Newbie- Tools in Mach3

[krak]

I have a Dremel 125 bit. I would would like to use it with my homemade cnc router, but I do not see a way to enter different types of bits in the software. Can someone point me in the right direction?

[ViperTX]

Well if you're using the Mach3 Wizzards, you enter the tool information in the particular wizzard that you're using.

Tool definitions are inputed into the software that you're using to translate your CAD drawings into G-Code (i.e. MeshCAM, CAMBAM, etc.).

Mach3 take the G-Code from the tools above and does all the step and direction stuff to make the machine move.

Paul

[krak]

Thank you, I have been banging head around today trying to figure out a few things Mach. I haven't had much time with my new alibre cam software. That will come after I have good grasp of Mach3 and how to make sure it is set up right.

[ger21]

Mach3 doesn't need to know what type of bit it is. If you use G41/G42 radius offset or G43 length offsets, then you enter the length and diameter in the tool table. Config>Tooltable

[krak]

If the bit is a 60 degree v, what diameter would I enter into the table? 0 at the tip or .125 at the top?

[Andre' B]

Originally Posted by krak If the bit is a 60 degree v, what diameter would I enter into the table? 0 at the tip or .125 at the top?

If it is just being used for V carving text it probably does not matter.

If the program was written as a centerline of cutter and uses a G41 or G42 then it should be nominal 0 then the machine operator can adjust ± from there.

If the program was written as edge of cutter and uses a G41 or G42 then the programmer will need to tell you what he/she used. Normally it looks something like (Comp diameter 0.1" up from theoretical sharp point).