Machsupport Forum

Mach Discussion => General Mach Discussion => Topic started by: neatmachine on March 09, 2017, 09:03:29 PM

Title: Simulation Mode
Post by: neatmachine on March 09, 2017, 09:03:29 PM

Hello,
I am running the Mach3 demo version I just downloaded from the Artsoft website (version R3.043.066) to check it out before purchase.  I understand that the 500 line g-code limitation may be disabled if in "simulation" mode.  I don't know how to set Mach3 for simulation mode.  I read through various threads and it is probably out there somewhere but I didn't run across it.  I looked in the Mach3 configuration tab and under general config, but didn't see anything related to "no device", "off-line," etc.
Can one of you seasoned Mach3 users please give me some direction on how to run Mach3 in the simulation mode for evaluation of longer g-code files?
Thanks much!

Title: Re: Simulation Mode
Post by: kolias on March 09, 2017, 10:34:54 PM

Mach3 with no license can run 500 lines of gcode after you set it up with your machine. Thre is no simulation

Title: Re: Simulation Mode
Post by: joeaverage on March 10, 2017, 12:27:27 AM

Hi neatmachine,
welcome aboard. If you do not have a motion control device, ie do not have either the parallel port software installed
or any other motion control plugin installed then the 500 line limit does not apply.

In other words if your PC is incapable of controlling a machine you can play with it to your hearts content, if it is capable
then you need a licence to overcome the 500 line limit.

Mach4 doesn't have a line limit but runs for about 6 minutes before stopping if unlicenced.

Craig

Title: Re: Simulation Mode
Post by: ger21 on March 10, 2017, 07:58:20 AM

If you don't install the driver, Mach3 is in simulation mode. There is nothing that tells you that, and no settings for it.

Title: Re: Simulation Mode
Post by: neatmachine on March 10, 2017, 08:10:45 PM

Thanks everyone for helping!  I got it sorted out with Artsoft.  Happy CNCing!