From Metric to Inch in Mach

[Blakea1790]

I picked up my used Tormach Series 1 last weekend and just powered up the machine tonight. Mach is set in Metric and after spending some time trying to change it over to inch I've had no luck. I've searched through the manual but maybe I'm overlooking it.
Would very much appreciate some help on this...
Also, I've got to say I'm very impressed with the machine just after a couple of hours of getting familiar with it. I program Haas and Fanuc controlled machine's for a living and have always wanted a smaller machine for home use. Have to say so far very impressed. Looking forward to upgrading to series 3 specs.

[byellin]

Try typing G20 into the MDI line. That should switch you back to inches. G21 puts you in metric again.

[Blakea1790]

Thanks, I will give that a try. I've been looking for a way to switch back from metric to inch with no luck. Hopefully that may work...Thanks

[philbur]

It is also possible to change the default units, but I can't remember how.

Found it - See:

User manual 32397 Rev C1-2

Section 9.5.13 Configuring to start in Metric units

Using the keyword search function in the pdf user manual works wonders.

Phil

[dirtridn2010]

It is also possible to change the default units, but I can't remember how.

Found it - See:

User manual 32397 Rev C1-2

Section 9.5.13 Configuring to start in Metric units

Using the keyword search function in the pdf user manual works wonders.

Phil

Hi Guys,
I see that some of you have been discussing Metric units in MACH 3
The page you refer to in the manual is EXACTLY the one I used to endeavour to change my machine to run entirely in metric.
However adding the code DOES NOT work.
I first enquired to Tormach about "how to set my machine to run entirely in metric".
I was advised of the page where I could find the line that needed to be placed in the file.
I was advised where to find the file etc., add the additional line of code, save the file etc.
However it DID NOT WORK.

A week later I received an email from Tormach advising that it is not possible to run Mach 3 in metric (from that I assume they mean on a Tormach).
It is easy to run the DRO's in metric (type M21 into the MDI cell and hit enter), but your length offsets must be still be in Imperial.

If anyone can tell me the solution, I'm all ears.
I seriously can't believe that it is not possible to run a TORMACH series lll in Metric, including the "H" offsets.
Peter

[philbur]

I think it's G21 not M21.

Phil

It is easy to run the DRO's in metric (type M21 into the MDI cell and hit enter)

[dirtridn2010]

I think it's G21 not M21.

Phil

Correct Phil, G21 (my typo error) sorry about that.
But it still doesn't work.

Peter

[BRIANJiowa]

I have a pcnc 770 and I run programs in both inches and mm. I use g20 and g21 in the program file and it works. I've never tried it from the mdi line, and I'm not near my machine right now to try. So it is at least possible to do metric on the tormach, but I have no idea what version of mach3 I have?

[bevinp]

Dirtridn2010,
If Tormach say it is not possible to run fully metric in their version of Mach3 then that is the way it is.
But if the non-Tormach version of Mach3 does then you should run that. But Tormach will require you to sign a warranty waver to do so. Your choice.

I too was disappointed that the Mach3 Tool Table entries had to be imperial, but it really is not a big issue; it is not as if you have to toggle between metric and imperial while setting up the workpiece etc. A once-only edit of the entering G21 into the M990.xml file will ensure the mill initialises in metric (after Reset is pressed), and after that, all units are metric except on the Offsets page (and the Tool Change position on the Settings page).

[Doubleoh9]

A used Series 1 probably doesn't have a warranty left. Download mach 3 from the web, put your license file in the folder.... Now you have a fully unlocked version of Mach. If you want the same screens, drag those files over too.

[philbur]

This doesn't work for me, even after a reset. The DROs stay in inches and the code line across the top of the screen still identifies G20.

Phil

[philbur]

Just to close this out, Tormach sent me a revised macro (M990.mls) now everything works as it should.

Phil