In tutorial “How to setup CNC machine using PlanetCNC Software and controller” was described how to use limit switches and software settings, so that our machine will be properly calibrated and set, therefore ready for everyday use, giving us correct and satisfying results.

Please read this tutorial before continuing: How to setup CNC machine using PlanetCNC Software and controller

Important lessons from that tutorial:

– Homing procedure gives machine absolute coordinates. Only now machine becomes “self aware” and therefore is capable of knowing where its position is at any given moment. (video, step 1)

– We defined machine Table size i.e. workspace in all three coordinates. Visualization in software helps us with better sense of orientation. It helps us locate current machine tool position and imported program (g-code) position.

– Soft Limits are used to decelerate machine when certain axis is coming close to its limit, and prevents it from crashing.

– Tool Offset is measured by using Fixed Tool sensor.
Proper installment of Fixed Tool Sensor and its software settings configuration is necessary.  When we measure Tool Offset tip of our tool activates Fixed Tool Sensor. This sends exact information about height at which tool tip is located in machine absolute coordinates.  (video, step 2)

MACHINING YOUR FIRST WORK PIECE

This tutorial will help you getting started with the use of your CNC machine using PlanetCNC software and PlanetCNC controllers. Tutorial will focus on main points when setting Offset features.
Certain steps are also described in video below.

Importing program

We usually design our program in CAD software and define machine operations in CAM software. Programs can be saved in many different file formats. PlanetCNC software is capable of importing most of the popular file formats.

To import your program click File/Import or File/Open.

For tutorial purposes we imported program (file) in G-code format, which was generated with popular CAM software.

Apart from actual toolpath, G-code also contains all feed rates (speed) parameters, spindle commands (if spindle is controlled with controller) and other things. G-code used in this tutorial, assumes material top position is at Z zero. ‘Safe Height’ is 10mm above the material.

Setting Offset – Current XY

We set our Working Offset to zero before importing our program. This can be done by clicking Offset-Zero button in Offset Toolbar or through Machine/Offset/Zero menu.

Offset-Zero button

Imported programs origin is at machines zero position (in our case this is Home position).

Since our actual work piece is at other, more suitable location on machines table, we simply jog our machine to location where our piece is attached and where we want to machine it.(video, step 3)

When we find location on the table that suits us the most, we use Offset – Current XY feature, which allows us to set XY coordinates for starting point of machining.(video, step 4) You can set Current XY Offset anywhere on the table (as long as dimensions of program are within borders of the table size). We apply offset by clicking Offset – Current XY button. This can also be done through Machine menu.

Button is located in Offset Toolbar:

Machine Menu: Machine/Offset/Current XY

When we applied Offset-Current XY, our programs (G-code) origin aligned with machine.

XY coordinates of starting point are now set.

You can observe and switch between absolute and relative coordinates with the help of W checkbox
at Position panel.

XY Offset position in absolute coordinates

XY Offset position in relative coordinates

Setting Offset-Current Z

With XY offset coordinates of starting point already set, we must now define Z offset coordinate of starting point.
Top surface of working piece material is usually Z zero.

Setting Offset – Current Z can be done in many different ways. In our example we will do this most basic way (without movable sensor) by jogging machine over work piece, and then by step jogging of Z axis, slowly descending our tool onto the material surface.

We can help ourselves by adding a piece of paper between tool and the surface of material. When we are not able to move paper anymore, that indicates that tool is almost completely touching the
surface of material and we can apply Offset-Current Z. (video, step 5)

We apply offset by clicking Offset – Current Z button, or through Machine menu.

Button is located in Offset Toolbar:

Machine menu: Machine/Offset/Current Z

Z coordinate of starting point is now also set. We provided all three coordinates of starting point.  With the help of Position panel we can see that all three relative offset coordinates are now set to zero:

If we now jog our machine at any position on the table, and we click Go To – Zero XY button  ,
then machine will move back to position that was set as Current XY offset.

Video

The post How to machine your first workpiece appeared first on Planet CNC.

This is a short tutorial on how to correctly set Steps Per Unit values for your CNC machine.

Steps per unit value (in further text as SPU) defines how many steps will stepper motor have to
make in order to move the axis for distance of one unit. Units can be in millimeters or in inches.

Motor

Stepper motors usually have 200 or 400 full steps per one rotation of its shaft.
One rotation of shaft in degrees is 360°. For motors with 200 steps per revolution this means
one step is equal to 1.8°. For motors with 400 steps per revolution this means one step is equal to 0.9°.

In equation below, we will name this parameter M

Micro-Stepping

With micro-stepping we improve motors resolution, accuracy, smoother movements, we reduce
resonance problems etc. The real compromise is that as you increase the number of micro-steps per
full step the incremental torque per micro-step drops off drastically. Resolution increases but
accuracy will actually suffer.

