Im lost, where do I go from here???

[ifttinker]

The moderator has just asked me why I am dot asking questions or joining the conversations.
I have purchased the Syil X3 with upgraded spindle and was wanting to get it running so I would have some intelligent questions. Oh Well!!
Received the mill and built bench. Now trying to get Mach 3 (trial version, will fix that when I get Mill and Mach to talking) to make it do something. I can get the mill to jog, sometimes, Sometimes it starts the table moving and will not stop, Emergency stop does not stop it and by the time I have gotten to the power switch, it is making big noises. What is this doing to the motors/ball screws. I am using Syils provided profile for the X3 but either I am completely missing the boat, or I have a problem, and I have no idea which. (both are possible - I am learning how to spell CNC, as I go, and the classes to learn how to use the mill don't start until Feb 20)
If someone has a similar problem or suggestion, all help will be appreciated.

Tks
ifttinker

[ger21]

Go to www.machsupport.com and watch the setup videos, if you haven't already.

[SyilAmerica]

Never heard of something like this. I wonder if you have some type of computer problem. When you jog, the ONLY time it should move is when pulses are being generated. The ONLY way for pulses to be generated is if the computer is pumping them out (key depressed).

TAB, brings up the virtual pendant. You may want to see what mode you are in (step, continuous) and look and see what keys you have assigned for your jogging. I like setting up the jog on the 10 key, but everyone is different.

CNC is a steep learning curve, but not insurmountable. One step at a time. First step is getting used to the controller (Mach). It has a ton of functionality, but you need to know the basics first. The videos suggested are good, and the manual is a great resource.

Don't be afraid to ask questions either. When we don't, we tend to get grumpy and frustrated when we can't figure it out.

[ifttinker]

Thank you gentlemen. Gerry, I was in the middle of the movies checking out and trying to setup soft limits when the problem developed. Movies did not bail me out.
For Syil, sticky keyboard was my first thought. It was a new keyboard and system but I tried another, just in case. Same results. Now I am fully extended on the Y axis and X axis, to where the motors/ball screws started making noises, and have no control over any axis. I thought maybe blown fuse but spindle still works in manual. How do I get the X and Y tables off their extended position and back to the middle, to start over, without dismantling the whole machine and putting it back together??

Tks
Rich

[SyilAmerica]

Hey Rich!

There is something in the Mach software or configuration that is causing the movement. It would be impossible for the mill to do it on it's own because there isn't any electronics inside that generates pulses.

First place I'd look is in the "System Hotkeys" in the "config" menu. There you press each of the buttons on the side, then press the button that you would like to use for that jogging function. Example:

Press the X++ with your mouse. A box will appear that says "SetHotKey". Press the right arrow key. It will register the Hex address of that key.

Continue down until all the fields are what you would like.

When that is done, exit out of the System hotkeys and press the reset button on the main screen. When you use the right arrow, the machine should go to the X+ in the DRO and the table will move in the X+ value.

I've setup my values like this :

A "issue" exists somewhere within the computer or software. One way or another we will find it.

Call me if you are still having issues.

[Kevin Harpham]

Originally Posted by ifttinker Emergency stop does not stop it ...

You do know that you push the e-stop to make it stop and turn it to reset it. It only has arrows indicating that you turn it but you have to push it to stop. If you have never worked in industry or production you might not know this. Some e-stops you pull to reset, you won't find arrows on them.

Kevin

[ifttinker]

Thanks Kevin, yes I knew that, but it was only stopping the spindle. The tables continued on their merry way.
I think I have found the problem tho - the system, or at least my system, does not appreciate new technology. I was using a wireless keyboard and mouse due to the distance between the computer and the bench. Replaced them with wired keyboard and mouse and last night it all seemed to work fine. I will continue continuing this evening, with the setup.

Tks
Rich

[cobraphx]

Yeah, most of the newer wireless is using RF, this is very susceptible interference from large pieces of metal. For instance my wireless stuff works great at home on wooden furniture. But at work our desks are metal with a thin veneer over them. My cordless mouse only works with the receiver placed almost directly above the mouse hanging by it's cord. If it is placed directly on the desk, the mouse only works if it is less than 4 inches from the receiver. You might be able to gain reception with the wireless by changing placement of the receiver.

-Matt

[SyilAmerica]

Just wanted to check up on the learning process. How are things coming?