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  Help for HAPPY HCS Voyager machines
.last update:  February, 2008 - new troubleshooting steps for USB connection in "Troubleshooting"
 


If you have an HCS Voyager machine, this section is devoted to providing you with resources to help you keep your machine "HAPPY" !

Updates

Troubleshooting

Maintenance

Error Code List

FAQ

 
Setting Up and Configuring Voyager

  

       
Included in this section are instructions and help files for HAPPY's HCS Voyager machine. 
Unpacking and Assembly  
Your HCS Voyager machine was carefully packed at the factory using quality packing materials and procedures to assure that your machine is ready, right out of the box to sew.  By following the procedures carefully, you can best-assure that your Voyager will be as "factory fresh" as possible!
Unpacking Voyager 

Instructions for Unpacking Voyager

It can be helpful, especially when first working with your new Voyager machine to preserve the packaging materials that protected your machine on its journey from the factory to your home.  This short illustrated guide will help you not only preserve them but also help you set your Voyager machine up more efficiently.
FLASH movie:   instructions for unpacking Voyager.
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Assembling  Voyager 

General Diagram for Assembling Voyager

Be sure to follow the instructions that are included in the Voyager manual.  Before doing so, it is important to properly unpack Voyager.  Be sure to follow the instructions described in the FLASH movie above !!
 
 Threading and Tensioning  
Your HCS Voyager machine was carefully packed at the factory using quality packing materials and procedures to assure that your machine is ready, right out of the box to sew.  Be sure to take the same care when un-boxing Voyager and assembling it to run!
Proper Threading 

Threading the upper (Colored) Thread  

Threading your Voyager machine PROPERLY is VERY important to prevent thread breaks and to ensure efficient operation!   Also - don't forget that needles need to be inserted and oriented correctly!  Below, we've provided an illustrated diagram for threading your Voyager machine, which is also provided in the manual that comes with Voyager. 
PDF file:  properly threading Voyager.
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Tension Test  

Tension Test for Voyager 

Provided below is a .dst file that you can download and use to test-sew the tensions on your Voyager machine. 
   Click HERE to download the tension test in .dst format.
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Problem with lower
"thread holding spring"

What to do if this spring is pulled out of place
Sometimes 1 or more the thread-holding springs are dislodged from their mounting points.  You'll often find them caught in the "up" position.  Watch this short movie to see how to remove the lower faceplate and mount back in place.
Flash movie: fixing lower thread holding spring
   Transferring Designs to Voyager 

USB Connection

Transferring Designs Using HAPPYLINK
Use the included HAPPYLINK software to set up designs and send them to your Voyager machine.
Topic
Question

Setting up a USB Connection

How to set up a USB Connection between your PC and HAPPYLINK 

Follow the directions below for setting up a USB connection between your PC and a HAPPY Voyager machine.
 1.  Download the WINZIP file below that matches your Windows operating system.  These are very small files.  Open the file using WINZIP (if you have XP, you don't need WINZIP).  Extract the 2 driver files that are inside the WINZIP file to the root c:\  directory.
2.  Power on the Voyager machine.  Upon power-up, press ENT on the Voyager control panel to get to the machine's default screen.
3.  Connect a USB cable between the Voyager machine and an available port on your PC.  Do not connect the USB cable to a USB hub - connect directly to a PC.
4.  The Windows "New Hardware" wizard will start automatically upon detecting the HAPPY machine.  Follow the prompts, choosing the option to "Install driver from a specific or known location".  Browse to the location where you stored the driver files in step (1) above and highlight the HPYUSB01.INF or HPYUSB02.INF file and continue.  These steps should successfully set up the USB connection.
5.  Note:  Perform these steps before starting HAPPYLINK.  Once the steps are completed, start HAPPYLINK and go to File..Options and choose the USB connection as well as correct options for the rest of the page.

