FK Irons EXO Cartridge Machine

Safety Notice

CLASS III SYMBOL

The CLASS III SYMBOL, depicted as a triangle containing "III", indicates a Class III appliance. This type of appliance is designed to be supplied from a separated/safety extra-low voltage (SELV) power source. The voltage from a SELV supply is low enough that under normal conditions, a person can safely come into contact with it without risk of electrical shock. Consequently, the extra safety features built into Class I and Class II appliances are not required. For medical devices, compliance with Class III is not considered sufficient protection, and more stringent regulations may apply to such equipment.

TECHNICAL DATA

BARRIER PROTECTING YOUR MACHINE

Although the grip is autoclavable, it is strongly suggested to use barrier products to protect your machine. For a visual demonstration of many barrier protection methods, please visit the FK Irons YouTube channel.

This device is only for use by trained tattoo artists and not for use by children or persons of reduced physical, sensory, or mental capabilities.

Machine Overview

The FK Irons EXO is a modular tattoo machine offering the flexibility to choose between a traditional RCA cable connection or the wireless, Bluetooth-enabled PowerBolt. It features a 9-watt brushless motor, a ratcheted adjustable needle depth system, and Direct Drive with three stroke options (2.5mm, 3.2mm, 4.0mm). The machine includes an ergonomic, autoclavable 40 mm grip with a weight-forward design for comfortable tattooing. Available models include Black Ops and Stealth.

Key components and features:

• PowerBolt: Features dynamic power path management, a USB-C Li-ion battery with capacity and voltage LED indicator, USB-C connectivity, and Bluetooth-enabled pairing with the Darklab app.
• RCA Module: A traditional RCA power module.
• Interchangeable Modules: Allows for instant switching between battery power (PowerBolt) and cable power (RCA module).

The Grip

The EXO grip is designed for artists to have ratcheting control over needle depth. The standard grip has a diameter of 40 mm, with other grip options planned for future release. It is crafted from a solid rod of 6061 T6 aircraft-grade aluminum. This polished and anodized grip is safe to be sterilized under steam in an autoclave or wiped down with cold sanitation solutions. It is compatible with most membrane needle cartridges on the market.

The Body

The Body is the core of the machine. Constructed from a solid rod of 6061 T6 aircraft-grade aluminum, this module should only be sanitized by wiping it with cold sterilization solutions. It features a ratcheted disk system and friction-stabilizing O-rings. Caution: Avoid getting fluids into the housing.

The machine is Made in the USA.

The PowerBolt

The PowerBolt is the wireless power source for the EXO machine.

LED Indicator:

Solid Color: Indicates the whole voltage value. Blinking Color: Indicates a half increment. For example, solid green indicates 10V, while flashing green indicates 10.5V.

Battery Level Check:

Press and hold the power button until the light turns white. A blinking colored light indicates the remaining charge.

Note: The LED flashes while the battery charges. Once the charge level drops below 15%, the red light will blink alternately with the voltage display.

Battery charge levels are indicated as follows:

• 100-98%: Solid color
• 97-60%: Solid color
• 59-40%: Solid color
• 39-15%: Solid color
• 14-0%: Solid color

The PowerBolt features controls for LED indicator, Voltage up [↑], Power button, and Voltage down [↓].

Working with modes:

Modes are activated by pressing and releasing the power button.

• Bluetooth: Hold the power button until a blue light appears, then immediately release. A blue blinking light indicates pairing mode is available for 60 seconds. To deactivate Bluetooth, hold the power button and release when the yellow light flashes.
• Travel Mode (hard shutoff): Press and hold the power button until the red light flashes. This mode is used to avoid unnecessary discharge or to comply with travel laws. To reactivate, connect or disconnect to a USB-C port.
• Reset (factory settings): If you experience abnormal behavior, hold the power button and the voltage down button simultaneously, then quickly release.

Device reset is indicated by icons for the power button, [plus icon] for voltage up, and [minus icon] for voltage down.

The PowerBolt is Made in USA by FK Irons Inc. It has a USB-C input of 5V 1A and an output of 9-12V.

The RCA Module

The EXO's detachable power module system allows for rapid switching between the RCA module and the PowerBolt battery pack with a simple quarter-turn action. This ensures the EXO is unstoppable, regardless of the circumstances.

Switching Power Options

To detach your PowerBolt or RCA module, ensure you have a firm grip on the body and grip. Turn the PowerBolt/RCA module counterclockwise and pull apart.

To attach the PowerBolt/RCA module, push it in while twisting clockwise. Ensure the lock mechanism moves freely. The PowerBolt/RCA module must be flush to ensure power leads align correctly. Avoid contact with the leads on either module while recharging or servicing.

How to Charge Your Machine

The USB-C connector provides fast charging speed, up to 1.5A.

To charge, insert the provided USB-C cable into the back of the PowerBolt and connect to a Hover or power socket. Make sure the cable is properly seated and fully inserted into the PowerBolt. The PowerBolt is not designed to operate while plugged in; the USB-C connection is intended solely for charging.

The PowerBolt can be recharged while not attached to the EXO. If connecting to a Hover, the charge speed will be up to 1A.

A correct connection is indicated by the USB-C cord being plugged into the PowerBolt connector.

