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Newbie I mean really Newbie
« on: November 05, 2016, 09:13:38 AM »
I am no spring chicken but would like to see if I can absorb enough programming to covert a couple of my machines to basic CNC operation. Before I lash out and spend a lot of money on the MACH program I would like to be able to fiddle with it. Is there a safe free download to allow me to do this?
Woodie79
Re: Newbie I mean really Newbie
« Reply #1 on: November 05, 2016, 10:41:33 AM »
Mach3 is free if your code is under 500 lines. It just stops when it reaches line 500 if you don't have a license.

Br HC
« Last Edit: November 05, 2016, 12:05:59 PM by Tweakie.CNC »

Offline RICH

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Re: Newbie I mean really Newbie
« Reply #2 on: November 05, 2016, 08:32:28 PM »
Well the 500 limit is not true for everything and there are other things that are affected.
Mach is liberal on trying out the software.
So don't think in terms of limiting your code, either you want to use it or not that is the question only you can answer. ;)

RICH
Re: Newbie I mean really Newbie
« Reply #3 on: November 06, 2016, 12:57:44 AM »
Thank you for the information. I have now downloaded the system and will see how I go. I do have a two axis CNC controls on one machine but followed somebody else's design to build it and use their software. Hopefully I will be able to move this next step forward and having access to this free software takes the pressure off.
Wood79 ???
Re: Newbie I mean really Newbie
« Reply #4 on: November 08, 2016, 05:41:58 PM »
I have been through the CNC Mach3 modules to module 5, some of which I understood! My requirements are simpler and at this stage I only require 2 axis controls because I want to use the system on a small lathe. I have no plans for Z axis or tool change functions etc. Is there a U Tube video that is specific to using Mach 3 on a lathe?
Woodie79

Offline Davek0974

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Re: Newbie I mean really Newbie
« Reply #5 on: November 09, 2016, 02:16:08 AM »
A 'tube search of "Mach3 Lathe" should bring some up, I did have a couple bookmarked somewhere......
Re: Newbie I mean really Newbie
« Reply #6 on: November 11, 2016, 01:30:24 AM »
Thanks for the help, it made a difference. I am a long way from the finishing line but I have finally managed to get some running shoes.
Woodie79 ???
Re: Newbie I mean really Newbie
« Reply #7 on: November 16, 2016, 05:44:40 PM »
Backlash question. I assumed I needed to deal with the backlash on my lathe but saw a backlash function on Mach3. Will this resolve the backlash problem or do I still need to remove it mechanically?
Woodie

Offline RICH

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Re: Newbie I mean really Newbie
« Reply #8 on: November 16, 2016, 07:14:42 PM »
Woodie79,

You can use BC, but, I would "strongly" recommended that you remove it for the lathe.

RICH