TechnoDocs - User contributions [en]

HDS Series

2012-03-19T17:06:59Z

Jbeck: added page for HDS, though manuals and such haven't been finished yet.

{{WIP}}

This page will hold the documents for the HDS Series routers.

==Maintenance and Setup==

Our manual is still under construction. Check back later, or give us a call to get a copy.

HD Series

2012-03-19T17:00:21Z

Jbeck: Created page with "Our HD series machines have a heavy steel construction. File:Hds_series_4896.jpg ==Maintenance and Setup== The latest manual can be found here, in PDF format. [[Media:Tec..."

Our HD series machines have a heavy steel construction.

[[File:Hds_series_4896.jpg]]

==Maintenance and Setup==

The latest manual can be found here, in PDF format.

[[Media:Techno_HD_Series_User_Manual.pdf]]

[[Category:Hardware]]
[[Category:Router]]

File:Techno HD Series User Manual.pdf

2012-03-19T16:55:49Z

Jbeck: User Manual for the Techno HD Series router.

User Manual for the Techno HD Series router.

File:Hds series 4896.jpg

2012-03-19T16:54:10Z

Jbeck:

Hardware Manual

2012-03-19T16:49:51Z

Jbeck: added links to HD and HDS series machines

{{WIP}}

This manual will help you figure out the details of your machine's mechanics. Maintenance procedures can be found under the machine type. To begin, select the type of machine you own.

== Techno CNC Routers ==

=== Servo Machines ===

[[Davinci Series|DaVinci Series]] (servo-driven)

[[Patriot Router|Patriot]]

[[LC Series]] - This includes the LC, LC Plus, and LP Series routers.

[[Gantry III Series]]

[[RG Series]]

Pro Series

[[Premium Class|Premium Class]]

[[HDS Series]]

=== Stepper Machines ===

[[Stepper DaVinci|DaVinci (stepper driven)]]

[[HD Series]]

== ISEL Routers ==

ICP Servo

ICP Stepper

== Techno CNC Lathes ==

[[Lathe|Techno Lathe]]

== Techno Plasma ==

== Custom Machine ==

If you own a machine that was custom made for you by Techno, please contact us for help. Since every custom machine is special, it's much easier to help you over the phone.

== Components and Accessories ==

=== Motors ===

[[Servo motor]]

[[Stepper motor]]

=== Electronic Boards ===

[[Controller box]] - the housing for the controller mainboard and sub-assemblies.

[[Controller mainboard]] - the electronic board.

=== Switches and Buttons ===

[[Limit switch]]

=== Spindles and Torches ===

[[Spindle|Spindles]]

[[Colombo Spindle]]

[[HSD Spindle]]

[[Dust collection]]

[[Touch probe]]

[[Category:Hardware]]

Computer requirements

2012-03-01T17:01:20Z

Jbeck:

The computer that is being used to control a Techno router must meet some basic requirements. Our software is designed to run on very inexpensive computers, so an old computer may work just fine.

==Requirements==

For Windows 7 and Vista systems, "UAC" must be turned off before installing. For instructions, see the [[How to turn off UAC]] page.

Additionally, the computer needs a PCI slot (not PCI Express) with room for the card to fit. Our high powered card is "long" and the low powered card is "short". The long card may not fit in tiny computers, so some care is required when choosing a computer. Contact Techno if you have doubts.

===New Computer===
If you are buying a new computer today, almost all "desktop" style computers with room for a PCI slot will work just fine. If you are using a 64-bit computer, you must use control software version 1.422 or above, and the latest driver installer. Previous versions of the interface did not support 64-bit machines.

==== Supported Operating Systems ====

* Windows XP
* Windows Vista
* Windows 7

Most new computers come with Windows 7 these days. Before you install the software, [[How_to_turn_off_UAC|turn off UAC]]!

===Old Computer===

If you have an older computer, changes are that you're still running Windows 98. Microsoft stopped supporting Windows 98 many years ago, and although the TechnoCNC Control Interface can still operate, it may be a challenge getting the necessary patches and updates from Microsoft. At this time, we don't recommend a computer with Windows 98. Some older software (version 1.420) may run on Windows 98 Second Edition, but we don't recommend it.

Additionally, the computer must have at least a Pentium 4 processor and one PCI slot (not PCI Express)

Some older machines will be running DOS software. These machines are also using an ISA version of the Techno CNC controller. Upgrading these machines to Windows Operating systems will require a new PCI card which will work with the old [[Controller box]]

==Recommendations==
When purchasing a new computer, make sure that you get a "dual core" or "quad core" processor. They may be labeled "Intel Dual-Core" with a sticker on the front. Most computers sold these days are at least dual-core, so the chances of finding one are very good. These processors will allow you to operate the computer on a network and still give the PC time to update position and job information as the router runs a file.

All computers Techno sells are dual-core and meet the recommended requirements.

An Internet connection is required for remote support, and is highly recommended.

[[Category:Router]]
[[Category:Requirements]]
[[Category:Software Manual (servo)]]

Computer Requirements

2012-03-01T17:00:18Z

Jbeck: Moved the information to the other page (this was a duplicate, with not-up-to-date information)

See [[Computer requirements]].

Computer Requirements

2012-03-01T16:57:02Z

Jbeck:

The Techno CNC interface can run on most modern computers.

The current PC '''requirements''' are
* Pentium 3 400mHz
* 128 MB ram
* Full Size PCI slot

The current '''suggested''' PC specifications are:
* Dual core Pentium processor
* 2gb ram
* Full size PCI slot
* Internet connection (for remote troubleshooting)

Note that if you wish to have a network connected to the PC while running files, you must have a dual core or quad core processor.

The Techno CNC Interface works with the following Operating systems

* Windows 2000
* Windows XP 32 and 64 bit editions
* Windows Vista 32 and 64 bit editions
* Windows 7 32 and 64 bit editions

Some older machines will be running DOS software. These machines are also using an ISA version of the Techno CNC controller. Upgrading these machines to Windows Operating systems will require a new PCI card which will work with the old [[Controller box]]

Machine Setup Guides

2012-02-15T15:14:41Z

Jbeck: /* Stepper Machines */

Here are the machine setup guides.

Click on the appropriate machine name below to view its setup guide.

== Techno CNC Routers ==

=== Servo Machines ===

[[Davinci Series Setup|DaVinci Series]] (servo-driven)

[[Patriot Router Setup|Patriot]]

[[Media:0481_LC_Series_Basic_Setup_Instructions-Build_400+.pdf|Gantry III Series Setup]] (pdf)

[[LC Router Setup]] - Setup for Low Power LC Series.

[[LC Plus and LCX Series Setup]] - Setup for High Power LC and LCX Series.

[[RG Series Setup]]

PanelMaster Pro Setup

Pro Series Setup

[[Premium Class Setup]]

=== Stepper Machines ===

[[Stepper DaVinci|DaVinci (stepper driven)]]

== ISEL Routers ==

ICP Servo

ICP Stepper

== Techno CNC Lathes ==

[[Lathe|Techno Lathe]] - View the documents in the Maintenance and Setup section.

== Techno Plasma ==

== Custom Machine ==

If you own a machine that was custom made for you by Techno, please contact us for help. Since every custom machine is special, it's much easier to help you over the phone.

Machine Setup Guides

2012-02-15T15:14:20Z

Jbeck: /* Stepper Machines */

Here are the machine setup guides.

Click on the appropriate machine name below to view its setup guide.

== Techno CNC Routers ==

=== Servo Machines ===

[[Davinci Series Setup|DaVinci Series]] (servo-driven)

[[Patriot Router Setup|Patriot]]

[[Media:0481_LC_Series_Basic_Setup_Instructions-Build_400+.pdf|Gantry III Series Setup]] (pdf)

[[LC Router Setup]] - Setup for Low Power LC Series.

[[LC Plus and LCX Series Setup]] - Setup for High Power LC and LCX Series.

[[RG Series Setup]]

PanelMaster Pro Setup

Pro Series Setup

[[Premium Class Setup]]

=== Stepper Machines ===

[[DaVinci (stepper driven)|Stepper DaVinci]]

== ISEL Routers ==

ICP Servo

ICP Stepper

== Techno CNC Lathes ==

[[Lathe|Techno Lathe]] - View the documents in the Maintenance and Setup section.

== Techno Plasma ==

== Custom Machine ==

If you own a machine that was custom made for you by Techno, please contact us for help. Since every custom machine is special, it's much easier to help you over the phone.

Computer requirements

2011-10-17T17:00:00Z

Jbeck: Updated to show support for 64-bit machines

The computer that is being used to control a Techno router must meet some basic requirements. Our software is designed to run on very inexpensive computers, so an old computer may work just fine.

==Requirements==

For Windows 7 and Vista systems, "UAC" must be turned off before installing. For instructions, see the [[How to turn off UAC]] page.

Additionally, the computer needs a PCI slot (not PCI Express) with room for the card to fit. Our high powered card is "long" and the low powered card is "short". The long card may not fit in tiny computers, so some care is required when choosing a computer. Contact Techno if you have doubts.

===New Computer===
If you are buying a new computer today, almost all "desktop" style computers with room for a PCI slot will work just fine. If you are using a 64-bit computer, you must use control software version 1.422 or above, and the latest driver installer. Previous versions of the interface did not support 64-bit machines.

==== Supported Operating Systems ====

* Windows XP
* Windows Vista
* Windows 7

Most new computers come with Windows 7 these days. Before you install the software, [[How_to_turn_off_UAC|turn off UAC]]!

===Old Computer===

If you have an older computer, changes are that you're still running Windows 98. Microsoft stopped supporting Windows 98 many years ago, and although the TechnoCNC Control Interface can still operate, it may be a challenge getting the necessary patches and updates from Microsoft. At this time, we don't recommend a computer with Windows 98. Some older software (version 1.420) may run on Windows 98 Second Edition, but we don't recommend it.

Additionally, the computer must have at least a Pentium 4 processor and one PCI slot (not PCI Express)

==Recommendations==
When purchasing a new computer, make sure that you get a "dual core" or "quad core" processor. They may be labeled "Intel Dual-Core" with a sticker on the front. Most computers sold these days are at least dual-core, so the chances of finding one are very good. These processors will allow you to operate the computer on a network and still give the PC time to update position and job information as the router runs a file.

All computers Techno sells are dual-core and meet the recommended requirements.

[[Category:Router]]
[[Category:Requirements]]
[[Category:Software Manual (servo)]]

Oscillating Knife

2011-09-26T20:03:35Z

Jbeck: Created page with "The oscillating knife is a router attachment that cuts various materials. === Wiring Diagram === Oscillating knife wiring diagram [[Category:Har..."

The oscillating knife is a router attachment that cuts various materials.

=== Wiring Diagram ===

[[Media:Osc_knife_wiring.pdf|Oscillating knife wiring diagram]]

[[Category:Hardware]]

File:Osc knife wiring.pdf

2011-09-26T19:59:15Z

Jbeck: Wiring diagram for the oscillating knife.

Wiring diagram for the oscillating knife.

SAC Examples

2011-09-06T21:35:02Z

Jbeck:

These examples were written in [[SAC]]. To run an example, copy the code and paste it into a file called "example.sac". Press File in the Control Software to load the file, and Run to execute it. In the two examples that loop, pressing the Estop will disable the machine and cause the SAC script to exit.

== Gcode and Offsets Example ==

This example shows how to load an offset from the Offsets table in the Control Software, and run a gcode file.

<nowiki>
'-------------------Home Machine---------------
Home "Z"
Home "X"
Home "Y"

'----------------Load Origin 1----------------------
retrieveorigin 1

'-------Set spindle,Set Speed&Accel. Move to Offset.-----------
routerauto
accel 25
speed 800
moveto 0,0

'------------------Load File------------------
gcodefile("c:\filelocation\filename1.ncd")
gcodepreprocess
gcoderun

'------------------Load Offset2------------------
retrieveorigin 2

'------------------Load File------------------
gcodefile("c:\filelocation\filename2.ncd)
gcodepreprocess
gcoderun

routeroff
</nowiki>

== Input/Output Checking Example ==

This example will check the status of input 14, and will exit when the input goes high.

<nowiki>
IOOUT "0","1"
DELAY 2
IOOUT "0","0"

MESSAGE "Waiting for input..."
DO
' Check the status of input 14 ("Input 6" in Diagnostics)
' See sac_diagnostics.gif below for a handy diagram.
IF IOIN(14) = TRUE THEN
EXIT DO
END IF

' Check to make sure the machine is enabled
if active() = false then
exit do
end if
LOOP
</nowiki>

[[Image:Sac_diagnostics.gif]]

== Properly read the pause button example ==

This code implements the pause button during moving. It also debounces the pause button which is usually necessary.

<nowiki>
dim xpos
dim ypos
dim zpos
dim moving 'moving... 0=no, 1=yes, 2=paused
dim startswitch
dim pauseswitch
dim killflag
dim machinepaused

mainprogram()

public function mainprogram()
startswitch=7
pauseswitch=3

xpos=10
ypos=10

speed(100)
accel(5)

SMOVETO xpos,ypos
moving = 1

WHILE (NOT COMPLETEDMOVE)

CALL checkpause

WEND

moving = 0

end function 'this is the end of the small program. Anything below this is a check function.

public function checkpause()
dim incr

for incr=0 to 20

IF IOIN(pauseswitch)=FALSE THEN
'MACHINE IS PAUSED
ELSE
machinepaused=FALSE
EXIT FUNCTION
END IF

next 'incr

machinepaused=TRUE

paused()

end function

public function paused()
dim incr

halt "YXZ",false
moving=2
messagetop "Paused",2
do
IF IOIN (startswitch) = TRUE THEN
incr=incr+1
else
incr=0
end if

if incr>20 then
unpause()
exit do
END IF

loop

end function

public function unpause()

messagetop "Unpaused",2
machinepaused=FALSE
if moving=2 then

SMOVETO xpos,ypos
moving=1
end if

end function
</nowiki>

== Input/Output With G-Code File Execution ==

This example is a bit more involved. It runs a gcode file every time the Pause button has been pressed. It also turns on and off an output, and writes a message to the interface.

