Q. What is JANUS?

A. JANUS is a hybrid machine that combines CNC engraving and cutting with fiber laser marking and cutting.

It supports diamond scribing, CNC engraving and cutting, and laser marking and cutting in one machine. You can choose or combine these processes to suit each job, expanding your capabilities while reducing equipment costs and the space required for separate machines.

Q. What can I do with JANUS?

A. JANUS can engrave the inside and outside of rings, mark text and logos on pendants and medals, engrave nameplates, and cut thin metal sheets. With suitable clamps and accessories, it can also process bracelets, pens, and other cylindrical items.

It can work with various metals, including gold, silver, brass, copper, aluminum, and stainless steel. Choose CNC or laser processing according to the material and the result you want. Actual processing capabilities depend on the material composition, surface treatment, thickness, and tools used.

Q. Which laser power options are available?

A. JANUS is available with a 30W or 60W MOPA fiber laser.

Both models support precision marking and engraving. The 60W model is recommended when efficiency in deep engraving or metal cutting is a priority. Actual processing speed and results depend on the material and processing settings.

For laser marking on taller items, the 30W model is recommended. It accommodates workpieces up to 73mm high when using the multipurpose clamp.

Q. How can I combine CNC and laser processing?

A. In a typical combined workflow, laser marking is performed first, followed by CNC cutting or diamond scribing.

For example, you can laser-mark text or a logo on a metal sheet, then cut it into the desired shape with CNC. You can also add diamond scribing after laser marking to complete a design.

Using both processes in one machine reduces setup work and the need to move items between machines. When switching processes, check the work position and make sure the item is securely held with the appropriate tool and clamp setup.

Q. What is the working area?

A. The manual specifies the following working areas when using the multipurpose clamp:

Both laser models have a 110 × 110mm flat marking field and 80mm of Z-axis travel. The usable workpiece height and working range depend on the clamp, accessories, and shape of the item.

Q. Do I need separate software for CNC and laser work?

A. No. JANUS uses MagicEngrave Laser 2 to manage both CNC and laser work.

You can create designs, set work positions, generate CNC toolpaths, and adjust laser processing settings in the same software. This makes job preparation and switching between processes easier.

Q. What does the built-in camera do?

A. The built-in camera displays an image of the actual workpiece in the software so you can position your design on it.

For flat laser work, you can place text or logos over the image and adjust their size, position, and angle. For ring work, Ring Scan lets you view the ring’s shape and position your design accordingly.

Q. What is Ring Scan?

A. Ring Scan uses the built-in camera to scan the actual shape of an irregularly shaped ring and display it in the software.

When a ring has uneven edges or varies in width, entering its dimensions alone may not clearly show the available engraving area. Ring Scan lets you see the ring’s shape, place text, logos, or patterns on the image, and adjust their size and position.

This makes it easier to fit your design to the ring’s shape and choose the laser marking position.

Q. Is the rotary system included as standard?

A. Yes. JANUS has a built-in rotary system.

You can process rings, bracelets, and other cylindrical items without installing a separate external rotary unit. Choose suitable chuck fingers, jigs, or optional accessories for the size and shape of the item.

Q. Can JANUS engrave both the inside and outside of rings?

A. Yes. JANUS supports CNC and laser engraving on both the inside and outside of rings.

• CNC scribing inside a ring: Uses the L-shaped tool built into the head.
• Laser marking inside a ring: Manually adjust the rotary clamp’s tilt, then set the laser focus.
• Work on the outside of a ring: Secure the ring in the rotary clamp and select CNC or laser processing to suit the job.

The available area for inner ring laser marking depends on the ring’s diameter, width, thickness, and shape. Before starting, check that the ring is securely held and that the focus and marking position are correct.

Q. Which tools can I use for CNC work?

A. Choose a tool according to the job:

• Diamond tool: Scribes lines on the surface.
• V-cutter: Engraves text and outlines by removing material.
• End mill: Mills and cuts material.
• L-shaped tool: Scribes the inside of rings and bracelets.

