Redsail Cutting Plotter Software Installation Page
Some older RedSail models use ArtCut (similar to the Chinese "MasterCut"). The installation is simpler:
If your computer does not recognize the plotter when you plug it in, follow these steps:
If you want, I can: (A) produce step-by-step installers for a specific Redsail model and OS you provide, or (B) generate a one-page quick-start sheet for shop floor use.
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Setting up a Redsail cutting plotter involves a two-step process: installing the hardware drivers so your computer recognizes the machine, and configuring your design software to send commands correctly. 1. Driver Installation
Most Redsail plotters use a USB-to-Serial connection. You must install the specific driver (often the FTDI or CH340 driver) before the software can communicate with the plotter.
Identify the Port: Once installed, open your computer's Device Manager and look under "Ports (COM & LPT)" to find the assigned COM Port number (e.g., COM3).
Port Settings: For optimal performance, set the Flow Control to XON/XOFF in the port properties. 2. Software Options and Configuration
Redsail plotters generally use HPGL or DMPL command languages, making them compatible with various industry-standard software. Easy Cut Studio Available for all Redsail Vinyl Cutters redsail cutting plotter software installation
Setting up a Redsail cutting plotter is a two-step dance: first, you need the right drivers to help your computer "talk" to the hardware, and then you need design software to send your creations to the blade. Whether you're a seasoned sign-maker or a hobbyist, this guide covers the essential installation steps for most Redsail models. 🛠️ Step 1: Physical Connection and USB Drivers
Before the software can find your plotter, you must establish a solid connection. Most Redsail plotters use either a Serial (RS232) or USB connection.
For USB Connections: You must install the USB driver before your software will recognize the device. Locate the driver (often named " USB Driver 340
") on your installation disc or the official Redsail download page. Run the installer and click "OK" or "Install".
Pro Tip: After installation, open your Windows Device Manager. Look under "Ports (COM & LPT)" and note the COM Port number assigned to "USB Serial Port" (e.g., COM3). You’ll need this later. 🎨 Step 2: Choosing Your Cutting Software
Redsail machines are versatile and work with several industry-standard programs. Here are the most common options and how to set them up: 1. Artcut (Standard/Classic)
Artcut is the "original" companion for many Redsail machines.
Installation: Install Artcut first, then connect the plotter. Some older RedSail models use ArtCut (similar to
Setup: Open Artcut and go to the "Cut" menu. Select your machine model (often listed under "Redsail" or "Generic") and set the COM Port to match the one you found in Device Manager. 2. Easy Cut Studio (Mac & PC)
Highly recommended for Mac users, as it is one of the few that natively supports Redsail on macOS. Setup: Go to Cutter > Manage Cutters.
Selection: Select Redsail from the brand list and your specific RS model from the model list.
Connection: In the Cut Settings window, choose your connection type and port. 3. FlexiSign / FlexiStarter A professional choice for high-volume sign-making. Installation: Run the driver from your CD or download. Configuration: In Flexi, select the REDSAIL TECH driver.
Handshaking: Important! Set the COM port handshaking to XON/XOFF or RTS/CTS to ensure the machine doesn't skip data during long cuts. 4. CorelDRAW & Adobe Illustrator
Installing software for a Redsail cutting plotter involves a two-step process: setting up the necessary USB or serial drivers
so your computer can recognize the machine, and then configuring your design software
(like Artcut, FlexiSIGN, or Easy Cut Studio) to communicate with it. Step 1: Driver Installation If you want, I can: (A) produce step-by-step
Before the software can send data to the plotter, you must install the communication drivers provided on the CD or official Redsail website USB Connection Connect the plotter to your PC via USB and turn it on. USB Driver setup or from the CD). Open your computer’s Device Manager and expand Ports (COM & LPT) Identify the USB Serial Port
number (e.g., COM2 or COM3). You will need this for the software setup. Port Properties
: Right-click the identified COM port in Device Manager, go to Properties > Port Settings , and set the Flow Control Step 2: Software Configuration
Redsail plotters are compatible with various professional sign-making applications. Configuration steps for common options are as follows: Artcut (2005/2009) Add Device : In Artcut, select the device manufacturer as and the model as or your specific model (e.g., Port Match : Go to the
settings and ensure the output port matches the COM port noted in Device Manager. Flow Control : Set the software's flow control to to match your hardware settings. FlexiSIGN-PRO Driver Setup : Install the Redsail driver from your disc and select REDSAIL TECH within the FlexiSIGN Production Manager. Port Settings
: In the Production Manager setup menu, set the handshaking to (or RTS/CTS for hardware handshaking). Easy Cut Studio (Recommended for Mac) Compatibility
: This is one of the few options that natively supports Redsail on : Open the menu, choose My Cutter > Manage Cutters from the brand list, and click Add to list
This guide covers the installation and setup of RedSail cutting plotters (such as the RS series, e.g., RS720C, RS1360C).
RedSail plotters are popular budget-friendly machines, but they can be tricky to set up because they do not always include an automated installer. The most reliable way to run these machines is by using generic drivers within popular cutting software.
Here is your step-by-step guide.