Hi.
I am working on my Mach3 + G540 + X2 CNC project. I have basic motion now it looks like, but I need to mount limit switches before I risk testing the machine more than some small basic moves with my have on the E-stop button. No spindle operation yet. I wont want to damage the motor couplings or the ball-screws!
This is my first CNC project so I have some questions:
Do I actually need end limit switches? My steppers is specified to give 381 OZ-IN torque (approx 30 kg on 1cm arm). Some people write that they do not need end limits switches if they do not use servos. I am skeptical to this. What is your opinion?
Should the homing switches trigger "in the middle" of the axis travel? Do I need an extra homing switch in the middle, or can the homing switch double as an end limit switch?
What coordinate system is used in the "CNC world"? Is it a right handed coordinate system?
Is the below correct?
X axis: Left to right. Maximum left is zero X, maximum right is maximum positive X coordinate?
Y axis: Front to back. Maximum towards the operator is zero Y, maximum towards the column is maximum positive Y coordinate?
Z axis: Bottom to top. Lowest position towards the table is zero Z, maximum height is maximum positive Z coordinate.
I have watched the videos for the Mach 3 software. Where do I find more detailed documentation on how to set up and practical use the software? I want to remove some material from an alu block, mill some holes in an alu plate etc. Mostly very basic operations. (I am a beginner when it comes to NC code, CNC, Mach3 but i have extensive electronics background).