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Idea Transcript


Application Guide Mutoh CutServer and Print and cut

Application Guide Kona

Copyright notice COPYRIGHT © 3/6/10 Mutoh Belgium nv. All rights reserved. Mutoh Belgium nv reserves the right to modify the information contained in this manual at any time without prior notice. This document may not be reproduced by any means, in whole or in part, without written permission of the copyright owner. This document is furnished to support the Mutoh CutServer in combination with the Mutoh Kona cutting plotter. In consideration of the furnishing of the information contained in this document, the party to whom it is given, assumes its custody and control and agrees to the following: The information herein contained is given in confidence, and any part thereof shall not be copied or reproduced without written consent of Mutoh Belgium nv. This document or the contents herein under no circumstances shall be used in the manufacture or reproduction of the article shown and the delivery of this document shall not constitute any right or license to do so.

3 June 2010 Published: Mutoh Belgium nv, Archimedesstraat 13, B-8400 Oostende, BELGIUM www.Mutoh.eu

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Application Guide Kona

Dear Customer, The Mutoh Kona drag knife cutting plotter has been designed to be one of the most user-friendly and versatile cutting plotters in the market. As a stand-alone cutting plotter, the Kona can cut and plot designs onto vinyl and paper as required. In combination with an inkjet printer, the Kona cutting plotter is ready for contour-cutting of pre-printed signs made with any printer capable of printing onto cutting plotter compatible media. Contour-cutting is made possible via the integrated EPOS (electronic positioning) technology and the in-the-box software. On the one hand Mutoh offers "flagship" solutions, in which the complete workflow is integrated in one software package: designing, ripping, printing, contour cutting and stand-alone cutting. These flagship solutions are the latest Mutoh editions of EasySIGN Power Pack and Scanvec-Amiable PhotoPRINT DX. On the other hand, Mutoh also offers a "Workflow Integrity Solution" that keeps an existing workflow largely intact but still introduces the flawless bar code option that behaves as a unique job ticket along the print & cut process and minimizes errors. The workflow integrity solution allows that the jobs are still designed, ripped and printed with the customer's existing software packages. The sticker layout, bar code generation, cutting and contour cutting are in that case handled with the standard Kona in-the-box EasySIGN Power Pack and the Mutoh CutServer. In the following pages of this application guide the installation of the CutServer, the print and cut workflow and some hints and tricks are captured.

Note 

4

Please find the Kona Installation CD as support for this manual in-the-box.

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Application Guide Kona

Table of contents Chapter 1

Compatibility overview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

1.1

Cutter drivers and Mutoh software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

1.2

RIP software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Chapter 2

Installing CutServer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

2.1

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

2.2

Installing Mutoh CutServer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

2.3



Install the CutServer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12



Create and set a hot folder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12



Backup the machine settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Details about Mutoh’s CutServer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 

Main window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15



Menu items. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15



Toolbar icons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29



Available connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Chapter 3

Setting up your print and cut software . . . . . . . . . . 39

3.1

EasySIGN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

3.2



Update EasySIGN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39



EasySIGN driver installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39



Configuring EasySIGN for the CutServer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42



Synchronise your CutServer hotfolder in EasySIGN . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Scanvec Amiable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 

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Configuring Scanvec Amiable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

5

Application Guide Kona

Chapter 4

Contourcutting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

4.1

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

4.2

Different alignment methods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

4.3

Which alignment method to use? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

4.4



Manual alignment method. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51



Single frame alignment method . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51



Multi frame alignment method . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

Bounding box details . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 

Hints, tips and recommendations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53



Bounding box specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

4.5

Scanning routing of bounding box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

4.6

Kona keyboard features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57 

Start a single or multi-frame contour cutting job . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57



Start a manual contour cutting job . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

4.7

Print and cut with EasySIGN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

4.8

Print and cut with Mutoh Grip (+). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

4.9

Print and cut with Scanvec Amiable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

Chapter 5

Cutting through . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

5.1

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

5.2

Setting up your Kona . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72 

Tools necessary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72



Toolswap settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72



Through cut settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

5.3

Through cutting workflow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76

5.4

Through cutting with EasySIGN. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77 

6

Covert shapes to cutthrough lines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77

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5.5

How to plot and setup your design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78

Through cutting with Mutoh Grip (+). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80 

Covert shapes to cutthrough lines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80



Verify automatic detection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80



Cutthrough tool configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81

5.6

Throughcutting with Scanvec Amiable. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82

5.7

Poster trimming workflow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84

Chapter 6

Handling curled media . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87

Chapter 7

Hints, tips and tricks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91

7.1

How to create a cut contour around your images . . . . . . . . . 91

7.2

7.3



For vector images . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91



For bitmap images . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99

How to connect your Kona to your network. . . . . . . . . . . . . 106 

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106



USB to network sharing box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106



Quick installation procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106



Make the following connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107



Software and driver installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107



Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110



Connecting your Kona . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111



Verify the new connection in your cut software / CutServer . . . . 112



Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112

Did you know. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113 

7.4

Frequently asked questions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121 

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Print and cut workflow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113

Mutoh CutServer related FAQ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121

7

Application Guide Kona

8

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Application Guide Kona Compatibility overview

Chapter 1  Compatibility overview 1.1 

Cutter drivers and Mutoh software Please find below an overview of the available drivers and software packages for the Kona cutter. Operating system Windows XP with SP2 Device

Tool

Driver / Software

USB driver

USB_Drivers_1_0_1.zip

CutServer 1.0.5

CutServer_setup_v1.0.5.exe

CutServer 4.0.0

Will be released in June 2010

EasySign 5.12 driver *

Mutoh.drv

EasySign 5.14 driver *

Mutoh.drv

32 bit

64 bit

Windows Vista 32 bit

64 bit

Windows 7 32 bit

64 bit

* There is a special driver update required when working with the Kona series cutters. This file ( Mutoh.drv ) can be found on Mutoh’s FTP and should be copied over the existing Mutoh.drv.

9

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Application Guide Kona Compatibility overview

1.2

RIP software Please find below an overview of the most common RIP software used in combination with Mutoh printers and their compatibility with Windows. RIP software

Version

Windows XP 32 bit

64 bit

Windows Vista 32 bit

64 bit

Windows 7 32 bit

64 bit

version 6 or lower version 7 / Onyx X version 4 version 5 with SP 15 version 5

version 6

Bold = current version is sold by Mutoh

10

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Application Guide Kona Installing CutServer

Chapter 2 2.1

Installing CutServer

2

Introduction In order to use the Automated Barcode workflow, an exclusive CutServer tool has been developed by Mutoh to pass on all generated alignment plot files from your software to the Kona plotter. All print and cut plot files will be gathered into a hot folder, linked to the CutServer queue, in which the scanning command can be given to read the ID number of your printout. Refer to Compatibility overview on page 9

Note 

Rather than using the "Go" CutServer button, an alternative bar code scanning sequence can be started as well. Press the Contour Cutting button on the LCD and select your appropriate alignment system.

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Application Guide Kona Installing CutServer

2.2

Installing Mutoh CutServer In order to use the Automated Barcode workflow, an exclusive CutServer tool has been  developed by Mutoh to pass on all generated alignment plot files from your software to the cutter.  All print and cut plot files will be gathered into a hot folder, linked to the CutServer queue,  in which the scanning command can be given to read the ID number of your printout.

2.2.1

Install the CutServer Step 1:

Download the CutServer from Mutoh’s member Site

Step 2:

Install the Mutoh CutServer by double clicking on the exe installation file.

Step 3:

Follow the instructions of the program.

Step 4:



Select Destination Location.



Select Start Menu Folder.



Decide whether to create a desktop icon or not.



Install the software.

Open the Mutoh CutServer and set a hot folder. Refer to Create and set a hot folder on page 12

2.2.2

Create and set a hot folder To be able to display all the jobs in the queue of the CutServer, a folder need to be made on your local hard disk. This folder should be linked to the CutServer. Step 1:

Using your windows explorer, create a new empty folder on your Hard disk. (Any name will do, for the example we will call the folder CutServer and place it directly under C:\) or use the default folder C:\Program Files\Mutoh Europe Nv\CutServer.

Step 2:

Start the Mutoh CutServer.

Step 3:

12

³

Go to file and choose set directory.

Step 4:

Browse to your hot folder and click OK.

Step 5:

All the plotfiles gathered in this folder will now be displayed.

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Application Guide Kona Installing CutServer

2.2.3

Backup the machine settings When establishing problems with your cutter, it is very useful to be able to restore previous settings and parameters. Therefore, when a machine is connected and starting up the CutServer for the first time, an automatic back-up will be taken from the parameters.

After clicking OK, the CutServer will show a new window. This window enables you to save the backup with a specific name or with the serial number.

It is recommended to store your parameters frequently. All back-ups will be stored in the following folder: C:\Program Files\Mutoh Europe NV\CutServer\backup. Be sure to give your back up a recognizable name, including the serial number of the machine.

Backup the settings manually as follows: Step 1:

Be sure that the cutter is connected via the CutServer and there are no cutting operations busy. Refer to Details about Mutoh’s CutServer > Available connections on page 35

Step 2:

Right-click on a connection and choose to take a backup.

Step 3:

The “Save Backup window” opens. Here you are able give the backup a specific name or to save the backup using the serial number.

