Messages

1

LazyTurn / Re: LazyTurn

« on: July 05, 2008, 11:48:50 PM »

Thanks, Art.
Looking forward to using what you have when you have it.
Randy

2

General Mach Discussion / Re: Spindle Speed setup

« on: March 26, 2008, 01:53:31 AM »

Maybe it's me...but I am using speed control and feedback...and it works......even the "Calibrate Spindle" stuff seems to work. What I can't figure out is where in any doc (pdf, forum, or wiki) does it explain the whole "Calibrate Spindle" thing. I can't find any reference to it. I'd like to see an explanation of all of the numbers and a little more than the quick blurb in the pdf about how the PID works (I know what it does)......but the calibrate doesn't seem to change the PID numbers....do I? When I change speeds on the spindle, it takes Mach a several seconds to settle down on an anticipated voltage to send it and I think this is the PID working but I need it to learn and tune itself up faster as it goes....this would mean seeing the PID numbers change a little over time.. Thanks for any help here?
BTW, I running a Hermes 1219 engraver (modified with a Sherline speed control and motor), running on a Jim Cullins/Bob Campbell Combo board and using a Fairchild  QRB1134 reflective object sensor....and turning about 500 to 25,000 rpm)
Randy Ray
Texas MetalCraft
Texas MicroCircuits

3

General Mach Discussion / Re: Multiple configurations for Mach 3

« on: December 07, 2007, 09:55:15 PM »

I think I found it under MachLoader......I just create a new profile for each machine. If I am wrong here, please let me know.
Sorry for the lame post.
Randy Ray

4

General Mach Discussion / Multiple configurations for Mach 3

« on: December 07, 2007, 09:39:09 PM »

I am finally converting over to Mach3. I have several machines to control...a CNC lathe, mill, and plasma gantry. I use an electrically switchable set of motor controls for all machines. In other words, I use a 4 axis drive rack controller and the exact same type of motors on all machines. Obviously, I would never run but one machine at a time. Electrically the machines are the same, however the parameters such as accelleration and number of axis used (x, y for plasma, x,y,z for mill, etc.), I need a different configuration for each. My question is....how is it best to use Mach3 for this? I didn't see where I could load the config xml file when I start up Mach3. Most folks will be using a separate set of motor controls for each machine as well as a separate computer, Mach version, etc. I need to be able to switch configurations using the same computer. Does this make sense or am I not explaining it correctly? Have I missed something in the doc? I can draw up a picture and post it if this will help. Thanks for any help. Randy Ray