RLE laser system support and FAQ

The actual output resolution from an RLE system can be calculated as a fraction of the laser fundamental wavelength.
The figure that the laser wavelength should be divided by to determine actual output resolution for each resolution setting is given in the table below.

However, if your system includes an RCU10 environmental compensation unit, actual, achieved output resolution, will be exactly as selected during the configuration process. This is the result of pulse addition and subtraction performed by the RCU10 unit.

First of all check the configuration switches. There must be an even number of switches in the 'down' or 'enabled' position. If you have an odd number of switches enabled in your present configuration, enable switch number 16. This is the parity switch, and is a safety feature that allows users to enable an even number of switches, even if the application's configuration requires an odd number of switches to be enabled.

If this does not work, set all pins to the 'enable' position. Whilst this may not be the desired configuration setting for your application, it is a configuration setting under which the laser will operate unless it is damaged, (assuming that the detector head is aligned correctly with the target optic). Should the laser not stabilise / operate with this configuration setting, the laser unit has been damaged, and you should contact your local Renishaw representative for information on how to return your system and get a replacement.

Check that all fibres and cables from the RLD10(s) are plugged in correctly. If all connections are good, and the laser status LED remails red, check that the RLE is receiving the correct 24 V, power supply.

There are a number of reasons why this fault may occur:

• Firstly , check that the fibre is correctly inserted into the RLD10: align the white line on the fibre barrel with the alignment dot on the detector head. Insert the barrel fully and then rotate slightly, either way, until you feel it engage in the internal indent. If you have a dual axis system, also check that each RLD10 is fitted to the correct channel.
• The alarm may not be set to Auto Reset. Make sure that Switch 13 is in the 'enable' position.
• Ensure that an even number of switches are in the enable position. If your system configuration requires an odd number of switches to be in the enable position, move Switch 16, the parity switch, to the enable position.

Ensure that the barrel locking screw is tightened to prevent movement of the fibre barrel within the detector head.

This switch is only valid when the RLE is configured to provide a digital output. If the system is configured to produce an analogue output, you will not be able to change direction.

Switch 12 needs to be in the 'enable' position for fine quadrature outputs to be achieved.

Ensure the RLD10's locking screws are loosened before performing pitch adjustment.