Silver Reed SK-580
This is the approved revision of this page, as well as being the most recent.
| Silver Reed SK-580 | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Silver Reed |
| Model | SK-580 |
| Gauge | Standard |
| Type | Domestic |
| Patterning | Electronic Mylar |
| Needles | 200 |
| Release Year | 1985 |
| Accessories | Standard sinker plate, electronic carriage, Knit Radar sheets, Mylar sheets, table clamps, power cord |
| Also Known As | Studio SK580, Singer 580 |
The Silver Reed SK-580 (also branded as the Studio SK580 or Singer 580) is a standard-gauge electronic knitting machine produced by Silver Reed (and rebadged under various brands) in the mid-1980s.[1] It features 200 needles with a 4.5 mm pitch and represents a transition from punchcard to electronic design.
Key Features & Technology[edit]
- Electronic Mylar Reader: The machine carriage features an integrated optical reader. Instead of punchcards, patterning is programmed using Mylar pattern sheets. The scanner translates the drawn lines into electronic commands for the needle selection solenoids.
- Knit Radar: The SK-580 features a built-in miniature Knit Radar (contour controller) on the bed frame. The knitter inserts a paper pattern template drawn at half-scale, and a mechanical ruler moves in tandem with the rows to show the knitter when and where to increase or decrease stitches for garment shaping.
- Pattern Features: Features built-in electronic patterning capabilities including motifs, mirror imaging, double-width, double-height, and multi-color slip/tuck patterning.
Compatibility & Accessories[edit]
- Ribber: Compatible with the standard-gauge Silver Reed ribbers, including the SRP-50, SRP-60, and SRP-60N.
- Carriages: Compatible with the LC-2 (and LC-580) electronic lace carriage, as well as AG-24 intarsia carriages.
- Yarn Changer: Compatible with the YC-6 convertible yarn color changer.