Drivers for Voyager to PC USB connection

Download the USB driver files for Voyager below.  Be sure to download the correct ones for your computer's version of Windows.  Follow the instructions above to install.  
USB Drivers for Windows 98 
USB Drivers for Windows XP and 2000
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Setting up a Serial Connection

How to set up a Serial connection between your PC and HAPPYLINK 

Below are a document  contains the complete steps for setting up a serial connection in between your PC and the HCS Voyager machine using a serial cable.
1.  Find a PC with a serial port.  This is a 9-pin port on the back of your PC that has 2 rows of pins, 5 in the first row, 4 in the second.  Test-fit the off-white serial cable that came with your Voyager machine. 
2.  Install the latest version of HAPPYLINK
as came with your Voyager machine.  
3.  Set up HAPPYLINK for a serial connection.  To do so, go to (1) File..Options, choose RS-232 for connection type.  Also choose in the same screen "Compatible with HAPPYLINK", 12 needles, and No Borer if you're connecting to a Voyager machine. Then go to (2) File...Port Settings and choose the COM port you wish to use and speed.  If unsure, choose COM1 and a speed of 38,400kbps.
4.  Set up the COM port in your PC by going to the Windows Device Manager.  In the Device Manager, find the COM port settings under Ports (COM & LPT) and choose a port # and speed to match what you did in step (3) above.
5.  Set up the transmission speed in Voyager.  Go to the Create menu in Voyager and change the 232C speed to match the speed you chose in steps (3) and (4) above.
6.  Try sending a design.  You should be set up following steps 1-5 above.  Try opening a design in HAPPYLINK and sending it across, trying the different options available in the program..
Downloads
Happylink Software
 

About HAPPYLINK

HAPPYLINK manual 

Below is the instruction book for HAPPYLINK.
  Click on the link here to download the current manual for HAPPYLINK.
 
Transferring Designs Using a Flash card 
Using Flash-type memory cards (the same kind found in many digital cameras) is a fast, convenient way to transfer designs into the Voyager machine. 
Topic Question and Answer

Illustrated Guide

Everything you need to know about CompactFlash cards and Voyager 

Provided below is a PDF document illustrating the most popular FLASH cards used with Voyager
  Click on the icon here to view/print information about CompactFlash
          cards for use with HAPPY Voyager.
What types of cards work? The newest versions of Voyager (Generation 3) can employ 3 types of Flash memory:  CompactFlash, Memory Stick, and SmartMedia.   There are no known issues with any particular brands. 
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What types of cards work on older Voyager machines?
All versions of HAPPY's Voyager can read Sandisk(TM) brand CompactFlash cards.
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What else do I need besides a  FLASH card?

You'll need a PCMCIA adapter "sleeve" that the card fits into.  This adapter "sleeve" allows the card to be inserted into the type of removable card slot found in laptops, which is the kind of slot on the side of the Voyager control panel where the card must be inserted.  (note, the card CAN be inserted and/or removed while the machine is powered on and while sewing - just don't do this while a design is being transferred!)
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   Operating Voyager 
 
Positioning the Design in the Hoop 
As complex as these machines can seem, you should be able to expect a long lifetime of trouble-free operation once you've learned how to use your Voyager machine.  Follow the simple maintenance needs of your Voyager machine to keep it running smoothly!
Topic Question


Centering the Design in the Hoop
The design should sew in the center of the hoop by default.  However, if you've been moving the hoop around and are no longer sure if this is the case, follow this simple procedure:
   1.  Hold the MENU key continuously until the menu changes
          to display the 4 options: ORG TOP CNT POS
   2.  Press the arrow button corresponding to the CNT button
          (the down arrow).  The pantograph should move to center.
          If the center is off, re-start the machine.
   3.  With the pantograph positioned back on-center, repeat step
          (1) above, then press the button associated with TOP.
          This will move the design center to the current pantograph
          position, which in this case is center, and also move the
          sewing position to the first stitch.  
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Sewing the design in a position off-center in the Hoop