JANUS supports both cutting with rotating tools and scribing with non-rotating tools. Select the tool and processing settings to suit the material and the desired result.

Q. How do I set the material height and laser focus?

A. For CNC and flat laser work, JANUS automatically measures the surface height accurately by bringing a probe or tool into direct contact with the material.

• Flat CNC work: The probe measures the material height to set the machining height.
• CNC work inside or outside a ring: The tool touches the inner or outer ring surface to measure the machining height.
• Flat laser work: The probe measures the material height, and the machine automatically sets the laser focus based on that measurement.

For ring laser marking, focus is set manually. Prepare the job in three steps:

1. Enter the ring dimensions: Measure and enter the ring width and the diameter of the surface to be marked—either the inner or outer diameter.
2. Secure the ring and adjust the angle: Secure the ring in the clamp. For inner ring marking, the software automatically calculates the required tilt angle from the dimensions you entered. Manually adjust the rotary clamp to the angle shown.
3. Set the focus: Use the keypad’s up/down (Z-axis) buttons to adjust the height until the two focus pointers meet at a single point on the ring surface you will mark.

If a focus pointer is blocked, use the auxiliary guide laser to help set the focus. Set the focus before using Ring Scan.

Q. Can I laser-mark several items of different heights in one job?

A. Yes. You can laser-mark items of different heights within the working area.

Enter the height of each marking surface in the software. The machine then adjusts the focus for each height and marks the items in sequence, reducing the need to prepare a separate job for each height.

Measure and enter each surface height correctly for accurate results.

Q. Which clamps and accessories can I use?

A. JANUS allows you to change clamps to suit the workpiece. Available setups include the multipurpose clamp, flat laser clamp, CNC cutting clamp, and built-in rotary system.

Key optional accessories include:

• Anti-curling clamp: Holds thin sheets in place.
• Pen jig: Supports pens and other cylindrical items.
• Ring adapter: Holds rings for work on their outer surfaces.
• Spoon clamp and watch jig: Hold items with specific shapes.
• Blower box: Extracts dust and fumes generated during laser processing.

Some accessories are sold separately. Before ordering, check which configuration suits the size and shape of your items.

Q. What does the protective viewing window do?

A. The JANUS safety door is fitted with a laser protective viewing window.

It lets you monitor the job while the door is closed. Together with the enclosed working area, it helps reduce laser exposure and protect the operator. Keep the safety door closed during laser operation.

Q. Do I need a dust collector or fume extraction system for laser work?

A. Yes. Laser marking and cutting can produce dust, fumes, and fine particles. Use a dust collector or fume extraction system suitable for the material being processed.

Check the connections before starting and keep the extraction system running throughout laser processing to remove dust and fumes. This helps keep the working area clean and provides a more comfortable working environment.

Q. Can JANUS control an external dust collector or blower?

A. Yes. With a compatible external device connected, you can switch it ON/OFF from the keypad or set it to operate automatically when processing starts and stops.

The machine’s blower power connection supports a maximum current of 2A. Do not connect a device rated above 2A directly to this connection; use the auxiliary power device specified in the manual. Check the device’s rating and compatibility before connecting it.

Q. What should I check before starting a job?

A. Check the following before you begin:

• Make sure the workpiece is securely clamped.
• Check that the selected CNC tool is installed correctly.
• Check the laser focus and work position.
• For ring work, make sure the entered diameter and width match the actual ring.
• Keep the protective viewing window clean so you can clearly see the working area.
• Turn on the dust collector or fume extraction system and check that it is working properly.

Before processing the item, use the preview or position-check function to verify where the work will take place. This helps reduce positioning errors.

Q. How should I maintain JANUS?

A. After CNC work, remove any remaining metal chips and dust. Prevent debris from building up around the clamps and rotary system.

Keep the protective viewing window and the areas around the camera, laser pointers, and measuring probe clean. Regularly check the tools and spindle belt for wear.

Stop the machine and turn off the power before cleaning, changing tools, or carrying out inspections. Follow the manual for detailed maintenance instructions.