Step 4:

The CutServer automatically creates a backup file and stores it in the installation folder of the Mutoh Europe CutServer: C:\Program Files\Mutoh Europe NV\CutServer\backup.

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Application Guide Kona Installing CutServer

Restore the settings manually as follows Be sure that the cutter is connected via the CutServer

Step 1:

Refer to Details about Mutoh’s CutServer > Available connections on page 35 Step 2:

Right-click on a connection and choose to restore a backup.

Step 3:

Double-click on the backup you wish to restore.

Step 4:

The CutServer asks for confirmation to restore the backup.

Step 5:

The machine will reboot automatically after sending the backup.

Caution 

Never restore a parameter backup from another cutter because there are some machine dependant parameters such as the Y-Z profile.



When you do not have a parameter back-up, please contact our Mutoh Service Department

Note 

14

It is not advised to install an old parameter backup when using new firmware.

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2.3

Details about Mutoh’s CutServer

2.3.1

Main window

2

2.3.2



Description

More info

1

Menu items

Menu items on page 15

2

Toolbar icons

Toolbar icons on page 29

3

Contour cutting files

Available connections on page 35

4

Available connections Available connections on page 35

Menu items

Menu item

More info

File

Refer to Menu items > File on page 15

Machine test

Refer to Menu items > Machine tests on page 16

Extra

Refer to Menu items > Extra on page 18

Help

Refer to Menu items > Help on page 25

File

Menu item

More info

Set Directory...

Refer to Create and set a hot folder on page 12

Exit

Close the application

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Application Guide Kona Installing CutServer

Machine tests

1) Tracking tests Reserved for authorized Mutoh technicians only.

2) XY-distance accuracy The XY - Distance Accuracy tests are developed to check the actual X-Y cutting distance with the sent vector data. Please follow the procedure below to make the test:

16

Step 1:

Launch Mutoh’s CutServer.

Step 2:

Be sure that the cutter is connected with the Mutoh CutServer.

Step 3:

Select which test to perform.

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Application Guide Kona Installing CutServer

Step 4:

Select the appropriate connection and click on it.

2 

Step 5:

A new window appears. Do not press Next before: 

media is loaded



a knife is loaded.

If media and a knife are loaded, click Next. 

A box will be cut.

Step 6:

Peel out the box.

Step 7:

Measure the X length and Y width and enter them. Be sure to enter the values in am!

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Application Guide Kona Installing CutServer

Step 8:

If the correct values have been entered, the following message will appear and the test will be done.



A new message appears warning you that an EPOS calibration is recommended.

Extra

1) Choose File filters and hotfolder As described earlier, the files in the hot folder will be displayed in a queue. This folder can include different kind of files. Refer to Create and set a hot folder on page 12 Standard, only PLT files will be displayed in the queue. However, it is possible to create cut files via Onyx for example with another extension (CUT). These file types will not automatically be displayed and should be added to the filter list as described below. Note that the file name should be build up similar to the PLT files, which means: 

Name_alignment method_barcode.extension 

e.g. Job1_MF_14587652131.cut

Step 1:

18

Select extra > Choose Filefilters and hotfolder.

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Application Guide Kona Installing CutServer

Step 2:

The following screen will be displayed:

2

Step 3:

Step 4:

Now you can do one of the following actions: 

Select the checkbox of the file type which should be displayed.



Add a new file type (filter), e.g. *.cut.



Remove a filetype by double clicking on it.



Apply your changes and close this screen.

The filter will be applied to the queue.

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Application Guide Kona Installing CutServer

2) Add/test IP address When your cutter is connected to your local area network it is possible to add your cutter by providing the IP address of the cutter. Step 1:

Select extra > Add/test IP address.

Step 2:

Fill in the IP address of the cutter.

Step 3:

Click on test to check the connection. Be sure that your cutter is powered ON.

Note 

Step 4:

20

In case the IP address is not found, following message is displayed:

Click on add to verify the IP address or cancel this action.

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Application Guide Kona Installing CutServer

3) View/remove IP address scanlist The list will display the IP-address added by the user. Refer to Add/test IP address on page 20 When an entry is checked, it is being polled or in use. Removing an entry can be done by right-clicking on it. Step 1:

Select extra > View/remove IP address scanlist.

4) Search machines in IP range Use this function when you don not know the exact IP address of the cutter but you know in which range it should be. Step 1:

Select extra > Search machines in IP range.

Step 2:

Fill in the range start and end.

Step 3:

Click on scan.

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Application Guide Kona Installing CutServer

Step 4:

All the devices connected to your network within this range will be displayed:

Step 5:

Select the IP address of your demand and copy it.

Step 6:

Follow the procedure mentioned below to add this IP address to your list. Refer to Add/test IP address on page 20

5) Set the number of real com ports If you want to use a virtual com port (e.g. COM3) you can change the settings here. However, it is recommended to use the USB connection.

6) Use fixed baudrate for all RS232 This function has no effect on a Kona cutter. This because if you are using a virtual COM port the baudrate is irrelevant.

7) Alter cutter screen animations This function enables you to store images onto your Kona so that you can modify the screen saver as you whishes.

22

Step 1:

Select Alter cutter screen animation.

Step 2:

Select the connection and press Change screen animation.

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Application Guide Kona Installing CutServer

8) Activate firmware recovery mode Step 1:

It might happen that a firmware does not get updated correctly. In that case, you are able to recover the firmware update. To do so, proceed as follows.

Step 2:

Start the CutServer.

Step 3:

In the CutServer, click the Extra tab and select Activate Firmware Recovery Mode.

Step 4:

A new screen appears asking if you are sure. Select Yes.

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2

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Application Guide Kona Installing CutServer

24

Step 5:

In the statusbar, a recover connection will become available.

Step 6:

Select this recover connection.

Step 7:

The recovery button appears next to the checkbox. As soon as selecting this button, a confirmation window appears asking if you are sure you want to proceed. Select yes.

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Application Guide Kona Installing CutServer

Step 8:

The firmware is being recovered.

2

Step 9:

After the recovery, restart the CutServer or restart the cutter.

9) Go to service mode For authorized Mutoh technicians only.

Help

1) Show Backup Files When you take a backup of your parameters, a dump file will be created. Use this function to browse to the following folder C:\Program Files\Mutoh Europe NV\CutServer\backup/. Refer to Backup the machine settings on page 13 also.

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Application Guide Kona Installing CutServer

2) Show version history This menu option allows the user to get know-how about the CutServer history topics.

3) Configure update It is possible to check for new updates using the Mutoh CutServer. Please follow the procedure below to configure the update function. Step 1:

Select help > configure update.

Step 2:

The following screen will pop-up.

Step 3:

Here you can set the following update options:

Item

Option

Description

Automatic update

Disable

Never check if there are updates available

Enable

Check if there are updates available

Periodical check

At start-up

Check for updates every time you start-up the CutServer

Every 3 months

Check for updates every 3 months

Check now

Immediately check for updates

Follow the procedure below to download and install the updates (if available). Step 1:

Run the Mutoh CutServer.

Step 2:

Be sure that the automatic updates has been enabled.

Step 3:

Check the status of the updates in the lower right corner.

Option Status

26

Description

A

Nothing available

You have the latest version of firmware and software.

B

Updates available

There are new updates available.

C

Updates & Installs / Upgrades available

You have downloaded an update which can be installed and there are still updates available for download.

D

Installs / Upgrades available

You have downloaded the upgrades, but not yet installed.

Step 4:

Double click on the status if there are upgrades or installs available (option B-C-D)

Step 5:

Select the checkbox of the upgrade you want to download. AP-75381 - Revision 1.1

Application Guide Kona Installing CutServer

Step 6:

When your computer is connected to the internet, the file(s) will be downloaded automatically. The downloaded files can be found in following folder: C:\Program Files\Mutoh Europe NV\CutServer\updates

Step 7:

When the message "Installs/Upgrades" available is displayed, you can install the upgrades by selecting the checkbox ones again.

Note 

Be sure that there are no running jobs when installing the new CutServer version.



Be sure that there is a connection between the CutServer and Kona when you want to install the new firmware.

Step 8:

An installation window will pop-up.

Step 9:

Press yes and continue the installation procedure. Refer to Installing firmware > Normal procedure on page 17 Refer to Installing Mutoh CutServer on page 12

Important 

Do NOT power OFF the cutter and computer during installation.



If the installation fails, follow the procedure here Refer to Installing firmware > Recovery procedure on page 18

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Application Guide Kona Installing CutServer

4) CutServer Help Press F1 to open this manual in a help format.

5) About Here you can see the CutServer version, the build and the loaded libraries.

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2.3.3

Toolbar icons

2 N°

Icon

More info

1

Clip the file

on page 29

2

View/clip the selected file

on page 31

3

View file data

on page 32

4

Send EPOS job

on page 33

5

View file info

on page 33

6

Delete file

on page 34

7

Set CutServer directory

on page 34

8

Refresh the file list

on page 34

Clip the file Some software manufactures do not divide or clip the standard multi frame contour data into separated segments. In general, they will generate unsegmented contour data, carrying a NC label (Not Clipped) in its file name. The CutServer will then be responsible to convert the contour data into numerous segments. There are 2 possibilities:

1) Full automatic approach - DEFAULT - RECOMMENDED The CutServer build offers the user the ability to fully convert the clipping of the unsegmented contour data (NC file) ON THE FLY, without any user intervention. Only one condition should be suffered from: the presence of the NC file in the CutServer Queue. Step 1:

NC file in CutServer Queue?

