Saving the tool path(s) as a g-code file is translating that information into something that UCCNC can read. While the Vectric file does contain the tool path information you created, it’s basically in a different language. If you receive an error opening a file it may be that you are trying to open a drawing directly or Vectric project file. You don’t need to know what the instructions are. Below that you’ll see a window showing the g-code, this is for reference. There are buttons along the left hand side of the screen that allow you to change the view. When the file opens you will see a preview of the tool path in an overhead view by default. The next thing to do is load the file using the load file button. Assuming you have created a g-code file and you want to create it on your Stepcraft.
We sell CAM software from Vectric and feature articles and videos explaining it’s functions. Properly creating this file is done using a CAM program. It reads a g-code formatted file using a “Mach 2/3 Arcs mm” post processor which contains instructions telling it where to move, how fast, etc. Load File – Now UCCNC is ready for a project.
So now the machine knows how to travel and where it can travel.
When you complete the homing procedure the machine now knows where it is, if the machine is properly aligned you can now move all the axis their full range of motion and because the machine parameters are loaded it knows when it needs to stop at the far end of the axis. Along side are smaller red buttons which allow you to home axis individually. On the upper right hand side of the UCCNC screen there is a button labeled home all. You’ve loaded the correct profile so the machine knows how far it can move BUT it doesn’t know where it is until the reference movement is performed. Homing procedure (Reference Movement) – This is the next vital step to proper operation. The parameters include the travel distance for the axis, how they are connected to the machine, direction of travel, and how each motor has to turn to complete one unit of distance (mm). When this is done it creates a shortcut on your desktop that loads the parameters into UCCNC when it opens.
Machine Parameters – During the install of the UCCNC software and following along Step 2.2 of the First Steps (UCCNC) Manual you should have installed the correct machine parameters for the machine you purchased. It relies on a few things in order for it to work properly and get your project created. But just because it can make precise movements of the machine doesn’t mean it is very smart.
UCCNC is what actually drives the Stepcraft machine. So in this post I’d like to explain a little further what that means.
from the Ohmic Protection box to the torch ohmic retaining capįor PRO CNC Plasma Kits purchased after November 2020, ensure the Ohmic Protection box jumper is in the "Ohmic" position (refer to the Plasma Getting Started Guide for the location of this jumper).One of the questions we get asked often at shows where we present the machine is, “Does is include the software?” Which we generally reply saying yes it include UCCNC which is the machine control software or sometimes referred to as motion control software.from the Ohmic Protection box to material grounding clamp.does register when the switch is compressedĮnsure that the electrical paths are secure and in good condition:.does not register when touching material.This is recommended only for thick material that will not deflect significantly when compressing the switch.Įnsure the Material Sensor Assembly is plugged into the correct port. The mechanical touch-off switch sends a signal when the switch compresses ~0.087" from contact with the material.This is the recommended option and the default setting in SheetCam. The "Ohmic Touch-off" sensor functions by connecting a signal at the torch tip to ground at the material ground clamp.The material sensing system has two sensors that are wired in series to a single input at the Plug and Play CNC Controller: