another vm16 single phase question

[dkirby]

I have lots of questions to ask, so hopefully you all can help me out. I know absolutely nothing about CNC, but I have jumped into the pool with both feet, having just purchased 2 Partner VM 16's. I was watching the other post about running his machine on single phase but he didn't reply with his serial #. I was hoping I could find out if either of my machines are capable of running on single phase. The first machine is a Partner VM 16 Series B Serial # 4537. Date of manufacture is 726.
The second machine is a Partner VM 16 Series B Serial # 4729. Date of manufacture 744.
Would someone please explain how to determine the year these machines were made?
Now I need help in getting these machines to run. I took a night school course in CNC Programming, so I understand G code a little bit, and I did get a manual with the machines. In the manual there are sample programs to run, but I don't understand how to get them into the machine and running. From the manual, I have been able to home all three axis's, and I think I did offsets when I tried to manually put the sample programs in, but I don't know how to get the program to run.
My understanding is the controller can be run from a floppy disc, how is this done? Do I need to connect to computer to run a program? Can I manually program this machine?
I would appreciate any help in getting set up and running these machines.
Thanks,
Dave

[jpawelk]

Dave,
Serial number 4537 was manufactured in 06/1997. This machine can be ran single phase.
Serial number 4729 was manufactured in 10/1997. This machine can be ran single phase.

As far as running programs, you need to load the program from the floppy to the control on the machine. All programs should be run from the control. I believe the manual has the procedure in it for loading programs.

Milltronics does offer a training class for the mills. The class is 3 days long and is $400.00/person, which includes all the materials, manuals, and lunches. You can contact Milltronics @ 952.442.1401 for more information.

[dkirby]

Jpa Welk, Thanks very much for your help, and it is a nice bonus to find out that these machines can be run on single phase. I would like to understand how that can be done, but I want to first learn how to get to run a program.

Would you be able to tell me what I need for software in order to have a computer to interface with the Centurion control, or do I need any software? This is an old dog trying to learn new tricks, so you may have to talk to me in very basic terms.

I would really appreciate your insight!

I live southwest of Toronto, Ontario. Are there any classes available in this neck of the woods, or any tech. support?

Thanks very much,
Dave

[jpawelk]

Dave,
If you want to program on the computer and then transfer files to the machine, then you can use the Milltronics offline software, Fastcam or SLS (depends on what software your machine is running). Files can be transfered many ways, floppy, RS232, ethernet.
If you make the programs on the machine itself and want to store the files on your computer, no software is required. How do you intend to transfer files?
As far as a Milltronics distributor in Toronto, try contacting SMS Machine Tools. Their contact number is 416.675.7300.
Good luck!

[dkirby]

jpawelk, you will have to forgive my ignorance on trying to program this machine, but I have never run a CNC machine. Two days ago I just found the port to load a floppy disc, this was after reading your last post.

I have a manual, came with the machine, but I don't know if it is complete or not. There was not any mention or a diagram to show where the floppy went.

Maybe someone can make a suggestion to me about the best way to program this machine, or at least the easiest way to learn how it is done.

Thanks Dave

[jpawelk]

Dave,
We do have a training/programming class scheduled for April 6-8. If you have not ran a Milltronics before, I would recommend the class.

[dkirby]

jpawelk, I am interested in the training program that is offered in April, but I have some questions that I hope you can answer, since it is 900 miles one way to get there.
You may remember that my machine is a 1997 vintage with a Centurian 6 controller, is this training course generic or is it for the newer machines.
I guess what I am trying to find out,is it worth the 2 days to get there when I need very specific training on my older machine.
Thanks for your help in my previous posts.
Dave

[jpawelk]

Dave,
The programming class is 3 days long. It will cover everything about the control and programming. The training starts out covering the front panel and operations, then moves into simple programs, and finally at the later part it covers advanced programs. The training covers old machines and new machines, programming is pretty much the same. (Newer machines may have more programming options than older machines). The class is only held every other month, and if there are enough students. Please call Milltronics @ 952.442.1401 for details and to enroll. Milltronics can also recommend some hotels that you can quality for a discounted stay.
If you are looking for specific training, I would recommend calling the local distributor for training, or possible call Milltronics to complete training on site. I hope I have answered all your questions, if not please let me know. Thank you

Jason

[dkirby]

Thanks Jason, I called Milltronics and the classes are not going to take place in April this year.
They did supply me some info. that I needed though and I appreciated that.
Dave