[kolias]

I have a 3 axis, 4 motors table top cnc mill and I would like to add a 4th axis to learn how it works for hobby work. I have no problem getting the mechanical / electrical parts installed for a 4th axis but I have no clue how to get Mach3 setup for it + the related gcode.

Is it possible to get some basic instructions on how to setup Mach3 and the gcode explanation related to a 4th axis? I have access to MastercamX5.

Thanks

[cncmakers001]

I have a 3 axis, 4 motors table top cnc mill and I would like to add a 4th axis to learn how it works for hobby work. I have no problem getting the mechanical / electrical parts installed for a 4th axis but I have no clue how to get Mach3 setup for it + the related gcode.

Is it possible to get some basic instructions on how to setup Mach3 and the gcode explanation related to a 4th axis? I have access to MastercamX5.

Thanks

Open Mach3 and go to Config > Ports and Pins.
Under the Motor Outputs tab, enable A Axis by ticking the green checkbox.
Assign the proper pins for Step and Direction as per your breakout board configuration.
Then you can enable the 4th Axis.

[awerby]

You should also make sure that the A axis is defined as rotary,calibrated in degrees and not linear units, and put in a small diameter value. I'm not familiar with MastercamX5, but if it generates 4-axis code, use either a Mach3 4-axis postprocessor in your preferred style of units, or a generic Fanuc post if Mach3 isn't listed.