Hi,

We recently set up our Maxnc 10CL to run with Mach3 software.  after some tweaking and suggestions from some of you fine folks, it is actually working with little problems.

The biggest adjustment that we have to make is with the backlash, specifically in the A axis.  The Maxnc comes with an optional 4th axis.  In this case, it is a Sherline rotary table.  It works very well but we are having issues getting the backlash down in that axis.  When we run our backlash test, every axis is bang on with the exception of the A.

I know adjusting the backlash mechanically is our best option.  But what is the best way to set the backlash within the Mach3 program.  As some of you might know the Maxnc comes with archaic software that runs in the DOS system.  Setting the backlash is simple there because the software only offers you a choice on the spectrum of 0 through 10.  It doesn't take long to play with that and figure out what your settings should be.

We are still pretty new with the Mach3 software and the settings are slightly more complicated.  Any suggestions?

Jeff

But what is the best way to set the backlash within the Mach3 program

You set the backlash for the axis under the tab CONFIG>BACKLASH.
Find the amount of backlash and then set the backlash using the 50-50-50 rule for starters .

RICH

Thanks, Rich.
Not sure if the 50-50-50 rule works with the rotary table.  The X, Y and Z axis are all running perfectly.  We are trying to adjust the backlash in the A axis.  It is a different setup from the linear axes.  Our A axis is directly connected to the stepper shaft with a flexible coupling.  It looks like this:





We are not sure if the backlash needs to be measured in degrees or in steps.  We know how to take out as much mechanical backlash as we can.  The confusing part is the Mach3 configuration for backlash.  It specifically says, "Backlash Distance In Units".  Frankly, we are not entirely sure what goes in as a measurement.  Are they talking stepper units or what?

I know it must seem like I am asking the same things over and over but we are still trying to get the hang of Mach3.

Jeff

Jeff,
Don't remember but would think for a rotary it would be in degrees ( if it is not configured as linear ). Easy enough to test just try 360 and see what happens.

RICH