<nowiki>
' This example loads a gcode file
' and runs it every time the user
' presses the Pause button on the
' remote start/stop box.
'
' Any digital input would work, to
' start the program. We use Pause
' because it's convinent.
'
' Zero the machine where you want
' the gcode to start. Press the
' e-stop to exit the software.
' Remember to re-enable the machine
' before attempting to re-run the
' script. To do so, jog the machine
' and answer Yes to re-enable.
'

' Loads the gcode file
gcodefile "C:\Program Files\Techno CNC Interface v1.421\examples\2box.nc"

' Preprocesses the gcode file
gcodepreprocess

' Loop until the user presses the e-stop.
do

messagetop "Waiting for Pause press...", 2

do

' Waits for the pause button to be pressed on the
' remote box. The pause button is normally closed,
' so we have to read "false" to see a press.
if ioin(3) = false then
exit do
end if

' Check to make sure the machine is enabled. Pressing
' the e-stop will disable the machine, exiting this loop.
if active() = false then
exit do
end if

loop

' Check to make sure the machine is enabled. Pressing
' the e-stop will disable the machine, exiting this loop.
if active() = false then
exit do
end if

messagetop "Running gcode...", 2

' Run the gcode file loaded at the start of this script.
gcoderun

messagetop "Turning on output 1...", 2

' Turns out 1 ON
ioout "1","1"

' Waits 2 Seconds
Delay 2

' Turns out 1 OFF
ioout "1","0"

loop
</nowiki>
[[Category:Software]]

Piggyback Drill Setup

2011-08-15T19:15:36Z

Jbeck: added instructions to configure the software

{{ManualNavigation (servo)}}

A piggyback drill is typically connected to the coolant output. Thus, M7 and M9 commands can be used to switch to the piggyback drill as necessary.

Note that some configurations automatically turn on the drill when an M7 command is executed. Otherwise, an M3 is required to actually turn the drill on.

=== Commands ===
M7 is used to select (extend) the piggyback drill, M9 is used to deselect (retract) the piggyback drill.
M3 is used to turn either spindle on. M5 is used to turn either spindle off. When the piggyback drill is retracted, M3 and M5 control on and off for the primary spindle, when the piggyback drill is extended M3 and M5 will turn the piggyback drill on and off.

<nowiki>
M7 - Extend piggyback drill, disable primary spindle, enable piggyback drill.
M9 - Retract piggyback drill, enable primary spindle, disable piggyback drill.
M3 - Turn spindle on
M5 - Turn spindle off
</nowiki>

=== Example ===
This example selects the drill tool (Tool #5 in this example), lowers the piggy back drill, turns on the drill, and drills three holes. Then it raises the drill and turns it off.

<nowiki>
G90
M6T5
M7
M3
G0 X0Y0Z0.
G0 X5Y2
G1 Z-0.375 F100.
G0 Z0.
G0 X6 Y2
G1Z-0.375
G0 Z0.
G0 X7 Y2
G1Z-0.375
G0 Z0.
M9
M5
M30
</nowiki>

=== Setup ===

Go to Setup > Tools. This is where all your tools are located, and a piggyback drill is simply another tool. You can use any tool number you wish. For this example, we'll use tool number 5. Go to the line labeled "5", and write "10" (ten, without quotes) in the Special Column. This tells the software that the tool does not have a tool stand.

Next, measure the X and Y offset between the main spindle and our piggyback drill. Enter these values in the column labeled X Offset and Y Offset.

Now when you select the that tool number (M6T5), the software will automatically move the drill into position.

Tip: You can use the coolant output control to select/lower the piggyback drill. This will help measuring tool length easier. Follow the instructions located here: [[Set_Tool_Length_Offsets_Tutorial|set tool offset]]. Note that some machines automatically turn on the drill when an M7 (or Coolant On) command is executed; for these machines, make sure you unplug the drill before touching off the tool!

[[Category:Software Manual (servo)]]
[[Category:Tutorials]]

Piggyback Drill Setup

2011-08-15T18:53:46Z

Jbeck: Created page with "A piggyback drill is typically connected to the coolant output. Thus, M7 and M9 commands can be used to switch to the piggyback drill as necessary. === Commands === M7 is used t..."

A piggyback drill is typically connected to the coolant output. Thus, M7 and M9 commands can be used to switch to the piggyback drill as necessary.

=== Commands ===
M7 is used to select (extend) the piggyback drill, M9 is used to deselect (retract) the piggyback drill.
M3 is used to turn either spindle on. M5 is used to turn either spindle off. When the piggyback drill is retracted, M3 and M5 control on and off for the primary spindle, when the piggyback drill is extended M3 and M5 will turn the piggyback drill on and off.

<nowiki>
M7 - Extend piggyback drill, disable primary spindle, enable piggyback drill.
M9 - Retract piggyback drill, enable primary spindle, disable piggyback drill.
M3 - Turn spindle on
M5 - Turn spindle off
</nowiki>

=== Example ===
This example lowers the piggy back drill, turns on the drill, and drills three holes. Then it raises the drill and turns it off.

<nowiki>
G90
M7
M3
G0 X0Y0Z0.
G0 X5Y2
G1 Z-0.375 F100.
G0 Z0.
G0 X6 Y2
G1Z-0.375
G0 Z0.
G0 X7 Y2
G1Z-0.375
G0 Z0.
M9
M5
M30
</nowiki>

SAC Examples

2011-08-05T13:34:19Z

Jbeck:

These examples were written in [[SAC]]. To run an example, copy the code and paste it into a file called "example.sac". Press File in the Control Software to load the file, and Run to execute it. In the two examples that loop, pressing the Estop will disable the machine and cause the SAC script to exit.

== Gcode and Offsets Example ==

This example shows how to load an offset from the Offsets table in the Control Software, and run a gcode file.

<nowiki>
'-------------------Home Machine---------------
Home "Z"
Home "X"
Home "Y"

'----------------Load Origin 1----------------------
retrieveorigin 1

'-------Set spindle,Set Speed&Accel. Move to Offset.-----------
routerauto
accel 25
speed 800
moveto 0,0

'------------------Load File------------------
gcodefile("c:\filelocation\filename1.ncd")
gcodepreprocess
gcoderun

'------------------Load Offset2------------------
retrieveorigin 2

'------------------Load File------------------
gcodefile("c:\filelocation\filename2.ncd)
gcodepreprocess
gcoderun

routeroff
</nowiki>

== Input/Output Checking Example ==

This example will check the status of input 14, and will exit when the input goes high.

<nowiki>
IOOUT "0","1"
DELAY 2
IOOUT "0","0"

MESSAGE "Waiting for input..."
DO
' Check the status of input 14 ("Input 6" in Diagnostics)
' See sac_diagnostics.gif below for a handy diagram.
IF IOIN(14) = TRUE THEN
EXIT DO
END IF

' Check to make sure the machine is enabled
if active() = false then
exit do
end if
LOOP
</nowiki>

[[Image:Sac_diagnostics.gif]]

== Input/Output With G-Code File Execution ==

This example is a bit more involved. It runs a gcode file every time the Pause button has been pressed. It also turns on and off an output, and writes a message to the interface.

<nowiki>
' This example loads a gcode file
' and runs it every time the user
' presses the Pause button on the
' remote start/stop box.
'
' Any digital input would work, to
' start the program. We use Pause
' because it's convinent.
'
' Zero the machine where you want
' the gcode to start. Press the
' e-stop to exit the software.
' Remember to re-enable the machine
' before attempting to re-run the
' script. To do so, jog the machine
' and answer Yes to re-enable.
'

' Loads the gcode file
gcodefile "C:\Program Files\Techno CNC Interface v1.421\examples\2box.nc"

' Preprocesses the gcode file
gcodepreprocess

' Loop until the user presses the e-stop.
do

messagetop "Waiting for Pause press...", 2

do

' Waits for the pause button to be pressed on the
' remote box. The pause button is normally closed,
' so we have to read "false" to see a press.
if ioin(3) = false then
exit do
end if

' Check to make sure the machine is enabled. Pressing
' the e-stop will disable the machine, exiting this loop.
if active() = false then
exit do
end if

loop

' Check to make sure the machine is enabled. Pressing
' the e-stop will disable the machine, exiting this loop.
if active() = false then
exit do
end if

messagetop "Running gcode...", 2

' Run the gcode file loaded at the start of this script.
gcoderun

messagetop "Turning on output 1...", 2

' Turns out 1 ON
ioout "1","1"

' Waits 2 Seconds
Delay 2

' Turns out 1 OFF
ioout "1","0"

loop
</nowiki>

[[Category:Software]]

SAC

2011-08-05T13:33:55Z

Jbeck:

{{ManualNavigation (servo)}}

SAC is short for Servo Automation Control, and is a scripting language that can be used to control the router. The syntax is Visual Basic.

== SAC Examples ==

A few examples can be found on the [[SAC Examples]] page.

== How to use this document ==

When you encounter [variable/options], the proper syntax is to remove the [].

When you encounter "value", leave the quotes in

When you encounter (value), leave the ()s in, though you don't always need them.

When passing multiple numbers to a function that seems to take ()s, the following rule applies:

* function x,y,z
* function (x),(y),(z)
* function (x),,(z)
* function (x),y,(z)
* NEVER function (x,y,z)
* NEVER function (x),(),(z)

All established VBscript commands are also usable, use your favorite search engine with the term "vbscript functions" to get an up-to-date list of functions and examples. Currently, one such list is at http://www.w3schools.com/VBscript/vbscript_ref_functions.asp or http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/t0aew7h6(VS.85).aspx

== Good VBscript Practice ==

Goto and gosubs are no longer available. Use public functions and subs to do your branching.
If you wrap your entire program in one outer function, it is possible to "end" the program early upon finding an error, as such:

<pre>
chopblock()

public function chopblock()
'do some things here,
if error detected then exit function
'do some other things here
if error detected then exit function
'do some other things here
if error detected then exit function
'do some other things here
end function
</pre>

In the previous example, the first line runs the function chopblock, which frequently checks for an error. When an error is encountered, the function will be exited, and the code will end prematurely.

== Command Reference ==

=== System Response ===

==== messagetop "Message",[1/2] ====

Prints a message under the percentage bar. There are two places to print, and '1' is higher than '2'.

Examples:

<pre>
messagetop "Starting...",1
</pre>

<pre>
x="hello"
messagetop x,2
</pre>

Note that '''message "x"''' and '''messagetop("x",1)''' will do the exact same thing.

<pre>
message "Hello!"
</pre>

<pre>
x="Winnebago"
message x
</pre>

=== System Engagement ===

==== reset() ====
Reset the servos and leave the amplifiers off. Encoder telemetry will not be lost.

==== powerup() ====
Reset the servos and engage the amplifiers.

==== powerdown() ====
Engage any brakes on brakemotors and disable the amplifiers. Encoder telemetry will not be lost.

==== active() ====
Returns false if the system has stalled or if the emergency stop has been pressed. Active should be checked frequently in a loop, as movements will hang the system if the controller is emergency-stopped.

Example:
<pre>
if active()=false then msgbox("inactive!")
</pre>

=== System Trajectory and Movement ===

It should be noted that if the setting Setup > System > Orientation is set to +1, exchange all the X notes and Y notes in this section with each other.

<pre>
speed(x)
</pre>
Speed will alter the speed at which subsequent moves will be made. It will not affect speeds already in motion. Speed is in units per minute. Example: speed(100)

==== accel(x) ====
Alters the acceleration at which subsequent moves will be made. It will not affect acceleration of an axis that is already in motion.

Example:
{| border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="3"
| <pre>accel(20)</pre>
| Acceleration is set to 20 units/sec squared
|}

==== moveto x,y,z,a ====
Start and wait for the completion of a move at the predefined speed with the predefined accel. All values are optional.

Examples:
{| border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="3"
|<pre>moveto 5,4.5,7</pre>
|moves to x=5, y-4.5, z=7
|-
|<pre>moveto ,-9</pre>
|moves to x=current positon, y=-9
|-
|<pre>moveto 5,,1</pre>
|moves to x=5, z=1
|}

==== moveto_watchlimitswitches x,y,z,a ====
Will move just as the moveto command, but will break execution if a limit switch is encountered on any of the axes.

==== smoveto x,y,z,a ====
Will load and start a move to a position and continue SAC execution without waiting for the movement to be complete.

Examples:
{| border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="3"
|<pre>smoveto 5,4.5,7 </pre>
|moves to x=5, y-4.5, z=7
|-
|<pre>smoveto ,-9</pre>
|moves to x=current position, y=-9
|}

==== moverel x,y,z,a ====
Will move relative to the current position. Will wait for the movement to complete before continuing execution of the program

Examples:
<pre>moverel 5,6,-7</pre>
<pre>moverel ,-4</pre>

==== smoverel x,y,z,a ====
Will move relative to the current position. Will continue execution of the program while moving.

Examples:
<pre>smoverel 5,6,-7</pre>
<pre>smoverel ,-4</pre>

==== completedmove() ====
Will return true when all axes are not moving. Useful for waiting for the end of an smoveto command.

Example:
<pre>
do
if completedmove()=true then exit do
loop
</pre>

====movedone("a")====
Returns true if an axis is NOT moving and false if the axis IS MOVING. Only one axis may be inquired about per run

Example:
<pre>
if movedone("x") =true then msgbox("X Axis is still moving!")
</pre>

====rapidto x,y,z,a====
Will start and wait for the completion of a move. Moves the Z axis positively first and singly if the destination Z value is higher than the current Z value, and moves the X,Y axes first if the destination Z value is lower than the current Z value.

Examples:
<pre>rapidto 1,2,3 </pre>
<pre>rapidto 1,,5</pre>

====halt "a",abruptly====
Will stop one or more axes from moving. If abruptly is set to true, the axis will be stopped as quickly as possible (Maximum deceleration), otherwise, it will be decelerated at the same rate by which it was accelerated.

Examples:
<pre>halt "XY",TRUE</pre>
<pre>halt "Z",FALSE</pre>

====toolchange x ====
Changes tools automatically if a toolchanger is present and configured, alternately, if no toolchanger is present, will prompt for a manual toolchange.

Example:
<pre>toolchange 4</pre>

=== System Telemetry ===

==== pos("x") ====
Returns the theoretical, desired position of the axis relative to the origin set by the user.

Example:
<pre>xposition=pos("x")</pre>

==== rpos("x") ====
Returns the real, instantaneous position of the axis relative to the origin set by the user. This differs from regular pos in that it includes any error - difference between where the axis should be and where it is.

Example:
<pre>xposition=rpos("x")</pre>

=== System Timing ===

==== delay(x) ====

Will delay for an amount of time in seconds. Decimals are permitted. Resolution is to .001s and accuracy is dependant on system performance. For very long delays, if a message about the script timing out appears, go to Setup and change the SAC timeout value (default timeout is 120 seconds)

Example:
<pre>delay 50</pre>
<pre>delay 3.423</pre>

=== System Inputs and Outputs ===

==== serialioout "a",["1/0"] ====
Control output a on the serial IO controller. "1" turns on the output and "0" turns it off.

Example:
<pre>serialioout "5","1"</pre>

==== serialioin("a") ====
Return the value of an input on the serial io controller. will return true or false.

Example:
<pre>if serialioin("4")=true then messagetop("Serial 4 is on")</pre>

==== ioout "#",["1/0"] ====
Control output # on the parallel io board. "1" turns on the output and "0" turns it off.
The outputs will not return to defaults after the SAC program is done running.

Example:
<pre>ioout "3","1"</pre>

==== ioin (bit) ====
Return the value of an input on the parallel io board. The return value is boolean ("true" or "false").

The value of bit that you expect to measure is not the same as is shown on the diagnostics screen. The diagnostics screen flips the first and second bytes. So if you want to measure bit 11 on the diagnostics screen (often corresponds to the pause button on the start/stop box), you should use ioin(3) instead of ioin(11).

Example:
<pre>
if ioin (4) = true then
messagetop "4 is ON",2
ELSE
messagetop "4 is OFF",2
</pre>

NOTE The ()s in ioin versus the lack of () for ioout. The examples are correct, follow them.

==== homeinp("a") ====
Return true if a limit switch input is triggered. Values can be X,Y,Z,A as or 0 thru 7 (y=0,x=1,z=2,a=3, if you wish to access the "overtravel" inputs (really just inputs for whatever you want), use numbers 4-7)

Examples:
<pre>if homeinp("x") then msgbox("X is on the switch!")</pre>
<pre>
if homeinp("5") =TRUE then
MESSAGETOP "Home input 5 is triggered!",2
ELSE
MESSAGETOP "Home input 5 is NOT triggered!",2
<pre>

Note: Quotes around "X" are NECESSARY, quotes around "5" are not. When you use a number, you are checking the number, when you pass an axis letter, the script interprets x as a variable and not an axis name.

==== routeron ====
Turns on the spindle output of the system

Example:
<pre>routeron</pre>

==== routeroff ====
Similar to routeron but this function turns off the spindle output.

==== routerauto ====
Sets the spindle mode to auto, which will be most useful when running gcode files which turn the spindle on and off from within.

==== routerrpm(#) ====
Changes the RPM of the spindle if the appropriate speed-changing hardware is present.

Example:
<pre>routerrpm(15000)</pre>

==== auxon ====
Turns on the aux output, usually reserved for coolant.

==== auxoff ====
Similar to auxon, this function turns off the aux/coolant output.

==== auxauto ====
Sets the aux/coolant output to auto, useful for when running gcode which triggers the coolant output on its own.

=== G-code ===

====gcodefile("full filename")====
Load a gcode file into memory. Requires the full path to be specified. Will not run the file (see gcoderun).

Example:
<pre>gcodefile("c:\sac\makecheese.sac") </pre>

====gcoderun====
Runs the gcode file

====gcodepreprocess====
Preprocesses the gcodefile loaded by gcodefile(). Preprocessing a file is required to run, but only when trajectory or speed is changed in the file. If a file has been preprocessed before (not even necessarily in sac), and nothing has changed as far as speed or file geometry, preprocessing is unnecessary. Note that the file will run relative to the origin, and that a change in origin does not require preprocessing again.

====gcodecutspeed(#)====
Sets the override speed for the X, Y and A axes in a gcode file. The file will have to be preprocessed for these numbers to take effect.

Example:
<pre>gcodecutspeed(500)</pre>

====gcodeplungespeed(#)====
Similar to gcodecutspeed, this value only changes the Z speed in a file. The file must be preprocessed for this number to take effect.

Example:
<pre>gcodeplungespeed(100)</pre>

=== System Origin Reference ===

====zero "x"====
Set the current position to be the origin relative to which movements will be made.

Examples:
<pre>zero "x"</pre>
<pre>zero "xy"</pre>
<pre>zero "all"</pre>

====home "x"====
Move the machine to the reference position in any axes. Will always follow the order Z,A,X,Y. If a different order is desired, home axes singly.

Example:
<pre>home "x"</pre>
<pre>home "xy"</pre>
<pre>home "all"</pre>

====setpos x,y,z,a====
Adjust the origin to make the current position equal to the values passed to the function.

Example:
<pre>setpos 5,6,7</pre>
<pre>setpos ,2</pre>

====saveorigin #====
Temporarily save the origin to a temporary list of 0-99. This will not survive a software restart.

Example:
<pre>saveorigin 3</pre>

====loadorigin #====
Loads an origin from the saveorigin list.

Example:
<pre>loadorigin 3</pre>

====storeorigin #,"name",method====
Will permanently store an origin in the same slots as seen in SETUP->Offsets. The '#' marker is the position to store in, 'Name' is the name to give the offset.

* Method 0 will store the current position (location of all the axes)
* Method 1 will store the current origin, regardless of the position of the axes.

The machine must be properly homed before this will work.

Example:
<pre>storeorigin 3,"Jig F",1</pre>

====retrieveorigin #====
Will retrieve an origin stored with storeorigin

Example:
<pre>retrieveorigin 3</pre>

====shiftorigin x,y,z,a====
Will adjust the current origin by the amount specified. Changes the values for origin without moving the machine.

Example:
<pre>shiftorigin 4,5,6</pre>
<pre>shiftorigin ,5</pre>

====touchoffz(method)====
Uses the touchpad to determine the new Z origin. If a dedicated touchoff spot is stored in Setup > Advanced > Touchpad and Remote, the machine will move to that spot first if method =1.

Example:
<pre>touchoffz(0)</pre>

====touchoffa(method)====
Uses the touchpad to determine the new A origin. If a dedicated touchoff spot is stored in Setup > Advanced > Touchpad and Remote, the machine will move to that spot first if method is 1. Be careful: the dedicated spot for touching off will be the same for Z and A.

Example:
<pre>touchoffa(0)</pre>

=== Errors ===

==== errorlimit "a",#====
Change the error value at which the machine returns a position error and stalls. Changing this value is not recommended. It can result in increased motor wear, or premature stalling. The standard value is 3000.

Example:
<pre>errorlimit "XYZ",3000</pre>

====axiserror "a"====
Returns true if the axis has experienced an error, false if everything is okay. Only one axis may be checked per instance of the function. Since an axis error causes the program to stop, it is not likely that this function will be useful.

Example:
<pre>if axiserror("X") =true then msgbox("ERROR!")</pre>

=== File Operations ===

====openfile handle,filename,mode====
Opens a file for reading or writing to. You can have more than one file open, and the handle will control what file you are referring to. The handle should be a number, like 52.

Modes:
* i = input, or read a file
* o = output, or write to a file (this will erase the file if it already exists)
* a = append, or write to the end of an already existing file

Example:
<pre>openfile 91,"C:\file.txt","O"</pre>

====closefile handle====
Use the same handle number and close the file previously opened. If this is not done before a program is finished, it is possible that all the data will not be written to the file.

Example:
<pre>closefile 91</pre>

====readfile handle,destination====
Reads the file referenced by handle and puts it in string destination. Also returns the string.

Example:
<pre>
lineoffile=readfile (91,alsolineoffile)<pre>

openfile 91,"C:\file.txt","I"
DO
lineoffile=readfile (91,alsolineoffile)
MSGBOX LINEOFFILE
IF EOFFILE (91) THEN EXIT DO
LOOP

closefile 91
</pre>

====writefile handle, text====
Write text to the file referenced by handle.

Examples:
<pre>writefile 91,"I like text!"+vbcrlf</pre>

<pre>writefile 91,gathereddata+vbcrlf</pre>

====eoffile (handle)====
Return true if the file is at its end.

Example:
<pre>if eoffile (91) then closefile 91</pre>

[[Category:Software]]

SAC Examples

2011-08-05T13:32:45Z

Jbeck: Created page with "These examples were written in SAC. To run an example, copy the code and paste it into a file called "example.sac". Press File in the Control Software to load the file, and R..."

These examples were written in [[SAC]]. To run an example, copy the code and paste it into a file called "example.sac". Press File in the Control Software to load the file, and Run to execute it. In the two examples that loop, pressing the Estop will disable the machine and cause the SAC script to exit.

=== Gcode and Offsets Example ===

This example shows how to load an offset from the Offsets table in the Control Software, and run a gcode file.

<nowiki>
'-------------------Home Machine---------------
Home "Z"
Home "X"
Home "Y"

'----------------Load Origin 1----------------------
retrieveorigin 1

'-------Set spindle,Set Speed&Accel. Move to Offset.-----------
routerauto
accel 25
speed 800
moveto 0,0

'------------------Load File------------------
gcodefile("c:\filelocation\filename1.ncd")
gcodepreprocess
gcoderun

'------------------Load Offset2------------------
retrieveorigin 2

'------------------Load File------------------
gcodefile("c:\filelocation\filename2.ncd)
gcodepreprocess
gcoderun

routeroff
</nowiki>

=== Input/Output Checking Example ===

This example will check the status of input 14, and will exit when the input goes high.

<nowiki>
IOOUT "0","1"
DELAY 2
IOOUT "0","0"

MESSAGE "Waiting for input..."
DO
' Check the status of input 14 ("Input 6" in Diagnostics)
' See sac_diagnostics.gif below for a handy diagram.
IF IOIN(14) = TRUE THEN
EXIT DO
END IF

' Check to make sure the machine is enabled
if active() = false then
exit do
end if
LOOP
</nowiki>

[[Image:Sac_diagnostics.gif]]

=== Input/Output With G-Code File Execution ===

This example is a bit more involved. It runs a gcode file every time the Pause button has been pressed. It also turns on and off an output, and writes a message to the interface.

<nowiki>
' This example loads a gcode file
' and runs it every time the user
' presses the Pause button on the
' remote start/stop box.
'
' Any digital input would work, to
' start the program. We use Pause
' because it's convinent.
'
' Zero the machine where you want
' the gcode to start. Press the
' e-stop to exit the software.
' Remember to re-enable the machine
' before attempting to re-run the
' script. To do so, jog the machine
' and answer Yes to re-enable.
'

' Loads the gcode file
gcodefile "C:\Program Files\Techno CNC Interface v1.421\examples\2box.nc"

' Preprocesses the gcode file
gcodepreprocess

' Loop until the user presses the e-stop.
do

messagetop "Waiting for Pause press...", 2

do

' Waits for the pause button to be pressed on the
' remote box. The pause button is normally closed,
' so we have to read "false" to see a press.
if ioin(3) = false then
exit do
end if

' Check to make sure the machine is enabled. Pressing
' the e-stop will disable the machine, exiting this loop.
if active() = false then
exit do
end if

loop

' Check to make sure the machine is enabled. Pressing
' the e-stop will disable the machine, exiting this loop.
if active() = false then
exit do
end if

messagetop "Running gcode...", 2

' Run the gcode file loaded at the start of this script.
gcoderun

messagetop "Turning on output 1...", 2

' Turns out 1 ON
ioout "1","1"

' Waits 2 Seconds
Delay 2

' Turns out 1 OFF
ioout "1","0"

loop
</nowiki>

[[Category:Software]]

File:Sac diagnostics.gif

2011-08-05T13:25:52Z

Jbeck: Diagram that shows how the inputs in the Control Interface are labeled for SAC.

Diagram that shows how the inputs in the Control Interface are labeled for SAC.

Drill Bank Setup

2011-07-05T13:18:45Z

Jbeck: /* Drill Bit Setup */

{{Template:WIP}}

{{ManualNavigation (servo)}}

== Introduction ==

The TechnoCNC RVS1000 control board works with the Control Software to operate a drill bank. There are a set of g-code commands that will extend or retract the individual drill bits, and the length of the bit set will automatically be taken into consideration, allowing multiple length sets of bits in a single drill bank. This document describes how to wire, configure, and set up your drill bank.

For information about a particular CAM package, please see the documentation from the company that produces the CAM package you're using. This document does not cover CAM software setup. If you need a post, feel free to call us. If we don't have it, we'll help you get one. This document does contain the required information for creating a post, if necessary.

== Hardware Wiring ==

A serial cable goes from the TechnoCNC RVS1000 control board, to the PC that will control the router. If the PC does not have a serial port, a good quality USB-to-serial adapter can be used instead. Take note of which port is being used, and set it to a low port number (1 or 2) if possible.

The RVS1000 board is powered from the control box somehow. The schematics are forthcoming.

