Topics

11

LazyCam (Beta) / LCAM posting with Plasma mode as the default

« on: February 28, 2007, 08:05:33 PM »

I recently upgraded to the latest version of Mach 3 (Version R2.0.050).  Now, when I have LCAM generate code it posts with Plasma mode as the default.  I have looked at General Config. and the plasma mode is not checked.  I have also verified that the Plasma mode is not checked under posting options in LCAM.  In addition I have opened the XML files and the Plasma mode and Plasma home options are shown as "0".  I think this signifies "Off."

I downloaded and re-installed Mach3 to insure that the files had not somehow gotten corrupted.

Is this happening to anyone else?  And is there  solution?

Bob @ BobsShop - I ain't never had a plasma - You can ask my wife.

12

Newfangled Solutions Mach3 Wizards / Not so sweet Cut Circle in Suite of HW

« on: February 17, 2007, 10:15:31 AM »

Having a problem with the Cut Circle Wizard in the Suite of Handy Wizards:  I have copies of Mach 3 V 2.0.047 on two different style computers and have the problem is constant.  I have tried running in simulation mode (without mill attached) and in real time (with mill running), changed CV numbers, changed from Constant Velocity to Exact Stop, Absolute to Incremental.  The work piece was been moved away from the xy limits to insure not running out of room.

This code was produced by the wizard - no edits have been made.  The depth of cut was reduced to save time while running and watching.   If doing a simulation the arc traverses half of the circle then crashes and freezes.  This also happens when running in real time. 

I have tried other circles in the Wizards pack (German Bravo's, etc) and they produce workable code.  I just prefer the simplicity of Brian's original work.

 (Program Posted for Aluminum )
G0 G49 G40.1 G17
G80 G50 G90 G98 
G20 (Inch)
(***** Circular Groove/Cutout *****)
M6 T12
M03 S3000
M8 (Flood On)
G00G43 H12 Z0.3
G00 X0.2844 Y-0.1078
G41 P0.09375
G01 X0.3922 F16.9
G01 Z-0.002 F8.45
G03 X0.5 Y0 R0.1078 F16.9
G03 X-0.5 Y0 R0.5
X0.5 Y0 R0.5  (    IT IS AT THIS POINT THAT THE PROBLEM OCCURS.  )
G03 X0.3922 Y0.1078 R0.1078
G40
G00 Z0.3
M5 M9
M30

Any and all suggestions will be appreciated and explored.

Thanks

Bob@ BobsShop - cutting circles and losing my mind.

13

General Mach Discussion / Alert Regarding Progecad

« on: January 17, 2007, 09:25:42 PM »

I went to this website after reading a write up about progecad.  The site asks for you to respond to a lot of offers for "free," items or information about products being promoted.  I did not complete the sign up procedure due to the plethora of responses required.  Unfortunately, I had entered enough information that the site could begin to send me spam mail.  It has been less than 4 hours since I visited the site, and irregardless of the fact I did not complete  the registration and have not received the software, I have received more junk mail than I have gotten in the last 4 or 5 months.    I cannot begin to tell you how angry this make me.

BAD LEAD[/color]

Bob @ BobsShop

14

General Mach Discussion / Locating Breakout Board

« on: January 13, 2007, 09:33:14 AM »

I am wanting to add limit switches to my Taig 3-axis mill and cannot figure out what type of break out board to use.  I have contacted two different companies (including Bob Campbell Design which has been mentioned here as a good source) and asked about their boards, but have not received any responses (couple of messages to each over a week period).

Can anyone point me in the right direction.

Thanks

Bob @ BobsShop

15

Newfangled Solutions Mach3 Wizards / No tool path plotted in Cut Arc Wizard

« on: November 03, 2006, 10:23:44 AM »

Brian, When I input the following into the New Fang. Cut Arc Wizard - no arc is indicated in the Preview, Verify Toolpath, or initially in the machine screens in Mach 3.  Oddly enough, the arc does show up when running the G-code.

Input are : X Center 3, Y Center 3, Circle Radius 1, Start Angle 75, Arc Sweep 180.  Other inputs near these coordinates are producing similar results.

Also, is it possible to have the Please Choose Tool Properties dialogue screen in the Suite of Wizards pull data from the tool table file.  tool diameter, etc.

Thanks

Bob @ BobsShop

16

General Mach Discussion / Softlimits - Message

« on: September 02, 2006, 09:36:37 AM »

Running ver. 1.90.081.  Keep getting "Softlimits may be exceeded -"  message when loading files - even when the workpiece will be well within the edges of table and mill head extremes.  Not a real problem, just a hassle to have to keep clicking the "Continue," button.

Should this feature take workpiece measurements, supposed table position, and limits into consideration? Or, is the warning called everytime a new G-code file is loaded?

Thanks

17

General Mach Discussion / H-P Compaq Celeron Optimizing

« on: June 26, 2006, 11:21:00 AM »

I have had trouble optimizing a H-P aka Compaq Celeron (512 mb 3.46 ghz) machine that is running Windows Home XP Home Edition.  My experience could save someone countless hours of frustration - been there, done that.

Problem reared its head when I tried to "Set Computer to Standard PC NOT ACPI PC" as outlined in the Optimization Guide.  After following the the outline to the letter (more times than you want to know), my computer would not reboot.  It took me many unsuccessful attempts before I realized that this change was causing my problem. Each time I had to reboot and restore my computer in order to get it to run.  Last time out I followed the optimization guide with the exception of this section and did not have any more problems when booting up.

You may want to consider this before attempting to change your system

Bob @ BobsShop

18

Newfangled Solutions Mach3 Wizards / Wizard Problem - Cut Arc

« on: June 07, 2006, 07:47:16 PM »

It could be operator error or a mad machine, but I am having a problem with the  Cut Arc Wizard when making multiple cuts (.2 cuts in .375 thick aluminum).  Each time the wizard returns to the cut it appears to offset (by the width of the cutter??)  After three or four cuts the sides appear to be wedding cake tiered.  I have employed other wizards  without encountering similar problems.

Is this a known (or new) bug.  I have tried to use workarounds without success.  Running the program on a Taig machine.

Let me know if you want to see the file.

Thanks

Bob

19

LazyCam (Beta) / LazyCam won't load

« on: May 30, 2006, 12:35:10 AM »

  I have downloaded and installed Mach3 ver 1.9.  I can see LC in the files menu, but nothing happens when I click on it.  Version 1.9 was installed and I rebooted my computer after installation.

Any Suggestions?

Thanks