Display Screen Maintenance

If you’ve been working on CNC machine tools for as long as I have (over 24 years), you may remember the only reason you touched an old CRT screen was to point something out to a coworker. When the first PC-based Okuma controls came out, they came with something new and different… a touch screen.

It took some time to adjust to the new screen but over time I embraced it. Now, when I work on an old 5020 control, I find myself touching the screen for the F keys and wondering why nothing happens. The old CRT panels and early LCD displays were easy to maintain since we didn’t touch them but the touch screen panels in use today require a bit more care.

1. CRT Panels
   CRT panels on the OSP 3000, 5000, 5020, and 7000 controls are covered by a hard-plastic, clear cover and sealed to the front bezel. The best way to make them last is to wipe the plastic cover off with a mild cleaner that’s safe for plastics. Images can be burned into the screens if they’re left on too long, so turning off screens when not in use can help extend their life. Pressing too hard with a tool will break the seal to the bezel so be sure not to use tools on the screen.
   
   
2. STN and TFT (LCD)
   Used as a replacement panel for the OSP 5000, 5020, and 7000 controls, and as an original panel for the 700, U100, and E100 controls, these panels are also covered by a hard-plastic, clear cover and sealed to the front bezel. Much like the CRT panels, the best way to make them last is to wipe the plastic cover off with a mild cleaner that is safe for plastics. Also be sure to keep tools off the screen, as they can break the seal to the bezel.
   
   
3. Touch Screen Displays
   Found on the P100, P200, P200A, P300, and P300A OSP controls, these displays are constantly touched, and their only defense is a protective film that covers the touchscreen membrane. This protective film is like the one used to safeguard your phone or tablet, and it should be changed once scratching, peeling, or excessive oil appears. Nothing other than a stylus or your finger should touch the screen. You should avoid using tools and pens to touch the screen. Another great option is to use a joystick or track ball, especially if your gloves are oil stained or if you have metal chip fragments stuck to them.

By properly using your machine’s control panel and performing the appropriate maintenance, you will be able to keep your control running smoothly for a long time.

If you need help maintaining your displays, or if you need to purchase more protective films, contact your local Okuma distributor.