X-Prep User’s Guide Page 13 of 47

• NOTE: If your system is 3D configured, a

• Prior to installing the fixture onto the X-Prep

Page 14 of 47 Allied High Tech Products – X-Prep User’s Guide

• If working with a new device, pressing the

Insert Ruby Tipped Probe

• With the safety cover open, hold the tool in

Press and hold

• You will hear and/or feel a “click” which is the

Allied High Tech Products – X-Prep User’s Guide Page 15 of 47

• The X-Prep has been designed with safety

• If the tool length is incorrect, the change tool

Page 16 of 47 Allied High Tech Products – X-Prep User’s Guide

Non-Visible Region/Centered: Use when the area to be milled is centered with

Non-Visible Region/Non-Centered: Use when the area to be milled can only be

Select Mode Screen

Visible Region / Object Screen

Allied High Tech Products – X-Prep User’s Guide Page 17 of 47

• If camera image appears fuzzy, it may be

Focus the Image by pressing or

When in focus Press to save focus

• The light on the collet may be turned on or

Voltage (Single Phase): 115 V AC _ OR 230 V AC __