The drill bank is plugged into the board somehow. Schematics forthcoming.

== Software Setup ==

{{CSVersion|version=1.421}}

Go to Setup > Advanced > Hardware Switches, and check the box labeled “Drill Bank on COM port”.

Enter the serial port number in the box to the right. This is the same port that you plugged the RVS1000 into, in the Hardware Wiring section.

Select where your drill bank exists. There are two typical configurations. The most common is mounted to the Z axis, on pneumatics to raise and lower the bank as needed. These pneumatics require air pressure, and it's a good idea to check the Monitor Air Pressure option, just in case. If you're confident in the air pressure, this option is optional. The second option is having it mounted to the A axis. Click the radio button to select this configuration.

Click OK to save the Setup. Exit the software and run it again. This ensures all functions know about the changes.

When the software appears, you will see a [B] button next to the Coolant and Spindle controls on the main interface. Clicking the button will bring up a dialog box for testing and configuring the drill bank.

[[File:Drill_bank_display.gif]]

If everything is set up correctly, you should be able to click the numbered buttons 1 through 9, to extend or retract individual bits. Extended Bits box displays the bits that are currently extended.

If your drill bank is mounted to the Z axis, you'll see Raise and Lower head buttons. These will bring the drill bank up and down, using the pneumatics.

Drill On and Drill Off control power to the drill. As expected.

[[File:Io_light_diagram.gif]]

The Output box lets you set individual output bits on the RVS1000 board. This can be used for troubleshooting, by turning on a particular output and watching the corresponding LED light. The LED diagram is detailed in the image below. Note that D65 is output 0 (“lower drill”), and D81 is output 8 (“extend bit 7”).

== Drill Bit Setup ==

The process for setting up the bits inside your drill bank is reasonably simple.

# Teach the tip location of an empty tool holder. See the Learn Empty Tool section.
# Teach where the tips of all the bits are (how long they are). See Teach Bit Groups
# Set the X and Y location for the drill bank (or master bit).

Before we do anything, we have to set the bank tools appropriately in the control software. Go to Setup > Tools, and scroll down to the tools labeled Bank 1, Bank 2, etc. Each of these tools represents a bit in the drill bank. For each bit you need to use (typically 1 through 9), enter the number “10” in in the Special column. This tells the software that there is no tool holder for this tool. Click OK when you're finished.

== Learn Empty Tool ==
Learning an empty tool is only necessary if your drill bank is mounted to the Z axis. If it's mounted to the A axis, you can skip this step. In fact, the button won't even show.

If you only have a drill bank on your machine (no spindle or toolchanger), your empty tool will be on the drill bank itself. This is rare, since most machines come with a routing spindle as well as a drill bank. From the main screen, click the [B] button. Click on any of the numbered buttons to extend an empty bit holder. If the empty holder does not drop below any tools in the drill bank, remove the tools. In fact, you should probably just remove all the tools right now, just to be safe.

If you have a spindle (you probably do), load up an empty tool in the spindle, and make sure that the bottom of the empty tool extends below any other tools or bits in your drill bank. If not, remove the tools.

Place the touchpad on the router table below the empty tool holder, and press the Learn Empty Tool button. The Z-axis will drop slowly, until it touches the touchpad. This stores the Z position of the tip of the empty tool holder. The most important part of this process is to put the touchpad at the same Z height every time you learn a tool length or empty tool position! If you are not consistent, the length of the tools will all be wrong.

== Teach Bit Lengths ==
Put all your bits in the drill bank, wherever you wish. For example, bits 1 and 2 could be ¾ inch bits that are two inches long. Bits 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9 could be ¼ inch bits that are only one inch long. Bits 1 and two are the first group, and bits 5 through 9 are the second group.

Extend the first group of bits by clicking on the 1 and 2 buttons. The only two bits that are extended should be bits 1 and 2. Jog the machine so that bit 1 or 2 (doesn't matter which) is directly over the touchpad, and press Touch Off Bank. The Z-axis (or A-axis) will descend until one of the bits touches the touchpad. The software now knows the length of both bits 1 and 2, and it will store the lengths in the tool table.

Click Retract All Bits, and extend the second group of bits by clicking the 5 through 9 buttons. Only bits 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9 should be extended. Position any of the extended bits over the touchpad, and click the Touch Off Bank button. The software now knows the length of bits 5 through 9, and will store these values in the tool table.

If you accidentally extend bits 1 and 7 (for example), the software will assume that all bits in the group are the same length as bit 1! If you extend bit 2, 8, and 9, the software will incorrectly believe that all the bits are the length of bit 2 (in our example, 2 inches). Be mindful of this, as it means that accidents can result in drilling through your table surface.

Press Close to exit the Drill Bank window. If you go to Setup > Tools and scroll down to the Bank 1 tool number, you'll notice that the Z Length Offsets are now populated with non-zero numbers, indicating that the software knows how long each bit is.

Set Bank X and Y Locations (or Master Bit)
The “master bit” concept is the most widely used concept in drill bank operation. When you set up your CAM software, you are expected to define the location of all your bits relative to a master bit. This bit can be any of the bits you choose. Just make sure you pick one, and stick to it.

The control software needs to know where this master bit is located in X and Y, relative to the spindle. To set the master bit location, every drill bit in the tool table needs the X Offset and Y Offset set to the master bit location. So for example, if you have a 9-bit drill bank, and the X and Y offsets for the master bit are 12.4 inches and 29.2 inches away from the spindle center, you'd write “12.4” under the X Offset column and 29.2 inches under the Y Offset column for Bank 1, Bank 2, … through Bank 9. All banks will have the same offset, because you're using a master bit.

There are many other ways to configure bit locations. Some CAM packages allow you to define the master bit offset in the CAM software, so no special X and Y Offset is required (set them to zero, in this case).

If you prefer to use the drill bank as a sort-of toolchanger, you could place individual tools in each position of the drill bank, and set the X and Y Offset for each one relative to the spindle. Thus, when extending Bank 3, it'd use the X and Y Offset for that specific bank. This should be a rare setup situation, but it's possible. Just be aware that only one bit should be extended at a time or the settings for the lowest-numbered bit will be used.

== G-Code Commands ==

The commands to operate a drill bank connected to a RVS1000 control board look very similar to the commands used to control IO. Some IO commands have special meaning when connected to a drill bank, and those are listed below.

Note that in general, M91 will perform an action, and M90 will reverse the action. So for example, M91OUT102 will extend the first bit, and M90OUT102 will retract the same bit.

=== Bank Control===

{| border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="3"
!G Code
!Description
|-
| M91OUT127
| Lower the drill bank using pneumatics
|-
| M90OUT127
| Raise the drill bank using pneumatics
|-
| M91OUT115
| Turn on the drill
|-
| M90OUT115
| Turn off the drill
|}

=== Extend Bits ===

{| border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="3"
!G Code
!Description
|-
| M91OUT102
| Extend bit 1
|-
| M91OUT103
| Extend bit 2
|-
| M91OUT104
| Extend bit 3
|-
| M91OUT105
| Extend bit 4
|-
| M91OUT106
| Extend bit 5
|-
| M91OUT107
| Extend bit 6
|-
| M91OUT108
| Extend bit 7
|-
| M91OUT109
| Extend bit 8
|-
| M91OUT110
| Extend bit 9
|-
| M91OUT111
| Extend bit 10
|-
| M91OUT112
| Extend bit 11
|-
| M91OUT113
| Extend bit 12
|-
| M91OUT114
| Extend bit 13
|}

=== Retract Bits ===

{| border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="3"
!G Code
!Description
|-
| M90OUT102
| Retract bit 1
|-
| M90OUT103
| Retract bit 2
|-
| M90OUT104
| Retract bit 3
|-
| M90OUT105
| Retract bit 4
|-
| M90OUT106
| Retract bit 5
|-
| M90OUT107
| Retract bit 6
|-
| M90OUT108
| Retract bit 7
|-
| M90OUT109
| Retract bit 8
|-
| M90OUT110
| Retract bit 9
|-
| M90OUT111
| Retract bit 10
|-
| M90OUT112
| Retract bit 11
|-
| M90OUT113
| Retract bit 12
|-
| M90OUT114
| Retract bit 13
|}

== Problems and Errors ==

=== Numbered Buttons Don't Extend Bits ===

If you can't use the numbered buttons under the [B] window to toggle the drill bits, take note of the error message and try to correct any wiring problems. If you toggle the bits on and off, you should see the corresponding light on the RVS1000 board blinking. The lights turn on when a bit is extended, and turn off when retracted. If the lights are working, but the bank isn't extending the bits, double-check that the drill bank is powered and electrically configured correctly. Light toggling on the board mean the software and board are configured correctly.

=== Serial Timeout when Raise or Lower Head button is pressed ===

If your drill bank is on the Z axis, you'll see buttons for raising and lowering the head. If you click “Raise head” or “Lower head”, the bank should raise and lower. But there's a catch. The head is mounted with limit switches that detect whether the bank is actually up or down. If your limit switches aren't working properly, you'll get a timeout error after about 3 seconds. On some systems, this error messages pops up under the drill bank window. If this happens, your Drill Bank window will appear to be frozen. Press Esc to dismiss the error and the drill bank window will start working again. If your drill bank doesn't move up within 3 seconds, you'll also get the error. In this case, check the air pressure.

There are two lights on the RVS1000 that will toggle back and forth, when these buttons are pressed. They will operate even if the limit switches don't work. If you press the Raise and Lower buttons, and the lights work but the drill bank doesn't move, check for wiring, air pressure, or hardware problems.

=== Message: The toolchanger requires you to manually LOAD tool 116. ===

[[File:Load_tool_116_message.gif]]

This simply means you haven't set up the bit correctly. Bank 1 corresponds to tool 116. Bank 2 would be 117, and so on. Make sure you have entered "10" under the Special column, to indicate the tool has no stand associated with it. Also make sure the Z Length Offset is non-zero; if it's zero, follow the routine in this document to learn the bit length.

[[Category:Software Manual (servo)]]

Drill Bank Setup

2011-07-05T13:18:06Z

Jbeck: /* Learn Empty Tool */

{{Template:WIP}}

{{ManualNavigation (servo)}}

== Introduction ==

The TechnoCNC RVS1000 control board works with the Control Software to operate a drill bank. There are a set of g-code commands that will extend or retract the individual drill bits, and the length of the bit set will automatically be taken into consideration, allowing multiple length sets of bits in a single drill bank. This document describes how to wire, configure, and set up your drill bank.

For information about a particular CAM package, please see the documentation from the company that produces the CAM package you're using. This document does not cover CAM software setup. If you need a post, feel free to call us. If we don't have it, we'll help you get one. This document does contain the required information for creating a post, if necessary.

== Hardware Wiring ==

A serial cable goes from the TechnoCNC RVS1000 control board, to the PC that will control the router. If the PC does not have a serial port, a good quality USB-to-serial adapter can be used instead. Take note of which port is being used, and set it to a low port number (1 or 2) if possible.

The RVS1000 board is powered from the control box somehow. The schematics are forthcoming.

The drill bank is plugged into the board somehow. Schematics forthcoming.

== Software Setup ==

{{CSVersion|version=1.421}}

Go to Setup > Advanced > Hardware Switches, and check the box labeled “Drill Bank on COM port”.

Enter the serial port number in the box to the right. This is the same port that you plugged the RVS1000 into, in the Hardware Wiring section.

Select where your drill bank exists. There are two typical configurations. The most common is mounted to the Z axis, on pneumatics to raise and lower the bank as needed. These pneumatics require air pressure, and it's a good idea to check the Monitor Air Pressure option, just in case. If you're confident in the air pressure, this option is optional. The second option is having it mounted to the A axis. Click the radio button to select this configuration.

Click OK to save the Setup. Exit the software and run it again. This ensures all functions know about the changes.

When the software appears, you will see a [B] button next to the Coolant and Spindle controls on the main interface. Clicking the button will bring up a dialog box for testing and configuring the drill bank.

[[File:Drill_bank_display.gif]]

If everything is set up correctly, you should be able to click the numbered buttons 1 through 9, to extend or retract individual bits. Extended Bits box displays the bits that are currently extended.

If your drill bank is mounted to the Z axis, you'll see Raise and Lower head buttons. These will bring the drill bank up and down, using the pneumatics.

Drill On and Drill Off control power to the drill. As expected.

[[File:Io_light_diagram.gif]]

The Output box lets you set individual output bits on the RVS1000 board. This can be used for troubleshooting, by turning on a particular output and watching the corresponding LED light. The LED diagram is detailed in the image below. Note that D65 is output 0 (“lower drill”), and D81 is output 8 (“extend bit 7”).

== Drill Bit Setup ==

The process for setting up the bits inside your drill bank is reasonably simple.

# Teach the tip location of an empty extended bit holder. See the Learn Empty Tool section.
# Teach where the tips of all the bits are (how long they are). See Teach Bit Groups
# Set the X and Y location for the drill bank (or master bit).

Before we do anything, we have to set the bank tools appropriately in the control software. Go to Setup > Tools, and scroll down to the tools labeled Bank 1, Bank 2, etc. Each of these tools represents a bit in the drill bank. For each bit you need to use (typically 1 through 9), enter the number “10” in in the Special column. This tells the software that there is no tool holder for this tool. Click OK when you're finished.

== Learn Empty Tool ==
Learning an empty tool is only necessary if your drill bank is mounted to the Z axis. If it's mounted to the A axis, you can skip this step. In fact, the button won't even show.

If you only have a drill bank on your machine (no spindle or toolchanger), your empty tool will be on the drill bank itself. This is rare, since most machines come with a routing spindle as well as a drill bank. From the main screen, click the [B] button. Click on any of the numbered buttons to extend an empty bit holder. If the empty holder does not drop below any tools in the drill bank, remove the tools. In fact, you should probably just remove all the tools right now, just to be safe.

