Machsupport Forum

G-Code, CAD, and CAM => G-Code, CAD, and CAM discussions => Topic started by: raSSbot on July 22, 2016, 01:40:34 PM

Title: Newb. here with hopefully a simple issue. (Vcarve to Mach3)
Post by: raSSbot on July 22, 2016, 01:40:34 PM
Hey Fellas,
I looked over the search engine and most of it is like a second language lol

I am new to this forum, let alone the cnc world. Wanted to kick off some personal projects I have in line.
I purchased a small Chinese 3040 cnc machine from a local here in Cali. The guy also had a PC with Mach3 he included in the purchase.

I picked up Vcarve pro from a friend who is also helping me with the kinks on that software as well.

Last night we prepared a G-code using (inches) and the Mach3 is able to read the code and move the machine based on the design.

My issue is that the design is carving it a lot smaller than design.
Given example : 2 inch design is only engraving about 3/4 of an inch.

At this point I am not sure what scaling factors are involved, or how can I offset the Mach3 software ?

Greatly appreciate any input or suggestions to check.  :)

Dave -





Title: Re: Newb. here with hopefully a simple issue. (Vcarve to Mach3)
Post by: Jarhead on July 22, 2016, 03:46:46 PM
If you move one axis 1", does it actually move 1"?

Might have to tune motors.
Title: Re: Newb. here with hopefully a simple issue. (Vcarve to Mach3)
Post by: raSSbot on July 22, 2016, 04:30:29 PM
I didn't even think about that. I will definitely check that out when I get home.
I honestly just transferred the G-code from Vcarve to the Mach3 and ran it.
We did Center / Zero in my Z. but that was about it.

Thanks for the advice on what to quickly check.

If tuning the motors would be the case, how does something like that go about ?

Title: Re: Newb. here with hopefully a simple issue. (Vcarve to Mach3)
Post by: Highspeed1964 on July 22, 2016, 09:11:38 PM
Ummm, it sounds like your machine is running in G21 (milimeters) mode.  Since you said your program is preparing the G-code in inches, then this is most likely the issue.  Make sure there is a G20 at the beginning of the g-code file and it should work out ok.  It it's still off, then tune the motors.

Stephen "Highspeed" Kruse
Title: Re: Newb. here with hopefully a simple issue. (Vcarve to Mach3)
Post by: Jarhead on July 23, 2016, 07:59:36 AM
Ummm, it sounds like your machine is running in G21 (milimeters) mode.  Since you said your program is preparing the G-code in inches, then this is most likely the issue.  Make sure there is a G20 at the beginning of the g-code file and it should work out ok.  It it's still off, then tune the motors.

Stephen "Highspeed" Kruse

If the program is preparing the Gcode in inches.... there will be a G20,
Title: Re: Newb. here with hopefully a simple issue. (Vcarve to Mach3)
Post by: raSSbot on July 25, 2016, 08:36:07 PM
Thanks Fellas. Yes, at the start, G20 IS in fact there. 
Now I need to see how to go about tuning.

Appreciate the support guys. Keep the ideas coming.