Datalogic Lighter MARVIS Laser Marking Software

Datalogic Lighter MARVIS FAQs

When should I choose Datalogic Lighter MARVIS instead of standard LIGHTER Suite?

Choose MARVIS when production acceptance requires reading and assessing the code after laser marking. Datalogic LIGHTER Suite provides layout editing and laser control; MARVIS adds integrated reader configuration and inline code validation. The distinction matters for serialised components: generating a Data Matrix code and confirming the quality of the finished mark are separate operations.

Does MARVIS require a separate software licence?

Yes. Datalogic lists MARVIS software licence 93ACC1918 separately from standard LIGHTER functionality. Its April 2019 brochure describes a 30-day trial that disables MARVIS at expiry while retaining standard LIGHTER functions. Confirm current trial availability, activation terms and coverage for each proposed station before ordering, particularly when upgrading existing equipment or commissioning several cells.

Can MARVIS be added to an existing Datalogic laser marking station?

Yes, MARVIS is documented as an upgrade option for compatible installations. Assessment requires the full laser-marker and controller models, LIGHTER version, and proposed Datalogic MATRIX reader model and firmware. Reader compatibility alone is insufficient: check optics, lighting, mounting, power and cabling. For software upgrades, also confirm workstation requirements and revalidate existing layouts, scripts and machine communication.

Can Lighter MARVIS validate marks on reflective metals and plastics?

It can form part of a suitable installation, but performance depends on the material, mark and reader arrangement. Select the laser source through the available laser marking technologies, then assess code dimensions, surface finish, viewing angle and illumination together. Test representative production parts; a readable mark on one favourable sample does not establish suitability across changing finishes or positions.

Can Lighter MARVIS create and check serialised Data Matrix codes?

Yes. LIGHTER supports Data Matrix generation and variable content such as serial numbers, batch references and date/time fields, while MARVIS adds reading and quality assessment through a supported reader. Define how decoded data will be compared with the expected production record. A readable, well-formed symbol can still contain an incorrect serial number, so content correctness needs its own acceptance rule.

How should a Golden Sample be used in MARVIS Code Quality Training?

A Golden Sample is a reference mark used to establish the code-quality threshold during training. Select it against an agreed acceptance requirement, then challenge the resulting settings with acceptable production variation and known defective samples. MARVIS also provides a Quality Grade Metric Profile for configurable assessment. Reassess the setup when material finish, optics, illumination or marking parameters change.

Does a MARVIS pass result satisfy formal barcode verification requirements?

A pass result shows that the code met the configured inspection criteria; its suitability as formal verification evidence depends on the complete measurement arrangement. Specify the required standard, grade, lighting conditions and report before selecting equipment. Where a customer requires calibrated verification, confirm that the proposed reader and procedure meet that requirement rather than treating successful decoding as sufficient evidence.

How does MARVIS manage laser and reader settings during product changeovers?

LIGHTER associates layout objects with laser parameters and reader configurations, so loading a prepared layout can retrieve both sets of settings. This helps when different components need different marking and inspection recipes. Physical conditions still matter: a layout change does not reposition fixtures or change external lighting. Validate each recipe with its intended part presentation before production use.

Can Lighter MARVIS connect to a PLC, MES or production database?

Yes, through the interfaces and application logic supported by the selected installation. LIGHTER documents Ethernet TCP/IP and EtherNet/IP, while its ECMAScript scripting environment supports database interaction and custom workflows. Connecting to a programmable logic controller or manufacturing execution system requires defined data fields, triggers and result handling. Specify what happens if a connection fails after marking but before the result is recorded.

How are failed codes handled, and what affects the complete inspection cycle?

MARVIS provides a digital output for part selection and an input for deferred reader triggering; machine controls and handling equipment must implement the response. Define separate actions for unreadable codes, failed quality checks and missing results. Measure marking, part positioning, image capture, evaluation, communication and release together when assessing throughput, rather than using laser marking time alone.

What inspection records can MARVIS retain for traceability?

Documented tools include validation statistics, configurable quality logs and code images. The image-storage pool uses first-in, first-out management, so older images may be replaced as capacity is used. Define which results need permanent retention, how they are associated with individual parts and where they will be exported. Local image buffering should not be treated as a complete long-term traceability archive.

What information should I send Marveltech for a Lighter MARVIS quotation?

Provide hardware models, software versions, station quantity, sample parts, material finish, code dimensions and required cycle time. Include acceptance criteria, production-data sources and the intended response to failed inspections. Request separate confirmation of licences, readers, accessories and commissioning scope. If ongoing assistance is required, specify the maintenance and support coverage needed through Marveltech’s equipment and software support services.