Adjusting Needle Depth

To adjust needle depth, hold the machine body and PowerBolt while turning the grip. A counterclockwise turn decreases depth, while a clockwise turn increases depth (also known as needle hang).

Each time you turn the grip, you can feel the tactile feedback of the ratcheting mechanism. Each "click" displaces your needle by 0.2 mm, allowing you to set your needle precisely without involuntary turning while tattooing.

Turning the grip as shown increases needle depth [↑]. Turning the grip as shown decreases needle depth [↓].

eGive with RCA Module

Currently, controlling eGive via the app is only available by connecting the RCA cable to the Hover power supply. You can control eGive on the PowerBolt itself without the app.

eGive Adjustment:

This feature allows control over the amount of "give," or resistance of the needle upon impact with the skin, even on direct drive tattoo machines. This enables the artist to achieve desired softness or hardness of hit. Setting 0 has no effect, while setting 5 offers the maximum amount of eGive.

Setting eGive:

There are 6 settings for eGive, from 0 through 5. Change the setting by swiping the bars up or down. The higher the setting, the higher the amount of give. 0 equals no give, and 5 equals maximum give.

eGive Indicator:

The number displayed indicates the current eGive setting.

eGive with PowerBolt

When using the EXO with the PowerBolt, eGive is controlled directly on the PowerBolt, not via the app. You must update the PowerBolt with the latest Darklab app version to access this feature.

How to Check the Current eGive Setting:

• Hold down the power button until the light changes from white to solid blue.
• Release the power button.
• The following blinking color of the LED indicates the current eGive setting:
  • A white blinking light indicates the lowest setting (0).
  • A yellow blinking light indicates level 1 eGive.
  • An orange blinking light indicates a softness of 2 eGive.
  • A red blinking light indicates a softness of 3 eGive.
  • A pink blinking light indicates a softness of 4 eGive.
  • A green blinking light indicates a softness of 5 (softest eGive setting).

Changing eGive:

To raise or lower the give:

• Hold down the power button until the light changes from white to solid blue.
• Release the power button and immediately use the up or down arrows to change the give. The colors should change accordingly.

The eGive settings are represented by colors:

• White: eGive of 0
• Yellow: level 1 eGive
• Orange: level 2 eGive
• Red: level 3 eGive
• Pink: level 4 eGive
• Green: level 5 eGive (softest setting)

Additional Information

VOLTAGE PARAMETERS

While optimal voltage is a preference that varies among artists, this machine has been tested to operate at a minimum of 5 Volts and a maximum of 12 Volts. Feel free to adjust the voltage to obtain the desired performance, depending on the type of needle configuration or brand used.

ACCEPTED NEEDLES

Use only cartridge needles with an internal membrane. This will help avoid accidental contamination inside your machine. Fluids such as ink, water, or oil will void the device's warranty and may require replacement of internal parts.

MAINTENANCE

• The EXO is sold pre-lubricated from the factory and does not require internal lubrication.
• Prevent any type of external elements from entering inside the machine, as they will disrupt the motion of the component and contaminate the lubricant.
• The grip of the machine is autoclavable. Use only steam autoclaves at temperatures no higher than 270° Fahrenheit or 132.222° Celsius. Add a hint of ointment or PTFE grease around the internal opening of the grip or on the stabilizing friction O-rings for optimal functionality after autoclaving. Refer to page 5 for additional information.
• Machine Body and PowerBolt can be sanitized on the outside with cold sterilization products. Never spray the surface directly. Prevent fluids from entering the machine. Use no-lint rags or paper towels.
• DO NOT DISASSEMBLE MACHINE.

WARRANTY

• All housing components (Grip, Machine Body, and PowerBolt) are covered by a lifetime warranty.
• Internal parts are subject to wear, and the motor itself is covered by a 1-year warranty from the date of purchase.
• Motor warranty is void if the motor shows signs of being dropped, if internal fluids enter the motor, and/or if the motor shows signs of being tampered with in any way.

Handy Tips and Troubleshooting

HANDY TIPS

The following tips will help you get the most out of your EXO and avoid potential issues:

• Always secure your machine. Dropping the machine can cause damage to the magnets, bearings, and brushes of the motor.
• Use only cartridges with membranes to avoid contamination.
• Rinse your needle frequently to avoid pigment drying up and slowing down your cartridges. When rinsing your needle, ensure to dip only the tip of the cartridge to avoid backflow of fluids.
• Inspect your needles prior to use.
• Avoid scratching any part of the surface.
• Use only FDA-approved cold sterilization solutions for disinfection.
• Do not lubricate the machine unless instructed otherwise.
• Store your machine in a secure place.
• Before first use, charge the battery for a minimum of 3 hours.

TROUBLESHOOTING

1. Machine manufacturer: FK Irons: 1771 NW 79th Avenue, Doral, Florida 33126
2. Servicing your machine: Just like any mechanical device subject to wear, FK Irons strongly suggests that you service your product at least once a year for a proper diagnosis of all working parts. This ensures the optimal condition of all working parts, including internal machine clean-up and fresh lubrication. Routine servicing will ensure that your machine remains functioning like the very first day. Service is subject to fees.
3. Warning: Disconnect the machine from any power source before making any adjustments.

For service inquiries, please contact service@fkirons.com.

For additional tips and tutorials, please visit Youtube.com/fkirons.