With micro-step number we define, how many smaller steps is one full step divided into.
Most common values are ½ , ¼ , ⅛… but it is really up to you which micro-step value you will use.

In equation below, we will name this parameter S

Pitch

Usually CNC machines operate with the help of lead screws and nuts. They can be trapezoidal or
ball screw leads. The pitch of a screw thread is the distance between adjacent threads. When lead
screw is rotated for one revolution, this reflects as linear motion of axis. Distance traveled is equal
to lead screw’s pitch.

In equation below, we will name this parameter P

(Some CNC machines use rack and pinion instead. Distance traveled when pinion makes one
revolution can also be considered as pinion pitch. Similar is also true for toothed belt drive.)

SETTING SPU VALUES OF YOUR MACHINE IN CNC USB SOFTWARE

When we are defining correct SPU values for our machine, we can start from two different initial conditions.

If we know all variable values it’s no problem to calculate correct SPU value.
Correct SPU value = (M*S)/P

If we don’t know all variable values we will have to do some measuring and provide ourselves with
some numbers. Then we will be able to calculate correct SPU value.

We use metric units so our unit is millimeter. If you use imperial units (inches) then values are different.

1) In Settings/Axes/Setup we set our SPU value to some “normal” number, say 200 steps per unit.

2) We jog our machine to suitable location, and set Offset-Current XY . We want to move
X axis from our offset zero position to X=10 position. To measure the distance of machines travel, we can use ruler,
caliper or measuring tape which we place under machines tool.

3) Tool should start at 0 on the ruler.

In MDI window, we enter X10.

Machine should now move from X=0 to X=10, therefore travel for 10mm.

When we execute MDI command we can see that machine travled for 2.5mm instead of 10mm:

Meaning, our current SPU value moves machine axis for wrong distance.

We can ask ourselves:

If ‘Current SPU’ value, moves X axis for ‘Measured distance’ value, what is the ‘Correct SPU’ value
that will move X axis for ‘Entered distance’ value?

4) Equation looks like this:
Correct SPU value = ( Current SPU value * Entered distance value ) / Measured distance value

Current SPU = 200
Entered Distance = 10
Measured distance = 2.5

Correct SPU value= (200*10)/2,5 = 800 SPU

Now we enter correct value for SPU in Settings/Axes/Setup, Enter X10 in MDI window and measure the new distance value.

Measured distance value is now correct. Our steps per unit are correctly set.

It is recommended to repeat this procedure several times and use largest possible travel. Using 10mm travel is good for first pass but if you use maximum possible distance machine can travel, you will obtain much better results.

The post How to set Steps Per Unit values? appeared first on Planet CNC.

I will try to show you how to setup your CNC using PlanetCNC software. I will use my router machine as an example but you can do it similar way on all machine types. I use metric (millimeter) units but everything is same with imperial (inches) units except numbers are different (1mm is apporximately 0.03937in).

“Steps per unit” settings are already calculated and set. You should verify that distances in all directions are correct when machine moves. If position display changes for 100mm then machine should move 100mm.
If your SPU is not yet set please read SPU tutorial: How to set Steps Per Unit values?

First we need to set offsets to zero. Working offset should be set to zero with command “Machine/Offset/Zero”. “Empty” tool should be selected with with “Machine/Tools/Select/Empty” and tool offset should be set to zero with with “Machine/Tools/Zero Tool Offset” command. These commands will be explained later. For now it is important that everything is set to zero.

Limit switches

Machine that I will use has 5 limit switches. Two limit switches on X, two on Y and one on Z axis. To verify that all limit switches are working, trigger switch with hand and position display will become red or purple.

Triggered limit switch should stop machine. Machine should go to e-stop mode. To do this “Limit Switches Stop” checkboxes should be checked.

To verify that limit switches stop the machine, jog in direction of limit switch and trigger it with hand. Machine should stop. Be careful not to hurt yourself. Your hand near moving machine in usually not good idea so keep safe distance.

When machine stops you should be able to jog in opposite direction. All 5 limit switches should be verified like this.

Limit switches can be used as reference switches. This means that we will use them to set machine absolute coordinates. This is known as homing.

Homing

We need to choose where machine absolute zero position is. Usually machine works in relative coordinates and it is not really important where absolute zero is. What is important is, that it is always at same position. I will put some tape to mark it so that you will see it better on image.

Tool is put in spindle and machine is jogged to this position. Be careful not to crush tool into machine table when you descent Z axis. You can just loosely tighten tool in spindle and if accident happens nothing will be damaged.

