Machsupport Forum
Mach Discussion => General Mach Discussion => Topic started by: Woodie79 on November 05, 2016, 09:13:38 AM
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I am no spring chicken but would like to see if I can absorb enough programming to covert a couple of my machines to basic CNC operation. Before I lash out and spend a lot of money on the MACH program I would like to be able to fiddle with it. Is there a safe free download to allow me to do this?
Woodie79
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Mach3 is free if your code is under 500 lines. It just stops when it reaches line 500 if you don't have a license.
Br HC
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Well the 500 limit is not true for everything and there are other things that are affected.
Mach is liberal on trying out the software.
So don't think in terms of limiting your code, either you want to use it or not that is the question only you can answer. ;)
RICH
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Thank you for the information. I have now downloaded the system and will see how I go. I do have a two axis CNC controls on one machine but followed somebody else's design to build it and use their software. Hopefully I will be able to move this next step forward and having access to this free software takes the pressure off.
Wood79 ???
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I have been through the CNC Mach3 modules to module 5, some of which I understood! My requirements are simpler and at this stage I only require 2 axis controls because I want to use the system on a small lathe. I have no plans for Z axis or tool change functions etc. Is there a U Tube video that is specific to using Mach 3 on a lathe?
Woodie79
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A 'tube search of "Mach3 Lathe" should bring some up, I did have a couple bookmarked somewhere......
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Thanks for the help, it made a difference. I am a long way from the finishing line but I have finally managed to get some running shoes.
Woodie79 ???
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Backlash question. I assumed I needed to deal with the backlash on my lathe but saw a backlash function on Mach3. Will this resolve the backlash problem or do I still need to remove it mechanically?
Woodie
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Woodie79,
You can use BC, but, I would "strongly" recommended that you remove it for the lathe.
RICH