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User Options

 

 

 

CNC XChange performs G code conversion using a mix of source code defined conversions and user defined conversions. Standard G code is converted automatically through definitions written into the source code. For code like canned cycles and standard G codes, the source code will define and perform the conversions automatically.

 

However, CNC controls and machinery contain non-standard code, one example being M functions. Many M functions are not standard throughout the industry and even vary from machine to machine built by the same machine tool builder. CNC XChange gives the user the ability to include these non-standard code conversions in the conversion process through the use of the CNC XChange User Option files.

User options are defined through the User option editor in CNC XChange. To access the user option editor, select the edit the current user option file icon in the top menu bar. If a user option file has been previously loaded, the contents of that file will be available in the editor. If no file has previously been loaded, the editor will be blank and a new option file can be created.

The main screen is divided into four sections. Top left is the user defined conversion options that will be performed during the conversion process. Top right is for user defined conversions that will be performed after the main conversion process is completed. Any stray conversions or last minute conversions can be defined in this section. Bottom left is defined as complete line replacement conversions. Users can enter a trigger code that when found during the conversion will signal to the software that the complete line, regardless of content, will be replaced. The user can define a replacement line or if left blank, the original line will simply be removed ( replaced with a blank line ). Bottom right is for user defined conversion options that will be performed prior to the software invoking the main conversion process. These can also be defined as pre conversion options.

In all the areas outlined above, the number of definitions that can be defined in each is unlimited. All definitions will be executed during the single conversion process. One key, and powerful feature, is that they will be executed in the order in which they appear in the list. This can be used with great flexibility and can result in powerful conversion options.

In addition, the user can create an unlimited number of user option files. If the shop has multiple machines and multiple controls, different user option files can be created and the desired one selected for use prior to executing the G code conversion. This gives the user the ability to define the parameters for the specific conversion, save the user option file, and simply recall all the settings the next time that conversion is required. Set it up one and done.

Additional conversion options are available using the list of option buttons on the right side of the screen. We will now outline those options in a little more detail.

The ADDITIONAL OPTIONS give the user some additional pre-defined options to invoke. The user can define up to 10 codes that will be separated when found and placed on a line by themselves using the CODE SPLITTING options.

Up to 12 decimal conversions can be defined using a letter address and selecting the option to remove the decimal point, add the decimal point in the correct location or simply add a decimal point at the end of the command that uses the letter address.

There are two tool change option areas one for milling and one for turning. These are quite specific and are available when converting Fanuc G code to Okuma OSP code in milling programs and Fanuc to Okuma conversion in turning programs.

The final option deals with converting Okuma auto chamfering G code in turning. CNC XChange can be set up to convert that code to Fanuc auto chamfering code using an A command, or to convert it to long hand G code using absolute X and Z commands or incremental U and W commands.

The live tool multi options gives the user pre defined conversion for turning centers with live tooling and multi axis machines. These conversion are specific for each machine and should be set up based on your individual equipment and commands.

If you are converting FADAL G code to Okuma OSP, there are also some FADAL specific option available under the FADAL OPTIONS menu.

Although Haas G code is basically 100% Fanuc compatible, there are also some additional Haas specific conversion options that can be defined under the Haas Options menu.

For users who are converting 4 axis G code, additional options are available under the 4 Axis Options.

Custom user options are available, but these are options that have been custom coded for specific clients and specific machine types. We make them available to all users but are very specific and should only be invoked if the conversion specifics are identical. Kentech Inc. often creates custom conversion modules and if you feel your conversion requirements are not addressed by the standard user options, please consult Kentech Inc. for possible customization options.

Always remember to SAVE the User Option file once any edits, alterations or additions are completed to make them live for conversions.

 

 

 

 

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