If you have a spindle (you probably do), load up an empty tool in the spindle, and make sure that the bottom of the empty tool extends below any other tools or bits in your drill bank. If not, remove the tools.

Place the touchpad on the router table below the empty tool holder, and press the Learn Empty Tool button. The Z-axis will drop slowly, until it touches the touchpad. This stores the Z position of the tip of the empty tool holder. The most important part of this process is to put the touchpad at the same Z height every time you learn a tool length or empty tool position! If you are not consistent, the length of the tools will all be wrong.

== Teach Bit Lengths ==
Put all your bits in the drill bank, wherever you wish. For example, bits 1 and 2 could be ¾ inch bits that are two inches long. Bits 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9 could be ¼ inch bits that are only one inch long. Bits 1 and two are the first group, and bits 5 through 9 are the second group.

Extend the first group of bits by clicking on the 1 and 2 buttons. The only two bits that are extended should be bits 1 and 2. Jog the machine so that bit 1 or 2 (doesn't matter which) is directly over the touchpad, and press Touch Off Bank. The Z-axis (or A-axis) will descend until one of the bits touches the touchpad. The software now knows the length of both bits 1 and 2, and it will store the lengths in the tool table.

Click Retract All Bits, and extend the second group of bits by clicking the 5 through 9 buttons. Only bits 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9 should be extended. Position any of the extended bits over the touchpad, and click the Touch Off Bank button. The software now knows the length of bits 5 through 9, and will store these values in the tool table.

If you accidentally extend bits 1 and 7 (for example), the software will assume that all bits in the group are the same length as bit 1! If you extend bit 2, 8, and 9, the software will incorrectly believe that all the bits are the length of bit 2 (in our example, 2 inches). Be mindful of this, as it means that accidents can result in drilling through your table surface.

Press Close to exit the Drill Bank window. If you go to Setup > Tools and scroll down to the Bank 1 tool number, you'll notice that the Z Length Offsets are now populated with non-zero numbers, indicating that the software knows how long each bit is.

Set Bank X and Y Locations (or Master Bit)
The “master bit” concept is the most widely used concept in drill bank operation. When you set up your CAM software, you are expected to define the location of all your bits relative to a master bit. This bit can be any of the bits you choose. Just make sure you pick one, and stick to it.

The control software needs to know where this master bit is located in X and Y, relative to the spindle. To set the master bit location, every drill bit in the tool table needs the X Offset and Y Offset set to the master bit location. So for example, if you have a 9-bit drill bank, and the X and Y offsets for the master bit are 12.4 inches and 29.2 inches away from the spindle center, you'd write “12.4” under the X Offset column and 29.2 inches under the Y Offset column for Bank 1, Bank 2, … through Bank 9. All banks will have the same offset, because you're using a master bit.

There are many other ways to configure bit locations. Some CAM packages allow you to define the master bit offset in the CAM software, so no special X and Y Offset is required (set them to zero, in this case).

If you prefer to use the drill bank as a sort-of toolchanger, you could place individual tools in each position of the drill bank, and set the X and Y Offset for each one relative to the spindle. Thus, when extending Bank 3, it'd use the X and Y Offset for that specific bank. This should be a rare setup situation, but it's possible. Just be aware that only one bit should be extended at a time or the settings for the lowest-numbered bit will be used.

== G-Code Commands ==

The commands to operate a drill bank connected to a RVS1000 control board look very similar to the commands used to control IO. Some IO commands have special meaning when connected to a drill bank, and those are listed below.

Note that in general, M91 will perform an action, and M90 will reverse the action. So for example, M91OUT102 will extend the first bit, and M90OUT102 will retract the same bit.

=== Bank Control===

{| border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="3"
!G Code
!Description
|-
| M91OUT127
| Lower the drill bank using pneumatics
|-
| M90OUT127
| Raise the drill bank using pneumatics
|-
| M91OUT115
| Turn on the drill
|-
| M90OUT115
| Turn off the drill
|}

=== Extend Bits ===

{| border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="3"
!G Code
!Description
|-
| M91OUT102
| Extend bit 1
|-
| M91OUT103
| Extend bit 2
|-
| M91OUT104
| Extend bit 3
|-
| M91OUT105
| Extend bit 4
|-
| M91OUT106
| Extend bit 5
|-
| M91OUT107
| Extend bit 6
|-
| M91OUT108
| Extend bit 7
|-
| M91OUT109
| Extend bit 8
|-
| M91OUT110
| Extend bit 9
|-
| M91OUT111
| Extend bit 10
|-
| M91OUT112
| Extend bit 11
|-
| M91OUT113
| Extend bit 12
|-
| M91OUT114
| Extend bit 13
|}

=== Retract Bits ===

{| border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="3"
!G Code
!Description
|-
| M90OUT102
| Retract bit 1
|-
| M90OUT103
| Retract bit 2
|-
| M90OUT104
| Retract bit 3
|-
| M90OUT105
| Retract bit 4
|-
| M90OUT106
| Retract bit 5
|-
| M90OUT107
| Retract bit 6
|-
| M90OUT108
| Retract bit 7
|-
| M90OUT109
| Retract bit 8
|-
| M90OUT110
| Retract bit 9
|-
| M90OUT111
| Retract bit 10
|-
| M90OUT112
| Retract bit 11
|-
| M90OUT113
| Retract bit 12
|-
| M90OUT114
| Retract bit 13
|}

== Problems and Errors ==

=== Numbered Buttons Don't Extend Bits ===

If you can't use the numbered buttons under the [B] window to toggle the drill bits, take note of the error message and try to correct any wiring problems. If you toggle the bits on and off, you should see the corresponding light on the RVS1000 board blinking. The lights turn on when a bit is extended, and turn off when retracted. If the lights are working, but the bank isn't extending the bits, double-check that the drill bank is powered and electrically configured correctly. Light toggling on the board mean the software and board are configured correctly.

=== Serial Timeout when Raise or Lower Head button is pressed ===

If your drill bank is on the Z axis, you'll see buttons for raising and lowering the head. If you click “Raise head” or “Lower head”, the bank should raise and lower. But there's a catch. The head is mounted with limit switches that detect whether the bank is actually up or down. If your limit switches aren't working properly, you'll get a timeout error after about 3 seconds. On some systems, this error messages pops up under the drill bank window. If this happens, your Drill Bank window will appear to be frozen. Press Esc to dismiss the error and the drill bank window will start working again. If your drill bank doesn't move up within 3 seconds, you'll also get the error. In this case, check the air pressure.

There are two lights on the RVS1000 that will toggle back and forth, when these buttons are pressed. They will operate even if the limit switches don't work. If you press the Raise and Lower buttons, and the lights work but the drill bank doesn't move, check for wiring, air pressure, or hardware problems.

=== Message: The toolchanger requires you to manually LOAD tool 116. ===

[[File:Load_tool_116_message.gif]]

This simply means you haven't set up the bit correctly. Bank 1 corresponds to tool 116. Bank 2 would be 117, and so on. Make sure you have entered "10" under the Special column, to indicate the tool has no stand associated with it. Also make sure the Z Length Offset is non-zero; if it's zero, follow the routine in this document to learn the bit length.

[[Category:Software Manual (servo)]]

G-code reference

2011-06-14T20:38:14Z

Jbeck: added comment characters

The following G and M codes are supported by the Control Interface. Click on the Command name to get more information and examples with the command.

You can find more extensive examples on G-code in the [[G-code examples]] page.

== Comments ==

Writing comments in your g-code can be helpful in keeping track of each line. Comments will also let you "comment-out" a line, so that the line is ignored.

To comment out a line, add a % sign to the start of the line.

The TechnoCNC interface will ignore all lines that begin with a asterisk *, open parentheses (, percent %, and forward slash /.

=== Examples ===

% This line is ignored.

This line is read

( This line is ignored.

== Setup Commands ==

{| border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="3"
!Code
!Command
!Format
!Purpose

|-
|S
|Spindle Speed
|<pre>S<speed></pre>
|Sets the spindle speed.

|-
|F
|[[G-code F|Feed Speed]]
|<pre>F<speed></pre>
|Sets the feed rate, or rate of movement of the axes.

|-
|G4
|[[G-code G4|Dwell Time]]
|<pre>G4 P<milliseconds></pre>
|Inserts a delay in milliseconds.

|-
|G90
|Absolute Coordinates
|<pre>G90</pre>
|Sets coordinates to absolute, so that the motion commands are relative to the origin.

|-
|G91
|Incremental Coordinates
|<pre>G91</pre>
|Sets coordinates to incremental so that all motion commands are relative to the previous position.

|-
|G92
|Set Absolute Origin
|<pre>G92 X<#> Y<#> Z<#></pre>
|Sets the origin that is referenced when in absolute mode.

|-
|M0
|Program Stop/Pause
|<pre>M0</pre>
|Stops the g-code file from being further processed until the operator presses Continue or Start.

|-
|M30
|End of Data
|<pre>M30</pre>
|Marks the end of the file. The rest of the file will not be processed.

|-
|M3 or M4
|Spindle On
|<pre>M3
or
M4</pre>
|Starts the spindle.

|-
|M5
|Spindle Off
|<pre>M5</pre>
|Turns the spindle off.

|-
|M6
|Tool Change
|<pre>M6 T<#></pre>
|Requests the machine change to the specified tool number. It will turn off the spindle and coolant and other required operations when it changes the tool.

|-
|M7 or M8
|Coolant On
|<pre>M7
or
M8</pre>
|Turns the coolant flow on.

|-
|M9
|Coolant Off
|<pre>M9</pre>
|Turns the coolant flow off.

|-
|M90
|Output Off
|<pre>M90 OUT<#></pre>
|Turns the output to the Off or 0 state.

|-
|M91
|Output On
|<pre>M91 OUT<#></pre>
|Turns the output to the On or 1 state.

|}

== Routing Commands ==

{| border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="3"
!Code
!Command
!Format
!Purpose

|-
|G0
|[[G-code G0|Rapid Move]]
|<pre>G0 X<#> Y<#> Z<#> A<#></pre>
|Moves one or more of the axes at the rapid speed, to the specified location. Note that not all axes are required to be specified.

|-
|G1
|[[G-code G1|Straight Line]]
|<pre>G1 X<#> Y<#> Z<#> A<#></pre>
|Moves the specified axes in straight (linear) motion. It will use the requested feedrate, either from the F command or whatever the cut speed has been specified to be. This is a cutting move.

|-
|G2
|Clockwise Arc
|<pre>G2 X<#> Y<#> I<#> J<#>
or
G2 X<#> Z<#> I<#> K<#>
or
G2 Y<#> Z<#> J<#> K<#></pre>
|Moves two axes (XY, XZ or YZ) along the path of an arc in a clockwise direction. The XY specification is the end position, and the IJ specification is the center of the arc.

|-
|G3
|Couterclockwise Arc
|<pre>G3 X<#> Y<#> I<#> J<#>
or
G3 X<#> Z<#> I<#> K<#>
or
G3 Y<#> Z<#> J<#> K<#></pre>
|Moves two axes (XY, XZ or YZ) along the path of an arc in a counterclockwise direction. The XY specification is the end position, and the IJ specification is the center of the arc.

|}

== Drill Cycle Commands ==

{| border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="3"
!Code
!Command
!Format
!Purpose

|-
|G80
|Drilling Cycle Off
|<pre>G80</pre>
|Turns a drill cycle off.

|-
|G81
|Standard Drilling Cycle Without Dwell
|<pre>G81 X<#> Y<#> Z<#> R<#> P<#> F<#></pre>
|Provides a feed-in, rapid-out sequence used for standard drilling without a dwell time.

|-
|G82
|Standard Drilling Cycle With Dwell
|<pre>G82 X<#> Y<#> Z<#> R<#> P<#> F<#></pre>
|Provides a feed-in, rapid-out sequence used for standard drilling with a specified dwell time.

|-
|G83
|Peck Drilling Cycle
|<pre>G83 X<#> Y<#> Z<#> R<#> Q<#> V<#> P<#> F<#></pre>
|Provides a series of feed=in peck drilling motions with full retract used for drilling holes.

|-
|G87
|Chip Break Drilling Cycle
|<pre>G87 X<#> Y<#> Z<#> R<#> Q<#> V<#> W<#> P<#> F<#></pre>
|Provides a series of feed-in rapid-out motions that is similar to peck drilling, but the retract is a specified distance instead of a full retract.

|}

=== Drill Cycle Command Format ===

<pre>G8n X<#> Y<#> Z<#> R<#> Q<#> V<#> W<#> P<#> F<#></pre>

{| border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="3"
|'''X'''
|the x coordinate of the hole

|-
|'''Y'''
|the y coordinate of the hole

|-
|'''Z'''
|the z coordinate of the hole

|-
|'''R'''
|the reference height for start of drill plunge

|-
|'''Q'''
|the initial z peck increment

|-
|'''V'''
|the subsequent z peck increment

|-
|'''W'''
|the peck clearance, z retract between pecks

|-
|'''P'''
|the dwell time (in seconds)

|-
|'''F'''
|the drilling feedrate, plunge speed

|-
|'''n'''
|an integer in the range of zero to nine

|}

[[Category:Software]]
[[Category:Manual]]

LC Wiring

2011-06-03T14:57:29Z

Jbeck:

{{WIP}}

This page is in the process of collecting wiring info for the LC series machines.

=== Power Input ===

[[Media:LC_wiring_Rev_2.pdf|Power input to an LC control box (pdf)]]

=== Control Box Mainboard ===

See [[LC Servo Controller connector pinouts|LC_Servo_Controller_connector_pinouts]] for details.

[[Category:Electronics]]

LC Wiring

2011-06-03T14:47:37Z

Jbeck: Created page with "{{WIP}} This page is in the process of collecting wiring info for the LC series machines. === Power Input === [[Media:LC_wiring_Rev_2.pdf|Power input to an LC control box (pdf..."