Step 2:

Check your CutServer settings for the appropriate multipoint mode (multi frame).

Step 3:

Press Go → bar code scanning → CutServer receives the ID number detected by the Kona.

Step 4:

Searches for the proper bar code ID, and notifies a non-clipped ID number.

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Application Guide Kona Installing CutServer

Step 5:

Automatically, the NC → MF conversion will take place and the CutServer will only respond with the clipped MF file 

Filename_NC_41010220205.plt



Filename_MF_41010220205.plt

2) A manual approach - Click the Clip the file toolbar icon Step 1:

Search and select the appropriate ID file (NC label) in the Mutoh CutServer Queue.

Step 2:

Press the Clip the file toolbar icon.

Step 3:

Converting busy.

Step 4:

The end of the CutServer clipping will result in a similar filename with MF extension.

Step 5:

Check your CutServer settings for the appropriate multipoint mode (multi frame).

Step 6:

Press Go → Bar code scanning → CutServer receives the ID number.

Step 7:

CutServer selects the MF extension and replies with the segmented plot file.

Step 8:

Segment plotting on Kona.

Software manufacturer

Software bundle

EasySIGN

Clipping method NC compatible (*)

MF compatible (**)

EasySIGN

NO

YES

Scanvec Amiable

PhotoPRINT SE or DX Mutoh Edition

NO

YES

Caldera

Grip +

NO

NO

(*) NC: not clipped (**) MF: multi frame As you can see, there is no need to clip a NCD plot file! Therefore in the NCD configuration, the Clip the file toolbar icon should NEVER be used!

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View/clip the selected file Identical like previous clip icon, however a graphical interface will represent both NC and MF files. For a large amount of data, it is not recommended to use this time consuming viewing method. Nevertheless, it is always possible to abort. Uses proportional window scaling

Views your clipping result - extend your window 

Left: Input MGL view



Right: Clipped MGL view

Each colour represents a clipped segment of the entire contour alignment file - type multi frame mode.

The files above do not show the contour boxes because they come together with the sides of the diagram.

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Writes a clipping file by one single click (manual method) Before: Filename_NC_41010220205.plt (NC: Not Clipped) After: Filename_MF_41010220205.plt (MF: Multi Frame)

Switches back to the classic normal input view

Note 

Both MF and NC files will still be present in your Mutoh CutServer queue list after completing the segment dividing / clipping.

View file data To view the MGL plot data, the file contents can be displayed (no editing possible). To edit the file, browse for the hot folder and correct the file as required.

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Send EPOS job In case reading errors occur during the Kona's bar code detection sequence, a manual workaround for damaged bar code strings or faulty readings is available. Search for the correct alignment file in Mutoh's CutServer Queue, and press the Send Epos Job button. To directly send the EPOS file without reading the bar code, the media load direction needs to be provided (0° or 180° degrees rotated?).

As soon as a confirmation is given, the frame scanning command will be adapted to bypass the bar code reading, and immediately the registration marks of the bounding box and the vector data will be broadcasted.

View file info In order to get know-how of certain file properties, additional information can be obtained by double clicking each contour cutting file listed in the CutServer Queue. Furthermore, rather than using the quick shortcut icons from the toolbar, a number of relevant file functionalities were reproduced once more by means of an extra set of buttons.

Clip only

Refer to Clip the file on page 29

View/clip

Refer to View/clip the selected file on page 31

Start EPOS

Refer to Send EPOS job on page 33

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It might be possible that you only want to cut the first segment of a multi frame job. Via this option you can choose which segment(s) to cut by selecting or clearing the checkboxes.

Choose Segments

Send Raw Data

Sends out the cutting file, after asking the target communication port.

View Data

Refer to View file data on page 32

Close

Close the window

Delete file The recycle bin icon will remove the selected file from the CutServer Queue and its hot folder!

Set CutServer directory Refer to Installing Mutoh CutServer > Create and set a hot folder on page 12

Refresh the file list The hotfolder should auto refresh automatically. However, it might be possible that the job list is not up-to-date after adding a plot file in the CutServer hot folder. If you notice this, press the Refresh button.

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2.3.4

Available connections All the cutters installed earlier will be displayed in a list. The CutServer can be connected with each cutter listed below.

2

Refer to Install USB drivers on page 11 to know how to install your cutter properly. Right-click on one of the connections to backup or restore parameters Refer to Machine tests on page 16 Refer to Restore the settings manually as follows on page 14



Description

Extended description

Connection type 1



USB



LAN



Serial

on page 35

2

Connection checkbox

on page 36

3

Serial number Kona / machine type

on page 36

4

Status connection

on page 36

5

Progress bar

on page 36

6

Go button

on page 36

7

Machine info button

on page 36

8

Settings button

on page 37

Connection type Depending on the type of the connection, another icon will be visualised. USB connection Network connection Serial connection

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Application Guide Kona Installing CutServer

Connection checkbox Select the checkbox to make a connection with the cutter. Clear the connection checkbox before rebooting the machine. Select the box once again when the cutter has been rebooted successfully.

Note 

The connection between the PC and Kona does not disappear due to a reset. It only disappears if the power is off.

Serial number Kona The serial number and the machine type will be displayed here.

Status connection Displays the status of varies connections e.g. 

Idle



Connected to the machine



Updating firmware



...

Progress bar Displays the progress of the sent data.

Go button To identify your loaded contour job, pressing Go will start a bar code scanning sequence. If you select the checkbox “Show this window when I click Go”, the communication & machine settings window opens. Refer to Settings button on page 37

Machine info button Supplementary, a list of machine information can be obtained.

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Settings button When clicking on this button, the following window will pop-up.

2

1) EPOS mode After clicking on Go, these settings will be used. You can set the following: 

Number of jobs to perform in 1 run



Sheeting off settings 

Perform a sheet-off after the complete run is done



Perform a sheet-off between every job during this run

Note 

Be sure to have the latest firmware version installed to be able to benefit from these settings. Firmware version KN 3.0.0 is the first one supporting this feature.

2) Terminal properties A DOS look-alike terminal window will allow you to get knowledge of certain command interactions (MGL commands) between Kona and CutServer. Every time a new port connection was made, a new corresponding terminal window will be created. Selecting the relevant checkbox in the bottom section of the CutServer to activate / deactivate the plotter, will also open such a terminal, if set to ON. As an end-user, you will normally not need to set this option. It can be useful, however during installation or when a problem occurs, in order to test and / or debug communication issues between the plotter and the software.

3) Autoshow settings It might be interesting that this setup window pops-up when clicking on Go to point you on the settings which will be used during this run.

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Application Guide Kona Setting up your print and cut software

Chapter 3

3.1

EasySIGN

3.1.1

Update EasySIGN

Setting up your print and cut software

3

Please be sure to always have the latest service pack of EasySIGN installed on your computer. Refer to Compatibility overview on page 9 to know which versions of EasySIGN are compatible with the Kona and CutServer. There is a special driver update required when working with the Kona series cutters. This file ( Mutoh.drv ) can be found on Mutoh’s FTP and should be copied over the existing Mutoh.drv.

3.1.2

EasySIGN driver installation When installing the Mutoh Kona, you might need to install the driver twice. Once via the CutServer (to be used with the auto-align barcode workflow) and once via the virtual com port (created by the Kona USB driver) for normal sign cutting jobs. Step 1:

Start EasySIGN

Step 2:

Go to file, device setup and click on the 'Add Plotter' Wizard. The add plotter window should appear. Choose Mutoh Kona and click on next,

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Step 3:

The Select Port window should appear. Choose the virtual com port (in this case, COM3) and click on next. Refer to (Un)Install USB drivers > Check COM port used on page 14

Step 4:

40

The port settings window appears, leave it on windows defaults, and click on next.

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Step 5:

Click on finish.The driver has now being installed.

3

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3.1.3

Configuring EasySIGN for the CutServer Before you will be able to print and cut, the software needs to be configured as follows:

42

Step 1:

Start EasySIGN

Step 2:

Go to file, device setup and click on the 'Add Plotter' Wizard. The add plotter window should appear. Choose Mutoh Kona and click on next.

Step 3:

The Select Port window should appear. Choose the Mutoh CutServer.

Step 4:

Click on finish.The driver has now being installed.

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3.1.4

Synchronise your CutServer hotfolder in EasySIGN EasySIGN should find the directory that is used by the CutServer automatically via the windows registry. In case this does not happen, you should start the production manager of EasySIGN, go to spooler settings and change the directory.

3

Note that the directory of the CutServer will be automatically changed when it has been changed in the Mutoh CutServer itself after restarting EasySIGN.

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Application Guide Kona Setting up your print and cut software

3.2

Scanvec Amiable

3.2.1

Configuring Scanvec Amiable Before you will be able to print and cut, the software needs to be configured as follows: Step 1:

Click on Setup > Add Setup or ctrl+N

Step 2:

Select

Step 3:

44



Vinyl Cutters



Mutoh



Kona

Click next

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Application Guide Kona Setting up your print and cut software

Step 4:

Choose a name and COM port and finish the setup. Refer to (Un)Install USB drivers > Check COM port used on page 14

3

Step 5:

Step 6:

Do the same for your Mutoh printer. 

