Need Help!- Getting Multicam to use G code

[peterdewstow]

Has anyone successfully upgraded a Multicam Router to run from G Code?
What's the simplest way to do this?
Thought maybe we should use Mach3 but what implications are there for the machine, do we need to upgrade the hardware i.e. control/drives/servos?
What would you do?
Or would you buy a new machine?
Your feedback would be helpful.

[Benonymous]

We seem to be on a similar quest. Are you currently using the software supplied by http://www.axismotion.com/ ?

A friend of mine has a machine that runs the DOS version of the software and the controller can only handle instructions from the 'Profiler' software package supplied with the machine. I'm keen to do some proper 3D on his machine but the controller/software package does not appear to be capable of doing real, complex 3D shapes. I have had the software to play around with but I'm unable to get it to display even a simple wedge shaped object much less cut it from a chunk of material.

I'm thinking the way forward is with something like Mach 3 and a suitable controller. The stepper motor drives should interface without any drama. My friend is reluctant to do this without some sort of guarantee that it will work as the machine is his bread-and-butter workhorse.

[cabnet636]

we use wincnc and gecko's i have retro fitted several machine's with out any problems. but i am curious won't multicam operate with gcode?

aspire shows post proccessors for multi .cnc .anc


jim

[SCRAPWOTSCRAP]

I believe there are (were?) two different "multicam" cnc routers (manufacturers). Post processor option you see Jim, is for the Texas based operation, which is currently a global outfit. The other one for down under,
AXYZ out of Canada?? Personally I think it's a conspiracy to confuse this particular old guy.

[peterdewstow]

Originally Posted by SCRAPWOTSCRAP I believe there are (were?) two different "multicam" cnc routers (manufacturers). Post processor option you see Jim, is for the Texas based operation, which is currently a global outfit. The other one for down under, AXYZ out of Canada?? Personally I think it's a conspiracy to confuse this particular old guy.

Yes that's what I understand the situation is. So our machine, from Australia/Canada won't operate straight from an NC file, although Toolpath software will convert an NC file. But we are using Mastercam and post processing for our other CNC router. So my quest is for the best way to configure the old Multicam so we can run it using the same software setup.

[Art Pentz]

Hi,

I have an AXYZ router (Multicam in Oz) that uses "Toolpath" software to operate the machine.

I can use almost any CAM software and run the exported Gcode through Toolpath and get proper operation of the router.

If you use Toolpath, you import the .NC file from Mastercam (or whatever you use) into Toolpath and send the converted file to the router.

The AXYZ posts are very basic - you can often use older BOSS posts or something generic and get good results.

I have imported 3D files exported from Gibbs Cam (BOSS post) and had no problems with the output.

Best regards;

Art Pentz

[peterdewstow]

Thanks Art. So is there a post used in Toolpath or only in the CAM software before running through Toolpath? I'll see what I get from the post I have which should be pretty close to an AXYZ.

Pete.

[Art Pentz]

Hi Pete,

If your machine uses the "Toolpath" software, You export the file from your CAM software (Mastercam etc.) as a ".NC file.

As an example, you want to cut a part on the router:

Draw the Part in CAD.

Export the file as a DXF or STL file to the CAM software to prepare the "G code"

Export the file from the CAM software as a ".NC" file - Pete's test file.nc - using an AXYZ or generic post.

Open Toolpath and import the .NC file - you don't use the "Analysis" function in Toolpath or the tool offset screens with .NC files (all that is handled by the CAM software).

Send the file to the router via the "Output" screen and cut normally.

If you have specific questions, I'll try to help.

I also have had goood experiences with the Vectric products "V carve pro" and "Cut 3D" which have the ability to take CAD drawings and make appropriate G code using a furnished AXYZ post.

Any modern CAM program should be able to generate a .nc file for import into the Toolpath software. You HAVE to go through the "Toolpath" software in order to get the file to the machine.

The AXYZ "Toolpath" software is somewhat dated, but very capable for any 2D operations once you know how to use the "groups" function. 3D G code requires a CAM program to generate the .NC files.

I have been quite pleased with the performance of my AXYZ router and would recommend them to anyone who needs a reliable machine with good support.

Did this answer your question?

Best regards;

Art Pentz

[peterdewstow]

Yes that's most helpful, thanks.
I'll let you know how I get on...once I get some time to test this.

Pete.