File:LC wiring Rev 2.pdf

2011-06-03T14:45:55Z

Jbeck: Wiring power diagram for the LC series control box

Wiring power diagram for the LC series control box

Jerk Reduction

2011-05-12T21:31:27Z

Jbeck: Created page with "{{CSVersion|version=1.422}} The CNC control industry often claims that s-curve velocity (or even acceleration) profiles reduces the tendency for the machine to wobble as it acce..."

{{CSVersion|version=1.422}}

The CNC control industry often claims that s-curve velocity (or even acceleration) profiles reduces the tendency for the machine to wobble as it accelerates and decelerates around the toolpath contour. We've found other factors play a more important role, but there may be instances where the jerk reduction really helps improve the cut. This feature can be controlled through the params.cfg file, located in your Techno Control Interface installation directory.

Note that the interface doesn't allow you to set this parameter. If you want to enable jerk reduction, modify your params.cfg file manually, save the file, and preprocess your g-code. The parameter is the very last line, labeled Jerk Reduction. The higher the percentage (valid between 0 and 100), the less the jerk.

You may want to test it at 0 and 100, to see if you notice a difference in your own work. Be aware that other factors (such as where you cut on the table, fixturing considerations, spindle speed, acceleration, etc) may play a larger role in the actual cut quality than Jerk Reduction. But it shouldn't hurt to experiment with it.

How to turn off UAC

2011-05-12T15:55:02Z

Jbeck:

In Windows 7 and Windows Vista, UAC is a feature that tries to manage software permissions and user access, to prevent malware from infecting a PC. In practice, UAC can be very annoying. To make matters worse, UAC prevents the Techno CNC control interface from writing critical information to the installation directory. When installing our software on a machine that supports UAC, we require that UAC be turned off.

# Click the Windows button (Start) and in the search box, type "UAC" and press Enter. That will bring up the User Account and Control Settings window. You can also find the UAC settings without searching. Go to Click the Windows button (Start) > Control Panel > System and Security and click the "Change User Account Control Settings" option.
# Drag the slider all the way to the bottom, which turns UAC off. It will say "never notify me...".
# Click Ok and confirm that you really want to make the change.
# Reboot your computer.

The computer is now ready for installation of your TechnoCNC software. If you've already installed the software before turning off UAC, rebooting the computer will trash any settings you've saved in the Control Interface. You'll have to set these settings again, but it will work properly this time.

How to turn off UAC

2011-05-12T15:54:44Z

Jbeck:

In Windows 7 and Windows Vista, UAC is a feature that tries to manage software permissions and user access, to prevent malware from infecting a PC. In practice, UAC can be very annoying. To make matters worse, UAC prevents the Techno CNC control interface from writing critical information to the installation directory. When installing our software on a machine that supports UAC, we require that UAC be turned off.

=== To turn off UAC ===

# Click the Windows button (Start) and in the search box, type "UAC" and press Enter. That will bring up the User Account and Control Settings window. You can also find the UAC settings without searching. Go to Click the Windows button (Start) > Control Panel > System and Security and click the "Change User Account Control Settings" option.
# Drag the slider all the way to the bottom, which turns UAC off. It will say "never notify me...".
# Click Ok and confirm that you really want to make the change.
# Reboot your computer.

The computer is now ready for installation of your TechnoCNC software. If you've already installed the software before turning off UAC, rebooting the computer will trash any settings you've saved in the Control Interface. You'll have to set these settings again, but it will work properly this time.

How to turn off UAC

2011-05-12T15:52:46Z

Jbeck: Created page with "In Windows 7 and Windows Vista, UAC is a feature that tries to manage software permissions and user access, to prevent malware from infecting a PC. In practice, UAC can be very a..."

In Windows 7 and Windows Vista, UAC is a feature that tries to manage software permissions and user access, to prevent malware from infecting a PC. In practice, UAC can be very annoying. To make matters worse, UAC prevents the Techno CNC control interface from writing critical information to the installation directory. When installing our software on a machine that supports UAC, we require that UAC be turned off.

=== To turn off UAC ===

# Click the Windows button (Start) and in the search box, type "UAC" and press Enter. That will bring up the User Account and Control Settings window. You can also find the UAC settings without searching. Go to Click the Windows button (Start) > Control Panel > System and Security and click the "Change User Account Control Settings" option.
# Drag the slider all the way to the bottom, which turns UAC off. It will say "never notify me...".
# Click Ok and confirm that you really want to make the change.
# Reboot your computer.

Drill Bank Setup

2011-05-12T13:39:33Z

Jbeck: tabulated the gcode commands

{{Template:WIP}}

{{ManualNavigation (servo)}}

== Introduction ==

The TechnoCNC RVS1000 control board works with the Control Software to operate a drill bank. There are a set of g-code commands that will extend or retract the individual drill bits, and the length of the bit set will automatically be taken into consideration, allowing multiple length sets of bits in a single drill bank. This document describes how to wire, configure, and set up your drill bank.

For information about a particular CAM package, please see the documentation from the company that produces the CAM package you're using. This document does not cover CAM software setup. If you need a post, feel free to call us. If we don't have it, we'll help you get one. This document does contain the required information for creating a post, if necessary.

== Hardware Wiring ==

A serial cable goes from the TechnoCNC RVS1000 control board, to the PC that will control the router. If the PC does not have a serial port, a good quality USB-to-serial adapter can be used instead. Take note of which port is being used, and set it to a low port number (1 or 2) if possible.

The RVS1000 board is powered from the control box somehow. The schematics are forthcoming.

The drill bank is plugged into the board somehow. Schematics forthcoming.

== Software Setup ==

{{CSVersion|version=1.421}}

Go to Setup > Advanced > Hardware Switches, and check the box labeled “Drill Bank on COM port”.

Enter the serial port number in the box to the right. This is the same port that you plugged the RVS1000 into, in the Hardware Wiring section.

Select where your drill bank exists. There are two typical configurations. The most common is mounted to the Z axis, on pneumatics to raise and lower the bank as needed. These pneumatics require air pressure, and it's a good idea to check the Monitor Air Pressure option, just in case. If you're confident in the air pressure, this option is optional. The second option is having it mounted to the A axis. Click the radio button to select this configuration.

Click OK to save the Setup. Exit the software and run it again. This ensures all functions know about the changes.

When the software appears, you will see a [B] button next to the Coolant and Spindle controls on the main interface. Clicking the button will bring up a dialog box for testing and configuring the drill bank.

[[File:Drill_bank_display.gif]]

If everything is set up correctly, you should be able to click the numbered buttons 1 through 9, to extend or retract individual bits. Extended Bits box displays the bits that are currently extended.

If your drill bank is mounted to the Z axis, you'll see Raise and Lower head buttons. These will bring the drill bank up and down, using the pneumatics.

Drill On and Drill Off control power to the drill. As expected.

[[File:Io_light_diagram.gif]]

The Output box lets you set individual output bits on the RVS1000 board. This can be used for troubleshooting, by turning on a particular output and watching the corresponding LED light. The LED diagram is detailed in the image below. Note that D65 is output 0 (“lower drill”), and D81 is output 8 (“extend bit 7”).

== Drill Bit Setup ==

The process for setting up the bits inside your drill bank is reasonably simple.

# Teach the tip location of an empty extended bit holder. See the Learn Empty Tool section.
# Teach where the tips of all the bits are (how long they are). See Teach Bit Groups
# Set the X and Y location for the drill bank (or master bit).

Before we do anything, we have to set the bank tools appropriately in the control software. Go to Setup > Tools, and scroll down to the tools labeled Bank 1, Bank 2, etc. Each of these tools represents a bit in the drill bank. For each bit you need to use (typically 1 through 9), enter the number “10” in in the Special column. This tells the software that there is no tool holder for this tool. Click OK when you're finished.

== Learn Empty Tool ==
Learning an empty tool is only necessary if your drill bank is mounted to the Z axis. If it's mounted to the A axis, you can skip this step. In fact, the button won't even show.
From the main screen, click the [B] button. Click on any of the numbered buttons to extend an empty bit holder. If the empty holder does not drop below any tools in the drill bank, remove the tools. In fact, you should probably just remove all the tools right now, just to be safe.

Place the touchpad on the router table below the empty bit holder, and press the Learn Empty Tool button. The Z-axis will drop slowly, until it touches the touchpad. This stores the Z position of the tip of the empty bit holder. The most important part of this process is to put the touchpad at the same Z height every time you learn a tool length or empty tool position! If you are not consistent, the length of the tools will all be wrong.

== Teach Bit Lengths ==
Put all your bits in the drill bank, wherever you wish. For example, bits 1 and 2 could be ¾ inch bits that are two inches long. Bits 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9 could be ¼ inch bits that are only one inch long. Bits 1 and two are the first group, and bits 5 through 9 are the second group.

Extend the first group of bits by clicking on the 1 and 2 buttons. The only two bits that are extended should be bits 1 and 2. Jog the machine so that bit 1 or 2 (doesn't matter which) is directly over the touchpad, and press Touch Off Bank. The Z-axis (or A-axis) will descend until one of the bits touches the touchpad. The software now knows the length of both bits 1 and 2, and it will store the lengths in the tool table.

Click Retract All Bits, and extend the second group of bits by clicking the 5 through 9 buttons. Only bits 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9 should be extended. Position any of the extended bits over the touchpad, and click the Touch Off Bank button. The software now knows the length of bits 5 through 9, and will store these values in the tool table.

If you accidentally extend bits 1 and 7 (for example), the software will assume that all bits in the group are the same length as bit 1! If you extend bit 2, 8, and 9, the software will incorrectly believe that all the bits are the length of bit 2 (in our example, 2 inches). Be mindful of this, as it means that accidents can result in drilling through your table surface.

Press Close to exit the Drill Bank window. If you go to Setup > Tools and scroll down to the Bank 1 tool number, you'll notice that the Z Length Offsets are now populated with non-zero numbers, indicating that the software knows how long each bit is.

Set Bank X and Y Locations (or Master Bit)
The “master bit” concept is the most widely used concept in drill bank operation. When you set up your CAM software, you are expected to define the location of all your bits relative to a master bit. This bit can be any of the bits you choose. Just make sure you pick one, and stick to it.

The control software needs to know where this master bit is located in X and Y, relative to the spindle. To set the master bit location, every drill bit in the tool table needs the X Offset and Y Offset set to the master bit location. So for example, if you have a 9-bit drill bank, and the X and Y offsets for the master bit are 12.4 inches and 29.2 inches away from the spindle center, you'd write “12.4” under the X Offset column and 29.2 inches under the Y Offset column for Bank 1, Bank 2, … through Bank 9. All banks will have the same offset, because you're using a master bit.

There are many other ways to configure bit locations. Some CAM packages allow you to define the master bit offset in the CAM software, so no special X and Y Offset is required (set them to zero, in this case).

If you prefer to use the drill bank as a sort-of toolchanger, you could place individual tools in each position of the drill bank, and set the X and Y Offset for each one relative to the spindle. Thus, when extending Bank 3, it'd use the X and Y Offset for that specific bank. This should be a rare setup situation, but it's possible. Just be aware that only one bit should be extended at a time or the settings for the lowest-numbered bit will be used.

== G-Code Commands ==

The commands to operate a drill bank connected to a RVS1000 control board look very similar to the commands used to control IO. Some IO commands have special meaning when connected to a drill bank, and those are listed below.

Note that in general, M91 will perform an action, and M90 will reverse the action. So for example, M91OUT102 will extend the first bit, and M90OUT102 will retract the same bit.

=== Bank Control===

{| border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="3"
!G Code
!Description
|-
| M91OUT127
| Lower the drill bank using pneumatics
|-
| M90OUT127
| Raise the drill bank using pneumatics
|-
| M91OUT115
| Turn on the drill
|-
| M90OUT115
| Turn off the drill
|}

=== Extend Bits ===

{| border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="3"
!G Code
!Description
|-
| M91OUT102
| Extend bit 1
|-
| M91OUT103
| Extend bit 2
|-
| M91OUT104
| Extend bit 3
|-
| M91OUT105
| Extend bit 4
|-
| M91OUT106
| Extend bit 5
|-
| M91OUT107
| Extend bit 6
|-
| M91OUT108
| Extend bit 7
|-
| M91OUT109
| Extend bit 8
|-
| M91OUT110
| Extend bit 9
|-
| M91OUT111
| Extend bit 10
|-
| M91OUT112
| Extend bit 11
|-
| M91OUT113
| Extend bit 12
|-
| M91OUT114
| Extend bit 13
|}

=== Retract Bits ===

{| border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="3"
!G Code
!Description
|-
| M90OUT102
| Retract bit 1
|-
| M90OUT103
| Retract bit 2
|-
| M90OUT104
| Retract bit 3
|-
| M90OUT105
| Retract bit 4
|-
| M90OUT106
| Retract bit 5
|-
| M90OUT107
| Retract bit 6
|-
| M90OUT108
| Retract bit 7
|-
| M90OUT109
| Retract bit 8
|-
| M90OUT110
| Retract bit 9
|-
| M90OUT111
| Retract bit 10
|-
| M90OUT112
| Retract bit 11
|-
| M90OUT113
| Retract bit 12
|-
| M90OUT114
| Retract bit 13
|}

== Problems and Errors ==

=== Numbered Buttons Don't Extend Bits ===

If you can't use the numbered buttons under the [B] window to toggle the drill bits, take note of the error message and try to correct any wiring problems. If you toggle the bits on and off, you should see the corresponding light on the RVS1000 board blinking. The lights turn on when a bit is extended, and turn off when retracted. If the lights are working, but the bank isn't extending the bits, double-check that the drill bank is powered and electrically configured correctly. Light toggling on the board mean the software and board are configured correctly.

