Using Visualmill with a Roland MDX500

[Colin Banks]

Im stuck. I have the Roland and Visualmill all set up. The two are talking to each other because I can get the roland to machine something usung the Modela software that comes with the Roland machine. However, I cant seem to run a program from visualmill to the Roland ( actually get the thing cutting ). When I generate a program in visualmill, I use the correct post, ( Roland MDX500 and 650 ), the program is produced in notepad form. I then go file and print and and nothing happens. Its all set up correctly and the roland is set as the only printer on my computer so im lost for ideas. Please help.

Cheers

Colin Banks

[chmillman]

Since the MDX-500 claims to be able to use "standard" G-code, why don't you post with one of the standard G-code (fanuc or other) posts and then send that to the machine. Instead of using "print" try using a DNC program with an RS232 serial connection on one of the COM ports (according to the specs, this is available on the MDX-500). Otherwise call Roland, or post the question on the Visual Mill support forum, you will likely get better/faster answers. --ch

[exit63]

you need a roland droupout to output you file if you need just pm me

[DareBee]

Like the others are saying, the issue is not VM and it is likely not the Roland, it is your transfer software (DNC) that needs attention.
I have never heard of "printing" a program to a machine from notepad, that doesn't mean it's wrong just that I find it odd.
Windows Hyperterminal can be used as transfer software but is not always easy to configure.