This position should be machine absolute zero. Commands for changing machine absolute position are in menu “Machine/Set Position”. Because it is usually not good idea to change absolute position make sure that “Machine/Set Position/Enable” is checked to enable these commands. Later we will uncheck this to prevent unwanted absolute position change. Now we can execute “Machine/Set Position/Zero” command and set absolute position to zero.

You will notice that position display now shows all zeros.

Slowly jog Z axis up until Z+ limit switch is hit and machine stops. Position display will be purple.

Write down Z position (253.8375mm in this case). Jog in opposite direction so that limit switch is released.

Repeat this for X axis.
Slowly jog in X- direction until limit switch is hit and machine stops. Position display will be red.

Write down X position (-127.6833mm in this case). Jog in opposite direction so that limit switch is released.

And again for Y axis.
Slowly jog in Y- direction until limit switch is hit and machine stops. Position display will be red.

Write down Y position (-223.6188mm in this case). Jog in opposite direction so that limit switch is released.

We now have limit switch positions for all 3 axes and we can set homing.

Open settings, section “Axes/Homing” and check “Enable”.

Usually we want to home Z axis first so we set “Sequence” for Z axis to be “1”. Then we will home X and Y at same time so we set “Sequence” for X and Y to be “2”.

When machine triggers limit switch during homing it stops in a moment. That is why we need to approach limit switch with slow speed. In this tutorial we will set “Speed” to 500mm/min but each machine is different and you should find what works on yours.

We used Z+, X- and Y- limit switches in this tutorial. This is set with “Direction” setting.

Perhaps you noticed that when switch is triggered you need to move back short distance to release it. Some switches need longer distance, some very small, but all switches need this. For switches on this machine 3mm is good value. This is set as “Return Distance”. Switch actually requires a lot less but this is good safe value. Don’t use 0!

For “Set Position” value we will use limit switch positions that we measured earlier. We will add/subtract 3mm that we used for “Return Distance”.

With “Go To” we set where we want machine to go after limit switch is hit. Machine will be at this position be after homing. Usually it is X0 Y0 and Z at some safe height. We know now that machine highest Z position is 250.84 (we measured this few steps back) so Z200 seems like a good value.

Normally machine first moves to all limit switches first and goes to “Go To” position at the end. If we want to change this order and move to final position as soon as axis triggers limit switch we can check “Go To First”. Some machines need this to avoid clamps. This machine does not need this.

Here are all these settings:

We can close settings and “Machine/Home” command will be enabled (if it is not then press E-stop twice to force display refresh).

We are ready to execute “Machine/Home” for first time. There is also button on toolbar for this. As always, be ready to hit e-stop is something goes wrong.

After homing machine is at X0 Y0 Z200. This is exactly 200mm over marking that we made.

Machine is homed and now we can use absolute coordinates. We can move machine anywhere we want and we will know exactly where it is. It is important not to change absolute position. We will uncheck “Machine/Set Position/Enable” now.

If your machine losses steps for any reason you’ll need to do homing again.

Table size

Now that we can move machine anywhere we want and we know exactly where it is we can use this to measure machine table. We will slowly jog machine to X+ and Y+ direction until limit switch is hit and then back a little so that switch is released. Write down position. It is X813.8000mm and Y460.4208mm.

Table is measured and we will use this data to set machine limits and enable soft limits. Orange box on 3D display is now accurately representing machine working space.

Soft limits

Soft limits are used to decelerate machine to stop before machine is stopped hard way at limit switch or before it crashes. I recommend “Soft Limits Decelerate” and “Soft Limits Strict” settings are also checked. Sometimes we need to disable soft limits and there is a command for this in menu “Machine/Soft Limits”. When soft limit is triggered position display will be yellow.

Measuring tool offset with fixed tool sensor

We can now set fixed tool sensor. Fixed tool sensor is usually used to measure tool length offset. We need to have machine homed so that we can use absolute positions. On machine used for this tutorial, fixed tool sensor is located in corner and connected to INPUT5 pin. In this tutorial I use switch with lever which is good for tutorial but should not be used on real machine. Switch lever is not horizontal and it will not give accurate results.

First we will enable tool sensor in settings. This will enable sensor related menus and commands. Then we need to test if it works. Trigger sensor with hand. Word “Sensor” should appear on software status bar. Now we need to test if sensor stops machine. Jog machine away from sensor and to high Z position. Then slowly jog down and trigger fixed sensor with hand. Machine should stop.

Jog machine so that tool is directly above sensor. Slowly jog down until tool triggers sensor and stops. Write down position. In this case it is X-111.6854mm, Y453.2417mm, Z34.8979mm.

