Mach 3 & LazyCAM

[geoff3881]

I have used Mach3 & LazyCAM for some while milling profiles.
The sequence being :-
1. Draw profile in AutoCAD
2. Save as a dxf file
3. Open the dxf file via Mach 3 & LazyCAM
3. Generate G code in Mach 3

This has always worked fine until I recently had a PC problem and had to reload all my software.

The LazyCAM screen has changed - I presume a later version. When I hit the Mach 3 load icon I get "An open GL error occurred ; invalid value."

I have been told i might need a driver update. I am running Windows XP

Any help would be appreciated.

[jalessi]

Geoff3881,

Sound like the video card driver.

Go to the video card manufacturer Website, download and install the latest video card driver.

Jeff...

[geoff3881]

Hi Jeff,
Thanks for your comment. The view from the local PC shop was also that it was the video card driver that neede updating.

I have just managed to do that and it still comes up with the same error message.

The card is a Radeon x 600 series 256 mb hypermemory and it has been updated via the ATI site.

It worked fine before the Mach software was reloaded.

Any further comments appreciated !

Geoff

[jalessi]

Geoff,

Is it possible that you may be using a different version of Mach3 other than what you previously had installed?

Jeff...

[jalessi]

Geoff,

What version are you currently using?

Jeff...

[geoff3881]

Jeff,
I now have level R3.042.015 of Mach 3. It is certainly a later level than I had previously as the LazyCAM screen looks very different and has more features. I bought the software thro' "Routout" in the UK and they are always helpful. We did discuss going back to the original level, but it seems strange that I should need to. It was suggested that I load MS.net which I did, but it's still the same.
I have been busy with other things for a while so have not made any more progress.

I did think of buying Vectric 2D, but then thought I was getting on fine before I had to reload all the software so why spend nearly £100 !

Thanks for your interest and comments

Geoff

[ger21]

Try a different video card.

Also, where did you get 3.42.015?? The current version is 3.42.040.

[geoff3881]

Gerry,
All my Mach software has come via Routout. I will call them on Monday and quote the release levels you have given.

Any suggestion on video cards or is it just try a different one ?

Thanks,

Geoff

[ger21]

I'd try an Nvidia card. The cheapest one you can find.

Why not just download from the ArtSoft USA - Home of Mach3 and LazyCam

[ger21]

I'd try downloading the full LazyCAM and seeing if that helps?

http://www.machsupport.com/downloads...nstall_301.exe

[geoff3881]

I have downloaded the latest LazyCAM version as suggested. Same GL error message.

I have also fitted a Nvidea Geoforce 8400GS video card (Trial at PC store)
No change so I did not buy the card.

Any further suggestions appreciated !

Thanks

Geoff

[FranH]

There are basically 2 types of video cards...one for powerful graphics used in games for smooth action and high resolution etc....a second is called OPEN G/L...this one is enginered for cad and cam systems. Either card trying to do the others' work is a lesson in futility.

Your system worked fine.
Someone played with the video card
You're now in trouble.
The video card appears to be the culprit
Can you function with the same original video card (replace with same brand, style, drivers etc) ?
I would regress to whatever was there before since it worked fine at that time.
Computers can be finniky