Topics

1

Mach3 and G-Rex / Index and timing in M3-Turn

« on: November 15, 2019, 04:01:32 PM »

Will Mach-3 work using both the “index” and “timing” inputs set to different input ports?

I would like to use the INDEX for starting the threading operation in M3Turn and the TIMING for smother RPM control.

The timing input would have 8 or more “triggers” on one spindle diameter while the “index” would have only one trigger on a different spindle diameter.

Is there a better way???   Thanks.

2

G-Code, CAD, and CAM discussions / using control panel buttons to exicute a series of MDI commands

« on: June 09, 2014, 09:56:59 AM »

I do not have an ATC or dedicated tool holders, so I must reset "Z" every time I change tools. I do this using the MDI and a single-side PCB connected to the PROBE input. Works great, but is very repetitious.
Is there a way to put an MDI script behind a Button (like the “GO TO” which I have never used)
A few simple lines would do: (I don't need the comments)

(Move Z above the top surface and hold the PCB in place – press GO TO)
G92 Z0.0       ;reset Z
G31 Z-0.5 F1   :probe
G92 Z0.059    ; re-ZERO to PCB thickness
G0 Z1.0      ;clear Z
M2

This would be fast, and also prevent typos causing problems. I would not have to switch screens to get to the MDI and then back to continue the program.
I think it would work with the main GCODE program running at a M1 or Tool change line. (it does when I do it manually)

Thanks,
Jeff

3

G-Code, CAD, and CAM discussions / Display a variable on the status line

« on: May 02, 2014, 11:54:44 AM »

Does anyone know if (and how) to have the value of a variable ( like [#101] ) be displayed and updated on the status line in Mach3?

4

General Mach Discussion / Step and/or PWM output not working properly. Very Weird MACH3MILL

« on: November 20, 2009, 03:07:41 PM »

Their seems to be a problem with the spindle control of RPM. When I run the calibrate routine the RPM moves from zero up to max is uniform controlled steps . After words, when I request a slow RPM say 350 the motor goes to full RPM. Above about 850RPM the control is smooth and predictable though not getting within several hundred RPM of the S*********x input. I have looked at the pulses with an “O-Scope” and both STEP and PWM INCREASE the spindle speed (more % in PWM, more Steps in Step in the lower speeds) which points to a software problem in MACH3. If I run in PID mode, the requested RPM (S*********x) is within 1% or better. BUT the speed zooms as much a 1000 rpm higher (for about 1.5 seconds) then comes down to the programmed speed. Playing with various PID settings will reduce the zoom effect, but add 5+seconds for RPM to ramp to the new value.  I find this a major problem when using a large FLY cutter as they are notoriously unbalanced and over reving the spindle cause serious vibration.
Does anyone know if this is a setup problem? If you have a fix, I'd love to hear it, this has been driving my nuts for months.

5

General Mach Discussion / Tapping with Mach3mill

« on: March 04, 2009, 08:34:49 AM »

Does anyone know how to switch between inches per minute to inches per revolution in feed rate within the MACH3 G-code?

I have added spindle encoding and slow speed (<100RPM) CW/CCW spindle control with the goal of being able to power tap while holding the tap in a rigid R8 tool holder.

What I need is to be able to make a tapping procedure that would control the number of turns (or degrees of rotation) in CW and then reverse for a number of degrees to break the chip and then return to tapping. I have ballscrews on the Z axis.

If some one has already done this, I would love to not have go through trial and error to get it to work.
 
It would also be nice to control the chip loading per cutter flute when drilling holes as well. Obviously XY axis are held rigid and will only be controlled with the normal IPM feed rates.

Any advise is greatly appreciated.

Jeff