Setup for Centroid Acorn

[MWDGUY]

Super-newbie here.  

I don't see an option for selecting a Centroid controller on the CAM setup.   I have a Precision Matthews PM-30 converted to CNC using a Centroid Acorn board.   Can someone lead me to the correct equivalent or provide some instruction/advice on how to proceed?

I also don't see any tool holder options for an R8 tool, do I just use the default when entering a new tool or what?

Thanks! 

[seth.madore]

Machine Configurations, at this point, will not do a lot for you, I'd just skip that step.

Make your Setup

Create your toolpaths, selecting or defining tools as needed.

Holders are totally optional if you're using R8 collets, although that may change if you need to use an R8 solid holder with set screw. Holders are pretty easy to define (when they are simple shapes)

[MWDGUY]

Seth,

Thanks for the reply.   

I am going to be using Tormach TTS tool holders for most of my tools but some need a chuck and some are R8 like my face mill.  

I have my tools and tool paths set and will need to post the file.  How can I just skip the setup step if the post file needs to know what codes to use for a specific controller?  

Also, can I upload this file then go in and set my tool heights and part zero point with the CNC software on the machine like normal? 

Thanks

[seth.madore]

Every CAM file needs to have a Setup created. This is necessary for the establishment of part orientation, WCS origin, program name and various other important features. You cannot skip this process!

After you have created your Setup and your toolpaths, you will then Post Process them, selecting the Centroid post processor from the dropdown menu. Save the code to a local folder and then send that g-code file to your machine

[MWDGUY]

I've completed all my tool paths and setup.   I post the code and when I load it onto my machine I get an error that says my Y limit was exceeded prior to it attempting to run.   

How do I set the start point of the origin with respect to the XYZ coordinates on the machine?   

[seth.madore]

Did you set the work offset on your machine to the same location where the WCS is set in the Fusion file?

[MWDGUY]

Discovered the solution to this:  Set your part zero position on the machine before you start.  Wasn't sure if that was still required.  

[seth.madore]

Always, that's fundamental step in the CNC world, with the exception of the really low end hobby CNC desktop mills that expect you to always load your model right against a fixed edge (sheet goods typically)