Open setting again, section “Tool Sensor”, group “Tool Sensor Fixed”. We set X and Y “Location” of our sensor. We could also set lead-in “Move” but for most machines this is zero. We need to set “Speed” which should be small because of momentary stop when tool triggers sensor. “Direction” is usually set to -. Because of long lever on my sensor switch “Return Distance” is quite large. I will set it to 5mm. We also have Z position of sensor and we can set “Set Position Z” value. Usually we want to move machine around at maximum possible Z height. This machine has Z+ limit is slightly above 250mm. 250mm will be good value for “Safe Height”. “Return” checkbox enables automatic return to position before tool length measurement.

Now we can test if tool offset measuring with fixed tool sensor works.

Jog machine somewhere in the middle and execute “Machine/Tools/Measure Tool Offset”. There is also button on toolbar for this. As always when you do something for first time – be ready to hit e-stop.

If everything is correct machine should go rapidly up tu safe height, then traverse to fixed sensor location. Then it will descend at low speed until sensor is triggered. Machine will return back a distance to release sensor and use its Z position to calculate tool offset. Then it will rapidly move up to safe height, traverse back to original position and then move down until tip of your tool is at same Z height as it was before.

When tool offset is active small checkbox labeled “T”, just above position display, will be enabled. If this “T” checkbox is checked then position display will include tool offset.

It is important to get familiar with “Machine/Tools/Measure Tool Offset” command. See my video where I change tool length and it always returns to same position. Note how I’m doing this so that even if something goes wrong I still have time to press e-stop.

The post How to setup CNC machine using PlanetCNC software and controller? appeared first on Planet CNC.

In spirit of Easter holidays(with a slight delay) we decided to wipe the dust from our EggBot and see if still works. We thought that it would be perfect if we use Toslink devices to demonstrate how both, Mk3 controller and Toslink work perfectly hand in hand.

For better understanding of Toslink please follow link below:

http://irnas.eu/goodenoughcnc/2016/03/10/toslink-cnc

Toslink can be integrated with a small stepper driver by just being stacked with motor driver and connected via flat ribbon cable:

Master Toslink board sends coded optical signal to all Toslink slave devices:

Controller is connected with Toslink master board which is connected with Toslink devices via optic fibre cable:

Here is a short video showing Mk3 controller, Toslink and EggBot in action.

The post Using EggBot with PlanetCNC controller and Toslink appeared first on Planet CNC.

 

Output board can be used to control external equipment such as VFDs, coolant systems, vacuum pumps etc.

It requires 12V power supply connected to a terminal labeled 12V (be careful with the polarity). Output board has 3 relays and 0-10V output. Relays can be used as NO (normally open) or NC (normally closed).

Relays and 0-10V output can controlled via 10pin header or terminals labeled “S”, “0”, “1”, “2” and “3”.

1. Output board connector description:

This IDC connector is used to connect output board with controller via 10pin ribbon cable (For Mk2 and Mk3).

Pin 5 of this connector activates relay 1.
Pin 4 of this connector activates relay 2.
Pin 3 of this connector activates relay 3.
Pin 6 of this connector controls 0-10V output.
 
This screw type connector is used to connect Mk2/4 or Mk3/4 controllers(or some other external devices) with output board:

 
[0-10V; GND, OUT] → to connect variable voltage output with VFD, output

[POWER; GND, 12V] → to connect power supply (12V DC, at least 200mA ), input

[SPEED; S, 0] → to connect varying frequency signal from controller or some other external device, input

S: Frequency signal input from Mk2/4 or Mk3/4 or other external device

0: GND from controller

[RELAYS; 1, 2 , 3] → Control signal input for SPINDLE, MIST or FLOOD from controller (or other external device), input
Input 1 controls relay labeled 1
Input 2 controls relay labeled 2
Input 3 controls relay labeled 3
 
This trimmer is used for calibrating the 0-10V output:

 
These are relay connectors. They are used for connection of the controlled device:

NO- normally open contact of relay
NC- normally closed contact of relay
1 – common movable contact of the first relay
2 – common movable contact of the second relay
3 – common movable contact of the third relay
 

2. Output board and controller connection:

Mk2 and Mk3 controllers use 10pin IDC connector, which makes the connection of controller and output board very easy.

Mk2 output connector:

Mk3 output connector:

Mk2 connection:

Mk3 connection:

Mk2/4 and Mk3/4 use screw type connectors so you will need to use single wires to connect controller with output board. To know which output pin from controller is connected to which input of output board, please refer to tutorial in Step 1.

Mk3/4 output connector:

Mk2/4 output connector:

Mk2/4 connection:

Mk3/4 connection:

 

3. Configuring controllers output pins in CNC USB controller software:

For Mk2 and Mk3 controller:

Connect Mk3/Mk2 controller with 10 wire cable to controller OUTPUT connector.
Do not connect terminals labeled “S”, “0”, “1”, “2” and “3”.

