I've used cheap probe for a year that has been pretty reliable - at least with repeatability. I only really use for workpiece setup, using the Mach probing screen to set X,Y &Z.
I've started doing 2 piece parts and notice they are off slightly when assembling them. That led me to actually check the starting work offset location against an edgefinder and found its off about .007 -008 in X and .004-.005 in Y.
I remember reading somewhere that when entering the Tool 99 diameter thats its not always what you can measure. Mine measures .1375 - which is what I have entered.
I tried to play with the diameter setting, changing it both ways to see if I could make up the difference from what I'm seeing with the edgefinder. Didn't work as I expected.
I ran the Comp Probe routine form the manual and it shows X off .004 and Y off .0037 according to the difference between position 2 and 3.
I use a dial mic setup against the probe tip and have it adjusted to less than .001 movement while spinning the probe 360 degrees.
I'm sure most of the problem is the quality of the probe, but the repeatability has been very good when doing tool height settings. It has the 3 adjustment screws for adjusting, but I'm sure its not as delicate as a $1500 probe.
If I can get the X and Y setup to be right - I'll be happy with my $100 probe.
Whats the best way to get this accomplished?
Kevin