Moving the Design Off-Center 

Use the arrow keys combined with the ENT key to position the pantograph (based on the position of the presser foot) to where you wish the design's center to be in the hoop's sewing area.  Then, press and hold MENU continuously until the 4 options ORG, TOP, CNT, and POS appear.  Press the button corresponding to TOP. This will move the design center to the area under the presser foot.
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Controlling Voyager while Sewing

Common Operations While Sewing 

This illustrated document describes the common operations that can be performed while Voyager is in the middle of sewing a design.  
Common sewing operations (PDF file)
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Using the HOOPTECH clamping system

How to use the Hooptech clamp 

This step-by-step guide teaches you how to install the clamp and center designs in it with Voyager. 
Hooptech clamping system guide for Voyager
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Sewing Designs  
Sewing designs on HCS Voyager is  a breeze once you've got everything set up correctly.  This section contains answers to the most common questions regarding sewing designs on Voyager.
 
Using the Cap Frame System 
Voyager has an excellent cap frame system, especially considering that Voyager was produced to be lightweight and compact.  Newer versions of HCS Voyager can even employ the same wide-field cap frame that is used on the large commercial HAPPY machines!   Included in this section are instructions on how to 
Question Answer

Hooping a Finished Cap 

Hooping caps on the 180 Cap Frame

1. Align center seam on center mark
2.  Sweat band should be unfolded and placed under center mark plate.
3. Make sure teeth grip the seam all the way where the base meets the riser.
4. Snap buckle into place.

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Hooping caps on the Wide Cap Frame
Note:  Max cap field width approx. 275 mm.

1. Align center seam on center mark.  
2.  Sweat band should be unfolded and placed under center mark plate.
3. Band strap: Make sure teeth grip the seam all the way where the base meets the riser. If sewing on the sides, make sure the sides are grabbed by the teeth as well. Use free hand to hold back end of cap downwards.
4. Snap buckle into place. Note:  Be ready - cap will often shift towards buckle as buckle is closed, pushing center seam off alignment.  Compensate BEFORE closing buckle.
5. Attach clips on rear of cap, pulling cap material taut (but not overly tight).

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   Care and Feeding (Maintenance)
Oiling and Cleaning
As complex as these machines can seem, you should be able to expect a long lifetime of trouble-free operation once you've learned how to use your Voyager machine.  Follow the simple maintenance needs of your Voyager machine to keep it running smoothly!
Topic Question & Solution

Oiling your
Voyager Machine

Daily Oiling 

Your Voyager machine needs daily oiling in one place - a small "gutter" along the outer edge of the bobbin case "basket" just inside the rotary hook. Place 1 drop of sewing machine oil in this location once every 8 hours that the machine is run.  It is just as important to not over-oil your machine, also - so if you don't run your machine much, you won't have to oil it daily.  Just follow the 8-hour rule.

To find the place to oil, open the rotary hook door (beneath the needle plate on the sewing arm) and remove the bobbin and bobbin case.  You'll see the front face of the rotary hook, as shown in the illustration on the right.  Place 1 drop of oil in the "gutter" or "race" of the hook,
which is indicated by the red arrow on the right.

 


Weekly & Complete Oiling Schedule

In the illustrated document below, you'll see the exact locations to oil Voyager, for both daily and weekly schedules. 
Oiling points for Voyager
   Troubleshooting Voyager 
 
Quick Field Troubleshooting
You don't have to be a skilled mechanic to keep Voyager up and running.  But learning some easy tips and tricks lets you keep right on sewing to get you through the most common headaches that all embroiderers have, like hoop strikes, thread breaks, and the like.
Topic Question & Solution

Fixing Design Transfer Problems/ Communication problems

Troubleshooting problems with Flash card transfers 

Having trouble sending your design by flash card to your Voyager machine?  We've listed the most common causes for this here and how to avoid or fix them.
PDF instructions 
 

USB Connection Unsteady

USB Connection is lost from time to time.

