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  1. #1
    Join Date
    Oct 2007
    Posts
    31

    Initial Start Up Running Mach3

    I have recently completed my cnc router table and am at the point I want to try testing each axis and to possibly run a simple program in Mach 3.

    I have downloaded the trial version of Mach 3, but do not know what the first steps are to testing or to run a test program.

    Ultimately I would like to be able to load a DXF file created in Autocad and run this in Mach 3. Here again, I am very new to the entire process.

    Thanks

    Kevin

  2. #2
    Join Date
    Mar 2003
    Posts
    35538
    First thing you need to do is set up the ports and pins, and do the motor tuning for each axis. It'a a good idea to watch the Mach3 tutorial videos at http://www.machsupport.com/videos/

    You can use the built in Wizards to create some simple test code, or enter g-code using the MDI input.

    To use a .dxf file, you'll need to convert it to g-code using a CAM program. Mach comes with a limited version of LazyCAM. I personally do not like it, but if you want to try it, I recommend reading the manual http://www.machsupport.com/forum/ind...c,12078.0.html

    A much easier program to learn and use is Vectric's Cut2D. http://www.vectric.com/WebSite/Vectr.../c2d_index.htm

    If you have more specific questions, feel free to ask.
    Gerry

    UCCNC 2017 Screenset
    http://www.thecncwoodworker.com/2017.html

    Mach3 2010 Screenset
    http://www.thecncwoodworker.com/2010.html

    JointCAM - CNC Dovetails & Box Joints
    http://www.g-forcecnc.com/jointcam.html

    (Note: The opinions expressed in this post are my own and are not necessarily those of CNCzone and its management)

  3. #3
    Join Date
    Oct 2007
    Posts
    31
    Thank you for the suggestions. I will watch the tutorials.

    I had heard that Lazy CAM was difficult to use, I will take a look at Vetric.

    Thanks again

    Kevin

  4. #4
    Join Date
    Oct 2007
    Posts
    31
    Thanks again for the suggestion. I found the tutorials VERY helpful. I now have the motors spinning and running good.

    Thanks again! :cheers:

    Ferrari2007

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