Messages

21

FAQs / Re: Zero tool height.

« on: March 20, 2014, 07:07:31 PM »

So I can just check which pins are not already allocated and select a free one (provided it is in the range given for inputs)?

22

FAQs / Re: Zero tool height.

« on: March 20, 2014, 06:59:17 PM »

You make a good point, that did not occur to me as I was blindly following instructions. So if the software finds pin 10 for the touch probe but I can't use it as the other limits are on it how do I choose the correct pin...?

I am so close to getting this thing working it is driving me mental!

23

FAQs / Re: Zero tool height.

« on: March 20, 2014, 06:16:42 PM »

Thanks Ger, I will put it back to pin 7 then. I was getting an e-stop when using pin 7 as well which is why I ran the automatic pin check. I suppose it makes sense that it would find pin 10 having re-read the manual and that all the limit switches can be wired together. I must be missing something in my settings. Finding the problem is the problem!

Would having it at active high / active low make a difference?

24

FAQs / Re: Zero tool height.

« on: March 20, 2014, 05:54:29 PM »

I tried running the script today. Bit of brief history here, I purchased this CNC and am trying to set up the mach 3 myself. Whenever I tried to use the remote control that has a probe macro whenever the tool hit the plate it gave an e-stop.

I put the code in for the Auto tool zero to try it from Mach3 screen. The code half worked and it registered that the touch plate is 12.0mm thick (which it is) once. Ever since then it is just giving an e-stop message. I tried an auto pin check to see if I had the right pin allocated for the probe as I was told to set it to pin 7 by the manufacturer. Mach thinks it should be 10. I checked to see what else was allocated to pin 10 and of course it is the e-stop. So can I sort this via the software or will I have to change a wire position in the break out board or elsewhere? I have a feeling that the probe and all the limit switches are wired together. Is this the correct configuration?

I tried to find out via the Mach manual but I am struggling a bit if I am being honest.

25

FAQs / Re: Zero tool height.

« on: March 19, 2014, 06:57:09 PM »

Hi Mike,

Thanks for that, much appreciated. I will give it a go tomorrow. I found a document on the onsrud website that was pretty good with regard to chip calculations. I could be completely wrong on this as I have just started as well but it seemed to make sense. I see you are in Elgin, just up the road!

Ger, I like your screen it is much cleaner. I think I will be making a purchase. When watching your youtube video I noticed you have two touchplates. I take it you can just use one with your Z zero function.

Thanks, Stu

26

FAQs / Re: Zero tool height.

« on: March 18, 2014, 07:20:59 PM »

Mike,

I am in the same position you were a wee while ago. I am trying to figure out the zeroing procedure for my new router. Is there any chance that you could post the code you are using now for me to see? I would be really really grateful!

I am also looking to find out how I go about setting the machine up to implement tool changes. Also to return the gantry to the rear of the table when the job is finished so that I can remove and replace materials without the gantry getting in the way....

Any help would be appreciated.

27

Mach4 General Discussion / Re: New people welcome !! Come in here and introduce your self!

« on: March 18, 2014, 07:01:48 PM »

Hi, new member from the UK here.

Previously worked as a design engineer using 3D cad. Now working as a self employed furniture maker. Just bought a CNC router for woodworking that runs Mach3 hence the reason for joining this forum. I am going through the process of reading the manuals, watching videos online and playing about but I am still struggling a bit with zeroing the Z probe with reference to the touch plate. If anyone could point me in the right direction I would be most grateful.

I found a piece of code on here that was written for the auto zero of the Z axis and it references inches when I am set up to work in good old 'mm'. Will this make a difference to the machine? Looking forward to cutting something on this machine!