=== Serial Timeout when Raise or Lower Head button is pressed ===

If your drill bank is on the Z axis, you'll see buttons for raising and lowering the head. If you click “Raise head” or “Lower head”, the bank should raise and lower. But there's a catch. The head is mounted with limit switches that detect whether the bank is actually up or down. If your limit switches aren't working properly, you'll get a timeout error after about 3 seconds. On some systems, this error messages pops up under the drill bank window. If this happens, your Drill Bank window will appear to be frozen. Press Esc to dismiss the error and the drill bank window will start working again. If your drill bank doesn't move up within 3 seconds, you'll also get the error. In this case, check the air pressure.

There are two lights on the RVS1000 that will toggle back and forth, when these buttons are pressed. They will operate even if the limit switches don't work. If you press the Raise and Lower buttons, and the lights work but the drill bank doesn't move, check for wiring, air pressure, or hardware problems.

=== Message: The toolchanger requires you to manually LOAD tool 116. ===

[[File:Load_tool_116_message.gif]]

This simply means you haven't set up the bit correctly. Bank 1 corresponds to tool 116. Bank 2 would be 117, and so on. Make sure you have entered "10" under the Special column, to indicate the tool has no stand associated with it. Also make sure the Z Length Offset is non-zero; if it's zero, follow the routine in this document to learn the bit length.

[[Category:Software Manual (servo)]]

Tips and Tutorials

2011-05-12T13:30:56Z

Jbeck:

{{WIP}}

To get started, choose a category you'd like to learn more about.

== New Machine Setup ==

Setup procedures for all machine types.

== General Router Operation ==

How to run a file and jog the machine around.

== Machine Maintenance ==

How to care for the machine. Ball screw lubrication.

== Tool Changes ==

Manual and automatic tool change setup. Quick changes.

[[Drill_Bank_Setup|Drill Bank Setup]]

== Fixtures and Offsets ==

Learn how to use the stored offset features in the software.

== Reverse Engineering ==

If you have a part you'd like to copy, here's how to do it!

Main Page

2011-05-11T20:06:44Z

Jbeck:

{| id="mp-topbanner" style="width:100%; background:#f6f6f6; margin-top:1.2em; border:1px solid #ddd;"
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{| style="border: 0; margin: 0;" cellpadding="3"
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* [[Software manual|Software Manuals]]
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|}
</div>

| valign="top" class="mainpage_hubbox" |
<div class="mainpage_hubtitle">Tips & Tutorials</div>
<div class="mainpage_boxcontents">
{| style="border: 0; margin: 0;" cellpadding="3"
| valign="top" | Coming Soon! Submit tips with our [http://www.technorouters.com/feedback.php Feedback form]!

([[Tips and Tutorials|Tips & Tutorials Main Page]])
|}
</div>

| valign="top" class="mainpage_hubbox" |
<div class="mainpage_hubtitle">Troubleshooting</div>
<div class="mainpage_boxcontents">
{| style="border: 0; margin: 0;" cellpadding="3"
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* [[Troubleshooting|Knowledge base main]]
* [[FAQ|Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)]]
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</div>
|}

=== About Techno Docs ===

This site aims to collect all the documentation in one easy-to-access location for everyone who uses or works on a Techno machine. We're currently in Beta, which means not everything is available online, and some information may be misleading. That's a work in progress.

As soon as we feel comfortable with the amount and quality of the information here, we'll remove the BETA tag on the logo, and you can feel comfortable knowing the information has been checked and is accurate.

If you notice anything that doesn't seem to correlate to your experience, please send us an email! We aim to fix problems quickly. If you have an idea about something that would be helpful to you, please contact us so we can get it online.

Thanks!

__NOTOC__
__NOEDITSECTION__

Help:Contents

2011-05-11T20:04:51Z

Jbeck:

There are two good ways to find what you're looking for.

# Search, using keywords
# Browse by Navigation or Category

If all else fails, send us an email or call, and we'll track down the info you want.

=== Search ===

The search tool on this site is very good. If you're looking for G code examples, type "g code example" in the Search box and press Go. The results are broken into page title and page text categories.

It's best to use short descriptions when searching. Finding the setup guide for Patriot machines is easily found by simply typing "patriot" and pressing Go. So don't get too specific when searching.

=== Browsing ===

There are three ways to browse. The first is to click on a link to the left, under Navigation. These links are categorized by Techno as well as we can imagine you need. So for example, the lathe manual for the software is under Software Manuals, in a section under Techno CNC Lathes. And so on. This method can be quick if you aren't sure what to search for, or if your search results aren't getting the information you want.

The second way is by [[Special:Categories|Category]]. All documents on this site are categorized into one or more categories, and you can find them by going into the Category page (click Special pages > Categories). If you are searching for g-code examples, you have to guess what it's category might be. You can find it either under Software or Manual categories, but you'd have to guess that. If you were looking for the Patriot setup guide, you would probably guess it's in the Setup Guide category.

The last method is to look in the All Pages listing. See Special pages > All pages. This lists the title of very page on the site. This isn't super useful. Maybe you don't know how to spell "patriot". If so, you could browse this page until you found the setup guide link. If nothing else, this page might lead you to some information that's helpful, but didn't realize existed (like the PCI400 pinout page, for example, if you need to troubleshoot).

First try searching. It's usually the fastest way to find what you want.

Help:Contents

2011-05-11T20:04:34Z

Jbeck: Created page with "There are two good ways to find what you're looking for. # Search, using keywords # Browse by Navigation or Category If all else fails, send us an email or call, and we'll ..."

TechnoDocs:Privacy policy

2011-05-11T19:42:22Z

Jbeck: Created page with "This site does not collect personal information from regular users. It may collect browser and IP info, but we won't use it for identifying you. We don't even know how to do that..."

This site does not collect personal information from regular users. It may collect browser and IP info, but we won't use it for identifying you. We don't even know how to do that.

If you have a login ID, all your changes are being tracked, all the time. So if your login ID is "ralph", every time "ralph" makes a change, we will see it. We do this to maintain quality. Every change submitted to this site is checked, and can easily be reverted if the information is incorrect.

TechnoDocs:General disclaimer

2011-05-11T19:32:37Z

Jbeck: Created page with "While this site is in Beta, the information may be inaccurate or misleading. Please contact us if the information on these pages don't match your experience. We will fix it! Be ..."

While this site is in Beta, the information may be inaccurate or misleading. Please contact us if the information on these pages don't match your experience. We will fix it!

Be safe. An improperly operated machine can injure or kill you.

TechnoDocs:About

2011-05-11T19:30:14Z

Jbeck: Created page with "This site aims to collect all the documentation in one easy-to-access location for everyone who uses or works on a Techno machine. We're currently in Beta, which means not everyt..."

This site aims to collect all the documentation in one easy-to-access location for everyone who uses or works on a Techno machine. We're currently in Beta, which means not everything is available online, and some information may be misleading. That's a work in progress.

As soon as we feel comfortable with the amount and quality of the information here, we'll remove the BETA tag on the logo, and you can feel comfortable knowing the information has been checked and is accurate.

If you notice anything that doesn't seem to correlate to your experience, please send us an email! We aim to fix problems quickly. If you have an idea about something that would be helpful to you, please contact us so we can get it online.

Main Page

2011-05-11T16:13:20Z

Jbeck:

{| id="mp-topbanner" style="width:100%; background:#f6f6f6; margin-top:1.2em; border:1px solid #ddd;"
| style="width:61%; color:#000;" |
{| style="width:280px; border:none; background:none;"
| style="width:280px; text-align:center; white-space:nowrap; color:#000;" |
<div style="font-size:162%; border:none; margin:0; padding:.1em; color:#000;">Welcome to Techno Docs</div>
<div style="top:+0.2em; font-size:95%;">Documentation, Tips and Knowledge Base</div>
|}
|}

== Website Maintenance ==
This website is undergoing some modification today. Please be patient! Check back in a day or two if something goes wrong. Thanks!

{| style="border:0; margin: 0;" width="100%" cellspacing="10"
| valign="top" class="mainpage_hubbox" |
<div class="mainpage_hubtitle">Software & Hardware Manuals</div>
<div class="mainpage_boxcontents">
{| style="border: 0; margin: 0;" cellpadding="3"
| valign="top" | IMAGE
| valign="top" |
* [[Software manual|Software Manuals]]
* [[Hardware Manual|Hardware Manuals]]
* [[Machine Setup Guides]]
|}
</div>

| valign="top" class="mainpage_hubbox" |
<div class="mainpage_hubtitle">Tips & Tutorials</div>
<div class="mainpage_boxcontents">
{| style="border: 0; margin: 0;" cellpadding="3"
| valign="top" | Coming Soon! Submit tips with our [http://www.technorouters.com/feedback.php Feedback form]!

([[Tips and Tutorials|Tips & Tutorials Main Page]])
|}
</div>

| valign="top" class="mainpage_hubbox" |
<div class="mainpage_hubtitle">Troubleshooting</div>
<div class="mainpage_boxcontents">
{| style="border: 0; margin: 0;" cellpadding="3"
| valign="top" |
* [[Troubleshooting|Knowledge base main]]
* [[FAQ|Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)]]
|}
</div>
|}

=== About Techno Docs ===

This site aims to collect all the documentation in one easy-to-access location for everyone who uses or works on a Techno machine. We're currently in Beta, which means not everything is available online, and some information may be misleading. That's a work in progress.

As soon as we feel comfortable with the amount and quality of the information here, we'll remove the BETA tag on the logo, and you can feel comfortable knowing the information has been checked and is accurate.

If you notice anything that doesn't seem to correlate to your experience, please send us an email! We aim to fix problems quickly. If you have an idea about something that would be helpful to you, please contact us so we can get it online.

Thanks!

__NOTOC__
__NOEDITSECTION__

Drill Bank Setup

2011-05-02T16:28:51Z

Jbeck: Added the content from the doc. This is the draft 1 version.

{{Template:WIP}}

{{ManualNavigation (servo)}}

== Introduction ==

The TechnoCNC RVS1000 control board works with the Control Software to operate a drill bank. There are a set of g-code commands that will extend or retract the individual drill bits, and the length of the bit set will automatically be taken into consideration, allowing multiple length sets of bits in a single drill bank. This document describes how to wire, configure, and set up your drill bank.

For information about a particular CAM package, please see the documentation from the company that produces the CAM package you're using. This document does not cover CAM software setup. If you need a post, feel free to call us. If we don't have it, we'll help you get one. This document does contain the required information for creating a post, if necessary.

== Hardware Wiring ==

A serial cable goes from the TechnoCNC RVS1000 control board, to the PC that will control the router. If the PC does not have a serial port, a good quality USB-to-serial adapter can be used instead. Take note of which port is being used, and set it to a low port number (1 or 2) if possible.

The RVS1000 board is powered from the control box somehow. The schematics are forthcoming.

The drill bank is plugged into the board somehow. Schematics forthcoming.

== Software Setup ==

{{CSVersion|version=1.421}}

Go to Setup > Advanced > Hardware Switches, and check the box labeled “Drill Bank on COM port”.

Enter the serial port number in the box to the right. This is the same port that you plugged the RVS1000 into, in the Hardware Wiring section.

Select where your drill bank exists. There are two typical configurations. The most common is mounted to the Z axis, on pneumatics to raise and lower the bank as needed. These pneumatics require air pressure, and it's a good idea to check the Monitor Air Pressure option, just in case. If you're confident in the air pressure, this option is optional. The second option is having it mounted to the A axis. Click the radio button to select this configuration.

Click OK to save the Setup. Exit the software and run it again. This ensures all functions know about the changes.

When the software appears, you will see a [B] button next to the Coolant and Spindle controls on the main interface. Clicking the button will bring up a dialog box for testing and configuring the drill bank.

[[File:Drill_bank_display.gif]]

If everything is set up correctly, you should be able to click the numbered buttons 1 through 9, to extend or retract individual bits. Extended Bits box displays the bits that are currently extended.

If your drill bank is mounted to the Z axis, you'll see Raise and Lower head buttons. These will bring the drill bank up and down, using the pneumatics.

Drill On and Drill Off control power to the drill. As expected.

[[File:Io_light_diagram.gif]]

The Output box lets you set individual output bits on the RVS1000 board. This can be used for troubleshooting, by turning on a particular output and watching the corresponding LED light. The LED diagram is detailed in the image below. Note that D65 is output 0 (“lower drill”), and D81 is output 8 (“extend bit 7”).

== Drill Bit Setup ==

The process for setting up the bits inside your drill bank is reasonably simple.

# Teach the tip location of an empty extended bit holder. See the Learn Empty Tool section.
# Teach where the tips of all the bits are (how long they are). See Teach Bit Groups
# Set the X and Y location for the drill bank (or master bit).

Before we do anything, we have to set the bank tools appropriately in the control software. Go to Setup > Tools, and scroll down to the tools labeled Bank 1, Bank 2, etc. Each of these tools represents a bit in the drill bank. For each bit you need to use (typically 1 through 9), enter the number “10” in in the Special column. This tells the software that there is no tool holder for this tool. Click OK when you're finished.

== Learn Empty Tool ==
Learning an empty tool is only necessary if your drill bank is mounted to the Z axis. If it's mounted to the A axis, you can skip this step. In fact, the button won't even show.
From the main screen, click the [B] button. Click on any of the numbered buttons to extend an empty bit holder. If the empty holder does not drop below any tools in the drill bank, remove the tools. In fact, you should probably just remove all the tools right now, just to be safe.

Place the touchpad on the router table below the empty bit holder, and press the Learn Empty Tool button. The Z-axis will drop slowly, until it touches the touchpad. This stores the Z position of the tip of the empty bit holder. The most important part of this process is to put the touchpad at the same Z height every time you learn a tool length or empty tool position! If you are not consistent, the length of the tools will all be wrong.