Cooler printers



Mutoh



Choose printer model

Go to the Setup Properties of the Kona

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Application Guide Kona Setting up your print and cut software

Step 7:

Click on the arrow of the Mutoh Kona @ file tab and choose Change port …

Step 8:

Set the port to file:

Step 9:

Then you can browse and specify your hot folder. 

For the Mutoh CutServer

Refer to Installing CutServer > Create and set a hot folder on page 12



For the Scanvec CutServer C:\Program Files\SAi\SAi Production Suite\Jobs and Settings\plot folder

Step 10: Press Apply and then OK.

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Step 11: Open the CutServer of Scanvec.

3 Step 12: Press File > Settings… an make the correct settings.

Step 13: Press File > Set directory and choose the SAME folder as you have chosen in Step 9.

Step 14: All necessary settings have now been made.

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Application Guide Kona Contourcutting

Chapter 4 4.1

Contourcutting

Introduction Contour cutting is a very popular feature of the Mutoh cutters. This feature is made to cut pre-printed signs on vinyl for sticker production as shown on this picture:

Please read this chapter carefully.

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Application Guide Kona Contourcutting

4.2

Different alignment methods There are some different approaches to cut your signs which also implicate a different alignment method. N°

Description

1

Manual

Info Manual alignment method 

Manually set the size of the paper and 4 corners of the box

Automatic alignment with barcode and single frame Single Frame

2



Automatic measurement of the reference box and barcode



Only 1 reference box

Automatic alignment with barcode and multi-segment frame. 

Multi Frame

3



Automatic measurement of the reference box and barcode Multiple segments in 1 reference box  (for long files to guarantee precision).

Manual alignment

P4

P2

P3

P1

Software

Manual

Single frame alignment

Multi frame alignment

00000000000

Single frame

00000000000

Multi frame (clipped)

Multi frame (not clipped)

EasySIGN Scanvec Amiable Mutoh Grip (+) Mutoh CutServer

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4.3

Which alignment method to use?

4.3.1

Manual alignment method The Mutoh Manual Alignment Method is the non-automatic method. Its advantage is that the cropmark system is very small (for small sized jobs), and that this method can be used in case of vinyl that do not reflect the EPOS laser light (meaning, the laser would not be capable of measuring the cropmarks automatically). Refer to Did you know > Print and cut workflow > On beforehand, you can distinguish if certain types of vinyl, including non-white vinyl, can be contour cut fully automatically on page 114 The user has to use the jog keys on the keyboard to measure each cross manually before contourcutting can start.

4.3.2

Single frame alignment method The Mutoh Single frame alignment method is a fully-automated alignment system, with a barcode printed on the sign. This method should be used in combination with Mutoh’s CutServer. This method can be used in case you are creating multiple different contour signs. It allows you to make all your prints at once (overnight printing for example), and then load the roll with images in the CutServer. If each sign on the roll has a barcode and if all plot files are in the Mutoh CutServer, just click on Go in the Mutoh CutServer and every sign on the roll will be cut, without the need for user intervention (make sure you’ve enabled auto-sheet-off in EasySIGN for each contour-sign). The reason for the two barcodes is to make it possible for the CutServer to auto-detect if the image is loaded upside-down or correctly. There is no need for you to search the plot file for each image; the Mutoh CutServer will do this automatically, until the complete roll with signs is finished. We do not recommend this method over 2 m job length, although there is no real limit to the length that can be used.

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4.3.3

Multi frame alignment method The Mutoh Multi frame alignment method offers all advantages of the previous one but it will split the image in multiple segments. This is to enhance precision over long length. This method should be used in combination with Mutoh’s CutServer. With this method, it is possible to make signs of 10m or longer, and the CutServer will measure segment per segment, and cut segment per segment. This method gives you more accuracy than the previous method.

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4.4

Bounding box details

4.4.1

Hints, tips and recommendations To use the automatic alignment procedure, the pre-printed sheet contains a reference box around the design to be cut. 

Note that the reference box around your design(s) will be printed. Before contour-cutting the EPOS technology will search for the reference box and measure the position of the design(s).



Be sure that there is 6 mm of white space between the image and the reference box.



Be sure that the reference box has a dark colour (recommended: black) in order to have enough contrast with the vinyl.



The minimum thickness of the bounding box is 3 mm. However, when printing the print&cut file on an Osprey or Toucan, it is recommended to raise this value to at least 5 mm.



Make sure that the reference box fits within the margins of the maximum cutting width of your cutting plotter.



Be sure that the media has been sheeted off straight. If not, the cutter will have problems measuring the media.

Note 

The position of the design with the reference box compared to the page edges is defined in the print-software.



The creation of an image should be done in a graphics application software (e.g. CorelDraw, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop or Macromedia Freehand) or in origin software with design functionalities (EasySIGN Power Pack Pro Mutoh Edition or Scanvec Amiable PhotoPRINT DX Mutoh Edition)



Do not forget to create the cutting line around your image. The default cutting line is a “magenta hairline” or “spotcolor” with swatch name (in the CMYK pallet). 

Thickness line = hairline (or 0.25)



Colour = 100% magenta

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4.4.2

Bounding box specifications The frame reference box printed or generated around the contour cut data should respect the following guidelines: 9

Sheet

3 10

Bounding box

7 8

2 5

6

1

Pressure roller 4



Minimum

Maximum

1

White edge at the right side

20 mm

300 mm

2

White edge at the left side

20 mm

300 mm

White edge at the rear side

90 mm 50mm add extra space in case of working with curled media

250 mm 250 mm

20 mm add extra space in case of working with curled media

300 mm

3 mm

20 mm

3

54

Description

11



Sheet



Between 2 boxes

4

White edge at the front side

5

Reference box thickness

6

Reference box width

250 mm

-

7

Reference box height

350 mm

-

8

Media height

440 mm

10 m

9

Media width

280 mm

Device limit

10

Margin between image and bounding box / barcode

6 mm

-

11

Distance between pressure roller and bounding box

5 mm

-

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4.5

Scanning routing of bounding box The bounding box will be measured by the Epos sensor during a fast scan routine. It is interesting to know the principle behind this innovative scanning method. The scanning routine will go through the following steps:

4 3

4 2 1

1 The laser will be activated to detect the background colour. This value will be used to recognize the difference between background and box during the scanning procedure. 2 A diagonal scan will be executed at the set cutting speed in the firmware (user controlled). 3 A horizontal scan will be executed at maximum speed. 4 The head goes back over the scanned path to verify. As from the moment the scan cycle detects 4 points, the position of the barcode is known (situation 1 and 2). When there are less than 4 points detected, an intelligent feed of media will be done and the same type of scan will be performed a second time (situation 3). Situation 1 = Bottom and side of frame detected (4 points)

3

4

2 1 scan 1

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Situation 2 = Both sides detected (4 points)

4

3 2

1 scan 1

Situation 3 1st scan > both sides detected (2 points) feed of media to start second fast scan 2nd scan > bottom and side of frame detected (4 points)

4’

3’ 2’

2

1 1’

scan 2

scan 1

When the cutter establishes a slight difference between the thickness of the frame in one or more corners, a re-measuring will be performed at the respective side of the frame but slightly higher or lower. If there is still a dissimilarity, a warning message will be displayed on the panel and a cross will be cut in the lower right corner.

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4.6

Kona keyboard features

4.6.1

Start a single or multi-frame contour cutting job When performing a single or multi-frame contour cut job, the job can be started via the Go button on Mutoh’s CutServer. It is also possible to launch the job directly from the cutter itself, only on the condition that the cutter is connected with Mutoh’s CutServer. In fact, this function replaces the Go button. Step 1:

Press the following buttons in order: 

Actions

4 

Step 2:

Contour Cut

Select whether the job loaded is a single or multi-frame contour cut.

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Step 3:

Set the number of jobs to perform 

Press Jobs



Fill in the number of jobs.

Step 4:

Press

Step 5:

Press the Sheet off between button.



Step 6:

Press the Sheet off afterwards button.



58

Decide if you want to perform a sheet off action between two jobs or not.

Decide if you want to perform a sheet off action after the jobs or not.

Step 7:

Press the start key.

Step 8:

The cutter will start scanning the bounding box and reading out the barcode.

Step 9:

As from the moment the barcode is recognized, the corresponding job will be launched from the Mutoh CutServer.

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4.6.2

Start a manual contour cutting job When you want to start a contour cutting job without using the automatic alignment option, the manual mode need to be chosen. This could be useful when you have loaded very reflective media which cannot be detected by the cutter. Step 1:

Press the following buttons in order: 

Actions



Contour Cut

4 Manual



Step 2:

Set the length and width of the bounding box.

Step 3:

Set the roll direction 

Non-reverse: the data sent should not be rotated.



Reverse: the data sent should be rotated.

Step 4:

Press the start key.

Step 5:

Move the penhead using the jog keys until the knife point is positioned above P1 and press OK when done. Then select P2 - P3 - P4. P2

P3

X Length

P4

P1 Y Width

Step 6:

The knife will pause near point P1

Step 7:

Send the relative (NOT absolute) plot data to the cutter to start the job.

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4.7

Print and cut with EasySIGN Please follow the steps below to perform a print and cut workflow with NCD EasySIGN.

60

Step 1:

Create your contour design with hairline identification.

Step 2:

Set your import settings in EasySIGN.

Step 3:

Import your designs.

