My cnc knee mill coversion project is finally at a point where I am ready to started testing. I have the x and y axis working with stepper motors and Mach3. I need to design a system to feed the z axis but would prefer to test things in 2d first.

What is the best way to use the g-code to run the x-y axis and then do the z axis manuall from the quill? I was thinking some flat plates with holes would be a good test for the mill.

Any ideas on how to get started testing things would be appreciated. This is my first cnc project so I am getting used to things.

My mill conversion project is locatated here:
http://www.cnczone.com/forums/showthread.php?t=52900

Thanks,
Brian

Hi:
Place an optional stop (M01) at the point in the program where the endmill has exited the material. The endmill goes around the profile, exits material, stops, manually set the next Z level,press cylcle start.
and so on and so forth.
For drilling , you basically give the X,Y coordinates, and place an M01 after that block.

e.g Drilling
M03 ;spindle on CW
G01 X20 Y30 ;first xy coordinate
M01 ;optional stop
X30 Y40 ;second xy coordinate
M01 ;optional stop



regards



regards

Thanks, I will give that a try.

Brian

Hi bseibenick
If the M01 does not work right use a M00 this will stop the machine then hit start to go again if you have more code under it.

M3S1500
G01X2Y3F20. this line will feed at 20" per min ( It can also be G0X1Y2 which is rapid movement )
M00 is stop