== Teach Bit Lengths ==
Put all your bits in the drill bank, wherever you wish. For example, bits 1 and 2 could be ¾ inch bits that are two inches long. Bits 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9 could be ¼ inch bits that are only one inch long. Bits 1 and two are the first group, and bits 5 through 9 are the second group.

Extend the first group of bits by clicking on the 1 and 2 buttons. The only two bits that are extended should be bits 1 and 2. Jog the machine so that bit 1 or 2 (doesn't matter which) is directly over the touchpad, and press Touch Off Bank. The Z-axis (or A-axis) will descend until one of the bits touches the touchpad. The software now knows the length of both bits 1 and 2, and it will store the lengths in the tool table.

Click Retract All Bits, and extend the second group of bits by clicking the 5 through 9 buttons. Only bits 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9 should be extended. Position any of the extended bits over the touchpad, and click the Touch Off Bank button. The software now knows the length of bits 5 through 9, and will store these values in the tool table.

If you accidentally extend bits 1 and 7 (for example), the software will assume that all bits in the group are the same length as bit 1! If you extend bit 2, 8, and 9, the software will incorrectly believe that all the bits are the length of bit 2 (in our example, 2 inches). Be mindful of this, as it means that accidents can result in drilling through your table surface.

Press Close to exit the Drill Bank window. If you go to Setup > Tools and scroll down to the Bank 1 tool number, you'll notice that the Z Length Offsets are now populated with non-zero numbers, indicating that the software knows how long each bit is.

Set Bank X and Y Locations (or Master Bit)
The “master bit” concept is the most widely used concept in drill bank operation. When you set up your CAM software, you are expected to define the location of all your bits relative to a master bit. This bit can be any of the bits you choose. Just make sure you pick one, and stick to it.

The control software needs to know where this master bit is located in X and Y, relative to the spindle. To set the master bit location, every drill bit in the tool table needs the X Offset and Y Offset set to the master bit location. So for example, if you have a 9-bit drill bank, and the X and Y offsets for the master bit are 12.4 inches and 29.2 inches away from the spindle center, you'd write “12.4” under the X Offset column and 29.2 inches under the Y Offset column for Bank 1, Bank 2, … through Bank 9. All banks will have the same offset, because you're using a master bit.

There are many other ways to configure bit locations. Some CAM packages allow you to define the master bit offset in the CAM software, so no special X and Y Offset is required (set them to zero, in this case).

If you prefer to use the drill bank as a sort-of toolchanger, you could place individual tools in each position of the drill bank, and set the X and Y Offset for each one relative to the spindle. Thus, when extending Bank 3, it'd use the X and Y Offset for that specific bank. This should be a rare setup situation, but it's possible. Just be aware that only one bit should be extended at a time or the settings for the lowest-numbered bit will be used.

== G-Code Commands ==

The commands to operate a drill bank connected to a RVS1000 control board look very similar to the commands used to control IO. Some IO commands have special meaning when connected to a drill bank, and those are listed below.

Note that in general, M91 will perform an action, and M90 will reverse the action. So for example, M91OUT102 will extend the first bit, and M90OUT102 will retract the same bit.

=== Bank Control===

M91OUT127 Lower the drill bank using pneumatics
M90OUT127 Raise the drill bank using pneumatics

M91OUT115 Turn on the drill
M90OUT115 Turn off the drill

=== Extend Bits ===

M91OUT102 Extend bit 1
M91OUT103 Extend bit 2
M91OUT104 Extend bit 3
M91OUT105 Extend bit 4
M91OUT106 Extend bit 5
M91OUT107 Extend bit 6
M91OUT108 Extend bit 7
M91OUT109 Extend bit 8
M91OUT110 Extend bit 9
M91OUT111 Extend bit 10
M91OUT112 Extend bit 11
M91OUT113 Extend bit 12
M91OUT114 Extend bit 13

=== Retract Bits ===

M90OUT102 Retract bit 1
M90OUT103 Retract bit 2
M90OUT104 Retract bit 3
M90OUT105 Retract bit 4
M90OUT106 Retract bit 5
M90OUT107 Retract bit 6
M90OUT108 Retract bit 7
M90OUT109 Retract bit 8
M90OUT110 Retract bit 9
M90OUT111 Retract bit 10
M90OUT112 Retract bit 11
M90OUT113 Retract bit 12
M90OUT114 Retract bit 13

== Problems and Errors ==

== Numbered Buttons Don't Extend Bits ==

If you can't use the numbered buttons under the [B] window to toggle the drill bits, take note of the error message and try to correct any wiring problems. If you toggle the bits on and off, you should see the corresponding light on the RVS1000 board blinking. The lights turn on when a bit is extended, and turn off when retracted. If the lights are working, but the bank isn't extending the bits, double-check that the drill bank is powered and electrically configured correctly. Light toggling on the board mean the software and board are configured correctly.

=== Serial Timeout when Raise or Lower Head button is pressed ===

If your drill bank is on the Z axis, you'll see buttons for raising and lowering the head. If you click “Raise head” or “Lower head”, the bank should raise and lower. But there's a catch. The head is mounted with limit switches that detect whether the bank is actually up or down. If your limit switches aren't working properly, you'll get a timeout error after about 3 seconds. On some systems, this error messages pops up under the drill bank window. If this happens, your Drill Bank window will appear to be frozen. Press Esc to dismiss the error and the drill bank window will start working again. If your drill bank doesn't move up within 3 seconds, you'll also get the error. In this case, check the air pressure.

There are two lights on the RVS1000 that will toggle back and forth, when these buttons are pressed. They will operate even if the limit switches don't work. If you press the Raise and Lower buttons, and the lights work but the drill bank doesn't move, check for wiring, air pressure, or hardware problems.

=== Message: The toolchanger requires you to manually LOAD tool 116. ===

[[File:Load_tool_116_message.gif]]

This simply means you haven't set up the bit correctly. Bank 1 corresponds to tool 116. Bank 2 would be 117, and so on. Make sure you have entered "10" under the Special column, to indicate the tool has no stand associated with it. Also make sure the Z Length Offset is non-zero; if it's zero, follow the routine in this document to learn the bit length.

[[Category:Software Manual (servo)]]

File:Load tool 116 message.gif

2011-05-02T16:25:21Z

Jbeck:

File:Io light diagram.gif

2011-05-02T16:23:37Z

Jbeck: drill bank RSV1000 led output

drill bank RSV1000 led output

File:Drill bank display.gif

2011-05-02T16:19:53Z

Jbeck:

Run time error '52': Bad file name or number

2011-03-28T13:48:20Z

Jbeck: Created page with "When running the Control Interface, this error may be caused by attempting to access g-code from a network drive. To resolve, simply copy the g-code file locally (such as into My..."

When running the Control Interface, this error may be caused by attempting to access g-code from a network drive. To resolve, simply copy the g-code file locally (such as into My Documents), and run the file from there.

Category:Plasma

2011-03-10T16:30:35Z

Jbeck: Created page with "{{Template:Category}}"

Common plasma problems

2011-03-10T16:29:54Z

Jbeck:

Here is a list of some of the problems you may run into, and their solutions. Along with all these possible problems, check the front of the torch power supply to verify that there isn't an error; any flashing red lights or other abnormal behavior should be noted. Consult the manual for an explanation of these errors.

=== Torch starts, but the software claims it didn't ===
A bad electrode on a Thermo Dynamics torch can prevent the power supply from knowing that the torch is actually on. Change the consumables, making sure everything is seated correctly and tight.

The torch arc sensor detects a successful ignition when an appropriate amount of current is flowing through the electrode. If the electrode is damaged in some way, this current doesn't reach expected levels, so the signal to the PC is never active. Changing the electrode will fix this problem.

=== Touch-off behaves strangely ===
There are several reasons why a touch-off might act strange.

'''If the torch crashes during touch-off''', check the cable going to the PC from the tip of the torch. Make sure the clip is pushing against the tip of the torch. Bend the clip into position, and re-seat the cable quick-connect if necessary.

'''If torch touches the material, pauses, and slowly retracts before finally going back up''', check that your consumables are tight. A loose end cap can cause the touch-off to be imprecise, and will give a poor connection to ground.

'''If the torch pauses for a few seconds while performing a touch-off in a file''', check that you do not have an ART plugged in. If you do, unplug the art and reboot the software. This is a known bug. Consult your dealer for information about the latest version of the software.

[[Category:Plasma]]

Common plasma problems

2011-03-09T23:26:59Z

Jbeck: Created page with "Here is a list of some of the problems you may run into, and their solutions. Along with all these possible problems, check the front of the torch power supply to verify that the..."

Start/Stop box

2011-02-16T14:01:14Z

Jbeck: /* Setup */

The Start/Stop box (SSB for short) is a wired box with three buttons on it; Start (to run a file), E-stop (to kill the power to the amplifiers) and Pause (to stop or pause file execution).

== Setup ==
To add a Start/Stop box to your machine, you'll need to plug it into the [[Controller mainboard|main board]] and set it up in software.

# From the main screen, click Setup > Advanced > Touchpad & Remote.
# After the Start/Stop box is plugged in, click Test Remote.

Done! The remote Start and Pause buttons should be operational. Load a file into the interface and press the green Start button to execute the file. The Pause button will pause file execution.

=== Modes ===
For reference, the SSB modes are as follows. You can change the mode by going to Setup > Advanced > Touchpad & Remote, and entering the numerical mode in the box labeled "Remote Start-Stop Box Mode".

==== Mode 1 ====
This mode signifies the first revision of the box, which had high noise levels and was able to trigger with low voltage.

* Uses accessory interface
* Normally closed stop/pause button

==== Mode 2 ====
* Not on accessory interface
* Normally open stop/pause button

==== Mode 3 ====
* Uses accessory interface
* Normally open stop/pause button

==== Mode 4 ====
* Not on accessory interface
* Normally closed stop/pause button

==== Mode 5 ====
* Normally closed stop/pause button

== Common Problems ==
The most common problem associated with the Start/Stop box is when the E-stop button has been pressed, but the operator doesn't realize it. This generates an error displayed by the [[Control Software (servo)|control software]] that says "The controller is not enabled. Enable now?" Pressing Yes will not enable the controller, since the power is off.

Older versions of the Start/Stop box sometimes get button errors due to dust collecting in the enclosure. The new (white box) versions are better sealed and have been quite reliable.

Also known as a control pendant, startstopbox, E-stop box, SSB, or start/pause box.

[[Category:Hardware]]

Start/Stop box

2011-02-15T17:14:06Z

Jbeck: /* Modes */

The Start/Stop box (SSB for short) is a wired box with three buttons on it; Start (to run a file), E-stop (to kill the power to the amplifiers) and Pause (to stop or pause file execution).

== Setup ==
To add a Start/Stop box to your machine, you'll need to plug it into the [[Controller mainboard|main board]] and set it up in software.

# From the main screen, click Setup > Advanced > Touchpad & Remote.
# After the Start/Stop box is plugged in, click Test Remote.

Done! You should be able to enable the amplifiers, press the E-stop button, and the software will throw an error.

=== Modes ===
For reference, the SSB modes are as follows. You can change the mode by going to Setup > Advanced > Touchpad & Remote, and entering the numerical mode in the box labeled "Remote Start-Stop Box Mode".

==== Mode 1 ====
This mode signifies the first revision of the box, which had high noise levels and was able to trigger with low voltage.

* Uses accessory interface
* Normally closed stop/pause button

==== Mode 2 ====
* Not on accessory interface
* Normally open stop/pause button

==== Mode 3 ====
* Uses accessory interface
* Normally open stop/pause button

==== Mode 4 ====
* Not on accessory interface
* Normally closed stop/pause button

==== Mode 5 ====
* Normally closed stop/pause button

== Common Problems ==
The most common problem associated with the Start/Stop box is when the E-stop button has been pressed, but the operator doesn't realize it. This generates an error displayed by the [[Control Software (servo)|control software]] that says "The controller is not enabled. Enable now?" Pressing Yes will not enable the controller, since the power is off.

Older versions of the Start/Stop box sometimes get button errors due to dust collecting in the enclosure. The new (white box) versions are better sealed and have been quite reliable.

Also known as a control pendant, startstopbox, E-stop box, SSB, or start/pause box.

[[Category:Hardware]]

Start/Stop box

2011-02-15T17:12:35Z

Jbeck: added start/stop mode descriptions

The Start/Stop box (SSB for short) is a wired box with three buttons on it; Start (to run a file), E-stop (to kill the power to the amplifiers) and Pause (to stop or pause file execution).

== Setup ==
To add a Start/Stop box to your machine, you'll need to plug it into the [[Controller mainboard|main board]] and set it up in software.

# From the main screen, click Setup > Advanced > Touchpad & Remote.
# After the Start/Stop box is plugged in, click Test Remote.

Done! You should be able to enable the amplifiers, press the E-stop button, and the software will throw an error.

=== Modes ===
For reference, the SSB modes are as follows.

==== Mode 1 ====
This mode signifies the first revision of the box, which had high noise levels and was able to trigger with low voltage.

* Uses accessory interface
* Normally closed stop/pause button

==== Mode 2 ====
* Not on accessory interface
* Normally open stop/pause button

==== Mode 3 ====
* Uses accessory interface
* Normally open stop/pause button

==== Mode 4 ====
* Not on accessory interface
* Normally closed stop/pause button

==== Mode 5 ====
* Normally closed stop/pause button

== Common Problems ==
The most common problem associated with the Start/Stop box is when the E-stop button has been pressed, but the operator doesn't realize it. This generates an error displayed by the [[Control Software (servo)|control software]] that says "The controller is not enabled. Enable now?" Pressing Yes will not enable the controller, since the power is off.

Older versions of the Start/Stop box sometimes get button errors due to dust collecting in the enclosure. The new (white box) versions are better sealed and have been quite reliable.

Also known as a control pendant, startstopbox, E-stop box, SSB, or start/pause box.

[[Category:Hardware]]