Messages

171

General Mach Discussion / Re: Denford Triac ATC - guidance on updating to Mach3(?)

« on: November 19, 2006, 08:52:14 AM »

Sweep,

I am running a StepmasterCNC controller with a Taig mini-mill.  I can't answer all your questions, but with regards to the StepMaster controller - it seems to work very well.  I had a problem with the first controller I received, but it was a protype.  Dealer agreed with me on that and provided me with a new unit under warranty.  I would buy from again if the need arose.

Bob @ BobsShop

172

LazyCam (Beta) / Re: Pimp my Lcam

« on: November 18, 2006, 11:22:09 AM »

Brian, just downloaded the newest version of Mach 3 (2.0.010) and LCAM 2.66 - When using the previous version of LCAm (it also carried the 2.66 designation, but there are changes in this version).  Noted some differences - I like being able to add layer numbers - nice feature.

But, two nits - No matter how I configure LCAM - it will not automatically call for two layers on its own.  It is only calling for one layer - I have to manually designate the outside layer as number two -  As I said the ability to do this manually is a good addition.

Second, When I post the G-Code, either LCAm or Mach3 is not recognizing tool changes.  The previous version would enable me to change tool numbers that would be carried over into the G-Code.  I hope this is something you can put back in.

Thanks for all your past efforts.  All of you working on this software have made my cnc experience a real learning experience and a delightful (most of the time) journey.

Bob @ BobsShop -

173

LazyCam (Beta) / Re: Pimp my Lcam

« on: November 16, 2006, 10:30:31 AM »

Brian;

Please don't dismantle LCAM before you change the code.  Yes, I have had some problems with it (my fault sometimes), but in its defense, I have been able to work through and design one-off parts I am making.  As bad as some people seem to think it is, I have benefited greatly from its convenience.

Bob @ BobsShop - cussing and cutting

174

G-Code, CAD, and CAM discussions / Re: cad

« on: November 07, 2006, 04:56:40 PM »

Bankshot:

Think I have had similar problems (if I read your post correctly).  Cadx will pick up errant points as part of the export.  Three solutions:

Use the Blank function to blank all items not included in your drawing; or
Use the Delete -Single function to highlight the points and delete them.; or
It is possible in LCAM to select the points and delete them individually.  Sometimes that is easier.

Let me know If the forgoing doesn't make sense, or if I misread your post.

Bob @ BobsShop.

175

G-Code, CAD, and CAM discussions / Re: cad

« on: November 07, 2006, 09:03:22 AM »

Bankshot:

Not sure if I followed your question or not, but here is what I do.

Save whatever you have drawn in CADX, then click on EXPORT under the File caption.  This will produce a DXF file you can use in LCAM.  Like I said, sometimes it is a little quirky, but it does get easier with practice.

Good luck with your projects.

Bob @ BobsShop - Drawing, cutting, and cussing.

176

G-Code, CAD, and CAM discussions / Re: cad

« on: November 06, 2006, 12:16:47 PM »

Bankshot:

Try this link - http://www.graytechsoftware.com/ Cadx11 Free is a little quirky at times, but I have used it to design some mounting plates and shift/brake arms for one off motorcycle parts.  Documentation is pretty limited and it can take a while to get used to the software, but the price (FREE!!) is right.

Good luck

Bob @ BobsShop

177

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

« on: November 05, 2006, 10:08:03 AM »

This is interesting but confusing - The problem is in the computer, not the software.

I have Mach3 installed on two different computers - this one (a Dell Dimension 4600) is in the house where I can program parts in more comfortable surroundings.  This is the machine I was using when I experienced the "invisible," arcs.  My other machine ( a cheaper Compaq Presario) is in the garage.  Ran the same program on it and the arc is there.

The machine with the problem has a higher end (flat screen LCD) display, the other (no problem) is an older CRT type.

Just wanted to clarify so no one would think I was nuts (Well they may anyway, but it will be for other reasons).

Bob @ BobsShop - Back to exploring the mysteries of the universe

178

General Mach Discussion / Re: z height self reset

« on: November 03, 2006, 10:31:42 AM »

Have had similar experience - but it always appears to be the result of something I have screwed up.  Generally this has occurred when when producing G-code in LCAM and I failed to notice a "Z" height or depth change.  Now, I make it a practice to edit the G-code and look for changes in the "Z", parameters.

Bob @ BobsShop

179

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

180

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