Check the following if you're having problems keeping a steady USB connection in your HCS Voyager machine:
   1.  Update the firmware (control panel program) to 3.02 or newer.  You can
        get this free update from the support department at TEXMAC, along with 
        instructions.  The updated firmware has improved programming for USB 
        connections.
   2.  Ensure you're using a USB 2.0-compliant cable.  Purchase higher-quality 
        cables, limit the length of the cable to about 12 feet.  Ensure that the cable
        you purchase is USB 2.0-compliant.
   3.  Ensure you're not connecting through a USB Hub. At this time, USB 
        connection for your Voyager machine is not supported through hubs.
 

Windows XP crashes when sending files through USB. 

You probably have the wrong driver either installed or somewhere in your PC.  Setting up the  USB connection from your PC to the HCS Voyager machine requires 2 driver files.  There is a set of 2 driver files for Windows 98, and a set of 2 drivers files for computers with Windows 2000 or Windows XP.  The files are as follows:

 Windows 98 Driver files:  hpyusb01.inf, hpyusb01.sys
 Windows XP Driver files:  hpyusb02.inf, hpyusb02.sys

To fix this problem, do a search for all files named "hpyusb" using Start..Search... etc.  Make sure you enable the options to search hidden files, system files, and subfolders, and search all of your local disk C:\.  Delete all files, then re-download the XP drivers from the Help Files section above.
 

"Machine is Busy" message when attempting to transfer designs 

Check to make sure that the version of your Voyager's control panel software is at least 1.06 or newer.  The currently-installed version appears on the first line of text when the Voyager is powered on.  Be ready!  The version number is displayed for barely 2 seconds.  The message will show "Version A X.XX".  If you have a version previous to 1.06, you can get the 1.06 updater in the Help Files section above.  Be careful!  If you are unsure of what you're doing, you may permanently corrupt your control panel software.  If in doubt, contact the service department with any questions
 

I have the correct Flash card but Voyager isn't reading any designs on the card. 

Make sure of the following:  that (1) the card is formatted in FAT and not FAT32;  (2) that none of your designs are located in any sub-folders within the card; and finally (3) Ensure that after saving designs to the flash card from PC, that you Stop the card from the Stop Hardware icon in the bottom-right corner of your Windows screen (next to the clock).  Failure to do so may cause the design not to save at all to the card.
 
Fixing thread breaks

Basic thread Break Fix 

Follow this short procedure to clear a thread break.  (Note: this procedure does not address troubleshooting the cause of the break, only to teach how to re-thread and continue sewing.  Problem may re-occur without proper troubleshooting.
  1. Press T.CUT to cut thread still attached to garment
  2.  Repair thread break by re-threading upper thread or replacing bobbin.
  3.  Press or press and hold STOP to move sewing position to just before the break
  4.  Press START to continue sewing.
 


Troubleshooting Thread Breaks

Follow this procedure to troubleshoot thread breaks:
  1.  Bobbin . Check to see if the upper thread is actually broken.  If it isn't,
      and the bobbin has not been changed for a while, check bobbin and replace.
      A remote possibility may be that the thread break sensor is defective for
      that needle, but this is the least likely of the causes listed here.
  2.  Thread Path.  If upper thread is actually broken, check carefully along the 
       entire thread path to make sure that needle is threaded correctly.  Pull the 
       thread through the needle and ensure the thread pulls smoothly through the 
       entire thread path. There is an excellent diagram in your manual on how the 
       thread should flow through the tensioners, grommets, etc from thread cone 
       down to the needle.
  3.  Design or thread. If the thread path appears correct and the thread seems to 
       be pulling smoothly, and this still doesn't solve the problem, check to see if the 
       break seems to be occurring in either (a) the same point in a given design,
       [i.e. poor digitizing] or (b) with that particular thread [old or otherwise inferior
       thread will be more brittle than newer/quality thread].
  4.  Needle depth/proper needle orientation.  Did you know that the needle
       MUST be installed in a specific way? The long groove must be facing forward,
       and the scarf (cutout section behind the eye) must be facing directly 
       backwards. Incorrect needle depth is also a cause (i.e. was the needle inserted
       all the way into place?  Does the depth appear correct compared to the
       position of the rest of the needles?).   Check your manual for the procedure
       to set needle depth for the ultimate procedure.  Also, check to ensure that
       the needle is entering the hole in the needle plate in the center or close 
      enough to the center that it isn't physically contacting the needle. 
  5.  Check for burred/jagged surfaces.  The normal wear of sewing operations
      can cause surfaces that the thread contacts to become damaged/jagged. 
      Check the following places.  Crocus cord or crocus cloth, which can be 
      purchased at any hardware store, can be used to polish away these surfaces.
            a.  Surface of the rotary hook (diagrams will follow)
            b.  Needle plate - ensure that the edges of the hole are smooth
            c.  Damaged needle - when in doubt, replace the needle, inserting as shown
                 in (4) above.
 
