Machsupport Forum

Mach Discussion => General Mach Discussion => Topic started by: Pich on November 30, 2009, 04:25:22 PM

Title: Loading file using external OEM buttons
Post by: Pich on November 30, 2009, 04:25:22 PM
I've looked around the forum but have not been able to find the help I need.
I wish to load files using external OEM buttons and running them.  First of all is it possible, if so how would I go about it.
I have tried to use macros but no success, but then I don't have much experience in this area.
Thanks
Title: Re: Loading file using external OEM buttons
Post by: Hood on November 30, 2009, 04:55:31 PM
You would have to have a macro for each code you wanted to load and a button for each as well. You would then also need to get the MachMAD plugin that Scott S (poppabear) sells.
You can then set it up so the buttons  turns on user defined LEDs and they in turn will run the macros.
Hood
Title: Re: Loading file using external OEM buttons
Post by: Pich on November 30, 2009, 05:27:08 PM
Thanks Hood, is it possible to see an example of the macro? I'm really green at this
John
Title: Re: Loading file using external OEM buttons
Post by: Hood on November 30, 2009, 05:34:00 PM
The macro would be simple enough, it would be similar to this

LoadFile ("C:\Documents and Settings\Gcode\CodeWanted.tap")

The info in the () would be the location of the file you wanted to load. You would save the macro as for instance m101.m1s and it would need to be saved in the macro folder of the profile you are using.

Hood
Title: Re: Loading file using external OEM buttons
Post by: Pich on November 30, 2009, 05:51:22 PM
How would I then load the macro??? would it be with the OEM button?
Title: Re: Loading file using external OEM buttons
Post by: Hood on November 30, 2009, 05:56:55 PM
 I believe in Mach3 Rev4 it should be possible to set up an external button to directly operate a macro but at this point in time the only way I know is to use the MachMad plugin.

I use this for a few things on my lathe, one is a button to do my homing moves and another is a button that does a Start, I have the start modified on my lathe so that it looks to see if the spindle is enabled before it will let the code run.

Hood