Set settings like this:

 
For Mk3/4 controller:

Connect Mk3/4 controller with wires to screw terminals.

If you use 3 relays connect output board terminals to controller like this:
“S” – not connected
“0” – GND
“1” – OUTPUT1
“2” – OUTPUT2
“3” – OUTPUT6

Set settings like this:

If you use 2 relays and 0-10V connect output board terminals to controller like this:

“S” – OUTPUT6
“0” – GND
“1” – OUTPUT1
“2” – OUTPUT2
“3” – not connected

Set settings like this:

For Mk2/4 controller:

Connect Mk2/4 controller with wires to screw terminals.
If you use 3 relays connect output board terminals to controller like this:

“S” – not connected
“0” – GND
“1” – OUTPUT1
“2” – OUTPUT2
“3” – OUTPUT7

Set settings like this:

If you use 2 relays and 0-10V connect output board terminals to controller like this:

“S” – OUTPUT7
“0” – GND
“1” – OUTPUT1
“2” – OUTPUT2
“3” – not connected

Set settings like this:

The post Using output board with PlanetCNC controllers appeared first on Planet CNC.

Connect SD card adapter with the Planet-CNC controller:

Mk3 and Mk3/4 controller:
SD card adapter is connected to Mk3 and Mk3/4 controller with 10pin flat cable trough SD&I2C connector.

Mk2 controller:
SD card adapter is connected to Mk2 controller with 10pin flat cable trough EXT connector.

Export your toolpath to Raw file format in CNCUSB controller software: “File/Export Toolpath to Raw”:

Raw file must be named “toolpath.raw” and must be located on SD cards root folder.

Program Execution:

You can start the execution of your program from SD card:
“Machine/Start from SD card”

If you do not intend to use computer, you can connect a switch to desired input, assigned it as “Start” switch in software and start the execution of the program without the use of computer.

In settings you set input as ‘Start’ switch:

Mk3 and Mk3/4:
File/Settings/Input

Mk2:
File/Settings/Input/Use Start

NOTES:

When running your program from SD card, the initial starting point of machining is always machines absolute XY=0 position.

It is important that the version of controller(Mk2, Mk3..) connected to computer when you export your toolpath to RAW format is the same as the one that will be later executing program from SD card adapter.

When you use controller in standalone option (no computer and no power supply via USB) it is necessary to use external power supply. Normal 8-24VDC adapter is suitable.

Mk2 requires jumper “JMP” to be short circuited (soldered) while Mk3 and Mk3/4 do not need this jumper to be short circuited.

Same settings need to be used when exporting toolpath(RAW file) and when updating controllers firmware (same settings need to be loaded into software).

The post Using SD card adapter with PlanetCNC controllers appeared first on Planet CNC.

Bottom wiring diagrams demonstrate various uses of adapter with optocoupler:

Optoisolated axis output:

Optoisolated limit switch inputs:

Using PNP proximity switches with optocoupler adapter:

With 12V power supply:

With 24V power supply:

The post Using optocoupler adapter board with PlanetCNC controller appeared first on Planet CNC.

In this tutorial we will explain how to use output board with VFD and spindle. We will describe how to set VFD* parameters and how to connect output board with VFD control inputs.

We are aware that many users use different VFD’s but no worries, the work flow in a sense should be the same.
*For purposes of this tutorial we will use MK3/4 controller and Chinese Huanyang VFD which is a well known piece of equipment among hobby machinists around the world.

Please follow this link to introduce yourself with output board and controller pin configuration:

Using output board with PlanetCNC controllers

Step 1: Configuring Huanyang VFD’s parameters

Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) drives an electric motor by varying the frequency and voltage supplied to the electric motor. VFD controls motors ON/OFF control,speed, direction etc..

All these functions can be controlled via external equipment (output board). Output board communicates with VFD trough its control inputs which are located on external terminal panel.

So first we need to define operating mode and configure VFD’s control inputs.

1.1: Defining VFD’s operating mode:

• We want to start/stop spindle from VFD’s external terminal panel

• We want to change motors direction from VFD’s external terminal panel

• We want to regulate motors RPM from VFD’s external terminal panel with 0-10 analog voltage signal

After going trough VFD’s user manual we know that we need to configure these parameters:

“Source of Run Commands” ->parameter PD001

PD001 → set it to value 1 (Set by external terminals)

Start, stop, change direction and speed can now be controlled via screw type input terminal.
“Source of Operating Frequency”-> parameter PD002

PD002 → set it to value 1 (Set by external terminals);

Source of operating frequency signal type is determined with parameter PD070

PD070 → set to value 0 (0-10V)

Motor speed can now be controlled via screw type terminal using the 0-10V input.

