Fanuc 18i with Data Server

[Monty66]

I am looking for alternatives to running a large file from the data server that requires a search. The main program in NC memory currently handles the tool changes and sends each tool to a laser measuring device before running. This is doen to account for any thermal growth. Currently if there are 15 tools, then there are also 15 different macro programs on the data server. Would like to get this down to one with the ability to search into the program with a macro variable. Have already tried the basic GOTO statement, but macro commands are now allowed in DNC mode from the data server.

[psevin]

Is there a reason that you can't run from an SRAM card?

[Monty66]

The application is for machining mold cavities and each tool may have a 2-3 Mb file size.

[psychomill]

DNC mode.... is this data server 'external'? It's not on the machine and called with a M198 or something like that? Otherwise you should be able to use macros, it just follows the same rules as macros in sub-calls.

[roofrat99]

Originally Posted by Monty66 I am looking for alternatives to running a large file from the data server that requires a search. The main program in NC memory currently handles the tool changes and sends each tool to a laser measuring device before running. This is doen to account for any thermal growth. Currently if there are 15 tools, then there are also 15 different macro programs on the data server. Would like to get this down to one with the ability to search into the program with a macro variable. Have already tried the basic GOTO statement, but macro commands are now allowed in DNC mode from the data server.

Data Server uses a calling program to run, usually M198 P1001.....ect. Have you thought of splitting your tools up into seperate sub programs, for example

%
07996 (PART NAME);
M198P1001 (TOOL 1);
M198P1002 (TOOL 2);
M198P1003 (TOOL 3);
---
---
---
---
M30;
%

At the end of each tool sub, put M99... then the main program will drop to next sub. Place each macro in the tool sub program. Then if you have to restart on a tool, just go to Edit and curser down in the main to the sub/tool program you want to run. Memory and cycle start, it will run the macro in that tool program. No search needed, saves a lot of time.

This does limit you to 9999 on the programs, with 8000 and 9000 protected, then you are down to 7999.

[roofrat99]

Also, alot of places I have been to, make there macro programs 8000 programs, and leave it in the control library. They call it up as a sub.

[cnc-king]

Originally Posted by roofrat99 Data Server uses a calling program to run, usually M198 P1001.....ect. Have you thought of splitting your tools up into seperate sub programs, for example % 07996 (PART NAME); M198P1001 (TOOL 1); M198P1002 (TOOL 2); M198P1003 (TOOL 3); --- --- --- --- M30; % At the end of each tool sub, put M99... then the main program will drop to next sub. Place each macro in the tool sub program. Then if you have to restart on a tool, just go to Edit and curser down in the main to the sub/tool program you want to run. Memory and cycle start, it will run the macro in that tool program. No search needed, saves a lot of time. This does limit you to 9999 on the programs, with 8000 and 9000 protected, then you are down to 7999.

parameter 3204 bit #2 will have to be turned on to allow you to use M198 to recognise a sub program and not a file