Messages

5301

General Mach Discussion / Decimal precision.

« on: August 21, 2012, 07:38:47 AM »

Does anyone have any ideas on how I can convert an existing GCode file which has 4 places of decimal precision to a similar file with just 3 places of precision please ??

It doesn't have to do anything fancy such as rounding, I would be happy to just loose the 4th decimal place.

Don't ask why 

Tweakie.

5302

General Mach Discussion / Re: Touch Off Macro Half Works

« on: August 21, 2012, 03:04:25 AM »

Hi Greg,

Sorry to say this but it sounds to me like your problems are a lot more deeply routed than just the operation of this probing script.

As there is nothing in the probing script which could possibly command any X Axis movement you should perhaps look at your machine setup in general as it is exhibiting signs of being extremely unstable.

It could possibly be with your Mach installation, your PC, the motion controller or even electrical noise pickup on your wiring but you would be wise to investigate and resolve this issue first.

Tweakie.

5303

General Mach Discussion / Re: quilting or embroidery machine

« on: August 21, 2012, 02:27:13 AM »

Hi Larry,

A very theoretical answer…..

Assuming you could find (or create) a point where the thread is under (more or less) constant tension then it would be possible to sense a break using an optical switch. The output of the optical switch (normally open or normally closed, depending on type or how it’s output is biased) could then be fed into a Mach Input (via your 4 port board) and trigger an event in a similar way that a limit switch halts motion.

Yes, you would have to include some form of safety stop feature before hands were placed within the danger zone but you don’t want to loose position so this has to be carefully thought out. A ‘Feed-Hold’ followed by ‘Stop’ will enable position to be maintained but the only real ‘safe condition’ disconnects all power to the machine (loosing any current stepper motor micro-steps on restoration of power). It all depends on the level of safety you consider is required after fully assessing the potential risk to your well being. 

Tweakie.

5304

General Mach Discussion / Re: Touch Off Macro Half Works

« on: August 20, 2012, 11:15:16 AM »

Hi Greg,

This is a shot in the dark but try adding the following line to your script, just before the Code "G0 Z0.250" line and see if that cures the problem.

DoOemButton (1003)

Tweakie.

5305

Show"N"Tell ( Your Machines) / Re: The Laser Project.

« on: August 20, 2012, 04:06:44 AM »

By way of an update - I have now tested PicLaser generated GCode with an impact magnet (using exactly the same code I would use with the laser) and the results have been posted in this thread -  http://www.machsupport.com/forum/index.php/topic,20490.msg154622.html#msg154622

Tweakie.

5306

General Mach Discussion / Re: Steppers making noise but shafts not rotating

« on: August 18, 2012, 01:41:31 AM »

Hi CES,

I am pleased to hear that you are on your way. 

Just one note on stepper motors (and other motors for that matter) the copper wire used for the windings is insulated with a lacquer and it's insulating properties can easily be damaged by running them too hot.

Tweakie.

5307

FAQs / Re: Can Mach3 Do PCB Drilling using an NC file

« on: August 16, 2012, 03:47:50 AM »

Hi Nick,

Thank you for posting the link.

I can never get enough knowledge. 

Tweakie.

5308

FAQs / Re: Jerky stepper motors? I'm running out of options...

« on: August 16, 2012, 01:24:54 AM »

The sort of chips that come off the machine when you produce lots of work. 

Sorry, I have a weird sense of humour. I look forward to seeing some pictures of your machine build and hearing of your progress.

Tweakie.

5309

FAQs / Re: Jerky stepper motors? I'm running out of options...

« on: August 15, 2012, 12:37:45 PM »

I want to see chips 

Tweakie.

5310

FAQs / Re: Jerky stepper motors? I'm running out of options...

« on: August 15, 2012, 12:26:31 PM »

Graham posted one here some time ago http://www.machsupport.com/forum/index.php?topic=3607.0

Tweakie.