Step 2: Connecting output board with VFD

We need to connect output board with VFD control inputs.

Basic Connection Diagram :

Control inputs of VFD that we will use:

“FOR”: This input will be used for forward motor rotation

“REV”: This input will be used for reverse motor rotation

“DCM”: Common Terminal of Digital and Control Signals

“VI”: Analog Voltage Frequency Reference Input. 0-10V signal from output board will be connected to this input.

“ACM”: Common Terminal of Analog and Control Signals. GND signal from output board will be connected to this input.

Connect output pins of controller with input pins of output board:

Connect output board with VFD’s control inputs:

Wiring diagram below illustrates how relays and varying voltage output are connected with VFDs control inputs so that we achieve on/off, direction and speed control:

Short functional behaviour description:
When spindle is turned ON (M3 command), relay 1 is activated and motor rotates in forward direction(VFDs FOR input becomes active).

As soon as we change direction, relay 2 is activated and motor starts to rotate in reverse direction (VFDs REV input becomes active).

Please NOTE:

Before any wiring is done and equipment is connected, please check that all spindle, coolant and speed g-codes activate correct corresponding relays and outputs.

The post Controlling spindle with output board appeared first on Planet CNC.

Select “Settings” from the Start Menu:

Select the “Update & recovery” option:

Then click on the Recovery option on the left hand side, and once selected, you will see an advanced startup section appear on the right hand side. You will need to click on the “Restart now” button.

Once your Computer has rebooted you will need to choose the Troubleshoot option:

Click Advanced options:

Click Startup Settings:

Since we are modifying boot time configuration settings, you will need to restart your computer one last time:

You will be given a list of startup settings that you can change. The one we are looking for is “Disable driver signature enforcement”. To choose the setting, you will need to press the F7 key:

When Windows start, you will be able to install PlanetCNC USB driver.

The post Disabling Driver Signature on Windows 10 appeared first on Planet CNC.

Invoke the Charms bar and click on Settings. Open control panel by clicking on “Change PC Settings”:

Select “General” and then “Advanced Startup”:

For Windows 8.1: Select “Update and Recovery” and then “Recovery”

Click “Restart now”. Now the system will restart and might take some minutes to show up the boot menu. Wait for It patiently. 

After some time you will be prompted with a menu with following options:

– Continue
– Troubleshoot
– Turn off

Choose “Troubleshoot”:

Then the following menu appears:

– Refresh your PC
– Reset your PC
– Advanced Options

Choose “Advanced Options”:

Then the following menu appears:

– System Restore
– System Image Recovery
– Automatic Repair
– Command Prompt
– Windows Startup settings

Choose “Windows Startup Settings”, then Click Restart:

Now the computer will restart and the boot menu appears. 
Choose “Disable Driver signature Enforcement” from the menu.

When Windows start, you will be able install PlanetCNC USB driver.

The post Disabling Driver Signature on Windows 8 appeared first on Planet CNC.

If you need to connect your external electrical equipment such as sensors, switches, buttons, encoders with controller using single wires, you can use adapter for 10pin header.

Adapter pinout when connected to AUX header of Mk3 controller:

Adapter pinout when connected to AXIS header of Mk3 controller:

Adapter pinout when connected to INPUT header of Mk3 controller:

Adapter pinout when connected to IOEXT header of Mk3 controller:

Adapter pinout when connected to OUTPUT header of Mk3 controller:

Adapter pinout when connected to SDI2C header of Mk3 controller:

The post Using Adapter for 10 pin header with PlanetCNC controllers appeared first on Planet CNC.

If you need to connect your external electrical equipment such as sensors, switches, buttons, encoders with controller using single wires, you can use adapter for 16pin header.

Adapter pinout when connected to CTRL header of Mk3 controller:

Adapter pinout when connected to JOG header of Mk3 controller:

Adapter pinout when connected to LIMIT header of Mk3 controller:

The post Using Adapter for 16 pin header with PlanetCNC controllers appeared first on Planet CNC.

This feature comes useful when you need to test proof your program or if you have two versions of the same workpiece with minor changes etc…
In such case you can use “Block delete” feature which allows you to skip or execute marked lines of g-code of your program.

Block delete feature executes or skips lines of program that have character “/” at the beginning of the program line:

Example:
Lets say we would like to create two half’s of one part. For first half we would like to mill the cutout and holes, while for other we would like to create also pockets for screw heads.

