ACU-RITE MILLPWR 2 Axes - Manual (Page 60)

PROGRAMMING
MILLPWR ®
Operation Manual
Considerations when creating a G-code Program
MILLPWR has the ability to read and execute Numerical Code (G-Code) files, how
ever those files can not be edited from the controller. It is important to create and
proof the G-code file before attempting to machine a part.
The use of CAD/CAM Software is strongly recommended.
Tool Offsetting
No programmed cutter compensation is used so the tool path should be based on the
center and tip of the tool. Do not establish tool length offsets within CAD/CAM
software. For repeatable tooling, tool length offsets can be established in the tool
library (Diameter offsets are not used).
Using the Tool Library
Each "T" block refers to the corresponding number in the Tool Library. For exam-
ple, T1 will cause
MILLPWR to retrieve the tool length offset from tool 1 of the Tool
Library. MILLPWR will then offset the spindle by this amount. T2 will cause MILLP-
WR to retrieve the tool length offset from tool 2 of the Tool Library, etc. To set up a
Tool Library refer to Setup.
It is very important not to have any tool length offsets in the Tool Library
if the tooling is not repeatable.
Failure to maintain the Tool Library can cause unpredictable results. Verifying tool
length offsets prior to program execution is strongly recommended.
Loading a Program
A G-code program can be loaded into MILLPWR in the same manner as MILLPWR
programs. (Refer to Loading a Program for instructions on loading a G-code pro-
gram.) With G-code files, there is no accompanying graphics. Only the program
list is displayed. Once loaded,
MILLPWR will indicate lines of code with invalid and
unsupported blocks with an "X". If the line containing the code is highlighted, an
error message also appears in the message line indicating that the line contains
invalid code. The invalid code can be removed by disabling the corresponding
functions in your CAD/CAM software and re-posting the G-code program. Simply
removing the invalid code from the G-code program can cause unpredictable results
and is not recommended.
3-31
Running a G-Code Program