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Application Guide Kona Contourcutting

Step 4:

Enable cropmark settings in the menu which comes on the screen when pushing the right mouse button.

4

Step 5:

Select appropriate alignment system: 

Mutoh Manual Align



Mutoh Auto Align



Mutoh Auto Align (barcode)



Mutoh Auto Align (Multiframe) Set number of segments or select "0" if you want to make EasySIGN decide itself.

Refer to Different alignment methods on page 50 Step 6:

Step 7:

Do you have EasySIGN Power Pack Pro? 

Yes >> Print via EasySIGN



No >> Export and import into your rip bundle

Do you want a barcode? 

No >> [A] Direct plotting (Mutoh Manual Align, Mutoh Auto Align)



Yes >> [B] Plot file via Mutoh CutServer (Mutoh Auto Align (barcode), Mutoh Auto Align (Multiframe))

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Step 8:

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[A] Direct Plotting (Mutoh Manual Align, Mutoh Auto Align)

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Step 9:

[B] Plot file via Mutoh CutServer (Mutoh Auto Align (barcode), Mutoh Auto Align (Multiframe)) 

Set EasySIGN link with Mutoh CutServer and verify the location of the hot folder (Spooler Production Manager) and match with the CutServer.

Refer to EasySIGN > Configuring EasySIGN for the CutServer on page 42 Refer to EasySIGN > Synchronise your CutServer hotfolder in EasySIGN on page 43 

Plot Print & Cut lines to Mutoh CutServer

4

Step 10: Send plot job via Mutoh CutServer to Kona 

Press the Go Button in the Mutoh CutServer or launch the job directly via the Kona

Refer to Available connections > Go button on page 36 Refer to Kona keyboard features on page 57

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4.8

Print and cut with Mutoh Grip (+) Please follow the steps below to perform a print and cut workflow with Mutoh's Grip(+). Step 1:

64

Create your contour design in Illustrator. Be sure that 

The Swatch Name is CutContour



It is a spotcolor



ColorMode is CMYK



The colour is 100% magenta



The swatch has a thickness of 0.1 mm

Step 2:

Import the job in Grip(+). If everything is correct, a scissor will be displayed in the preview pane.

Step 3:

Drag your file to the desired printer.

Step 4:

Click the following button to open the preferences.

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Application Guide Kona Contourcutting

Step 5:

Go to the Cutting tab and enable Cutting Contour and Print registration marks.

4

Note 

It is not recommended to mark the "Print bar code" and "Print Identification number" box. This is NOT the Postnet barcode and job number which the CutServer uses, but only the Grip(+). The original barcode will automatically be printed

Step 6:

After making the above settings, close the screen and print the job.

Step 7:

As soon the job has been printed, it will be queued in the Grip(+) CutServer.

Step 8:

Double click on your Kona cutter and press the Configure… key.

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Fill in the link type (USB) and verify if your cutter is well connected by pressing on the detect cutter key.

Step 9:

Step 10: Set positioning, sheeting off mode and cutter step as you wish.

Note 

66

Be sure to set the cutter step in Grip(+) the same as the program step on the cutter. If not, the image will be cut 2,5 time bigger or smaller.

Alignment method

More info

Full Automatic Single

The Postnet barcode printed will be scanned to identify the job. The cutter will stop after the job has been finished.

Full Automatic Repeat

The Postnet barcode printed will be scanned to identify the job. The cutter will continue with the next box until the complete roll has been finished.

Blind cut

The specific barcode from Caldera must be printed and scanned with a barcode reader. As from the moment the barcode is linked with a file, the file will be automatically cut. You can also select the appropriate file, set its orientation and press the cut button.

None

Means there will be no positioning, the job will be cut immediately (useful for cutting in coloured vinyl for example).

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Step 11: For each contour type, a tool setup should be available. Add or edit the knife settings accordingly.

4

Step 12: Press the OK button. Step 13: Press the Cut key to start cutting sequence.

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4.9

Print and cut with Scanvec Amiable Please follow the steps below to perform a print and cut workflow with Scanvec Amiable. Step 1:

68

Create your contour design in Illustrator. Be sure that: 

The Swatch Name is CutContour



It is a spotcolor



ColorMode is CMYK



The colour is 100% magenta



The swatch has a thickness of 0.1 mm

Step 2:

Click on the printer TAB and add your design.

Step 3:

Double click on the job in the hold list to see the job properties.

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Application Guide Kona Contourcutting

Step 4:

Click on the workflow tab and be sure to select the "Send cut job" checkbox!

4

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Application Guide Kona Contourcutting

Step 5:

Click on the labels and marks tab and select the requested alignment method. 

Mutoh Mark: Single frame



Mutoh Single segment: Multi frame with only 1 segment



Mutoh Multiple segments: Multi frame with multiple segments

Step 6:

Rip and Print the contour job.

Step 7:

After printing the job, the plot data will automatically be added to CutServer (Mutoh or Scanvec, depending on your settings). Refer to Configuring Scanvec Amiable on page 44

Step 8:

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Now you can cut the job.

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Chapter 5 5.1

Cutting through

Introduction When the contour of your file is completed, single sticker samples (basic shapes) are often to be isolated. (e.g. if making 100 stickers, you want to be able to get out every sticker separately. Due to Mutoh’s supporting cut through technique, an extra protection of sticker drop-outs will be guaranteed by configuring your tool-up distance consequently.

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5.2

Setting up your Kona

5.2.1

Tools necessary Through cutting is a combination of firmware and software features, the correct settings and tools. Be sure to have the following firmware, software and tool(s) to perform a through cut. Firmware - program - tool To have at least ...

5.2.2

Kona cutter firmware

KN 1.0.0

EasySIGN

service pack v 5.12 There is a special driver update required when working with the Kona series cutters. This file ( Mutoh.drv ) can be found on Mutoh’s FTP and should be copied over the existing Mutoh.drv

Mutoh Grip (+)

8.00

Standard knife

Angle = 45° and offset = 0,50 mm (Partnumber: ZMY-10050B)

Cut through knife

Angle = 45° and offset = 0,50 mm (Partnumber: ZMY-10050B)

Spare cutting mat

Partnumber: KY-15305

Toolswap settings Mutoh’s supporting cut through technique encodes two cut through methods: 



Single tool - cut through tool (1)  Executes both contour and cut through vector paths with one single knife holder with cut through knife depth. Multi-tool - standard (1) & cut through tool (2) This multi tool method will complete both contour and cut through data with two separated knife holders. A message on panel will inform the user to swap tools based on the vectors path identity.

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Step 1:

Step 2:

Press the following buttons in order: 

Settings



2 x next page



Swap alert

Make your preferred choice: 

Multi-tool configuration. You will be asked to switch tools while cutting.

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Single tool configuration. You will not be asked to switch tools. If however a toolswap is requested in the file, a message will appear. You need to confirm once that you want to continue in single tool mode.

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5.2.3

Through cut settings It is however not easy to match an ideal tool configuration setup in which the media weakness suffers not radically from the multiple cut through samples accomplished. Therefore a perfect harmony between your tool down force and tool up distance needs to be synchronised. Via this menu, you can set the desired cut through parameters. Parameter

Description

Velocity

The speed of which the cut through routine is cut. Default: 10 cm/s

Force

The force on the tool during the cut through routine. Default: 250 gram

Tool Down Distance (1)

The distance of cutting through the vinyl. Default: 10 cm

Tool Up Distance (2)

The quantity of vinyl left uncut to hold the sticker fixed to the media. Default: 0,1 cm

After setting these values, it is also possible to test if they match your needs Follow the procedure below to the velocity and force: Step 1:



Settings



2 x next page



Cut through

Step 2:

Set the values for the velocity and force.

Step 3:

Enter the desired values and confirm with

Step 4:

Set the values for the tool up and tool down distance.

Step 5:

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Press the following buttons in order:



Go to the next sub page



Select Up Dist. and/or Down. Dist.

Enter the desired values and confirm with

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Step 6:

Press the test key to verify the quality of the through cutting settings.

Step 7:

The following pattern will be cut.

Step 8:

Check if it is easy to push out the cut patterns. 

Step 9:

If not, try to increase the force and knife depth

Be sure to perform a sheet-off after the test because the pushed-out squares/circles will uncover the paper sensor which could lead to an error.

Refer to Toolswap settings on page 72 to know how to use the single and multi-tool possibility throughcutting.

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5.3

Through cutting workflow Basically, 4 cut through parameters are required: 

Cut through speed > VS command



Cut through force > ZF command



Tool down & tool up distance > UL & LT command

Cut the vectors in following order: 

1st Standard cut lines



2nd Print and cut lines



3rd Cut through lines

Cut through specifications: 

reduce your speed to 10 cm/s



increase your force to 250 g



use all pressure rollers 

On a Kona 760 ==> 2 pressure rollers



On a Kona 1400 and Kona 1650 ==> 3 pressure rollers.



lower your cut through media width dimension



choose your in between margins for cut through stickers sufficient enough



minimal vinyl movement



plot order important (first > contour data, second > cut through data)



VS/ZF/AS menu = accept (new header per line type)



easy cut through shapes (rectangles, circles, squares)



NO multi-frame alignment systems advised (multi-segment)



NO repeat mode recommend

For cut through reasons, it is better to have this dashing technique (intermittent plotting via the LT, UL commands) configured at the end of your vector data group. The sorting routine of your software should therefore automatically configure these vector paths at the end of your file output. Cut Through compatible alignments are: 

Manual Alignment



Automatic Alignment



Automatic Alignment with bar code



Automatic multi - frame alignment with bar code (# segments)

Cut Through incompatible alignments are: 

Multi - frame splitting done by the CutServer

Refer to Tools necessary on page 72 to know which software are compatible.

