Backlash Compensation

[solek]

I have changed from using MPS2000 to Mach3 to run my Taig mill. The problem I am having is not knowing how to set the backlash compensation in Mach3. Can any one help me in the area?

[metalbyter]

Is this what your looking for.
Mark

[solek]

Thanks, that worked.

[solek]

Now that I have set the backlash, and have enabled it I have another question. Now that I am using the backlash, the feed rate downs to almost zero, when the the plot goes to X=0, or Y=0. Is theis normal when using the basklash?
Solek

[metalbyter]

Solek,
I'm not clear on what you mean
"when the the plot goes to X=0, or Y=0"
I don't think backlash compensation will slow it down.
On the settings page do you have soft limits turned on?
Mark
http://microtools.ca

[solek]

Mark
To better define what is going on, it looks like as the direction changes from down to up, up to down, right to left, and left to right, it looks like the feed stops to adjust for the backlash.
I do not know where the settings page is, so do not know if soft limits are on or off.
Am a CNC beginner, got a lot to learn.
Solek

[solek]

Mark
Found the setting page, and the soft limits is black, and does not change, when I click on it.
Solek

[metalbyter]

Solek,
I't sounds like the backlash is working corectly.
but you will need to set up the amount of backlash compensation.
I recomend you download the PDF manual from the artsoft web site and read that through.
Mark.

[Toymanf]

Go to the General config menu in Mach 3 and set the "shuttle accel" setting to .01 This should basically eliminate the ramp up and down during backlash compensation.
Frank

[cjdavis618]

Just want to say thanks. I had this same problem. Now my machine rocks again.

Now I need to get some helical couplers and I'll be a happy camper.

[pzzamakr1980]

Hey toy, what else does the shuttle accel affect. Does this fix that weird little thing mach does when it compensates. I mean it slows and then picks back up? Thx

[Toymanf]

According to a post some time ago by (I believe) Art himself, it does not appear to impact any other settings. The value in the shuttle accel box sets the ramp up/down speed of the backlash compensation. Try it with a value of, say 2, then change to .01. You will see a dramatic difference in speed of backlash comp.
Try searching using the key words "shuttle accel" for more info.
Good luck,
Frank