Types of Machine "Jams"

Fixing error E-018 main shaft error:  When if shaft unable to turn between 180 and 280 degree mark (approximately) 

This error indicates that resistance or obstruction has prevented the main shaft from turning, either momentarily or a solid jam.  Click on the link below to view a video on one of the common causes of this type of jam to see if this is your problem, and also to see a fix for that problem. 
Video: Fixing this type of jam
  FLASH movie:  Fixing this type of jam.  Interactive!
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Advanced Troubleshooting
Sometimes your problems may require more than a quick turn of a screw or an adjustment knob.  For those of you who want to take on more in-depth repairs yourselves, we've provided some useful information below. 
Topic Question & Solution

Removing Voyager's
Outer Covers

How to Remove the Covers 

This illustrated guide can help you if you need to perform any maintenance on Voyager that requires removing the outer covers.
PDF instructions 
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Adjusting Thread Cut Timing

Adjusting Thread Cut Timing

This illustrated guide teaches you how to adjust thread cut timing on Voyager.   .       
PDF instructions 
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  Error Code List HCS Voyager machines

  

       
 Below, you'll find a list of the possible error codes displayed by the machine, and an explanation of each, with suggested solutions.
Error Code  Error Description Resolution

001

Circuit Board Abnormality detected in control circuit board Power down machine and, after 10 seconds, power on again.
004 System Memory System memory fault Power down machine and, after 10 seconds, power on again.
015 Inverter Trip Sewing motor-related problem, i.e. overload or short circuit, trouble with motor drive unit Cut power and turn main shaft by hand.  If turns normally, power on again.
018 Main shaft error Main shaft will not turn. Turn main shaft manually to verify full movement through complete 360 degree turn.  Troubleshoot for anything that may block this motion i.e. jam at rotary hook shaft, needle bar, etc.  Also re-initialize system, speed from MENU...OTHER.
020 Needle Detect Machine not detecting current needle # correctly, or needle bar selection unit is off its stop position.  Trouble with position-detecting circuit board. Turn needle bar selector with 3mm hex wrench (or on Gen III Voyager machines, with large thumbscrews) to have it set at center of fixed position (range within which needle bar selector doesn't move).  Align red arrows with indicator sticker on case.  1/2 turn = one full color change position.

Failing that, follow procedure in Maintenance Manual to correct this.  You'll need to re-start machine in Maintenance Mode and go to OTHER...MAINTE (enter code)...MACHINE... and options (D), (E) and (F).  
021 Needle move Motor for needle bar selection unit has stopped partway through its path. After resolving initial cause of incident, turn needle bar selector (or in new HCS machines, silver knob) with wrench to have it set at center of fixed position (range within which needle bar selector doesn't move).  Test again.
022 Needle move No movement due to malfunction of thread take-up lever or trouble of position-detecting circuit board After resolving initial cause of incident, turn needle bar selector (or in new HCS machines, silver knob) with wrench to have it set at center of fixed position (range within which needle bar selector doesn't move).  Test again.
024 Needle center Needle bar stop position is off-center; needle bar stop position is out of place. Turn needle bar selector with 3mm hex wrench (or in new HCS machines, silver knob) to have it set at center of fixed position (scope within which needle bar selector doesn't move).
025 Needle over Needle # out of range of actual needles on given machine. Turn needle bar selector with 3mm hex wrench (or in new HCS machines, silver knob) to have it set at center of fixed position (scope within which needle bar selector doesn't move).
026 Needle differ   Turn needle bar selector with 3mm hex wrench (or in new HCS machines, silver knob) to have it set at center of fixed position (scope within which needle bar selector doesn't move).
030 Slow speed mismatch Improper speed adjustment at low speed.  Speed does not decrease below 100rpm at low speed. Adjustment or replacement required of speed control VR on CPU circuit board.  Contact service department. 
050 C point error Main shaft is stopped in a position other than "C" point To clear automatically:  Press ENT.  Select Auto and press ENT again.  Main shaft should turn to correct position.