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5.4

Through cutting with EasySIGN

5.4.1

Covert shapes to cutthrough lines After importing your design into EasySign, it is possible to convert your lines to cutthrough lines as follows: Step 1:

Select the lines, right-click and select Convert to > Line type > Cut through line.

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Step 2:

The basic shape will be converted to a dashed blue line.

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5.4.2

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How to plot and setup your design Step 1:

Press the plot button.

Step 2:

Select the cut through-line checkbox in the special lines box.

Step 3:

Press the edit... button.

Step 4:

Double-click the device specific settings.

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Step 5:

Set cut through parameters (recommended values are displayed here).

5 Step 6:

Now you can send the file to the CutServer or directly to the plotter.

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5.5

Through cutting with Mutoh Grip (+)

5.5.1

Covert shapes to cutthrough lines By loading a swatch library (downloadable from http://usernet.caldera.eu) in Adobe Illustrator, one can define certain vector paths to be recognized automatically during your import operation in your Grip / Grip+ environment. Select the throughcut line in your design and convert it to a CutContourFullCut swatch from the library.

5.5.2

80

Verify automatic detection Step 1:

Import your design in Mutoh Grip (+).

Step 2:

Drag the design on the info button and click on the contour tab.

Step 3:

Verify the automatic detections of each line style specified.

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5.5.3

Cutthrough tool configuration Automatically, at the end of your print task, a plot file will be generated in the visual cut window.

5

Make sure to have your tool configurations set accordingly to your chosen vector paths during layout setup.

The sorting order can be configured as above by selecting the Cut at last check box.

It is highly recommended to cut through at the last stage!

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5.6

Throughcutting with Scanvec Amiable After importing or creating your design in PhotoPRINT editor, it is necessary to assign for each contour type (cut contour or cut through) a different colour. In this way, during the RIP and PRINT routine, the software will be able to trace the contour lines by their colour. Make for each line type the appropriate settings during the RIP and PRINT routine as follows:

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Step 1:

Go to the contour tab in the RIP and PRINT window.

Step 2:

In the box Driver Options, the different line types will be listed.

Step 3:

Be sure to clear the checkbox Use same driver options for all colours if you have a contour line and cut through line.

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Step 4:

Double click on one of the line types to make the necessary settings. 

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Select the appropriate predefined contour line type 

For contour lines choose cut fast or cut slow



For cut through lines choose Cut through logically.



As you could read previously, through cut lines should be cut intermittent. To change the settings of the tool up and tool down distance, change the commands in the UL8 window. UL8,10,0.1;LT8,10.1,1; 

10 = tool down length



0.1 = tool up length



10.1 = sum of tool up and tool down length  Only adjust these values. Leave other characters unchanged!

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5.7

Poster trimming workflow After printing some posters, it is possible to use the Kona to trim the posters afterwards. Do this as follows: Step 1:

Load the poster in the cutter.

Step 2:

Install a knife at through cut depth.

Step 3:

Make your personal settings regarding the cut through feature. 

Velocity



Force



Tool up distance



Tool down distance

Refer to Through cut settings on page 74 for all details on how to change the parameters. Step 4:

Press the following buttons in order: 

Actions



Cut Through



Trim poster

Step 5:

Set the approximate length and width of the poster.

Step 6:

Press the next key.

Step 7:

Move the penhead using the jog keys until the knife point is positioned above P1 and press OK when done.

P2

P3

X Length

P4

P1 Y Width

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Step 8:

The cutter will automatically feed the media the length set previously. Use the jog keys to set the second corner more precisely if necessary.

Step 9:

Do this until you have selected all 4 corners in correct order (P1 – P2 – P3 – P4).

Step 10: Insert the through cut tool when asked and press OK when done.

Note 

This message will only be displayed when the swap alert setting is set to multi-tool. Otherwise, the poster will be cut through without this notification. Refer to Toolswap settings on page 72

Step 11: The poster will be trimmed according to the routine shown below:

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Step 12: After finalizing the trimming of the poster, insert the standard tool again and press OK.

Note 

This message will only be displayed when the swap alert setting is set to multi-tool. Refer to Toolswap settings on page 72

Step 13: Gently push out the poster.

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Chapter 6

Handling curled media

Next to multiple kinds of media, the Kona is also able to cut curled media. However, to perform this action, there are some extra items you need to keep in mind. Please follow the procedure below to load curled media properly. Step 1:

Determine the type of media e.g. sheet media and install the correct configuration. Refer to the chapter “Loading media” in the User’s Guide for more information.

Step 2:

Guide the media under the pressure rollers at the front of the cutter. 

Make sure that the front edge of the media is loaded at least 7 cm past the cutting head.



Make sure that the rear of the media is still covering the sensors when the cutter measures the cutfile. We advise a rear safety margin of at least 30 cm.

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Step 3:

Position the pressure rollers (1) so that every pressure roller faces a grit roll (2). Each pressure roller has a tactile and audible click system which makes it easier to position them correctly. Refer to pressure roller positioning in the User’s Guide for more information.

1

2 z

Note 

When working on a Kona 1400 or Kona 1650 with sensitive files where it is not wanted to leave any pressure roller marks, it is possible to disable the middle grit roller. To do so, move it to the docking station. The pressure roller will be disabled as soon as you lower them.



Be aware that the cutter may have less tracking when doing this.

Step 4:

Choose the appropriate media measure method: 

With front Uneven media



Without front Uneven Media

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Step 5:

Load the media straight. To help you, rulers are drilled in the front platen.

Step 6:

Make sure that the media is cut off straight at the front to avoid media initialization mismatches.

Step 7:

Lower the pressure rollers.

Note 

Make sure not to get stuck on the pressure roller lever, this could damage your clothes.

6

Note 

Step 8:

The head will move fast over the media. Be careful not to pinch your fingers during this action. The cutter will measure the paper and displays a message:

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Step 9:

When no problems occur, the main screen will appear. The usable width of media will be displayed in the home window:

Note 

In some cases, the cutter gives a warning screen for example if there is no tool installed, the media is too thick, ... 

Select ignore in case you want to proceed with an undetected tool.



In case you forgot to install a tool, install the tool of your choice and select retry. The cutter will measure the tool height and proceed as normal.

Step 10: The media is now properly loaded and you are ready to cut.

Note 

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Cut files will be clipped in case the cut file is larger than the media width.

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Chapter 7

Hints, tips and tricks

7.1

How to create a cut contour around your images

7.1.1

For vector images During this procedure, you will copy the same image in the front. Therefore, do not deselect the image or path unless it is asked explicitly. Otherwise it might be possible that you are working with the wrong image or path. Step 1:

Open or import your vector image in Adobe Illustrator.

Note 

Other vector design programs might work as well, but we do not guarantee the below workflow will be the same.

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Step 2:

Select all (ctrl+a).

Step 3:

It might be possible that there is a box around the image. Proceed as follows to remove the box. 

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Right-click on the image and select Ungroup

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Select and delete the box.

Step 4:

Select all (ctrl+a).

Step 5:

Select Object > Path > Outline stroke to be sure that the path runs around the image and not in the image (as visualized below).

7

Step 6:

Select ALL and copy the complete selection (ctrl+c).

Step 7:

Paste the selection in front (ctrl+f).

Step 8:

Press the window tab and select pathfinder.

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Step 9:

Press add to shape area (in CS3) or unite (in CS4) in the pathfinder box.

Step 10: Swap the stroke and fill by clicking on the arrow. A contour will be visible around the image.

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Step 11: Adjust the colour and thickness of the contour you just have created to differ the contour easier from the original image. 

100% magenta



a weight of 0,25 mm

Step 12: Select Object > Path > Offset path …

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Step 13: In this window you will define the offset distance of the contour line. Offset Type the requested distance in mm or pt 

It is also possible to set a positive distance (cut around the image) or negative distance (cut inside the image).

Joins and miter This setting should be tested per image. We recommended: 

Joins: Round



Miter limit: 4

Select the checkbox to have a preview of your settings

Step 14: Press add to shape area (in CS3) or unite (in CS4) in the pathfinder box to merge all the overlapping paths.

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Step 15: After offsetting the path, it might be possible that the previous one remains. This depends from image to image. It is also possible that the previous path is no longer visible. In that case, proceed to the next step. Otherwise, continue this procedure:



Deselect all



Select the 2 paths, right-click and ungroup them

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Select the inner paths. Note that it is most likely that there is more than 1 path present.



Delete the original paths

Step 16: Select the outer path and assign a swatch depending on the cutting program you will use.

Refer to Print and cut with EasySIGN on page 60 Refer to Print and cut with Mutoh Grip (+) on page 64 Refer to Print and cut with Scanvec Amiable on page 68

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7.1.2

For bitmap images There are a lot of different approaches to create a contour around a bitmap image. It is possible to manually draw a contour with the pen (p) tool in illustrator, it also possible to trace the edges and convert them into paths. The last one will be explained in detail. Note that we cannot foresee for each type of bitmap a specified procedure. Step 1:

Open a new empty file in Adobe Illustrator.