Bottom screenshots display the same program file, with Block delete option disabled in first case and Block delete option enabled in second case:

With “Block delete” disabled:

With “Block delete” enabled:

You can see how quickly we can get two versions of the same file using this feature.

You can download “Block Delete” example program here: Block delete example

The post Using “Block Delete” feature with PlanetCNC TNG software appeared first on Planet CNC.

PlanetCNC TNG software supports, next to the conventional M00 pause, also optional M01 pause.

While M00 command pauses program every time when it appears in program, M01 pauses program only when “Optional pause” option is enabled in machine menu: Machine/Options/Optional pause

You can enable/disable optional pause while program is running, so you would not need to restart the program in order to use optional pause feature.

Example:
You can insert M01 optional pause at different locations in your program.
So when you run your program for the first time, you can have these pause checkpoints in-between, where you can check up on machine or machining parameters, measure your work piece or tool wear, check fixture position etc..

Optional pause disabled:

Optional pause enabled:

You can download “Optional pause” example program here: Optional pause example

The post Using “Optional Pause” feature with PlanetCNC TNG software appeared first on Planet CNC.

When it comes to g-codes that specify machine motion we need to mention G00 and G01.
G00 or also known as rapid or traverse move. G00 command is usually used for moves when machine travels from position to position above the material and when no cutting is applied.
When G00 command is stated we also need to specify in which direction move will occur. For example: G00 X100 Y50
Speed at which this move will be executed is usually maximum speed of machine.

G01 command activates linear motion of machine. We use G01 with moves when machine is moving tool trough material and therefore applying various types of cutting.
Normally speed of G01 move is set with F-word(distance/time). In this case F stands for feed rate, which specifies speed in mm/min or inch/min.
When G01 command is stated we also need to specify in which direction move will occur. For example: G00 X10 Y5 F1000

The post Using G01 and G00 g-codes with PlanetCNC TNG software appeared first on Planet CNC.

PlanetCNC TNG is a high performance CNC system. It is designed with flexibility in mind and it can be used for mills, routers, lathes, plasma or laser machines as well as any other machine or system where coordinated movement of servo or stepper motors is needed.

PlanetCNC TNG software works with Mk3 series of motion controllers and PC running windows 7, 8, 8.1, 10 or Linux.

Further in this post we will describe few guidelines that you can follow in order to achieve better performance of PlanetCNC TNG software and more stable communication with PlanetCNC controllers.

• For best performance of PlanetCNC TNG software, PC with 4 virtual processors(cores) CPU is recommended. Various services running in the background, antivirus software and program updates can interfere with PlanetCNC TNG performance and that is why dedicated computer is recommended.
• Controller should be connected directly to computers root USB port. We recommend that you connect controller to computer root USB port via USB HUB device. Note that controller should be the only USB device connected on this HUB.
  You see, all devices connected to the same HUB device share available bandwidth. Because data traffic is prioritised by the OS, it would not be uncommon if another device connected to same HUB would interfere with controller and therefore compromise the communication between controller and PC.

  You can check which devices are connected to your PC USB ports with “UsbTreeView” software. You can get it here:UsbTreeView

Images below describe bad and good type of USB connection with PC:

Example of bad USB connection with PC as seen in UsbTreeView software:

You can notice that PlanetCNC Controller is connected with PC trough various USB HUB devices(3 in total). Also, if you look closely at the USB HUB device to which PlanetCNC controller is connected, you can see that other connected devices to this USB HUB, are mass storage device and USB camera, both known as devices with huge data flow. The data flow of camera or storage device could interfere with communication of controller which as result would not perform at its best performance.

Example of good USB connection with PC as seen in UsbTreeView software:

You can see that PlanetCNC controller is connected directly to one of computers root USB ports. There are no other devices connected to root hub.

• Use double shielded USB cable. If cable longer than 1.5m is needed then it should be one with active repeater.
• If Ethernet connection is used then dedicated network card just for controller is recommended. This prevents that high network utilisation interfering with communication.
• Controller should have its own separate external power supply.
  If controllers voltage is supplied only trough USB, than there is a possibility that voltage fluctuations on the USB power line could interfere with USB communication and as a result communication would drop.
  For Mk3 and Mk3/4 controllers you can use 8-24VDC, 200mA power supply.
  IMPORTANT!!! For Mk3ECO controller power supply must be +5V VDC.
• Use shielded cables for wiring of limits switches, motors…

Please note that these are not minimum requirements for controller and software to function. PlanetCNC controller can easily function on Celeron based PC’s as also controller can be connected to HUB device which serves as source for multiple other devices.

The post PlanetCNC TNG software overview and performance guidelines appeared first on Planet CNC.

PlanetCNC TNG software uses new and optimised USB driver.