Failing that, move timing wheel clockwise to 270 degree position.  Check full rotation to ensure that shaft is able to turn full 360 degrees without significant resistance.  . 
051 L sensor Timing detection board fault, or marred photo-sensor.  Malfunction of "Lowest needle position" sensor on detection circuit board. Check to see if photo sensor is clean or if the slit plate contacts sensor. 
052 C sensor  Timing board detection fault, or marred photo-sensor.  Malfunction of "Color change position" sensor on timing detection circuit board.  Check to see if photo sensor is clean or if the slit plate contacts sensor. 
055 Take-up cover Safety cover over take up levers is open. Close safety cover.  If cover is broken, cover can be removed and sensor may be clipped to bypass this safety feature, although this is not recommended.
060 X limit  Frame/pantograph has moved beyond sewing area along X-axis.  Return frame within sewing area using the frame movement keys on the control panel.  Check pattern size and center mark to ensure that it is within size range of selected hoop and also properly centered. 
061 Y-limit  Frame/pantograph has moved beyond sewing area along Y-axis. Return frame within sewing area using the frame movement keys on the control panel.  Check pattern size and center mark to ensure that it is within size range of selected hoop and also properly centered. 
090 Miss reception Error has occurred during data transfer (via cable) between machine and PC. Try reading pattern data again.  Verify that transmission speed setting is correct at (1) transfer software; (2) device manager of PC and (3) RS-232C speed of machine.  Or if USB connection, check USB connection.  If necessary, shutdown HCS and HAPPYLINK and re-load USB driver in device manager. Then, restart HCS machine, bring to default screen, then re-start HAPPYLINK.
091 No send Machine has not received data for > 10 seconds during data transfer.  Try reading pattern data again.  Verify that transmission speed setting is correct at (1) transfer software; (2) device manager of PC and (3) RS-232C speed of machine.  Or if USB connection, check USB connection.  If necessary, shutdown HCS and HAPPYLINK and re-load USB driver in device manager. Then, restart HCS machine, bring to default screen, then re-start HAPPYLINK.
103 Data format Machine unable to determine data format of design Verify that design is in .dst or .tap format and attempt to re-send and/or reload.
104 Miss function Timing to read tape does not conform. Try reading pattern data again.  Verify that transmission speed setting is correct at (1) transfer software; (2) device manager of PC and (3) RS-232C speed of machine.  Or if USB connection, check USB connection.  If necessary, shutdown HCS and HAPPYLINK and re-load USB driver in device manager. Then, restart HCS machine, bring to default screen, then re-start HAPPYLINK.
105 Dual function Data has been detected in the design that has ambiguous/dual function. Delete design from control panel and re-load design from cable or card again.
108 Improper read While reading pattern data, error has occurred in internal processing. Try reading pattern data again.
110 Memory full During disk or tape read, memory has filled to capacity. Delete unnecessary patterns from machine memory and try again.
111 Change over While reading pattern data, # of color changes has exceeded 250. Divide pattern data such that number  of color changes of each segment is less than 250. 
112 Data error Pattern data of current design is damaged. Try loading pattern data again.
114 Id over # of patterns in control panel memory has exceeded the maximum of 99 Delete unnecessary patterns from machine memory and try again.
118 Trace Data Over Over 1024 stitches of trace data were created while the pattern data was being read in.