Step 2:

Place your bitmap image.

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Step 3:

Select the image.

Step 4:

Copy image (ctrl+c) but do NOT paste it already!

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Step 5:

Select Object > Live Trace > Tracing options ... and set your live trace options properly.

Step 6:

Click on trace ...

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Step 7:

Convert tracing objects into paths by selecting Object > Expand.

Step 8:

Set fill colour to transparent, stroke colour to 100% magenta and stroke thickness to 0,25 pt.

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Step 9:

Delete the box around the drawing using the direct selection tool (a).

Step 10: Select ALL (ctrl + a)

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Step 11: Press the window tab and select pathfinder.

Step 12: Press add to shape area (in CS3) or unite (in CS4) in the pathfinder box.

Step 13: Select Object > Path > Offset path …

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Step 14: In this window you will define the offset distance of the contour line. Offset Type the requested distance in mm or pt. 

It is also possible to set a positive distance (cut around the image) or negative distance (cut inside the image).

Joins and miter This setting should be tested per image. We recommended: 

Joins: Round



Miter limit: 4

Select the checkbox to have a preview of your settings.

Step 15: Press add to shape area (in CS3) or unite (in CS4) in the pathfinder box.

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Step 16: Delete the original path using the direct selection tool (a). It might be possible that you will have to press multiple times on delete.

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Step 17: It could be that there are still some paths left inside the contour. Delete them one by one using the direct selection tool (a).

Step 18: Press edit > paste in back (ctrl+b) to paste the original picture.

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Step 19: Select the contour path and assign a swatch depending on the cutting program you will use.

7 Refer to Print and cut with EasySIGN on page 60 Refer to Print and cut with Mutoh Grip (+) on page 64 Refer to Print and cut with Scanvec Amiable on page 68

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7.2

How to connect your Kona to your network

7.2.1

Introduction At first sight, it is only possible to communicate with the Kona via a USB connection. However, we have tested a small device which makes it possible to connect your Kona with your local area network. We are convinced that there are other tools or brands which provide such a solution, but we did not want to withhold you this one.

7.2.2

USB to network sharing box General info This box makes it possible to connect your Kona and three other devices to your local network via USB.

Product code CMP-USBNETBOX1

Price approximately €50

Possible order locations 

http://www.nedis.be



http://www.ercoline.nl



http://www.electronicshop.nl

Compatible with

7.2.3

106



Windows XP



Windows Vista

Quick installation procedure 

Connect the Kona to your computer via USB and install the Kona drivers as described on the installation CD of the cutter.



Connect the network sharing box via USB to the Kona and via a network cable to your LAN. Be sure to also install the power adapter.



Download and install the USBserver software.



Open the USBserver and make the proper settings (IP address and Gateway)



Make a connection with the Kona and start cutting via network.

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7.2.4

Make the following connections

USB cable

USB

Kona or USB hub + Kona

LAN

power cable

network cable

power inlet 220 V

LAN

When you want to connect more USB devices to a single box, it is necessary to install a USB HUB in-between as shown on the picture above.

7.2.5

Software and driver installation Software installation

7

1) Mutoh CutServer If not installed already, install the latest CutServer on your computer as described on the installation CD of the Kona. Using the CutServer is not mandatory to work with the USBServer.

2) USBserver Step 1:

You will need to install the software on your computer that will allow access to the box, and thus to your devices. Do not use the software provided on the USB to ethernet box CD! This version currently causes possible system crashes after installing the driver for it AND connecting USB devices containing ftdi chipsets. Instead, use this version:  http://www.nedis.be/datasheets/SOFTWARE_CMP-USBNETBOX-1.ZIP

Step 2:

Unzip the package to an appropriate location. After installation, check its version in Help>About. It should show USBserver v 2.0.5.2. At the time of writing this document, the USBserver version provided on CD is v2.0.6.2.

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Drivers 1) Kona USB driver When your Kona USB driver has already been installed, the box should recognize the machine without asking to install the latest drivers.

2) USB server Note 

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The driver will be automatically installed when working with Windows Vista. Only necessary for Windows XP users.

Step 1:

Run the application.

Step 2:

The device will be recognized and you will be asked to install a driver for it.

Step 3:

Do not try to look for it automatically, but refer to it in the appropriate directory.

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Step 4:

The driver is located in the same package as the software.

Step 5:

The driver will be installed and the following screen should be displayed:

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7.2.6

Configuration Configuring IP-address and subnetmask directly Opening the application will show following window, displaying all available USBservers visible/ accessible on the network. It might take a while before your USBserver pops. One of two possible situations can occur in case the Kona was installed on the computer previously: No device connected

Kona connected and driver installed correctly

Whether the device is physically connected or not, configuring remains possible. To do this, right click on the USBserver in the list and choose Setting.

If the USBserver has to be in a certain range determined by your administrator, disable the DHCP and enter a proper address. When using multiple USBservers in a network, changing its name is necessary. Click Set when done.

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Check your USBserver if all settings were accepted.

Note 

7.2.7

More settings are available when clicking the config button in your USBserver window (only accessible if the USBserver is highlighted). Keep in mind that this browser will not be accessible when your USBserver has an invalid IP-address. Running proxies may also block this application.

Connecting your Kona After setting the IP address and subnetmask, the Kona should appear in the device list. Highlight the device and click on connect. The symbol next to the cutter will light up orange when a connection has been established.

7 Note 

You will have to establish a connection (CONNECT) each time you want to use your Kona cutter after disconnecting or powering OFF the USBserver and/or Kona.

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7.2.8

Verify the new connection in your cut software / CutServer Step 1:

Start your application that will control the cutter. Following example shows the Kona connected and listed in Mutoh’s CutServer.

Step 2:

Check the proper connection box. The Kona is well connected when the serial number is displayed.

Note 

7.2.9

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The COM port remains the same as the Kona was directly connected via USB.

Troubleshooting 

When unzipping the driver package, you will notice that there are also manuals enclosed. These will explain the installation of the driver and working of the software more briefly.



When establishing problems with the USBserver, rebooting the program and Kona might be the solution.

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7.3

Did you know

7.3.1

Print and cut workflow You can easily RIP and print your POSTNET bar code contour job with a 3rd party RIP and contour cut it with EasySIGN. Installing the EasySIGN Mutoh Edition of NCD does not allow you to RIP and print your tasks. To make sure a bounding box frame and bar code are collected during RIPing and printing in your 3rd party RIP, an export all (*.eps) can be done in EasySIGN. Step 1:

Create your design.

Step 2:

Open / import your design in EasySIGN.

Step 3:

Enable your bar code alignment system (cropmark settings).

Step 4:

Export your task (in EPS format) from EasySIGN (disable your Print and Cut lines if required).

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Step 5:

Rip and print your task in a 3rd party RIP.

Step 6:

Plot (hot folder CutServer).

Step 7:

Verify your Mutoh CutServer settings.

Step 8:

Press "Go".

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On beforehand, you can distinguish if certain types of vinyl, including non-white vinyl, can be contour cut fully automatically To be able to perform a contour job, the EPOS sensor need to see the difference between the media and the printed bounding box. When you have loaded a media and the measurement of the bounding box fails, it is interesting to perform the EPOS read test. Via this way you can see if the sensor is able to detect a contrast between the media and bounding box. Perform the test as follows: Step 1:



Actions



EPOS read

Step 2:

The EPOS sensor will be activated.

Step 3:

Move the media away under the sensor and check if the read value changes from white (media) to colour (bounding box).

Step 4:

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Press the following buttons in order:



White is approximately 1000



Black is < 400

There should be enough difference (400 or more) between the media used and the frame on the media. If the difference is less, automatic alignment may fail.

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To bypass the bar code Postnet reading (no successful bar code scanning possible), a workaround was made. This procedure is valid for Single frame jobs and multi segment jobs. In case reading errors occur during the Kona's bar code detection sequence, a manual workaround for damaged bar code strings or faulty readings is available. Search for the correct alignment file in Mutoh's CutServer Queue, and press the Start Epos button. To directly send the EPOS file without reading the bar code, the media load direction needs to be provided (0° or 180° degrees rotated?).

As soon as a confirmation is given, the frame scanning command will be adapted to bypass the bar code reading, and immediately the registration marks of the bounding box and the vector data will be broadcasted.

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EasySIGN developed a software tool called which allows the user to immediately export your design from certain compatible graphical bundles into the EasySIGN software. Note that this will not work in combination with Adobe CS4. Rather than saving and importing your job, an easy export to EasySIGN workflow can be handled by means of the Compatibility tool. Reinstall the complete service pack. The "compatibility" wizard will scan your hard disk for all types of installed graphical bundles and suggest installing the compatible driver. As a result, new icons will be found trough Start - Program files - Compatibility.

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Step 1:

Run EasySIGN.

Step 2:

Open / Create your design (example Illustrator 10).

Step 3:

Run the corresponding compatibility tool for Illustrator.

Step 4:

Select your design and press the Illustrator icon to export your task immediately into EasySIGN.

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Application Guide Kona Hints, tips and tricks

A test square can be plotted to verify your current force setting.

When trying to attempt to find the most suitable force setting for your specific vinyl type, a few force tryouts will probably take place. The Force button will not only allow you to set the most proper value, but gives you also the opportunity to verify your setting by means of plotting a simple test square: Step 1:

Press the following buttons in order: 

Settings



Force



Test

7

Step 2:

When performing the test, a pattern will be cut using the current force value.