In order to update and use your PlanetCNC Mk3 series controller with PlanetCNC TNG software, you would need to use latest PlanetCNC USB driver.

To check your USB driver version click: Win Key/Control Panel/Device Manager

Under connected devices you will notice CNC USB controller:

Right click on it and choose Properties, and under Driver tab you will see USB driver version:

You will notice that USB driver version is 1.0.0.0. and that it is not digitally signed.

You can get latest PlanetCNC USB driver here: CNC USB controller software download page

After you download file double click on the .exe file and follow installation wizard.

After installation is complete, it would be best to restart your computer.

Now check if your USB driver has been updated to latest version, click: Win Key/Control Panel/Device Manager

You will notice that PlanetCNC device has a new name: PlanetCNC controller

If you check properties of this device you will see that under Driver tab driver version is now 1.0.0.1. and is digitally signed by PlanetCNC d.o.o.:

The post Updating to new PlanetCNC USB driver appeared first on Planet CNC.

To update your PlanetCNC Mk3 series controller with PlanetCNC TNG software make sure that your PlanetCNC USB driver is updated to latest version and that PlanetCNC controller is updated with latest version of CNC USB controller software.

This link will guide you on how to update your PlanetCNC USB driver: Updating to new PlanetCNC USB driver

You can download latest version of CNC USB controller software here: CNC USB controller software download page

After you successfully update your controller with latest CNC USB controller software version start PlanetCNC TNG software and click: File/Settings/Connection

Controller is recognised with controllers serial number and version(V1):

Click: Machine/Firmware Update
After update this message is displayed:

You can check controller in settings:

Controller is now updated to latest PlanetCNC TNG firmware version.

The post Updating PlanetCNC controller with PlanetCNC TNG software appeared first on Planet CNC.

We are aware that license is an annoyance but we need to secure our hard work from piratization. There are few groups that are working hard to crack our software.

PlanetCNC TNG software works only with Mk3 series of controllers: Mk3, Mk3/4 and Mk3ECO.
You cannot use PlanetCNC TNG software with Mk2,Mk2/4, and Mk1 controllers!

To obtain your PlanetCNC TNG license please follow steps below(follow steps very carefully and in exact order):

1.) Update your PlanetCNC USB driver to latest version: Updating to new PlanetCNC USB driver

2.) Update your controller with PlanetCNC TNG software: Updating PlanetCNC controller with PlanetCNC TNG software

3.) When you complete steps 1. and 2., connect your controller with PC, start PlanetCNC TNG software and click Help tab: Help/License Management/Activation Code Generator

You will notice that option “Enable computer” is available. With this feature enabled you are able to select your computer from Device list and generate activation code. We do not accept these activation codes.

4.) Select your controller from Device list so that becomes highlighted.

“Code” window will be populated with code that starts with “CU…”
Copy this code using right mouse click and select “Copy” or click “Copy to Clipboard”

Send us this code via e-mail when you will request for license. E-mail should also include some sort of proof of license purchase for your controller. Such as invoice, license code used for old software etc…

Your license code will be sent to you via e-mail.
License code will look like this:

5.) After you receive license code from us, in PlanetCNC TNG software click Help/License Management/My Licenses

Click the Import button:

Paste the license code that we sent you. You can use right mouse click and select “Paste” or you can use “Paste From Clipboard” button.

Click OK.
You controller will now appear on the License list:

Software should notify you if license activation has been successful.

You will also notice that green light at the bottom right corner is now without X.

The post Obtaining and activating license for PlanetCNC controller with TNG software appeared first on Planet CNC.

We used freshly installed Linux – Ubuntu MATE distribution for this guide. Please note that distributions differ one from another so these steps may not be suitable for all distributions and installation methods may vary.

1.) Start your Ubuntu MATE system.

2.) Using your web browser, download PlanetCNC TNG version from PlanetCNC download page: PlanetCNC TNG download page

Under download options choose “PlanetCNC TNG preview-Linux” and click
“Download” button:

3.When download dialogue appears, select “Save File” and hit “OK” button:

4.)When download is complete, click “Open folder” button:

5.) In “Downloads” folder, right click on downloaded file and click: “Extract To…”:

6.)Extract dialogue will appear, click: “Create Folder” button:

7.) Type in the name of new folder: PlanetCNC

8.) Open PlanetCNC folder and click “Extract” button:

9.) Extracted files will now populate PlanetCNC folder:

10.) Right mouse click on blank space and click: “Open in Terminal”

11.) Terminal window will appear:

12.) Write: sh install.sh

13.) Type in your root password and hit enter.

14.) PlanetCNC TNG software will automatically launch

The post PlanetCNC TNG Linux installation guide appeared first on Planet CNC.