Echoing Brett and Graigs replies,
1. One should always calculate the steps per unit and understand that the number of steps
calculated is theoretical.
- Learn how to calc the steps per, no excuse's!
A link to a steps per unit caculator:
https://www.machsupport.com/forum/index.php?topic=16315.02. You must confirm the calculated steps per unit. Understand, that when you test, quality of axis components and their installation come into play. The testing is only as good as ones ability to accurately setup and measure a distance based on a physical standard and the method they use. For example:
Theoretical resolution for a steps per unit of: 20,000 ( 1/20000) = 0.00005"
" " : 253,000 = 0.000004"
? is your axis components linear travel that accurate and can you measure to actualy know.
? How much total backlash do you have and is it consistant? ALL axes have backlash it's just a
matter of degree. Total backlash is the sum of each individual axis component non
movement( ie; screw with nut, belt, coupling, gears, etc.) and each can vary depending on
operating conditions.
Practical setting of the steps per unit will be a value that satisfies their machines overall machining accuracy. The value can be as calculated, as physicaly tested, or a value close but different than both of those.
3. Think of the wizard as a software assist to check / adjust the calculated to the tested.
RICH