1. Introduction
This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your HXX GCS903 3-Axis LCD Digital Readout (DRO) system. The GCS903 DRO is designed for high-precision measurement and control in various machining applications, including milling, turning, drilling, boring, and wire cutting. It features a large LCD display for easy readability and supports multiple functions to enhance work efficiency and workpiece processing.
2. Package Contents
The standard package for the GCS903-3 LCD DRO SET includes the following components:
- 1 x GCS903-3 3-axis LCD DRO Display Unit
- 1 x Power Cable for DRO Display
- 1 x User Manual (this document)
- 1 x Mounting Arm for Display
- 1 x Screw Bag for Display Mounting
- 1 x Display Protector
- 3 x Linear Scales (GCS898 model) with 0.005mm (5um) accuracy
- 3 x Scale Covers
- 3 x Mounting Brackets for Linear Scales
- 3 x Screw Bags for Scale Mounting
3. Specifications
3.1 GCS903 DRO Display Unit
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Number | GCS903 |
| Input Voltage | AC 80-250V, 50/60Hz |
| Power Consumption | 25VA |
| Number of Axes | 3 axis |
| Input Signal | TTL Square Wave (EIA-442 available upon request) |
| Plug Type | DB9 |
| Resolution Options | 0.5u, 1u, 2u, 5u, 10u (microns) |
| Certification | CE |
| Battery Included | No |
3.2 Linear Scales (GCS898)
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model | GCS898 |
| Travel Length (Available Measurement) | 50-1000mm (Customizable) |
| Scale Resolution | 5um (0.005mm) |
| Total Length | Travel length + 138mm |
| Mounting Hole Distance | Travel length + 120mm |
| Cross Section Size | 21mm x 33mm |
| Cable Length | 3 meters |
| Material | High quality aviation aluminum rod body, 304 Stainless Steel catheter wrapping |
4. Setup and Installation
Proper installation of the linear scales is crucial for accurate measurements. Follow these steps carefully:
4.1 Linear Scale Installation
- Step 1: Installation Preparation
Remove the two screws on the red card of the reading head. This prevents liquid from entering the scale. Properly position the linear scale reading head down or add a dust cover.
Figure 5: Installation Step 1 - Preparation - Step 2: Installation Plane
The linear scale should be installed on a flat surface. If the installation surface is uneven, use a gasket to ensure a level mounting.
Figure 6: Installation Step 2 - Ensuring a Flat Surface - Step 3: Calibration Ruler Body
After installation, the ruler body needs to be calibrated. Ensure the ruler body is parallel to the workbench. If the measuring range is below 350mm, the parallelism between the ruler body and the workbench should be less than 0.05mm. If the measuring range is above 350mm, the maximum parallelism error should be less than 0.1mm. When calibrating the ruler body, ensure the reading head is perpendicular to the ruler body to avoid angle error.
Figure 7: Installation Step 3 - Calibration of Ruler Body
4.2 DRO Display Unit Connection
Connect the linear scales to the corresponding DB9 ports on the back of the GCS903 display unit. Ensure the power cable is securely connected to the display unit and a suitable power outlet (AC 80-250V, 50/60Hz).
5. Operation
The GCS903 DRO features a large LCD display and an intuitive button layout for various functions. The display shows X, Y, and Z axis readings, along with other operational data.
5.1 Display Overview
5.2 Button Functions
Refer to the diagram below for the layout and basic functions of the DRO buttons:
Key functions include:
- Zero Clearing: Resets the current axis reading to zero.
- INCH/MM Mode: Toggles between imperial (inches) and metric (millimeters) units.
- ABS/INC Mode: Switches between absolute and incremental measurement modes.
- 1/2 Function: Divides the displayed value by two, useful for finding center points.
- Calculator: Built-in calculator for quick computations.
- Power Off Memory: Retains settings and last position after power cycle.
- Liner Error Compensation: Corrects for linear inaccuracies in the scale.
- Sleeping Mode: Power-saving mode.
- Lathe Function: Specific functions for lathe operations.
- Drilling Functions: Includes drilling of circumference, oblique line, circle hole, ellipse hole, and line hole.
- Machining Functions: Includes machining of inclined plane, circular arc, and smooth arc.
- Radius/Diameter Function: Toggles between radius and diameter display for turning.
- Rectangular Lumen Gradual Processing: For specific machining patterns.
- Digital Filtering & Vibration Filtering: Improves reading stability.
- Self-motion Middle Parted Function: Aids in finding the center of a workpiece.
- Arc Surface Processing Function: For complex curved surfaces.
- PCD Function: Pitch Circle Diameter calculation.
- Cant Processing Function: For angled cuts.
- PLD Function: Point Line Distance calculation.
- SDM (300 Group): Storage for 300 sets of sub-datum points.
- EDM Function: Electrical Discharge Machining specific functions.
For detailed instructions on each function, please refer to the comprehensive user manual provided in the package.
6. Maintenance
To ensure the longevity and accuracy of your HXX GCS903 DRO system, follow these maintenance guidelines:
- Cleaning: Regularly clean the display unit and linear scales with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or solvents that could damage the surfaces.
- Dust Protection: Keep the linear scales covered when not in use to prevent dust and debris from accumulating on the optical grating.
- Cable Management: Ensure all cables are routed safely and are not subjected to pinching or excessive bending, which could damage the internal wiring.
- Environmental Conditions: Operate the DRO system within its specified environmental conditions (temperature, humidity) to prevent malfunction.
- Inspection: Periodically inspect the mounting brackets and screws for tightness. Ensure the linear scales remain parallel to the machine's axis of motion.
7. Troubleshooting
This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your GCS903 DRO system. For more complex problems, contact technical support.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Display not powering on | No power supply; loose power cable. | Check power connection and outlet. Ensure power switch is ON. |
| Inaccurate readings | Linear scale misalignment; debris on scale; incorrect resolution setting. | Verify scale alignment and parallelism. Clean scales. Check DRO resolution setting. |
| No reading from an axis | Loose DB9 connector; damaged scale cable; faulty scale. | Ensure DB9 connector is securely plugged in. Inspect cable for damage. Test with another scale if available. |
| Buttons unresponsive | Temporary software glitch; physical button damage. | Restart the DRO unit. If problem persists, contact support. |
8. User Tips
- Scale Length Selection: When ordering or replacing linear scales, always specify whether you are providing the "travel length" (available measurement) or the "actual overall length" to ensure you receive the correct size. The total length of the scale is typically the travel length plus 138mm.
- EIA-442 Signal: If your machine requires an EIA-442 signal instead of the standard TTL Square Wave, ensure you specify this when ordering.
- Power Supply: The DRO unit supports a wide voltage range (AC 80V ~ 264V). Use the appropriate plug kit for your region.
9. Warranty and Support
For any technical assistance, warranty claims, or further inquiries, please contact the manufacturer or your authorized dealer. Ensure you have your product model number (GCS903) and any relevant purchase information ready when contacting support.
The manufacturer is GCSHXX Shenzhen HXX Machinery Equipment Company Store.
10. Product Video
Watch this video for a visual overview of the HXX GCS903 DRO system and its features.