Step 3:

Weed out the following squares.

Step 4:

Check if the top layer is cut completely and that you can see a slight scratch on the backing.

You can easily simulate your CutServer 'Go' button by selecting the contour cutting button from panel.

Refer to Kona keyboard features > Start a single or multi-frame contour cutting job on page 57

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Application Guide Kona Hints, tips and tricks

Many speed settings can be set inside the menu structure of the Kona, but from time to time people do not understand when it will be used, or how it will be interpret or what the impact will be?! In what relation to these settings will all incoming speed and acceleration settings be overruled? Will it adapt the panel settings? Will the Kona use these settings when entering the alignment wizard? Tool up speed 

the speed of the cutting head when the tool is up



the cutting head speed in left-right movement

Tool down speed 

the speed of the cutting head when the tool is down



the feeding speed (media detection)

The speeds can be set as well on the cutter panel as in the cut software. When the speed has been set in the software, the panel speed will be overruled when the function VS/ZF/AS is enabled (by default). In this case, the tool down speed is the speed of measuring up the box in X-direction. The tool speed in Y-direction will always be the maximum tool up speed (100 cm/s). Consequently, it is possible to gain some time when you set the real cutting speed in the software and the bounding box measuring speed on the control panel. Note that there is also a throughcut speed. This speed can be set in the separate Cut Through menu.

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Fact 1:

The vertical scanning speed (laser ON, spot edge, laser OFF sequence) of the frame / bounding box reading depends on your panel setting.

Fact 2:

ONLY in case of enabling the ACCEPT parameter for the Kona menu option VS / ZF / AS, similar software commands will be interpret or refused according to your plotter menu setup!

Fact 3:

The laser speed setting inside the Kona menu structure will NOT be used to scan the bounding box of your job. The laser speed value will only have impact while laser plotting your contour data (enable the beam plotting mode in your software).

Fact 4:

Included job properties like speed and force will still be displayed on the Kona panel during your task. However, these settings must be seen purely temporarily, and will be reset at the end of your job. Each succeeding job will re-initialise all values accordingly to the next plot properties or user settings.

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Application Guide Kona Hints, tips and tricks

Mutoh's new alignment system for multi segment contour cutting can also be used for single frames.

The EasySIGN driver has been adapted lately to support the new multi segment alignment method. A possibility to enter the number of segments allows the users as well to simulate the previous alignment system, Mutoh Auto Align (bar code). 

SEGMENT specifications → Number of segments:



0 = automatic segment dividing (default segment size = ± 500 mm).



1 ... # = Specify the number of segments to split up your bounding box.

7

Pro 1:

Rather than having a complete rectangle around your job, one single segment will only enable a start and stop frame. This will spare you some ink.

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Application Guide Kona Hints, tips and tricks

You can easily export your contour job in EasySign and decide not to have the print and cut lines included.

In some situations (printing with 3rd party RIP) it can be very handy not to have the print and cut lines included while exporting your job. Specify your needs at the bottom left of the export window.

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7.4

Frequently asked questions

7.4.1

Mutoh CutServer related FAQ Where is my CutServer Search for: Start > Programs > CutServer Default installation folder: C:\Program Files\Mutoh Europe NV\CutServer

Which CutServer version do I have? Refer to Details about Mutoh’s CutServer > Menu items > About on page 28

Where to find the latest version? All the latest software can be found on Mutoh’s membersite (www.Mutoh.eu)

My cutting files are not in the queue of the CutServer 

Are you sure all plot files were gathered in the correct hot folder of the CutServer?



Do you still have the CutServer directory linked to that particular folder?

7

Refer to Installing Mutoh CutServer > Create and set a hot folder on page 12 

Are the filters set correctly

Refer to Details about Mutoh’s CutServer > Choose File filters and hotfolder on page 18 

Try to refresh the queue

Refer to Details about Mutoh’s CutServer > Refresh the file list on page 34

When I press the Go button, nothing happens? 

Are you sure no other cutting activities, lever up or stayed-on-display messages on the Kona were valid before launching the job?



In all circumstances, the Kona should state the READY mode before pressing the Go Button.



Are you sure no other running software tools are taking in the machine?



Are you sure you did not press the "Go" button of another machine?



Can you still use it in other work environments?

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Application Guide Kona Hints, tips and tricks

When I update some files in the hot folder, should I re-copy them into the CutServer? The contour cutting files present in the queue are an absolute representation of the hot folder list, so any action on them will have an immediate and direct impact onto your folder. Tip: It is also possible to drag and drop certain plot files from outside the CutServer (explorer, desktop …) into the contour cutting queue list.If the list is not updated automatically, click on the refresh button or restart the CutServer. Refer to Details about Mutoh’s CutServer > Refresh the file list on page 34

The Kona is cutting the wrong contour file? 

After laser beaming the bar code, does the jobID number on the Kona panel displays the correct ID label? If not, a bar code reading error occurs! Therefore, manually select the corresponding file in the CutServer and send the job via the Send EPOS Job mode (bypass the bar code reading)



Are there by any accidental coincidences two plot files with identical ID numbers present in the CutServer?  Yes: select the correct one in the CutServer.

Should I select my file before pressing the "Go" button? Not at all! The Mutoh CutServer will respond to the ID request from the Kona by selecting the corresponding file from the alignment plot list fully automatic! No user intervention is required any longer!

What can I do in case of unrecoverable errors or strange Kona behaviours? Switch OFF the Kona and restart your PC & Mutoh CutServer.

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Application Guide Kona

Index A

D

Activate firmware recovery mode . . . . . . . . . . 23

Delete file . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Add/test IP address . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Details about Mutoh’s CutServer . . . . . . . . . . 15

Alter cutter screen animations . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Did you know

Autoshow settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Different alignment methods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Available connections

Drivers

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108

B

E

Backup the settings of the machine . . . . . . . . 13

EasySIGN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 driver installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Bounding box details . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

EPOS mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Bounding box scanning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

F

C

FAQ concerning the Mutoh CutServer . . . . . 121 Firmware recovery mode activation . . . . . . . . 23

Choose File filters and hotfolder

. . . . . . . . . . 18

Frequently asked questions . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121

Compatibility overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Configuring EasySIGN for the CutServer . . . . . . . . . . 42 IP-address and subnetmask directly . . . 110 Scanvec Amiable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Connecting your Kona . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111 Contour cutting tips

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Contourcutting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Create and set a hot folder Creating a hot folder

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

G General info

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106

Go button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Go to service mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

H Handling curled media . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87 Help

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Cut through specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76

Hints & tips concerning contour cutting

CutServer Help

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Hints, tips and tricks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91

Cutter drivers and Mutoh software . . . . . . . . . . 9

How to connect your Kona to your network . . . . 106 create a cut contour around your images . 91 plot and setup your design . . . . . . . . . . . . 78

Cutthrough tool configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81

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. . . . . 53

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Application Guide Kona

I

S

Installing Mutoh CutServer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Scanning routing of bounding box

IP range search . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Scanvec Amiable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

. . . . . . . . . 55

Search machines in IP range . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

K

Send EPOS job . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Kona keyboard features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Serial number . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Kona USB driver

Set

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108

M Machine info button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Manual alignment method . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Manual contour cutting job . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Menu items

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Multi frame alignment method . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 Mutoh CutServer related FAQ . . . . . . . . . . . 121

CutServer directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 the number of real com ports . . . . . . . . . . 22 Setting up your Kona . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72 your print and cut software . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Settings button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Show Backup Files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 version history . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Single frame alignment method . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Single or multi-frame contour cutting job

. . . . 57

Software and driver installation . . . . . . . . . . . 107 Status connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

P

Synchronising the hotfolder in EasySIGN . . . . 43 Poster trimming workflow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84 Print and cut with EasySIGN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 Mutoh Grip (+) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64 Scanvec Amiable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 Print and cut workflow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113

Q Quick installation procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106

T Terminal properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Through cut settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74 Through cutting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71 with EasySIGN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77 with Mutoh Grip (+) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80 with Scanvec Amiable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82 workflow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76 Toolbar icons

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

R

Toolswap settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

Recovery mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Tracking tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

RIP software

Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112

124

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

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U Update EasySIGN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 USB server . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108 USB to network sharing box

. . . . . . . . . . . . 106

USBserver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107 Use fixed baudrate for all RS232 . . . . . . . . . . 22

V Verify automatic detection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80 View file data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 file info . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 View/clip the selected file . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 View/remove IP address scanlist . . . . . . . . . . 21

X XY-distance accuracy

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

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MUTOH INDUSTRIES LTD. Tel.:81-(0)3-5740-4020 Fax:81-(0)3-5740-4030 E-mail:[email protected] http://www.mutoh.co.jp

MUTOH AMERICA INC. Tel.:1-480-968-7772 Fax:1-480-968-7990 E-mail:[email protected] http://www.mutoh.com

EMEA Headquarters MUTOH BELGIUM nv Tel.:32-(0)59-561400 Fax:32-(0)59-807117 E-mail:[email protected] http://www.mutoh.eu

Regional Sales office MUTOH DEUTSCHLAND GmbH. Tel.:49-(0)221-385474-0 Fax:49-(0)211-385474-74 E-mail:[email protected] http://www.mutoh-gmbh.de http://www.mutoh.de

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